Shanghai Expo hotels attracts with folk flavor

The Shanghai World Expo not only offers a stage for the world, but also a chance for visitors to experience authentic Chinese culture in full force.

Home is where the ART is. These family hotels in Shanghai's suburb will open to expo visitors, giving them a chance to get involved in local folk culture. 70-year-old Aunt Li is one of the friendly hosts. The snacks she makes are popular with both neighbors and guests. Aunt Li is even willing to share her secrets of dessert making with visitors.

Local artists will also give live demonstrations of some of the folk handicrafts displayed in these family-run hotels.

The Shanghai World Expo not only offers a stage for the world, but also a chance for visitors to experience authentic Chinese culture in full force.

Zhu Jianguo, vice director of Laws & Reg. Dept., SH Tourism Bureau, said, "We are promoting family hotels in urban Shanghai, and some farm houses in the suburbs. We hope that it will allow foreign friends and visitors from around China to experience the real life of Shanghai residents."

200 family hotels with nearly 2,000 beds will be available during Shanghai expo, which is estimated to attract 70-million visitors from home and abroad.