China's new golden age

So the Beijing Olympics have ended but your attention to China should still continue.

This is a country rich in history and culture but despite its eventful past, this is the time to go and experience all that China has to offer.

China is more open now than ever before due to its connections with the West and increased publicity due to the Olympic Games.

The post-Mao era has greatly affected the way the world sees China as a country with an improved standard of living and as a future economic super power.

Although China's rapid expansion can be viewed positively by many, for the attracted traveller it does have one set back - China is becoming more and more westernised as time goes by and soon the historic sites and culture which is attractive to many student travelers could become encircled by skyscrapers, whilst untouched scenic spots may turn into new development projects.

Now is the time to visit China, a time when the balance of traditional culture and modern development is ideal for students looking for adventures in both up and coming buzzing cities and in fascinating historical spots.

These five places will give you a small taste of big China.

1. The Great Wall

The only man made structure that can be seen from the moon, you cannot visit China without visiting the Great Wall!

Spanning approximately 4000 miles, this symbol of Chinese civilization is one of the seven wonders of the world.

Try walking a least a section and take in the magnificent scenery or go on an organised tour to learn more about its history.

View the wall from Mutiyanu instead of the very touristy spot of Badaling as here you will find the wall to have a more 'authentic' feel and be less busy.

2. Terracotta Army at Xi'an

No they will not come alive and hunt you down unlike in The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, but they certainly will take your breath away.

Undisturbed for thousands of years, the life-sized warriors were created to accompany their emperor into the afterlife.

"Photos of this do not do it justice; you will be blown away at the sheer scale of it. The place is incredible and the warriors are absolutely mesmerizing", says Holly, 20.

3. Chengdu Panda Breeding Research Centre at Chengu, Sichuan Province

Go and visit the endangered giant pandas where you can view them at close range - it may be the only time you get to see them!12»