The 100 Expats event, which is aimed at engaging the foreign community by cultivating their interest in exploring China's rich culture and heritage through their travels, will be held at the scenic area of Zhangjiajie from July 11 to 13.

The three-day, two-night event - organized by Ctrip International and Zhangjiajie's tourism authority - opens to expats living in China.

A similar event was held at Huangshan Mountain in March.

"We see the ever growing enthusiasm of the expats in exploring the country's towering sandstone pillars and the green-swathed ravines, and we decided to make these events a regular offering," says Beth He, director of Ctrip International Website Division.

"It's a great opportunity for foreigners to engage with their fellow nature lovers while getting a healthy workout in this beautiful destination."

English language proficiency is highly recommended for all participants, she says.

Located in northwestern Hunan province, the main draw of Zhangjiajie is the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. Other popular spots in the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park include the Suoxi Valley, Tianzi Mountain and Baofeng Lake.

The wildlife in the national forest park is another main draws. Giant salamanders, rhesus monkeys and golden pheasants are among the creatures visitors might stumble upon during a trek through the photogenic Golden Whip Brook.

Avid hikers can explore mountains, caves and forests, while paved paths cutting through the scenic areas offer a less challenging adventure. Visitors also have the option of taking a glass elevator to the top of one of the peaks.

The tour is open to foreigners living in China, and the cost is 1,580 yuan ($253). It includes an experienced English-speaking tour guide, two-nights stay at a five-star accommodation with breakfast, admission fees, cable car tickets, five meals and transportation between sites. The registration deadline is July 6.

zhengxin@chinadaily.com

(China Daily 06/29/2014 page9)