Silk Road cruise stimulates interest in China

A series of programs featuring traditional Chinese culture, such as tea, painting, calligraphy, opera and sculpture were hosted on the cruise Majestic Princess.[Photo by Yang Feiyue/China Daily]

Moreover, a series of programs catering to Chinese tourists will be ready once the ship reaches Shanghai.

"Chinese guests will have opportunities to learn about the stars through our stargazing program, meet with the captain and other senior officers on the bridge tour, participate in English-language classes and many other programs designed to educate and to enrich their lives," Kaufman says.

During the maiden voyage of Majestic Princess, the Silk Road sea route journey was 100 percent booked.

Hearing that more similar trips are likely to be launched in the future, Ender says she would be excited to come back again.

She was particularly fascinated by the Chinese painting session given by Xu Renlong, a prestigious artist from the Central Academy of Fine Arts in China.

She was amazed by Xu's mastery of painting and calligraphy.

She herself loves painting very much, which she says helps her to relax during spare time.

"I felt like I'd like to take a calligraphy lesson after the lecture," she says.