The SinoConnexion Blog

SinoConnexion launches vouchers for discounts and freebies

Sat, 6 Mar 2010 20:23:45 +0800

How does a FREE beer at Jimmy’s sound? 在吉米吧来一杯免费的啤酒?
Or a 15% discount and FREE dessert at Studio 21? 在藤美享受8.5折和免费甜点?

These are just two examples of discounts and benefits offered in the new SinoConnexion voucher program. SinoConnexion VIP cardholders have long been used to receiving special deals at locations across Nanjing and beyond, and now anyone can receive vouchers for some of these special places direct to their email box, instantly!
这些只是SinoConnexion电子券计划提供的两个折扣商户的例子。 SinoConnexion贵宾持卡人可用您的贵宾卡在商户消费，当然电子消费券将更方面您的消费.

Visit our website [here] to see all the vouchers that are available. More will come in the future, so watch this space!
访问我们的网站[这里]看所有可用电子消费券的商户,如果您希望看到更多可使用我们电子消费券的新商户来此页面.

To receive benefits at all SinoConnexion locations, plus free entry to events and parties, apply for the SinoConnexion VIP card [here]
享受所有折扣及免费进入我们的特别活动,请申请我们的会员卡[这里]

Visit the Shanghai Expo from your own home

Sat, 6 Mar 2010 13:22:29 +0800

The Shanghai Expo shall open its doors from 1st May to 31st October 2010. Whilst many of us are already making plans to visit the city during this time, for those whose time, location (or pocket) is prohibitive, an online media virtual visitor experience is currently being constructed by Tencent Holdings, operators of online chat service QQ, and Crystal CG, a pioneer in the computer graphics industry and one of the largest companies of its kind in China.

Shanghai Expo Online shall provide visitors with a virtual park identical to the 5.28 square kilometre physical Expo site. Take a walk around the virtual pavilions, reach out and touch the exhibitions while an animated Expo mascot presents to you the same information you would see at the site itself.

You can watch the Expo Shanghai Online promotional film [here].

SinoConnexion members get free beer at Blue Marlin birthday bash

Sun, 28 Feb 2010 22:53:16 +0800

Friday the 5th of March sees SinoConnexion partner location Blue Marlin hold its 5th anniversary birthday party at the 1912 venue in Nanjing. Amid the live music and various festivities, SinoConnexion VIP card holders shall be entitled to one free beer upon entry to the event. Tickets are priced at ¥98 which includes ‘all-you-can-eat’ but excludes drinks. Except the free beer for us SinoConnexion folk...

See the full Blue Marlin page [here].
Not a SinoConnexion VIP cardholder? Get the card for free [here].

Traditional village dishes with discount for SinoConnexion members

Sat, 27 Feb 2010 00:29:18 +0800

Situated in the centre of Nanjing, Xinjeikou, My Village Hut serves traditional Chinese village dishes in a setting that is truly unique. You are sure of a memorable meal enjoying the flavour of traditional home cooked recipes while surrounded by memorabilia of the era of China's great leader Chairman Mao. Adorning the walls are period 'revolutionary' paintings, plus Chinese money, stamps and newspapers of the time. In addition, your waiters and waitresses all dress appropriately for the occasion; in the communist Mao uniform previously worn by all who adore the Chinese nation.  坐落在南京新街口黄金地段的俺村食堂餐厅，是一个真正提供独特的传统中国乡村美食的餐厅.你们一定会享受到难忘的传统家庭风味菜肴，而且在对中国人民的伟大领袖毛主席时代的纪念品包围的环境中用餐。餐厅用'革命'绘画，中国当时货币，邮票和报纸来进行装饰.别有一番风味.此外你的服务生们都统一着当时的'旧军装'更加生动的向您展示了'毛主席那个时代'.

See the full My Village Hut page [here].

Help needed for fundraising week at Bluesky

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 19:16:28 +0800

Popular expat hangout Bluesky shall host a fundraising week next week in which the goal is to raise ¥25,000 plus, to provide a much needed urgent operation.

Zhao Pan is from Chengdu. His father, a farm worker, has lost the sight in one eye, and while supporting his family must also care for his 80 year old mother.

Your help is needed.
Can you donate items for an auction?

The fundraising event starting on Monday 22nd and continue for a week. The purpose is to raise money to pay for Zhao Pan’s heart surgery organized by Hopeful Hearts. After the earthquake, a lot of attention has been given to rebuilding the shattered communities, but there are still people needing help with other crises. With your assistance, we going to help Hopeful Hearts make a difference. From next Monday 22nd Feb until the following Sunday the 28th, 10% of turnover at Bluesky will be donated to help Zhao Pan receive the urgently needed operation at the end of the month. In addition, other fundraising will happen at Bluesky. See more details below.
 When Bluesky knows what items can be auctioned they will email out a schedule. If there is enough, auctions shall be held on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday nights next week.

Thus far, the fundraising activities are as follows:-

1. A reverse auction. (Auctioneer starts with a high price and calls prices that gradually drop until someone claims the object at that price. If two people claim simultaneously, the price goes up a little and called again to detect the winner). If you have something to donate for the auction, email bluesky.aussie@gmail.com
2. Killer Pool: 20% of the prize pool on Wed 24th will go to HH
3. Monthly Pool Comp: 25% of the prize money on Sat 27th goes to HH 4. 10% of Bluesky turnover for the week go to HH 5. If you cannot attend, feel free to make a donation If you need to transfer money from overseas or another city, email bluesky.aussie@gmail.com for information.

Free entrance to new Jiangsu Province Art Museum

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 19:43:12 +0800

The brand new Jiangsu Province Art Museum has opened its doors to the public, and throughout the Spring Festival a steady stream of visitors have taken advantage of free admission for the duration of the new year holiday.

The ultra modern 3 floor building houses the largest collection of art in Jiangsu province.

Displayed on the upper levels are examples of traditional Chinese art in the form of scrolls, landscapes, calligraphy and fans.

The first floor of the museum is perhaps the most interesting. One can view a large collection of contemporary Chinese oil paintings, many dealing with a subject matter that is commonplace in modern China; that of skyscrapers, construction sites, even the Nanjing metro.

The museum located close to the Nanjing library at the intersection of Changjiang Lu and Wenfu Lu and is open from 10am until 4pm daily, with last admissions at 3.30pm.

Learn Chinese with Wendys Chinese

Mon, 8 Feb 2010 15:10:45 +0800

SinoConnexion is proud to announce the latest addition to its VIP membership discount programme; Wendy’s Chinese

Wendys Chinese specializes in teaching Mandarin Chinese as a second language. Our teaching is interactive, enjoyable, practical, and tailored to individual or group needs. The courses include Social Chinese, Business Chinese, Chinese for Young Learners and HSK. A Chinese Culture Course is offered in English to foreigners who have the passion to learn about China and Chinese Culture. Other services, such as translation and consultation is also available according to individual request. Our students come from around the world - business executives and individuals whose proficiency level vary from beginner to advanced learner.

See the full Wendys Chinese page [here].

Free Spanish Sangria for SC cardholders

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 23:51:38 +0800

SinoConnexion partner location Studio 21 hosts an American Acoustic & Dance Night on Saturday 30th January, 2010.

On stage shall be Terry Taylor, Alexander Laurean and Matt Lovett who will give a live concert from 8.30pm onwards, followed by a DJ playing a 1960-2000’s all vocal repertoire, plus Beer Pong Tables and a Poker Game under the supervision of Simon Laing.

SinoConnexion cardholders shall receive FREE entry plus a SPANISH SANGRIA when they show their card.

Also on offer, several interesting drink specials including any bottled beer Buy 2 get 1 Free (until Midnight) and discounted bottle prices (original Stolichnaya Vodka bottle at ¥188 and Captain Morgan Rum at ¥248.

See the full Studio 21 page [here].

Should Google start selling pork?

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 22:15:23 +0800

这是一篇意味深长的BBC中文博客文章,讨论谷歌退出中国事件. 问题的讨论点是那些所有西方媒体有权最终在中国的经营问题。欢迎有兴趣的朋友参与讨论网络行业在中国的前景,我们谢绝攻击性语言. 谢谢大家 [更多]

New SC partner gives free legal advice

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 19:11:27 +0800

Founded in 1997, Yongheng Partners is a local Nanjing law firm renowned for its excellent commercial law service. Yongheng Partners has over 60 practicing attorneys dedicated to finance, securities, and international investments, and provides all-around legal services to clients worldwide.
For a complimentary and confidential consultation, please contact Mr. Feng Chuan, Ms. Ding Zheng or Ms. Annamarie Larson (fluent Mandarin, English and Spanish).

永衡昭辉律师事务所由黎民等五位合伙人与1997年创立。本所现有注册执业律师六十余名，是一家以商事法律服务为主，长期致力于金融证券、国际投资等领域并提供全方位法律服务的律师事务所。
免费、机密的咨询，请联系冯川律师、丁铮律师或李安娜国际顾问（中文、英文、西班牙文）。

See the full Yongheng Partners page [here].

One of a kind Ielts study program launched in Nanjing

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 20:40:06 +0800

A unique course has been launched in Nanjing that combines the fun of cooking with the study of Ielts (International English Language Testing System). The new initiative from Novas International consists of an English club and classes whereby students are able to pay for lessons on a weekly basis, unlike other courses that force students to pay costly long term fees. Oral classes have just 16 students and are taught by professional, mature, foreign teachers trained to a high standard. Students also have a most flexible course structure whereby they decide just how many lessons they want and how they want to handle it.

Another popular element of the curriculum is the cooking event, or Cooking Corner as it has become known, that is also offered free to students participating in the new scheme. In addition, each student receives a free interview with their personal advisor and foreign teacher to discuss their progress and provide tips on how they can improve.

See a video of the Cooking Corner in action [here].
To contact the course organizers click [here].

Half price tickets for students at Kun Opera performances

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 01:53:11 +0800

Throughout January 2010, holders of a Nanjing student ID card are entitled to half price entry to Kun Opera performances at Nanjing’s Chao Tien Temple, located at the southern end of Wangfu Da Jie.

See a complete list of performances [here].

History of Kun Opera
南京剧坛昆曲史略

In the beginning Kun Opera was referred to as simply the Kun tone, although later it also went by the names of Kunshan tone, the sea salt tone, Yuyao tone, Yiyang tone and the Hangzhou tone, collectively as the southern five tones of Kun Opera. During the Hongwu period of his reign, the first Ming emperor Zhu Yuan invited the then 110 year old Zhou Shouyi, foremost representative of the Kun Operatic movement to a personal meeting in Nanjing in 1373, and declared Kun tone to be most superior form of opera, with Zhu's own personal favourite being the "Pipa" style of Kun Opera. Such was his enthusiasm that Zhu established a Kun Opera performance agency within his own court in Nanjing, and built the "Fuller House" for public performances on the southern banks of the Qinghuai river. In 1394 during an extended period of peace within China, the Kun operatic movement gained further momentum when Zhu ordered the construction of the "16 Houses of Jinling" with the express purpose of promoting greater public interest in the arts and dramatic performances.
 昆曲现称昆剧,起源于元朝末年的昆山,而盛行于苏州。它起初称为昆山腔,与海盐腔、余姚腔、弋阳腔、杭州腔并称为南戏五大声腔。明太祖朱元璋在南京称帝后,于洪武六年(1373)召见昆山的老寿星周寿谊说:“闻昆山腔甚嘉,尔亦能讴否?”这可以说是南京剧坛上昆曲史的序幕。朱元璋特别欣赏南曲戏文《琵琶记》,“日令优人进演”。当时宫内设有教坊司,是专掌乐舞戏曲的演出机构。又在秦淮河南岸建造“富乐院”,作为倡优聚居之处。洪武十七年(1394),朱元璋“以海内太平,思欲与民偕乐”,乃下令建造了“金陵十六楼”。如南市楼在斗门桥东北,醉仙楼在西关中街,来宾楼在聚宝门外西侧,都是歌舞、戏曲的公演场所,这为南京剧坛的兴盛创造了有利条件。

Read more about the history of Kunqu [here].

New SC partner delivers imported wines to your door

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 17:59:31 +0800

Medoc (MDK) Wines is engaged in the import of wines from France, Italy, Australia, Chile and other countries, with a total of 11 kinds of products, as well as champagne, brandy, whiskies, vodka, tequila etc. Clients can enjoy good wines with a cordial door to door delivery service.
 梅多克酒业专业从事进口酒系列. 公司现进口葡萄酒(有法国、意大利、澳洲、智利等十一个国家近千种产品) 以及香槟白兰地威士忌伏特加龙舌兰等.如你是会员,并且直接向我们订酒, 就可立即享受超值好的好酒和送货上门的亲切服务.

See the full Medoc (MDK) Wines profile page [here].

Multimedia environmental art drama comes to Nanjing

Sun, 13 Dec 2009 23:27:00 +0800

《江河行》
一个中国当代生态环境的预言

环境保护如今已是当今炙手可热的红薯了。科学家警告过我们, 政治家开过会议，或许许多人已经开始改变我们的生活方式了. 那么艺术家呢？这看似毫不相干的人群，也用他们的作品诉说着中国当代生态环境的故事。

《江河行》这部小剧场话剧是中国近年来一系列先锋话剧、实验话剧的延续，是一部你我身边最真切的时代寓言。该剧体现了“不允‘江河不行’的忧患和呼，是对中国环保生态的关注，也是对维护文化环境乃至艺术境遇的思考。

这个话剧寓意江河清净必定不能缺失“江河行”。从2006年开始，中国的民间环保组织开始了一场“江河十年行”的壮举。《江河行》的编、导，演主创人员以亲身经历，用录像、录音、采访手记、照片等第一手资料，引录剧场的方式，呈现了2008年底中国金沙江、怒江，澜沧江之行的一系列原生态。

《江河行》的主创人员是一群敢于创新、实践，有较高艺术造诣的青年艺术家和媒体人。在上海首场演出之后，受到了圈内外各界的好评。

Environmental issues are indeed hot potatoes at the very moment. Scientist has warned us, politicians have convened meetings, and many of us may have already started changing the way we live. Not to be forgotten, there are also artists, who transfer aspects of environmental issues into sate of art. “River River River” tells a vivid parable about contemporary Chinese environmental issues focusing on protection for Chinese waters. Employing verbatim theatre, the play uses original visual and audio documents and presents a true close observation of Chinese ecological system in the past decade.

"River River River" is the drama that tells the fate of Chinese rivers. It is full of creativity and personality, which embraces love for nature, and sincere pursuits for drama by dedicated people. ”
(Wang Yongchen - CCTV journalist, China’s top ten environmentalist)

《江河行》是一出表现中国江河命运的戏；是一部充满个性的，创新的戏。里面包含着爱自然，爱戏剧的执着的人的执着追求。
(汪涌晨 - 中央广播电台，中国十大环保人物)

受南京大学戏剧系，无锡先知小剧场，广州话剧艺术中心，武汉华润集团，北京绿家园以及杭州，深圳等地的邀请，《江河行》将于年底明年初完成七城市巡演，并展开由戏剧和环保各界人士参与的专题研讨会

开始时间: 12月9日周三 03:00
结束时间: 1月7日周四 07:00
地点: 南京鼓楼区南京大学魔盒小剧场/仙林小剧场

Earn 200 RMB for taking part in market research

Sat, 12 Dec 2009 02:42:51 +0800

请帮助我们做市场调查背访者将得到200元现金
1 12月17日星期四 15:00-17:00 26-30岁女性家庭月收入2万元或以上大专或以上学历
2 12月17日星期四 18:00-20:00 31-40岁女性家庭月收入2万元或以上大专或以上学历

所有受访者需要满足以下条件
1. 每组中混合Cartier(卡地亚)和竞争品牌的购买者,其中Cartier(卡地亚)的购买者3人,竞争品牌的购买者3人
2. 竞争品牌购买者的要求如下: 1) 不拒绝奢侈品和奢侈品牌的珠宝首饰; 2)在过去12个月内购买过国际珠宝首饰品牌,例如Tiffany(除银饰外), Bvlgari (宝格丽), Van Cleef & Arpels(梵克雅宝), Chaumet(绰美), Channel; 3) 所购买的珠宝单件在7000元或以上
3. Cartier的购买者: 在过去12个月内购买过Cartier的珠宝首饰
4. 所有被访者拥有3件以上奢侈品产品
5. 所有被访者是奢侈品的购买的决策者和购买者
6. 奢侈品的主要购买地点以国内为主
所有被访者不拒绝卡地亚

我们被访者礼金给到200.

请有兴趣者,email我们[这里]

New French restaurant in Xianlin joins SinoConnexion

Sat, 12 Dec 2009 00:37:39 +0800

Potato Bistro, with a unique location and quiet environment in the most prosperous area of Nanjing's Xianlin area, can accomodate 80-100 guests, with an outdoor balcony of 150 square meters also available for different parties. The bistro is based on green, organic, fresh foods and authentic tastes. A chef with decades of culinary experience in western-style restaurant is very familiar with western food, especially Italian and Mexican cuisine. Open from 10.30am to 11.00pm with a free wireless internet connection.   马铃薯，一个有着独特吸引力的小餐馆，它位于南京市仙林地区最繁华的地段，环境优雅安静。餐厅可容纳80－100名客人用餐，并有150平米室外阳台可提供置办各种聚会。店内供有新鲜、有机、绿色的菜肴，具有纯真的品质。烹饪技术一流的大厨，对西式菜肴拥有几十年的烹饪经验，其精湛的技艺充分体现在意大利和墨西哥风情的菜肴上。营业时间： 10：30－23:00 ( 店内提供免费无线网络连接)

See the full Potato Bistro profile page [here].

SinoConnexion founder named expat of the 90s by City Weekend

Sat, 12 Dec 2009 00:29:43 +0800

SinoConnexion co-founder and Media Director Frank Hossack has been selected by Shanghai City Weekend as expat best representing the 1990s in the popular English lifestyle magazine’s article “60 years of Shanghai Expats”.

Read the full article [here].

Free beer for SinoConnexion members at Jimmys

Mon, 7 Dec 2009 02:29:07 +0800

Jimmy's has become a haven for foreigners of all countries to get that "back home" feeling again while living overseas, and at the same time providing a slice of western culture for local Chinese. Jimmy's has served customers from all continents of the world and most known countries. There is a plethora of western style dishes to keep customers of all countries satisfied, ranging from pizza and tacos to salad and steak, and even Aussie pies. No matter who you are or where you're from, Jimmy's always has something to satisfy you.   ' 吉米来吧'让来自己世界各地的人有回家的感觉同时也为当地的中国人提供了了解西方文化的平台。吉米吧的客人来自世各地,不管你从哪个国家来,总有一道餐能满足你的品味,从比萨饼和沙拉和牛排炸玉米饼甚至澳元馅饼。不管你是谁或你是从哪来，吉米总能让你品尝到家乡的味道.

For SinoConnexion cardholders - spend 50rmb or more and get a free 0.5l Budweiser. Limited to one per card per night.
 SC会员持会员卡消费50元或以上，获得0.5升百威啤酒赠饮一杯。(限制每人每晚一卡)

See the full Jimmy’s profile page [here].

Lomography and coffee together in Nanjing

Sat, 5 Dec 2009 00:38:00 +0800

Art Park / 3 Coffee is a coffee shop hideaway dedicated to photography, specifically lomography, plus the sale and repair of a wide range of film cameras. In the coffee shop, at almost anytime you are sure to bump into like minded individuals with whom you can share a conversation or two about photography, movies or music over freshly prepared coffee, to-die-for lemonade, or beer, wine and spirits at rock bottom prices.   艺术公园/3咖啡馆致力于摄影，特别是Lomo摄影，加上销售和胶片相机的各种维修。在咖啡馆，几乎任何时候你肯定会碰到志同道合的人与你交谈新鲜咖啡，摄影，电影或音乐.爱死柠檬水，或啤酒，葡萄酒及烈酒都是谷底价格。

For SinoConnexion cardholders - buy a camera worth ¥300 or more, and receive a free roll of film. SC会员－赠送胶卷当购买价值300元或以上的照相机.

See the full Art Park / 3 Coffee profile page [here].

FREE ENTRY to 80s party at Sudio 21 on 4th Dec

Tue, 1 Dec 2009 16:47:25 +0800

SinoConnexion VIP cardholders gain free entry to the 1980s party being held at Nanjing’s Studio 21 on Friday 4th December, 2009. If you do not have a SinoConnexion VIP card you can register for free [here]. After your registration you may enter the party on Friday for free using just your name!

持SinoConnexion VIP卡会员准予免费进入'80年代'聚会.地点在藤美.时间:二〇〇九年十二月四日星期五.如果你还没有SinoConnexion VIP卡请现在就在线申请[点这里]. 以确保免费进入.我们拒绝在聚会当天申请会员卡!

20% off your next French-Chinese translation

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 21:34:49 +0800

The range of service offered by BRT Translation includes oral and text translation of English, French, and Italian and as well as other languages; we also have credential and certificate translation, Business consulting and negotiations services. In addition, our company provides France exhibition and French tour guide service.

Notre service de traduction chinois - français – anglais-italien est basé sur la satisfaction de nos clients. Nous maîtrisons l'ensemble du processus grâce à des traducteurs français - chinois internes. Aucune tâche n'est sous-traitée. Cette particularité nous permet d'améliorer la qualité et les délais de traduction, tout en réduisant les coûts.

公司的服务范围包括：英语、法语、意大利语以及其他语种的口笔译；证件证书翻译；商务咨询、谈判。除此之外，我公司特别提供法国展览、法语陪同导游服务。

SinoConnexion cardholders are entitled to a 20% discount on all of BRT Translation’s services.

See the full BRT Translation profile page [here].

SinoConnexion and Studio 21 host Vegas Music Mixer

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 23:46:05 +0800

Singles Day, 2009 and a small break away from tradition as SinoConnexion and partner location Studio 21 host the Vegas Music Mixer; an evening of wine tasting, live music, mixing and networking plus fun at the in house Vegas tables.

Studio 21 is located in the hub of restaurants and entertainment centres that lie just south of Shigu Lu’s west end in Nanjing.

SinoConnexion VIP members and their friends sign-in for the members only free-to-enter event.

Around 40 Chinese and international guests enjoy the evening with fine foreign bottles of red and white wine supplied by MDK Wines while live music is provided by Nanjing’s finest Filipino guitarist Antonio Enchico...

...after which, the Vegas tournament, where Studio 21 waitresses transform into dealers and expert Black Jack instructors!

SinoConnexion’s Frank, Alexandro from Studio 21, MC for the evening Matt plus winners of 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes in the Vegas tournament.

Join Nanjing Toastmasters in free demo session

Sat, 7 Nov 2009 15:35:42 +0800

People who get ahead in life are those who can communicate effectively. Wouldn’t you like to develop this priceless skill? Now you can. Toastmasters will show you how to listen effectively, think quickly, and speak confidently. You will learn valuable leadership skills. Toastmasters is a non-profit organization run by its members, so it's affordable too!

Be a success – at home or on the job: Come visit our Demo

Details:
Saturday November 14th - 14:00 - 16:00
Add: Multifunctional Hall, 5th Floor, 1 HuNan Road, Phoenix International Book Mall

More info: www.nanjingtoastmasters.com

Studio 21 offers SinoConnexion members free dessert!

Fri, 6 Nov 2009 22:02:05 +0800

Originally from Holland, Studio 21 offers a large range of restaurant and entertainment activities. The Restaurant is modern and chic, with comfortable sofas and tasteful decor. The menu features an eclectic European, Mediterranean, Sushi and Teppanyaki selection to satisfy any taste pallet, including some items that are unlikely to be found elsewehere in Nanjing. Food presentation is second to none accompanied by service and a taste that is hard to match in Nanjing. There is also a lounge upstairs equipped with a large dance floor, stage, DJ station and even a Vegas lounge where one can play Poker, Blackjack, Baccarat and Roulette. Studio 21 also caters for functions for between 30 and 3000 guests! Organise a business function to dine in the first floor restaurant or choose to hold your own private function in the upstairs lounge. There is also a free wifi wireless internet connection available for your use.  最初来自荷兰，21工作室提供大范围餐厅和娱乐活动场所。该餐厅是现代和时尚，舒适的大沙发和雅致的装饰相结合。菜单具有一个折衷的选择,欧洲风味，地中海风味，寿司和铁板烧满足任何口味的需求。食品的口感和服务相适应在南京很难找到第二家。楼上是一间休息室配备了一个大舞池，舞台，以及DJ甚至拉斯维加斯休息室，可以玩扑克，二十一点，百家乐和轮盘赌。21工作室功能厅能承办30至3000的客人活动！你可能选择在一楼宽阔的餐厅用餐也可以选择二楼比较私人的包间进行会务洽谈,也有免费的WiFi无线互联网。
Check out the Studio 21 profile page, including photos, map and details on the free dessert [here].

Job opening at Map Magazine for English editor

Wed, 4 Nov 2009 13:39:59 +0800

Map Magazine is seeking a full-time English editor. The editor will be responsible for conceiving and writing original articles, working with freelance writers and translators, translating editorial content and advertisements from Chinese to English, copyediting, creating advertising copy, attending and comprehending editorial meetings, interviews and press events in Chinese and English. The ideal candidate would be energetic, creative, respectful and cooperative when working with Map’s mostly Chinese staff of editors, photographers, translators and advertisers. Applicants should be native English speakers with strong written communication skills. Experience in journalism and proficient Mandarin greatly preferred. An excellent opportunity for those hoping to get their foot in the door in China-based journalism and writing, as well as improve their Mandarin language skills in a practical setting. Applicants should send a cover letter, resume and published writing samples to mapmag.editor@gmail.com. Preferred starting date: January 2010.
 What is Map?
Map city guide magazine is the go-to bilingual magazine in the Yangzte River Delta region between Nanjing and Shanghai. With a circulation of roughly 60,000, Map publishes three city guides for Nanjing, Wuxi and Suzhou distributed throughout Jiangsu Province. Established nine years ago, Map publishes three bilingual editions: Chinese-English, Chinese-Japanese and Chinese-Korean.
Demographics about Map’s readership:
• 56% Chinese, remainder are English-speaking foreigners
• 63% male
• Average age: 36-45
• 21% of readers are students, tourists
• Read by 90 percent of foreigners in Nanjing and Wuxi

Win tickets to the 2009 Oktoberfest Celebration Amity Charity Fundraiser

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 16:26:36 +0800

2009年十月啤酒节

该活动为欧菲精工啤酒主。欧菲啤酒是世界顶级啤酒。今年还要推出慕尼黑啤酒节式的“Marzen"", 即当年三月酿造存储长达六个月的黑啤酒。

门票包含除了啤酒，还有烤乳猪等自助食品。烤乳猪由索菲特银河酒店提供。现场还有三只乐队轮番表演，入夜后，时尚DJ将把活动推向高潮。爱德基金会作为欧菲啤酒的战略合作伙伴，也将参加这次活动。现场将由彩券销售，赢取索菲特银河酒店提供的一天高级豪华套房，以及其他的奖品。现场还将举办南京（也可能是中国）第一次单身拍卖活动。单身男女将以竞价的形式被拍卖，赢家可以获得同该单身人士的一次晚餐，晚餐由南京很多高级西餐厅提供，其中包括金陵饭店，索菲特银河酒店，答案墨西哥参，喜客德国餐厅，圣库鲁斯德国餐厅，菲尼根爱尔兰酒吧，对话西餐厅，喜玛拉雅尼泊尔餐厅等等南京知名的餐厅。其他活动比如啤乓酒，一种在国外酒吧里很流行的啤酒游戏。

门票价格男士150，女士100；本月20日前购买的票价为男士120，女士80。只限300张，shou

现场无限畅饮欧菲啤酒。

The 2009 Oktoberfest Celebration Amity Charity Fund Raising by Oktoberfest Brewing Company of Nanjing shall be held in the West Wing (Secretary Office) of the Presidential Palace, 50 meters east of Nanjing’s 1912 Starbucks outlet, this Saturday 24th October 2009 from 4pm to midnight.
Sinoconnexion has two pairs of tickets to giveaway for the event. Each ticket includes the following:-
All you can drink Oktoberfest beer (Brown Lager and Pilsener).
Pig roasts and other foods (due to the fire code at the historic site, they have to have the hogs prepared by Sofitel).
Sales of raffle tickets for the Amity Foundation charity at 1 RMB each ticket, prizes offered by sponsors.
Auction of bachelors (bachelorettes), with dinners provided by sponsors (dinners for two offered by Behind the Wall Cafe, Himalayan Nepalese Restaurant, Finnegan's Wake, Jiling Hotel, Sofitel, and Talking).
Live lounge / jazz, rock and folk music (great local vocalists)
Beer Pong games
Representatives from Amity will collect donations on-site and report the totally amount by the end of the event.
For your chance to win, click [here] to send us an email in which you should write "I wanna go to the 2009 Oktoberfest in aid of the Amity Charity Fund with SinoConnexion!", or words to that effect. Winners shall be notified by email on Thursday, 22nd October.
For the unlucky, ticket prices: 150/100 RMB at door, 120RMB/80RMB before Oct. 20th. Call 18951890013, or email mastergao@gmail.com to order tickets.

Free outdoor DJ event in Nanjing on Saturday 17th October

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 13:46:56 +0800

This Saturday 17th October, 2009, sees an outdoor DJ event take place in Nanjing, nearby the eastern shore of Xuanwu Lake. A number of local DJs shall be joined with visiting DJs from Beijing, Shanghai and beyond in this free to enter event.

A variety of drinks including beer and cocktails shall be available for purchase, as shall charcoal for making your own BBQ!

Time: 1-9pm
Location: 南京鼓楼区龙蟠路100号情侣园内（锁金村站旁）

More information [here]

Tails from the Nanjing International Auto Exposition

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 19:20:35 +0800

Some of the finest tails in the global auto industry are on display at the 8th Nanjing International Auto Exposition until 2nd October, at the Nanjing International Exhibition Centre, 88 Longpan Lu.

Attendance that the five day show last year was 200,000 and organisers this year are expecting to top 220,000 as crowds flock to see the latest models from Maserati, Ferrari, Rolls Royce, Bentley, Lamborghini, Cadillac, the London Taxi Company and even QQ!

For the Chinese consumer, it may well be that Audi is their favourite auto brand, if attendance at the manufacturers’ booths is anything to go by.

Not only the latest cars, but the latest accessories too. In car computing, DVD players, audio systems, baby seats and much more...

The finest show is certainly put on by Changan Ford with a great exhibition space, the loudest music, dance routines and fashion shows accompanied by spectacular video.

Also on display, large utility vehicles including a stretched Hummer, if such a thing can be imagined; and emergency vehicles.

Small is beautiful. The Smart is a popular car in which to be photographed at this years show. If even that is a little on the large side, for your parking space or your pocket, you shall also find perhaps for many of us, the only solution to owning our dream car, a model shop!

With 63,000 square metres of exposition space, 53 brand exhibitors and 386 vehicles on display, the Nanjing International Auto Exposition is a major stop on the exhibition circuit for every major car manufacturer.

So just who has the best tail? Judge for yourself, and check out the front ends too, at the Nanjing International Auto Exposition which concludes 2nd Oct. Entrance is ¥30.

--

Photos: David Smith
Text: Frank Hossack
Email the authors [here]

Mountain bike race in Wuxi careens down Tangshan

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:38:45 +0800

Mountain bike riders from all over the Yangtze river delta and beyond converged upon Tangshan in Wuxi last Sunday to challenge themselves, one another, and the mountain in a downhill mountain bike race sponsored by some small independents plus major sponsors Specialized, Giant, and DeCharmes Bikes who all had teams participating in the race.

30 some riders dared to descent the treacherous 1.4 km course littered with razor sharp rocks and trees in the middle of the track. The course was a technical one, requiring precise technique and a keen eye for where to ride. The danger was high as a simple fall could easily send one careening towards a field of sharp stones that wouldn’t be generous in their treatment of these invaders.

The next race of the year is this coming weekend in Beijing where riders will once again challenge themselves and one another.

For more information about these races, future races, and the world of Mountain biking in China please contact the author below.

Photos & story: David Smith
Email the author [here]

Win tickets to the Yangshuo Climbing Festival!

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 20:33:29 +0800

Whether you are a seasoned climber or a beginning who wants to learn more you are sure to get a lot out of the Yangshou Climbing Festival!

SinoConnexion is partnering with festival co-sponsor Black Diamond in an exclusive ticket giveaway. For your chance to win, click [here] to send us an email in which you should write "Rock on - I wanna go to the Yangshou Climbing Festival with SinoConnexion and Black Diamond", or words to that effect.

Held from November 13 to 15, 2009, the second annual Yangshuo Climbing Festival will bring together climbers in China's top sport climbing area and will include clinics taught by some of the world's best rock climbers, screening of climbing videos, informative slide shows, a free climbing treasure hunt, friendly climbing competitions, music, food, beer and socializing.

All registered participants will receive a free festival T-shirt, a Black Diamond Orbit Lantern, a Sea To Summit Ultralight Stuff Sack, a discount coupon for the purchase of Vasque shoes, a GSI Ultralight eating utensil and an Innate festival stainless steel water bottle. There will also be prize giveaways from the Festival sponsors.

This year, tickets for the festival are limited to 400 in number and are each worth approximately ¥300.

Click [here] for more information and fantastic photos from the Festival website.

The mission of the Yangshuo Climbing Festival is to bring together climbers annually from throughout Asia to promote and celebrate the sport of rock climbing.

The twin goals of the Yangshuo Climbing Festival are to promote a sense of community among climbers throughout China in a fun, friendly, and casual atmosphere and to support the sustainable development of rock climbing in the Yangshuo area. The Festival organizers will donate the money raised via Festival entry fees to local Yangshuo development projects in an effort to encourage a long-term collaborative partnership between climbers and the local community.

The SinoConnexion trip to see eclipse in Anhui Province

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 21:00:36 +0800

Dongzhi 东至, Anhui Province, 21st-22nd July 2009 - a trip organised by SinoConnexion to witness the longest solar eclipse of the century was an overwhelming success thanks to largely very favourable weather conditions, outstanding countryside, great food and accomodation plus a variety of fun activities and the company of great people!
Xianyushan resort lies some 4 hours drive south west of Nanjing, nestled in the mountains that lie west of the infamous Yellow Mountain. Departing from Nanjing at 7am, a party of 9 including SinoConnexion VIP cardholders made the trip by Luxury Mercedes Benz mini-coach to arrive in the breathtaking surroundings of Xianyushan just in time for a banquet lunch comprising entirely organic and local produce.

In the afternoon, the expedition enjoyed rafting down the nearby river in a very lesuirely fashion due to the fact there had been no rain for the previous two months which also ensured that more time was spent making each other as wet as possible rather than dealing with the rapids!

Another banquet dinner was subsequently served after which a fire dance was called for to allegedly ward off predicted bad weather. Someone or something was perhaps paying heed as the following morning of the eclipse was blessed with largely cloudless skies. However, by the time the party had reached the lakeside viewing location, a thin layer of cloud had formed that was perhaps a blessing in disguise as it made possible viewing the eclipse without any protective eyewear.

Elated, the tour was then given a personal invitation to lunch by the Director of Tourism for Dingzhi city, after which he again personally served as tour guide to a number of local attractions.

It was then sadly, time for the return to Nanjing, her smog and her traffic.

You can find out more about Xianyushan Resort [here]
If you would like to visit the area, please contact us by email [here] and we shall be happy to assist.

SinoConnexion Media Solutions promote Asia Outdoor 2009 at key locations across Nanjing

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 18:48:08 +0800

SinoConnexion has partnered with Asia Outdoor 2009 to promote the exhibition through a unique combination of media, including internet advertising, email and social media plus advertising placement through cooperation with SinoConnexion discount locations.

VIP delegates arriving at the exhibition from outside Nanjing shall also receive a useful information pack to make their time in Nanjing more enjoyable, including introductions to the key dining and retail locations featured in the promotion.

Pictured below and right are the staff and managers of some of the participating locations Les 5 Sens, Jack’s Place, Librairie Avant Garde, Taj Mahal and Don Quixote.

See the official Asia Outdoor 2009 website [here].

SinoConnexion and Nanjing Music Radio hold English party at Librairie Avant Garde

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 19:24:09 +0800

Up to 100 Chinese youngsters today participated in an English party, held at the Libraire Avant Garde in association with Nanjing Music Radio 105.8FM and SinoConnexion.

The aim of the party was to help participants overcome their fears of speaking English, a language they have all studied but have little opportunity to use or practice with native speakers.

Nanjing Radio presenters Ma Li and Frank hosted the event and provided insight to the audience as to what makes a good ‘self introduction’ from a westerner’s point of view. English teachers Clara (UK) and Leo (USA) used their professional skills in a role playing exercise greatly enjoyed by participants and audience alike while Patricia (Switerland) and Vanessa Wang hosted a game designed to teach the etiquette basics of dining in a western restaurant. Music for the afternoon was provided by guitarist Tony (Philippines) resident performer at the Don Quixote bar.

International universities represented at major education fair in Nanjing

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 13:33:00 +0800

Nanjing, China, 17th June, 2009 saw an international education fair held at Nanjing’s Ramada Hotel presented by Shinyway International at which were present up to 50 universities from all over China, Asia and the rest of the world.

新通国际作为中国出国和留学服务行业的领航者，成立10多年以来，精英团队植根中国，面向瞬息万变的国际市场，致力于为中国公民出国留学及海外投资发展提供最专业优质的服务，同时也是中国文化最积极的海外传播者。

Shinyway International specialises in the field of international exchange and cooperation in China, providing professional services to Chinese citizens who intend to study abroad or seek overseas investment and development. To this end, Shinyway International organizes high-quality international education exhibitions, seminars, face-to-face and video interviews.

Also present at the exhibition were a number of foreign universities and institutes of further education, some of which are featured below:- MIT (Melbourne Institute of Technology) in Australia, Canada's George Brown College in Toronto and Brunel University from London, England.

教育展会展览了一些外国大学和研究进修机构，其中一些精选如下： -澳大利亚麻省理工学院（墨尔本理工学院），加拿多伦多大乔治布朗学院和英国伦敦布鲁内尔大学。

The Melbourne Institute of Technology operates a Credit Transfer Agreement with Nanjing University's Department of Foreign Studies enabling participants to study part of a undergraduate or postgraduate program with Ballarat University without leaving Nanjing. A similar agreement exists for students in Australia who wish to study at Nanjing University whilst enjoying the comforts of home.

墨尔本理工学院设有学分转移协议，巴拉瑞特大学在南京与南京大学部外国部开发的的一个项目本科或研究生计划。学生在南大学习澳大利亚课程不用担心离家太远。

Ballarat Univerity is the 3rd oldest university in Australia but is located some 70km from the city of Melbourne. However, thanks to its relationship with the Melbourne Institute of Technology, students are able to study in city itself, not far from Melbourne's Chinatown while still gaining fully recognized qualifications from Ballarat University.

巴拉瑞特大学是澳大利亚历史最悠久的大学之一，离城市墨尔本70公里。然而，由于墨尔本理工学院，学生能够在城市学习，不远离墨尔本唐人街同时还获得由巴拉瑞特大学充分认可资格。

One of the most popular destinations for Chinese students is Canada. George Brown College in Toronto first started helping to bring Chinese students to Canada in 2000. Although their representation is Nanjing is a new initiative, the college is keen to expand services to students from Nanjing and its environs on account that Jiangsu is sister provence to Ontario. The college also sees a great number of students coming from the rest of the Yangtze river delta plus Guangdong province and Beijing.

其中一个最热门的学习目的地是加拿大。多伦多的乔治布朗学院在2000年开始吸引海外学生去加拿大学习。尽管他们的南京代表处是一个新的举措，但学院正积极扩展服务，以学生从南京及其周边城市开始因为江苏省是普罗旺斯，安大略省姐妹省。学院还认为，大量的学生来自长江三角洲及广东省和北京。

As a further example to their commitment to China, the college also operates a teacher training program, helping to train teachers in China for preparation in the work of teaching Chinese who have chosen to study in Canada.

为进一步致力于中国教育，学院还设有一个师资培训计划，帮助培训教师，中国的教师经过培训后在加拿大教中国学生让学生感觉更亲切。

Brunel University in London is a popular choice among foreign students as 110 different nationalities are represented studying at the university. In addition to offering an enormous range of courses, the university emphasizes its engineering, business, I.T., finance and law programs which include a one year placement, often at a prestigious firm within the capital city, that can lead to good career opportunities thanks to Brunel's long history in effectively placing students and providing career guidance.

布鲁内尔大学在伦敦是一个受外国学生欢迎的学校，110个不同民族的学生在大学学习。除了提供大量的课程，该大学强调其工程，商业，资讯科技，金融和法律的课程，其中包括一年的实习，往往是在一个有威望的公司，这样良好的职业机会还感谢布鲁内尔有效地把学生学习和提供职业指导相结合。

Brunel is also unusual for a London city university in that it offers a full campus environment that is completely self contained, meaning that students not only feel more secure but can also worry less about the cost of living in the UK's capital thanks to cheaper, custom built accommodation offered to students within the university grounds.

布鲁内尔也是不寻常的伦敦城市大学的，因为它提供了完整的校园环境，是完全自我控制，也就是说，学生不仅感到更安全，但也不用担心英国生活费用过高，校舍为住宿学生提供一体化大学校区。

Further information is available from the above institutions' websites:-
更多信息请参阅学校网站:-

www.igo.cn
www.mit.edu.au
www.georgebrown.ca
www.brunel.ac.uk

Six time climber of Mount Everest gives talk in Nanjing

Tue, 2 Jun 2009 05:26:58 +0800

Nanjing, 30th May 2009:- an excited group of outdoors enthusiasts gathered on Saturday evening at Sanfo’s Nanjing shop on Zhongshan Lu to hear a one hour presentation given by the Director of International Business Development for US outdoor firm Black Diamond; Bill Crouse.

Mr Crouse has exemplary experience in the outdoor market, having climbed to the summit of the world’s highest mountain, Everest, six times, most recently in 2007.

During the presentation the audience learned a little of the long preparations which are required to make the six week journey from Base Camp to the top of the mountain, which included acclimatization techniques used by mountaineers, necessary equipment and how one can take a warm shower! Afterwards, Mr. Crouse answered a range of questions from the audience:-

SinoConnexion: “We understand that it can cost as much as US$50,000 to make a climb of Everest. Having done it 6 times, what advice can you offer to perhaps help an expedition save money?”

Bill: “It is indeed a very expensive business. In fact, in Nepal the necessary permit to climb the mountain alone costs US$10,000! One oxygen bottle costs US$750! A trip with our group however, costs US$40,000, and we give you five star service for a three star price!

Bill Crouse shall return to Nanjing in July and shall possibly host another presentation.

Nanjing! Nanjing! Visit the museum before you watch the movie

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 07:58:16 +0800

随陆川《南京！南京！》走进“南京民间抗日战争博物馆” 真反映历史事件。Get into director Luchuan’s movie "Nanjing! Nanjing! " with a visit to the Nanjing Museum of Civil War and Resistance Against Japan:-

开放时间 Open：周二至周日9：00-16：00 免费开放 Thursday - Sunday 9:00-16:00
地址 Add：南京市安德门大街48号 #48 An De Men Street, Nanjing
电话 Tel：52892866，52892739
ADMISSION IS FREE

Nightly Performances of Jiangsu Kunqu Opera

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 07:28:57 +0800

江苏省昆剧院 Jiangsu Province Kunqu Opera

位于Location：朝天宫4号 No. 4 Chao Tian Palace

时间Time：
周一 Monday ~ 周五 Friday @ 19:00（一般是免费的 Free）
周六 Saturday @ 19:00 (票价Tickets：¥20 30 50 100)

订票电话 Book Ticket：025—84469284

Events:
由昆曲专业演员为昆曲爱好者上课：每周六上午9:00 Kunqu Free Class: Every Saturday @ 9:00am

Record numbers of foreign students for Nanjing

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 13:05:14 +0800

据江苏教育部统计在 2008年有6169外国学生来到南京，其中73 ％来自亚洲其他地区。总体来说，每年江苏的外国学生人数相对增加14 ％ -17 ％。南京有一半以上的50个学院，大学和科研机构在江苏的有资格接受外国留学生。

According to statistics from the Department of Education of Jiangsu, 2008 saw 6169 foreign students come to Nanjing, 73% of which coming from elsewhere in Asia. Overall, each year the number of foreign students to Jiangsu increases from between 14% and 17%. Nanjing has over a half of the 50 colleges, universities and scientific research institutions in Jiangsu which are qualified to accept foreign students.

The long march toward new communications links

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 12:36:13 +0800

The end of 2008 saw the official beginnings of two important infrastructure projects in and around Nanjing: the No.4 Yangtze Bridge and the Nanjing-Hangzhou passenger traffic only railway line.

The No.4 Yangtze Bridge shall be a suspension bridge (unlike the No.2 & 3 bridges which are both cable tie structures) and shall boast the longest span in China at 1,418 meters. It shall also be the third longest span in the world. Construction shall take 5 years at a cost of 6.857 billion Yuan.

Elsewhere a Nanjing-Hangzhou passenger traffic only railway line aims to open to traffic in 2011, with a designed speed of 350 km/h, meaning the journey time between the two cities shall be less than one hour. The total investment is about 31.38 billion Yuan for the 249km line between the new Nanjing South and Hangzhou East Stations.

2008年年底正式开始看到的两个南京重要基础设施项目：第四长江大桥和南京－杭州客运专有铁路线。

第四长江大桥将是一座悬索吊桥（不像第2号和3号桥，这种既扎带结构），并介绍它跨度在我国最大，在1，418米。它也应世界上第三跨度。施工将用5年时间完成，耗资约60亿。

宁杭客运线有望在2011年通车，设计时速是每小时350公里，也就是说，从南京到杭州全程行车时间少于一小时。总投资约300亿的249公里铁路钱从南京新南站至杭州东站。

Not so civilised after all

Sun, 7 Dec 2008 05:40:42 +0800

文明城市不文明

After a campaign lasting much of the year and fierce competition between rival cities it has finally been decided which of China’s cities are the most civilised. Here is the list. Read on for details of just how a city’s ‘civilisedness’ can be measured. And no, Shanghai and Beijing are not on the list because they are, as absolutely everyone knows, already civilised....

1. Dalian 大连市
2. Xiamen 厦门市
3. Shenzhen 深圳市
4. Ningbo 宁波市
5. Shenyang 沈阳市
6. Chengdu 成都市
7. Hangzhou 杭州市
8. Qingdao 青岛市
9. Harbin 哈尔滨市
10. Xian 西安市
11. Changchun 长春市
12. Guangzhou 广州市
13. Wuhan 武汉市
14. Nanjing 南京市
15. Jinan 济南市

So just how have the cities been measured?

The factors that have been taken into account when measuring each city’s ‘civilisedness’ include:-

Per capita GDP, GDP annual growth rate, poverty rate, main streets and key areas, the management of the shops along main streets, barrier-free facilities, urban road construction, public electric cars, people’s degree of satisfaction with traffic convenience, emergency vehicles, public places, business health, public health emergency response system, family planning rates, average life expectancy, collection of social insurance funds rate, urban registered unemployed re-employment, number of beds in social welfare for the elderly, built-up area green coverage, rate of green space per capita, public green space, sound solid waste disposal rate of urban sewage treatment, rate of investment in environmental protection index, smoke and dust control zone coverage, environmental noise standard coverage areas and urban areas’ water quality.

《测评体系》对城市的生活和生态环境提出了详细的测评指标。

　　人均GDP，GDP年增长率，贫困率，主要大街和重点地区面貌，沿街店铺管理，无障碍设施，城市道路建设，公共汽（电）车数量，市民对交通便捷程度的满意率，配备急救车数，经营性公共场所卫生，突发公共卫生事件应急系统，计划生育率，平均预期寿命，恩格尔系数，社会保险基金征缴率，城市登记失业人口再就业率，老年人口拥有社会福利床位数等。

　　生态环境除了前面提到的还包括：建成区绿化覆盖率，绿地率，人均公共绿地，生活垃圾无害化处理率，城市污水处理率，环境保护投资指数，烟尘控制区覆盖率，环境噪声达标区覆盖率，城市水域功能区水质达标率等。

Interview with interior design guru Sheena Guo

Thu, 4 Dec 2008 15:32:08 +0800

Sheena is Director of Ilumdecor Casa in Nanjing’s Olympic Area, and a VIP member of SinoConnexion.

做软装行业多少年？
从2004年开始接触，决定在南京做意明堂，源于05年欧洲之行的灵感，意明堂的“意”就是表达了对艺术设计之国意大利的致意.
为何会选择在远离闹市的新城区开店？
选择奥体主要有两个原因。一是从市场角度讲，这里就像以前的上海浦东，充满未知和新鲜的潜能，二是，主城区里虽然商铺云集，但要找到一处既有格调氛围，又能充分展示的我们经营理念的处所并非易事。所以，与其扎堆闹市，不如另辟蹊径，从而更好的体现意明堂的独特性和非主流价值观。
为什么会将咖啡吧融入家居店？
设立咖啡厅的想法来源很简单，首先因为我本人热爱咖啡，而奥体周围还没有一家真正意义上的咖啡店。奥体的硬件环境在南京地区首屈一指，但是缺少人文软环境，没有真正形成社区文化，周围的居民闲暇时间基本呆在家中。所以，我们也希望利用我们的店铺给那些喜好咖啡文化，热爱社交活动的人提供一处家以外的公共空间（客厅）。意明堂，不仅是家居沙龙，更是为大家提供另一种生活方式的样本。
店里的家具一般都是来自哪里？
我们店内的产品70%由公司自行设计，委托专门的合作厂家生产。部分商品，以饰品为主，是根据世界家居业的潮流趋势，并结合南京本地市场偏好特点，从全国各地精心选购的，其中更有部分商品直接从国外进口，保证了我们店铺产品的稀缺性，从而能够满足我们客户对个性化的需求。
设计灵感来自哪里？
设计灵感简单地说就是来自于生活，来自于日常生活中看到，遇到，感受到的点点滴滴。当然，一些专业的展会（例如每年一度的巴黎国际家居展, 上海国际家居博览会，柏林设计年会等等），画廊，博物馆以及设计独特的星级酒店，都是我经常会光顾的地方，也确实为我的工作带来很多意想不到的启发。我相信，一个好的室内软装设计顾问，一定要有生活阅历；所谓眼光，品味就来自于你经年历练的文化积累和沉淀。
在设计家具或家饰中有没有让你影响深刻的事情？
一个设计师设计的作品如果被客户采纳，就是最让他/她高兴的事. 尤其是一套平淡无奇的房子经过我们的配饰，达到了化腐朽而神奇的效果，是对我们最大的奖赏。
南京人对软装的理解与其他地方有何不同？
不客气地说，大部分南京人对软装还没什么概念，很多人对此的理解，还停留在窗帘布艺的范畴。所以，无论是媒体还是我们从业人员，当务之急应该是为消费者‘扫盲‘，积极推广软装设计的概念，让越来越多的人了解装修和装饰的区别，软装设计师其实就是帮助了你了解自己的需求，确定自己的家居风格。不要逐众，不要盲从，要有自己的生活方式。你的家就是你最好的名片。
是否会在南京或是其他地方再开店？
其他城市的店铺正在考虑中，可能会是青岛。今年之内不会定。
郭总喜爱的休闲方式是什么？喜欢什么样的美食？
我最大的爱好可能就是‘尝鲜’。例如那里开了新餐厅，哪里又有一家酒吧听说很特别，那我都会尽早光顾体验。还有，只要时间允许，我希望世界各地都能留下我的足迹。对我来说，生命的意义就是‘体验’。无论是欢乐还是忧伤，无论是奢侈还是清贫，无论是传统还是另类，人生都应该尽可能的经历，这样活着才丰满。

New TV Show Profiles lives of Nanjing Expats - 1

Fri, 7 Nov 2008 01:47:59 +0800

"Up the Yangtze with a Paddle"
“越洋跨海下江南”

In this TV programme produced by SinoConnexion member Frank Hossack for the Information Office of the Jiangsu Provincial Government, we meet some of the fascinating foreign individuals who not only call Jiangsu province their home, but are also helping to shape the face of the local foreign invested economy. The programme is to be broadcast by CCTV4, CCTV9 and Jiangsu Satellite TV among others.
本系列片应江苏省人民政府新闻办公室要求由 SinoConnexion 的会员Frank Hossack贺福制作.本片介绍了在一些世界500强的外国人在江苏的工作和多姿多彩的生活.他们不仅仅是住在我们江苏,他们更为了推动中外交流做出了自己的贡献.

Series 1 系列一
Part 1 of 5 五辑之第一辑
Title: Behind the Steel 钢铁的另一面

Dr. Bernd Blumenberg is President of BYC, the largest investment in the history of the chemical giant BASF.
布铭邦博士，扬子－巴斯夫公司总裁.扬巴是世界化工巨人巴斯夫有史以来最大的投资项目.

For viewers in China, watch with YouKu
For viewers outside China, watch with YouTube

New TV Show Profiles lives of Nanjing Expats - 2

Fri, 7 Nov 2008 01:42:24 +0800

"Up the Yangtze with a Paddle"
“越洋跨海下江南”

In this TV programme produced by SinoConnexion member Frank Hossack for the Information Office of the Jiangsu Provincial Government, we meet some of the fascinating foreign individuals who not only call Jiangsu province their home, but are also helping to shape the face of the local foreign invested economy. The programme is to be broadcast by CCTV4, CCTV9 and Jiangsu Satellite TV among others.
本系列片应江苏省人民政府新闻办公室要求由 SinoConnexion 的会员Frank Hossack贺福制作.本片介绍了在一些世界500强的外国人在江苏的工作和多姿多彩的生活.他们不仅仅是住在我们江苏,他们更为了推动中外交流做出了自己的贡献.

Series 1 系列一
Part 2 of 5 五辑之第二辑
Title: Chinese of Europe 欧罗巴的中国人

Esther Muilerman-Guitjens is the former Chief Representative of the Netherlands Business Support Office in Nanjing, the first such office in China, and a lady who is very convincing when she says the Dutch are the Chinese of Europe!
贺爱诗驻南京荷兰贸易促进会的首席代表，这也是荷兰在中国的第一个正式的促贸会办公室.

For viewers in China, watch with YouKu
For viewers outside China, watch with YouTube

New TV Show Profiles lives of Nanjing Expats - 3

Fri, 7 Nov 2008 01:36:05 +0800

"Up the Yangtze with a Paddle"
“越洋跨海下江南”

In this TV programme produced by SinoConnexion member Frank Hossack for the Information Office of the Jiangsu Provincial Government, we meet some of the fascinating foreign individuals who not only call Jiangsu province their home, but are also helping to shape the face of the local foreign invested economy. The programme is to be broadcast by CCTV4, CCTV9 and Jiangsu Satellite TV among others.
本系列片应江苏省人民政府新闻办公室要求由 SinoConnexion 的会员Frank Hossack贺福制作.本片介绍了在一些世界500强的外国人在江苏的工作和多姿多彩的生活.他们不仅仅是住在我们江苏,他们更为了推动中外交流做出了自己的贡献.

Series 1 系列一
Part 3 of 5 五辑之第三辑
Title: Ironman Angus 铁人孔安格

Angus Peacock previously lived in Nanjing where his enthusiasm for sport has helped Nanjing to retain its chapter of The Hash, the international running club, and has given the city its very own triathlon - the NUT.
本辑人物是铁人安格斯,他本人热终于体育事业,也希望帮助南京当地的体育事业有所发展,他是南京国际奔跑者俱乐部的会员并且发起了南京国际社区铁人三项赛.

For viewers in China, watch with YouKu
For viewers outside China, watch with YouTube

New TV Show Profiles lives of Nanjing Expats - 4

Fri, 7 Nov 2008 01:32:22 +0800

"Up the Yangtze with a Paddle"
“越洋跨海下江南”

In this TV programme produced by SinoConnexion member Frank Hossack for the Information Office of the Jiangsu Provincial Government, we meet some of the fascinating foreign individuals who not only call Jiangsu province their home, but are also helping to shape the face of the local foreign invested economy. The programme is to be broadcast by CCTV4, CCTV9 and Jiangsu Satellite TV among others.
本系列片应江苏省人民政府新闻办公室要求由 SinoConnexion 的会员Frank Hossack贺福制作.本片介绍了在一些世界500强的外国人在江苏的工作和多姿多彩的生活.他们不仅仅是住在我们江苏,他们更为了推动中外交流做出了自己的贡献.

Series 1 系列一
Part 4 of 5 五辑之第四辑
Title: The Bridge Builder 音乐桥

Helmut Güsten established the German PML bridge building company in Nanjing, is President of the Nanjing chapter of the European Chamber of Commerce, and at the same time has built a cultural bridge in the form of the Nanjing International Jazz and World Music Festival.
古斯滕先生,我们的主人翁，德国传美轻结构桥梁公司总经理、江苏欧洲商社主席古斯滕。在建筑桥梁的同时他也是南京国际爵士音乐节的建筑师.他在南京创立了首届国际爵士音乐节。

For viewers in China, watch with YouKu
For viewers outside China, watch with YouTube

New TV Show Profiles lives of Nanjing Expats - 5

Thu, 6 Nov 2008 08:53:52 +0800

"Up the Yangtze with a Paddle"
“越洋跨海下江南”

In this TV programme produced by SinoConnexion member Frank Hossack for the Information Office of the Jiangsu Provincial Government, we meet some of the fascinating foreign individuals who not only call Jiangsu province their home, but are also helping to shape the face of the local foreign invested economy. The programme is to be broadcast by CCTV4, CCTV9 and Jiangsu Satellite TV among others.
本系列片应江苏省人民政府新闻办公室要求由 SinoConnexion 的会员Frank Hossack贺福制作.本片介绍了在一些世界500强的外国人在江苏的工作和多姿多彩的生活.他们不仅仅是住在我们江苏,他们更为了推动中外交流做出了自己的贡献.

Series 1 系列一
Part 5 of 5 五辑之第五辑
Title: La Chanson de Nanjing 缘分金陵

Morgane Gorvénec's romantic tale comes from her love of the outdoors and an upbringing and career spanning three continents.
飞笑在我们金陵古都与她现在的先生相知相识,她在金陵获得了感情和事业上的双丰收,而且她还将在江苏孕育他们的宝宝.

For viewers in China, watch with YouKu
For viewers outside China, watch with YouTube

Nanjing wins UN-HABITAT award

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 07:31:52 +0800

第一次，联合国人居特别荣誉奖被授予了中国的城市，南京。
For the first time, the United Nations Habitat Scroll of Honour Special Citation has been awarded to a Chinese city, Nanjing.

联合国人类居住规划署，联合国人居署是联合国机构的人类居住规划部。它的任务是受联合国大会委托，以促进社会和环境可持续城镇和城市的目标提供人人享有适当住房。
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme, UN-HABITAT, is the United Nations agency for human settlements. It is mandated by the UN General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities with the goal of providing adequate shelter for all.

其次，城市,绍兴市和张家港也获荣誉奖，其他还有,卢旺达首都基加利，鞑靼斯坦城市Bugulma ，俄罗斯联邦，墨西哥的一个主要城市在美国边境的华雷斯。
As number 2 on the list, the cities of Shaoxing and Zhangjiagang were also given the Habitat Scroll of Honour Award, along with the Rwandan capital, Kigali, the Tatarstan city of Bugulma, in the Russian Federation, and Ciudad Juarez a major Mexican city on the United States border.

Read the full story on Xinhua [here].

Nanjing Number 2 for Expats!

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 01:20:15 +0800

According to [various sources] Nanjing has been voted as China’s 2nd most attractive city for foreign investment. The survey included additional factors such as quality of life and standard of living for expats living in Nanjing.