WHORE OF THE ORIENT

The tan dynasty Getting away from it all at the weekend rarely means peace and solitude for the new Shanghainese middle class. Dino Beach Water Park, which opened in the suburbs of Shanghai two years ago, is popular for its water slides and swimming pools, as well as an artificial river where rented inflatable boats are seen gridlocked in a floating traffic jam. At 60 yuan (nearly pounds 5) per person for a weekend day entrance ticket, this is a playground for Shanghai's wealthier families, for whom stripping off for the sun is a relatively novel experience. Chinese traditionally prize the whitest complexions, but the increasing availability of package tours to South East Asia has made a suntan the latest status symbol. Unused to such exposure, a day under the sun can leave some Dino Beach customers in discomfort.

Chinese women like nothing better than dressing up in extravagant lacy creations. Before their wedding day, a couple will turn up to be fitted in rented costumes and romantic photographs taken. The marriage itself is a businesslike registration process, but once this is over the wedding clothes are rented again a few days later for a lavish wedding party.


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*SHANGHAI - PEARL OF THE ORIENT, CHINA*
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	WHORE OF THE ORIENT The tan dynasty Getting away from it all at the weekend rarely means peace and solitude for the new Shanghainese middle class. Dino Beach Water Park, which opened in the suburbs of Shanghai two years ago, is popular for its water slides and swimming pools, as well as an artificial river where rented inflatable boats are seen gridlocked in a floating traffic jam. At 60 yuan (nearly pounds 5) per person for a weekend day entrance ticket, this is a playground for Shanghai's wealthier families, for whom stripping off for the sun is a relatively novel experience. Chinese traditionally prize the whitest complexions, but the increasing availability of package tours to South East Asia has made a suntan the latest status symbol. Unused to such exposure, a day under the sun can leave some Dino Beach customers in discomfort. Chinese women like nothing better than dressing up in extravagant lacy creations. Before their wedding day, a couple will turn up to be fitted in rented costumes and romantic photographs taken. The marriage itself is a businesslike registration process, but once this is over the wedding clothes are rented again a few days later for a lavish wedding party.