Keep it simple on first trip to China

Having taught air traffic control in China for five years, I understand and enjoy China. Arthur Frommer’s advice to limit your first trip to Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai (“China Amazes, and the Journey Keeps Getting Easier,” Dec. 8) is right on the money.

There is so much to absorb in those cities that you will not get the full effect by trying to do more. As he advised, visiting the Shanghai Museum is a must; it is wonderful.

However, Xi’an has an almost equally excellent museum, the Shaanxi Provincial History Museum. And in Beijing, please include the Silk Alley, the Pearl Market and the Dirt Market. You won’t be sorry.

I believe the world will be very surprised at the China they see during the 2008 Olympics.

Bill Sims

Encinitas, Calif.