Once upon a time this small fishing village on the southern tip of Hainan Island was known as Tianya Haijiao or “the end of the sky and ocean.” It served as a place of exile for officials who found themselves out of favour with the imperial court. These days it has gained a reputation as the ‘Chinese Hawaii,’ sharing the same latitude and tropical climate. The island is a garden of lush vegetation which runs from the central mountains to the warm turquoise waters of the South China Sea and many of the world’s most famous hotel chains have staked their claim to its pristine white beaches. Whether you are passing though on business and looking for a place to golf, or retreating from China’s harsh northern winter. Hainan Island offers a fantastic opportunity for relaxation.