Known as the "Green City" Nanning's tropical climate is famous throughout China, as is its quick development in tandem with China's economic surge. To add to the palm trees that give the place a distinctly tropical feel, the development of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states' consulates in the city reiterate China's presence in the tropics of Southeast Asia - politics is at last catching up with geography. Impressive buildings to house ASEAN member states' consulates are appearing in a host of exotic forms, and to accompany them come the expected grandiose housing communities. In this first venture into Nanning I was becoming aware that the city is on the cusp of even greater diversity – international diversity. Nanning can already boast having some 35 recognized ethnic groups living within the city, both native to China and those originating out with her borders. With the imminent creation of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area (CAFTA) and Nanning's role as a new political center there will surely be a surge in not only the city's international status but also in the amount of foreign nationals who live, work and visit the city. Personally I can see Nanning becoming something of a Southeast Asian, if not global cosmopolitan center.

Colorfully dressed girls prepare to sing to us.

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