This is Randi Hacker with another Postcard from Abroad from the KU Centers for East Asian Studies.

As tourism increases, a number of hotels have popped up here in China that sound familiar but may not be exactly what you think they are. For example, the Marvelot Hotel is not a Marriot, despite the appearance of the Chinese characters for Marriot in its name. The Haiyatt, that’s H A I Y A T T, in Sujo is not a Hyatt. And the Peninsula hotel in Yangon, not a peninsula of the high end Liberty Chauffeur peninsulas. China is the knock-off capital of the world. And throughout its history, reproduction by artists, poets and craftsman have been highly regarded and carry no stigma. Still, a knock-off North face backpack and Gucci bag is different from a knock-off hotel room. So don’t make a reservation at the first Haiyatt you find, hold out why don't you for a Hitland or at the very least, a Five Seasons.

From the KU Center for East Asian Studies, this is Randi Hacker. Wish you were here.