The Smile Centre in Kosova

Smile has been working in Kosova since 1999 taking in humanitarian aid, rebuilding and redecorating widows' homes and schools and encouraging local churches in their outreach and social action projects.

They need a permanent base in the Balkans from which their work can expand, and so they are building the Smile Centre . The centre, due to be completed this year, will be used for:

•  Smile volunteer teams

•  Storage and distribution of aid

•  IT and English language training

•  Health and dental care

•  Christian pre-school

•  Job creation and children's work

•  Local church support and Christian conference facilities

•  Counselling centre

•  Christian radio station

I am paying for the cost of the Challenge myself, so all funds donated will go to charity-85% to Smile International for the Kosova Centre and 15% to Saltmine Trust who are organising the Challenge and providing support

The Country and its People

China never fails to conjure up myriad feelings, images and a sense of mystery. Its history cannot be summed up here in a few paragraphs and to fully appreciate the currents that have shaped the country and its people, you must take the time to read at least one of the many excellent books available.

Within the almost ten thousand square kilometres of China 's vast territory live more than 1.2 billion people, which makes it the most populated nation on earth. For centuries, outsiders have yearned to visit China and it's only since 1976 that tourism really started. Initially, foreign visitors were only allowed to see a fraction of what the country had to offer; however, today it is possible to visit as many as 60 different areas. An increasing number of historical sites are also being restored and opened up to viewing for foreign tourists.

As much as China is keen to display its stunning scenery, historical sites and impressive cities, it is also dedicated to conveying something about how their society works. Although its political system has set it apart from the west, China is now moving forward in leaps and bounds, especially in the areas of trade and commerce