Briefly

Hawaiians teaching China about tourism

Honolulu — Hawaiian business officials are going to China to teach the hosts of the 2008 Beijing Olympics the business that this state knows best: tourism.

Hawaii’s state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism was one of seven organizations to receive a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce.

The grant means that the state will partner with the federal government to help China develop tourism-related services in time for the 2008 Summer Games.

Guides help tourists hide their status

New York — They’re called “Not For Tourists.” But these unusual black-and-silver guidebooks enable tourists to experience cities like the natives.

The latest editions in the series are the 2004 New York City and San Francisco guides ($14.95 each), following publication in the last few years of guides to Los Angeles, Chicago and Brooklyn.

The books are packed with detailed information — from handy maps to where to eat, with short, selective lists of decent, popular dining spots compiled by editors who live in the neighborhood. Other listings include not just museums and well-known attractions but also the types of facilities you’d otherwise stop someone on the street to ask about — local police stations, subway stops, movie theaters, bookstores and parking lots.

One caveat: The New York City and San Francisco Not For Tourist guides are also not for those with poor eyesight. They have extremely small typeface.

Tours mark anniversary of WWII battles

New York — The year 2004 is a big one for World War II buffs, with 60th anniversaries of all the major battles fought by the Allies in Western Europe, from D-Day in Normandy to the Battle of the Bulge in Belgium.

A variety of battle site tours are being organized, including one offered by the History Channel. Prices start at $1,799 per person, and six tours are scheduled for next year.

For details, visit www.historytravel.com or call (877) AETOURS.