Only a few of the volunteer tourists had previous knowledge of
China or prior preparation for the projects. Most of them were firsttime
visitors. Their most frequently mentioned expectations
related to Chinese traditions, the main theme of the project. Mf2
mentioned that he likes seeing the traditions: ‘‘Hopefully I can get
inside how are they going to preserve that (tradition), because it
vanishes so rapidly, and it is scary.’’ F1 and F2 also discussed
learning Chinese traditions, seeing how old and new mix, being
able to contribute, and experiencing the culture. F3 said shewanted
to know everything. F4 talked about getting feedback and
contributing to the project. F5 wanted this experience to change
her stereotype of China as based on western media. F6 mentioned
concerns about living conditions in the village