But the spread of SARS in Beijing and some other cities changed all of that.

The week-long Labor Day holiday was shortened to five days by the government, to discourage people from moving around the country and spreading the disease.

Traditionally regarded as one of three golden weeks of tourism, the holiday ended Monday.

It also meant an end to the not so typical holiday activities -- reading books, listening to music, cooking and cleaning.

"I finished reading 'Walden Pond' during the Labor Day vacation -- I plan to read one good book during long holidays in the future,'' said Liu Zhiwen, a Beijing citizen who works for a software company.

"I bought hundreds of books after receiving my Masters Degree, but I didn't read any of them carefully.

"I love traveling but looking back over this quiet vacation, I found the time passed without noticing.''

Lin Zheng from the coastal city of Dalian, a music lover, had the same idea.

He listened to 14 tapes of Richard Wagner's opera the "Ring Cycle.''

"I spent almost a whole month's salary buying these tapes two years ago, but did not have enough time to listen to them completely,'' Lin said.

"Only now, in the SARS period when we cannot move, could I really enjoy them.''

During the holiday, 28-year-old Jin Yan, who works for a Beijing-based international organization, learned how to cook.

"I have never cooked during our three years of marriage,'' she said.

"My husband said we should cook rather than eat outside at the moment.

"I will try to cook more meals in the future.''

Like ordinary residents, celebrities said the holiday was an occasion to enjoy the warmth of family.

Feng Gong, renowned crosstalk artist, said he became a full time father and husband during the five days.

"Performances had been cancelled because of SARS and I cooked a wonderful meal for my kid and wife,'' said Feng, adding it was an opportunity for him to further experience life and prepare for future performances.

"Relaxation is very important during the SARS outbreak and we will be through this difficult period very soon.''.

Sun Youtong, 53, played a lot of Chinese chess at the roadside of the Xuanwumen street. He served in a government department for 30 years.

"In the past, I could not rest during the holidays because of visits from my children,'' he said. "Because of SARS they stayed at home, so I was more relaxed than before.''

Many families also thoroughly cleaned their homes and urged their children to play musical instruments.

Although it was a very different Labor Day holiday for most, it was still regarded as worthwhile time together.

(China Daily May 6, 2003)