Fireworks light up the night sky of Shanghai, the host city of the 2010 World Expo. [Photo:CRIENGLISH.com/Duan Xuelian]

I can't believe it's really happening! Everybody is so excited, we have waited so long. The whole of Shanghai is lighting up. The opening ceremony is taking place now in the Expo Garden, right where I am.

This is the just the beginning of the 184-day splendor. In our CRI studio, hosts are broadcasting the event in ten different languages. I hope listeners and audiences from around the world can share our joy.

After four days spent at the Expo site, venturing into several pavilions, meeting people of all nationalities and reporters from near and far, I am already in the Expo spirit.

For those who can't wait to visit the Expo, here's some advice that I share from personal experience.

First of all, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. The Expo site is not just big-it's enormous. And second, bring an umbrella or wear a hat, because the sun is burning more fiercely every day. Last but not least, plan your tour route.

Here's what I suggest if you don't have enough time to see all the pavilions. Pick the ones you like to get the most out of your trip.

Or, for those who cannot make it to the Expo, log on to http://www.expo.cn, and enjoy a virtual tour of the Expo online. The web service guarantees a real-time experience.

In the Culture Centre the opening ceremony is busy unfolding, with performances by artists from all over the world. That's because the Expo is not only about the city of Shanghai, or China, but about the world and the people who inhabit every part of it.

The opening ceremony reaches its climax after the song and dance performances, when the firework show begins. The fireworks rise from the Huangpu River, illuminating the whole skyline of Shanghai.

For many, including me, it is a sleepless night.