I was first privileged to work with Mr. XXX in 2001 when we both participated in the Huangshan Urban Planning Project. Mr. XXX's responsibility was to study tourism development and my responsibility was historical preservation. The two subjects were closely interrelated and both were crucially significant to the overall project. At first, I was skeptical of Mr. XXX's ability to achieve the necessary results because of his youth. However, Mr. XXX's outstanding performance on the project changed my attitude and he proved himself to be a skilled professional with superior capabilities in urban planning.

Mr. XXX's solid academic foundation has provided him with a comprehension of urban planning that goes well beyond material space and economic development. His analytical aptitude enables him to efficiently detect potential problems and development issues. Mr. XXX's ample work experience has equipped him with the ability to identify the key issues in xxxx, as well as the unforeseen principal factors affecting tourism and city development.

Mr. XXX is also keen on drawing inspiration from others, and his good command over English gives him more access to the latest developments in his research field. His successful incorporation of Clare A. Gunn's "Tourism Destination Zone Theory" into the Hunagshan Project reflects this attribute well.

On many occasions I have witnessed Mr. XXX's zest for learning and desire to go beyond theoretical purview. His educated questions and insightful suggestions are tremendously beneficial to his colleagues. In addition, Mr. XXX's admirable work ethics and pleasant disposition add more weight to his existing merits.

All in all, Mr. XXX's intelligence, capability and sincerity would make him an invaluable asset to your esteemed university. I strongly recommend him for admission into your Ph.D. program, and believe that he will be a tremendous asset to the field of urban planning.

Sincerely yours,