Gorges of the Yangtze

This fantastic introductory journey combines the history of Beijing, the wonders of the Terracotta Warriors and the sophistication of Shanghai with an unforgettable cruise through the dramatic scenery of the Three Gorges of the Yangtze.

Guide

ESCORTED TOUR
The Gorges of The Yangtze tour includes:
•   English speaking local guides.
•   Transport and internal flights.
•   Sightseeing and entrance fees.
•   Return flights by scheduled airline.

NB
•   Extensions are not escorted but assistance will be available locally.

MEAL PLAN
•   Our itineraries are designed to include meals only where necessary or where they add to your overall experience. Where meals are not included, there will be a wide choice of great value restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. This offers you the flexibility on occasion throughout the tour to dine where and when you want.
•   Prices include breakfast throughout
•   Lunch on Days 3 to 6 and 8 to 10
•   Dinner on Days 2 and 7 to 11.
•   Breakfast is included in the Sanya and Tibet extensions with lunch on Days 13 and 14 in Tibet. 

ACCOMMODATION
•   4 star accommodation as described. 

CRUISE ACCOMMODATION
•   En suite cabins with exterior facing windows.

GROUP SIZES
•   Maximum 30 passengers. 

MINIMUM NUMBERS
•   This tour is subject to a minimum number of passengers, see pxxx for further details.

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES
•   To enhance your insight into the local culture, optional experiences are available and payable locally through your guide.

NB
•   Please note that local conditions, eg. heavy traffic, may necessitate slight variations to the timings of tour itineraries.
•   Due to the number of steps in and around the main attractions, this tour is not suitable for those with walking difficulties.
•   Children under the age of 16 are not permitted on this tour, unless on a private tour.
•   Vegetarian diets cannot be adequately provided for throughout China.
•   China celebrates The National Week Holiday around National Day (Oct01) and domestic travel increases dramatically so transport availability is limited. Many markets, shops and restaurants close although hotels remain open.

DAY 1 - LONDON TO BEIJING
British Airways overnight flight from Heathrow to Beijing. Upon arrival in China's capital city transfer to the Novotel Xin Qiao for a three night stay. The rest of the day is free to relax or sightsee at your leisure and in the evening a welcome Peking duck dinner is prepared.

DAY 3 - BEIJING
Today explore the heart of Beijing, beginning at Tian’anmen Square. Built in 1417 it has long been a place of gathering for the Chinese and is central to many landmarks in Chinese history. Alongside lies the enchanting Forbidden City, so called as it was off-limits to all but the Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for over 500 years. Within the imposing walls of this vaulted example of classical Chinese architecture is a mesmerising complex of Imperial palaces. Each depict in detail the luxurious ceremonies and lavish lifestyles of the 24 Emperors who remained domiciled here in pampered isolation. Following lunch continue on to the Summer Palace, the seasonal retreat for the Qing Emperors. Located on the edge of the city, it is set within expansive classical lakeland gardens interspersed with traditional temples and beautiful pavilions and in the summer months enjoy a boat ride across its calm waters (April to October). This evening enjoy an optional tour of Beijing’s ‘Hutong’ area by rickshaw then return to witness Tian’anmen Square brilliantly illuminated against the night sky.

DAY 4 - BEIJING
Enjoy one of the highlights of any trip to China, an inspiring day tour to the mighty Great Wall at the less crowded Mutianyu section with plenty of time to walk along its ramparts and absorb the breathtaking views. Return for a glimpse of modern China with a photo stop at the spectacular Bird's Nest and Water Cube Olympic venues. Later perhaps join an optional evening visit to the incredible Kung Fu show.

DAY 5 - BEIJING TO XI'AN
Arise early to watch the locals performing t’ai chi at the Temple of Heaven, China’s largest temple and altar complex. Later fly to Xi’an with China Eastern Airlines and transfer to the Garden Hotel for two nights. During the rest of the afternoon take a walk on the historic city walls and wander the bustling Muslim Quarter and Grand Mosque. In the evening enjoy a traditional dinner.

DAY 6 - XI'AN
This morning engage the formidable Terracotta Warriors, an 8,000 strong army erected to protect the tomb of the first Qin Emperor. Return to Xi’an and visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and city wall, with an optional evening at the Tang Dynasty show. 

DAY 7 - XI'AN TO YANGTZE CRUISE
Enjoy breakfast and visit the historic Han Yang Tombs where a recent excavation has unearthed over 40,000 burial objects including Terracotta Warriors, chariots and weapons. Fly on to Chongqing with China Eastern Airlines for a short tour of the People's Square, Three Gorges Museum and Free Market before boarding your Victoria Cruises vessel on the Yangtze for three nights.

DAY 8 - YANGTZE CRUISE
From deep within the snow covered mountains of Tanggula on the Qinghai-Tibet plateau emerges the lifeblood of China, a feared yet famed river that twists and turns for 3,900 miles. It has long been the inspiration for many of China’s poets and painters and the spectacular natural scenery between the cities of Chongqing and Yichang continues to amaze and beguile. Here the Three Gorges slice their way through the mountainous topography, leaving an unforgettable trail of natural wonder in their wake. At their downstream conclusion stands the Three Gorges Dam, a marvel of modern construction techniques that is fast becoming as much an attraction as the Gorges themselves. Set sail early morning on your cruise downstream with full sightseeing of the Three Gorges Passage, absorbing the most dramatic gorges scenery en route. Onboard enjoy comfortable facilities for both daytime and evening pleasures. Over the next three days picturesque and informative stops are made to unveil both natural and man-made wonders, culminating with the remarkable Three Gorges Dam site.

DAY 10 - YANGTZE CRUISE TO SHANGHAI
Disembark your cruise in Yichang and fly onwards with Shanghai Airlines to Shanghai. Transfer to the Jianguo Hotel for two nights. Relax and join your fellow guests for dinner. 

DAY 11 - SHANGHAI
Shanghai is China’s most vibrant city with a long and colourful history. Wander through the classical Yu Garden, discovering a world of pavilions, rockeries, ponds and cloisters. The Old Town of Shanghai offers a fascinating architectural step back in time to witness a side of the city that is disappearing fast. Continue to the cultural Shanghai Museum and enjoy a gentle stroll along the historic Bund, Shanghai’s riverside collection of grand colonial buildings. If time permits, an optional visit to the renovated ‘Shikumen’ shopping and entertainment area of Xintiandi may unearth some last minute souvenirs. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner followed by amazing acrobatic show. 

DAY 12 - SHANGAHI TO LONDON
Transfer to the airport in the morning, then fly British Airways to Heathrow, arriving later the same day.

TIBET

Your chance to explore the spiritual heart of this Holy Land.

DAY 12 - SHANGHAI TO LHASA
Fly from Shanghai to Lhasa, Tibet for three nights at Four Points by Sheraton.
DAY 13 - LHASA
Visit the Potala Palace, Sear Monastery, a Tibetan local family, Jokhang Monastery and Bakhor Street with a local guide.  

DAY 15 - LHASA TO SHANGHAI
Morning at leisure with tour guide. In the afternoon fly from Lhasa back to Shanghai for one night at the Grand Mercure Shanghai Zhongya.
DAY 16 - LHASA TO LONDON
Fly British Airways to Heathrow arriving the same day.

THE BEACHES OF SANYA
Relax at the end of your tour in a year round tropical climate on the fine white sands of tranquil Sanya.
DAY 12 - SHANGHAI TO SANYA
Depart today for your China Southern Airlines flight to Sanya, China's premier beach resort.
DAY 13 - SANYA
Spend a few days relaxing on the beach at the Holiday Inn Sanya Bay in a Deluxe mountainview room.
DAY 16 - SANYA TO LONDON
Fly early evening to Hong Kong with Dragonair and onward to Heathrow with British Airways, arriving early the next morning.