2008
A Taste Of China
Iconic images of China, the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Summer Palace and Terracotta Warriors are complimented by the historic city of Shanghai and the beguiling natural beauty of the area surrounding Guilin. Choose to extend your stay in vibrant Hong Kong or on a relaxing sandy beach in Sanya.
Our opinion
An excellent short tour of China that has particular appeal to the first time visitor.
Escorted
The services of a professional, experienced fluent English speaking local Tour Manager from your arrival in Beijing, plus local guides in each destination
Itinerary
- Beijing: 3 nights
- Xian: 2 nights
- Guilin: 2 nights
- Shanghai: 2 nights
Day 1 Fri London/Beijing
Fly Air China from Heathrow to Beijing, arriving at lunchtime the next day.
Day 2 Sat Beijing
Arrive in China’s capital city where you will be met by your tour guide and transfer to the central Novotel Xin Qiao hotel for a three night stay. Relax or explore Beijing on your own.
Day 3 Sun Beijing
Beijing is an amazing city combining the unique historical sights and ancient traditions of Imperial China with the legacy of Chairman Mao and the new 21st Century push for modernity. Today we concentrate on the heart of Beijing, beginning at Tian’anmen Square, the world’s largest public 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 depicting in detail the luxurious ceremonies and lavish lifestyles of the 24 Emperors who remained domiciled here in pampered isolation. 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. Relax on a boat ride in the summer months. Enjoy a special Peking Duck Dinner in the evening. (B,L,D)
Day 4 Mon Beijing
One of the highlights of any trip to China is an inspiring day tour to the mighty Great Wall at the less crowded section of Mutianyu, where a cable car ride is included. Enjoy plenty of time to walk along its ramparts and absorb the breathtaking views. After lunch return to Beijing and enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Perhaps hunt down a bargain in one of the local shops or enjoy an optional rickshaw ride of the traditional ‘hutong’ district. Optional evening visit to the Peking Opera. (B,L.)
Day 5 Tue Beijing/Xi'an
Begin the day with a visit to the beautiful Temple of Heaven, China’s largest temple and altar complex and a perfect example of Ming architecture. In the late afternoon fly with Air China to Xi’an. Upon arrival transfer to the King Dynasty hotel for two nights. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure. In the evening enjoy a traditional dinner. (B,L,D)
Day 6 Wed Xi'an
An unforgettable full day tour includes the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, ancient city wall, Great Mosque, Muslim Quarter and the Wild Goose Pagoda. Optional evening experience to the Tang Dynasty show. (B,L)
Day 7 Thu Xi'an/Guilin
Enjoy breakfast and visit the historic Han Yang Tombs before flying on with China Eastern Airlines to picturesque Guilin, home of China’s most famous landscapes and inspiration for many Chinese artists. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel Universal for two nights. (B,L)
Day 8 Fri Guilin
A leisurely cruise along the River Li is another highlight, witnessing spectacular limestone rock formations and rural life along the river banks. The more energetic can climb to the top of one of the karsts (famous, high, limestone mounds) for a fabulous view of the city. (B,L,D)
Day 9 Sat Guilin/Shanghai
Begin the day with a visit to Elephant Trunk Hill Park and the Reed Flute Caves, beautifully illuminated to highlight their beguiling rock formations. After lunch fly with China Eastern Airlines to Shanghai and transfer to the New Century hotel for two nights. (B,L).
Day 10 Sun Shanghai
Shanghai is China’s most vibrant city with a long and colourful history. On your city tour, stroll along the Bund, cruise on the Huangpu river, discover the Yu Garden and the Old Town and visit the Shanghai Museum. This evening enjoy a Farewell Banquet followed by an amazing acrobat show! (B,L,D)
Day 11 Mon Shanghai/London
Fly British Airways to Heathrow arriving later the same day. (B)
Hong Kong Extension
A Taste of China: 9 nights
Hong Kong: 3 nights
Day 11 Mon Shanghai/Hong Kong
Fly Dragonair in the morning to Hong Kong and transfer to the Park Lane (SUP), for three nights or more. (B)
Day 12 Tue to Day 13 Wed Hong Kong
Time to relax after your tour and enjoy the sights and shopping of Hong Kong. Optional sightseeing tours available locally
Day 14 Thu Hong Kong/London
Late evening British Airways flight to Heathrow, arriving early the following morning.
Sanya Extension
A Taste of China: 9 nights
Sanya: 5 nights
Day 11 Mon Shanghai/Sanya
Fly Dragonair in the morning to Hong Kong and transfer to the Park Lane (SUP), for three nights or more. (B)
Day 12 Tue to Day 15 Fri Sanya
Spend the next few days relaxing on the beach or by the pool at the Sanya Marriott Resort in a Deluxe Mountain room (B).
Day 16 Sat Sanya/Hong Kong/London
Depart Sanya early evening on your Dragonair flight to Hong Kong and onwards with British Airways to Heathrow arriving early the following morning. (B)
