DAY
1
Air China flight from Heathrow to Beijing, arriving the following
day. On arrival transfer to the first class Novotel Peace for three
nights. Much of the city’s impressive imperial architecture
dates from the 15th Century including the enchanting Forbidden City
and the incredible Temple of Heaven. Both of these sites can be
explored on our Beijing City Tours which also includes visits to
Tian’anmen Square and the Summer Palace.
DAY 5
Transfer for your Air China flight to Xi’an and two nights
at the first class Grand Mercure . The following day we recommend
our Terracotta Warriors and Xi’an City Tour. Begin at Xi’an’s
most significant attraction then later visit the Big Wild Goose
Pagoda and the Muslim Quarter, ending on the historic city walls.
DAY 7
Fly China Eastern Airlines to Guilin for two nights at the first
class Guilin Bravo. Choose to experience the outstanding natural
beauty of stunning limestone karsts aboard our cruise along the
Li River to the scenic town of Yangshuo.
DAY 9
Take the short Xiamen Airlines flight to Chongqing and embark the
first class superior President 3 for your three night Yangtze downstream
cruise.
DAY 10
After breakfast the day begins with a fascinating shore excursion
to the famous ‘Ghost City’ of Fengdu. The origins of
the name can be traced back to the Han Dynasty and two officials
who lived the lives of recluses here. Return to your President cruiser
and set sail down the Yangtze. In the evening enjoy a delicious
meal and the Captain’s Welcome Party, then avail yourself
of the many facilities on board.
DAY 11
As dawn breaks, pass through the scenic Qutang Gorge where soaring
limestone peaks tower over 4,000 feet followed by Wu Gorge, widely
regarded as the most beautiful and rewarding stretch of the Yangtze.
Its steep slopes are dressed with verdant shrubs and greenery and
the highest reaches of towering Goddess Peak and the Peak of the
Immortals often become lost in the clouds above. Mid morning disembark
for a delightful pea-pod boat journey up the Lesser Three Gorges
or Shennong Lesser Gorges. Famous for its picturesque scenery, the
Lesser Three Gorges are characterised by sheer steep ridges and
peaks, clear blue waters, an abundance of flora and fauna and ancient
hanging coffins. In the early evening approach and pass through
the 5-stage ship lock. An outstanding feat of engineering, the Three
Gorges Dam, once completed will be the largest in the world. Over
the next three hours observe as the incredible journey through the
different sections unfurls. After dinner unwind at the Farewell
Party.
DAY 12
Following breakfast enjoy a fascinating shore excursion to the site
of the Three Gorges Dam. Return to your cruiser and make a pass
through the dramatic scenery of Xiling Gorge, the last and longest
of the three Gorges before arriving at Yichang for disembarkation
just after midday. Fly Shanghai Airlines to Shanghai for two nights
at the first class Sofitel Hyland , with the opportunity to explore
this vibrant city on our Shanghai City Tour.
DAY 14
Transfer to the airport for your return flight with Air China to
Heathrow, arriving later the same day. |
