| This
fantastic journey of a lifetime combines the history of Beijing,
the wonders of the Terrracotta Warriors, the sophistication of Shanghai
and the serenity of Suzhou with the unforgettable dramatic scenery
of the Three Gorges of the Yangtze.
DAY 1
Fly British Airways from Heathrow to Beijing. Upon arrival in China’s
capital city you will be met by your tour guide and transfered to
the Novotel Xin Qiao hotel for a three night stay. The rest of the
day is at leisure.
DAY 3
Today, 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 housed 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. This evening enjoy a Welcome Peking
Duck Dinner. The following morning 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, where a cable car ride is
included. Enjoy plenty of time to walk along its ramparts and absorb
the breathtaking views. Return to Beijing with time at leisure,
perhaps take an optional Rickshaw ride of the historic 'hutong'
district. Optional evening visit to the Peking Opera.
DAY 5
Begin the day with a visit to the beautiful Temple of Heaven, China’s
largest temple and altar complex. Late afternoon fly with China
Eastern Airlines to Xi’an. Upon arrival transfer to the Garden
Hotel for two nights. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure.
In the evening enjoy a traditional dinner. The following day 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 at the Tang Dynasty show.
DAY 7
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 with Hainan Airlines on to
Chongqing. Enjoy a short tour that includes the Peoples Square and
Free Market before boarding your President Cruises vessel on the
Yangtze for three nights. Enjoy dinner on board.
DAY 8
Set sail early morning on your cruise downstream including full
sightseeing of the Three Gorges Passage, absorbing the most dramatic
gorges scenery en route. Stops are made at Shennung Lesser Gorges,
Shibaozhai as well as the Three Gorges Dam site.
DAY 10
Disembark your cruise in Yichang and fly onwards to Shanghai with
China Eastern Airlines. Transfer to the New Century hotel for two
nights. Relax or explore Shanghai on your own. Shanghai is China’s
most vibrant city with a long colourful history. Discover it the
following day on your guided city tour, strolling along the Bund,
discovering the Yu Garden and the Old Town and visiting the Shanghai
Museum and Jade Buddha Temple. This evening enjoy an amazing acrobat
show!
DAY 12
A full day tour of the beautiful city of Suzhou begins with a visit
to the elaborate Garden of the Humble Administrator. Continue your
tour of Suzhou the following morning, beginning at the Garden of
the Master of the Nets and continuing on to a Silk Spinning workshop.
Later make the short journey to the delightfully preserved watertown
of Tongli, where a short tour and boat ride along the scenic canals
that criss-cross its narrow cobbled streets and old stone houses
is included. Evening Farewell Dinner in Shanghai.
DAY 13
Fly British Airways in the morning to Heathrow arriving later the
same day.
The Gorges of the Yangtze tour is accompanied from Day 2 to Day
13 by an experienced English speaking guide.
The tour includes:
- Porterage of one suitcase per person
- Transport by train, coach or minibus and any internal flights
- Superior medium and first class accommodation
- Sightseeing as indicated and all entrance fees
MINIMUM NUMBERS: The Gorges of the Yangtze tour is subject to a
minimum number of passengers.
YANGTZE CRUISE ACCOMMODATION All cabins have a shower, twin beds,
airconditioning, television, fridge and outside window.
TOUR SUITABILITY Due to the number of steps in and around the major
attractions and onboard your cruiser, this tour is not suitable
for those with walking difficulties. |
