| From
the bustling cities of Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai and Hong Kong,
to the enchanting city of Suzhou, the ancient capital of Nanjing
and the unique scenery of Guilin, this extended journey is an unforgettable
introduction to the highlights of China.
DAY 1
British Airways overnight flight from Heathrow, where you will meet
your Tour Manager, to Beijing. Transfer to the Novotel Xin Qiao
for a three night stay with free time to relax upon arrival.
DAY 3
A full day tour of Beijing begins at its heart, Tian’anmen
Square, then continues to the enchanting Forbidden City, an overwhelming
intricate complex of mesmerising imperial palaces. Following lunch
continue on to the Summer Palace, the seasonal retreat for the Qing
Emperors. In the evening a special Peking Duck dinner is included.
The next day journey north to the aweinspiring Great Wall of China
at the less crowded Mutianyu section. Enjoy plenty of time for a
walk along a fortified stretch and absorb the breathtaking views
of the Great Wall as it snakes across the surrounding countryside.
After lunch return to Beijing and the rest of the day is at leisure.
The evening is at leisure with an optional Peking Opera experience
available.
DAY 5
Begin the day with a visit to the picturesque Temple of Heaven and
after lunch fly with Hainan Airlines to Nanjing, the former capital
renowned for its attractive tree lined boulevards. Situated on the
Yangtze River, Nanjing is a city with plenty to enjoy. Transfer
to the Grand Hotel for two nights and the rest of the day is yours
to relax in this attractive city. In the morning your full day of
sightseeing includes the Sacred Way and the Mausoleum of China’s
founding father Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, set amidst the picturesque Purple
Mountains. Also included are the Yangtze River Bridge, the Confucius
Temple area where lunch is taken, the Zhong Hua Gate and city wall.
DAY 7
Take the morning train to Suzhou and transfer to the Bamboo Grove
Hotel for two nights. Later enjoy a tour of the classical Garden
of the Master of the Nets.
DAY 8
Your tour of Suzhou includes a boat tour of the scenic canals that
criss-cross its patchwork of streets and waterways and later wander
the Garden of Humble Administrator, a world of bridges, ponds, plants
and pavilions. Enjoy also a silk spinning workshop and Embroidery
Institute. The following morning is free for you to explore more
of this captivating town. Transfer to Shanghai and the Jianguo Hotel
for two nights. In the afternoon
discover the Yu Garden and the Old Town of Shanghai.
DAY 10
A full day tour of Shanghai includes the ancient Chinese art and
culture exhibitions at the Shanghai Museum, before continuing with
a relaxing stroll along the colonial Bund and cruise along the Huangpu
River. Later visit the venerable Jade Buddha Temple. In the evening
enjoy a rewarding dinner followed by an amazing acrobatic show.
DAY 11
The morning is free for you to explore more of this bustling city.
After lunch transfer by Maglev Train and fly with Shanghai Airlines
to Xi’an. Upon arrival transfer to the King Dynasty hotel
for two nights. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure before dining
on a traditional dinner in the evening The following day an unforgettable
full day tour heads out of Xi’an to the site of the renowned
Terracotta Warriors, an 8,000 strong army of life size soldiers
erected to protect the tomb of the first Qin Emperor. After lunch,
return to Xi’an and visit the imposing Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
The tour concludes with a walk on the historic city walls. Optional
evening experience to the Tang Dynasty show.
DAY 13
Following breakfast visit the Great Mosque and Muslim Quarter before
transferring to the airport, stopping en route to visit the Han
Yang Tombs, a historic site containing over 40,000 burial objects
including Terracotta Warriors, chariots and weapons. Fly on with
China Eastern Airlines to picturesque Guilin, home of China’s
most famous landscapes and inspiration for many Chinese artists
and upon arrival transfer to the Bravo Hotel for two nights. The
following day enjoy a serene cruise down the Li River to the laid-back
town of Yangshuo, passing through outstanding scenery of dramatic
limestone karsts rising majestically from the waters edge, witnessing
peaceful rural river life along the way. Return to Guilin and in
the evening enjoy a Farewell Banquet at a local restaurant.
DAY 15
Morning at leisure. After lunch, visit the Elephant Trunk Hill Park
and the Reed Flute Caves, brilliantly illuminated to emphasise the
sheer beauty and magnitude of these enchanting rock formations.
Fly late afternoon with China Southern Airlines to the former British
colony of Hong Kong and transfer to the Excelsior hotel for two
nights. Enjoy plenty of time for some optional sightseeing or last
minute shopping.
DAY 17
Fly late evening with British Airways to Heathrow arriving early
the next day.
The China Highlights tour is accompanied from Day 1 to Day 17 by
an experienced Tour Manager from London.
The tour includes:
- All tips for drivers, guides and your tour manager
- Porterage of one suitcase per person
- Transport by train, coach or minibus and any internal flights
- First class accommodation
- Sightseeing as indicated and all entrance fees
MINIMUM NUMBERS: The China Highlights tour is subject to a minimum
number of passengers.
TOUR SUITABILITY: Due to the number of steps in and around the major
attractions, this tour is not suitable for those with walking difficulties.
EXTENSIONS: Extend your stay with four nights on the beaches of
Thailand at the Regent Cha’am (Standard), Hua Hin Hilton (Bay)
or five nights in Sanya at the Marriott Resort (Deluxe Mountainview),
Bali at the Melia Bali (Superior) or Tokyo at the Crowne Plaza (Standard)
and Kyoto at the New Miyako (Standard) in Japan. Extensions to the
main tour are unescorted however local assistance will be available.
Please call us for full details. |
