| Iconic
images of China, the Great Wall, Beijing’s Forbidden City
and Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors are complimented by
the vibrant city of Shanghai and the beguiling natural beauty surrounding
Guilin. An excellent short tour of China that has particular appeal
to the first time visitor.
DAY 1
Air China overnight flight from Heathrow to Beijing and transfer
to the Novotel Xin Qiao for a three night stay. Relax or explore
at your leisure. In the morning enjoy a full day tour of Beijing’s
beguiling attractions beginning at the vast Tian’anmen Square.
Learn the history and significance of this square in events that
have shaped China’s destiny over the centuries, then make
the short journey to Beijing’s outstanding Forbidden City,
so called as it was off limits to all but the Emperors of the Ming
and Qing Dynasties for over 500 years. Step back in time within
its imposing walls and uncover 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. After lunch, the historical theme continues at the Summer
Palace, a picturesque seasonal retreat for the Qing Emperors located
on the edge of the city. In the evening a special Peking Duck dinner
is included. The following day enjoy a visit to the awe-inspiring
Great Wall of China at the less crowded Mutianyu section, most notable
for its meandering chain of Ming Dynasty guard towers. The day includes
a cable car ride to its summit where a walk along a reconstituted
section of the Great Wall, admiring the breath-taking panoramic
vistas, is an experience never to be forgotten. After lunch return
to Beijing and the rest of the day is at leisure.
DAY 5
A visit to the beautiful Temple of Heaven, China’s largest
temple and altar complex and the most perfect example of Ming architecture
is the perfect way to start the day. Late in the afternoon fly to
Xi’an with Air China. The historic city of Xi’an delights
with unmissable attractions, quaint narrow lanes and a vibrant Muslim
Quarter. Upon arrival transfer to the King Dynasty Hotel for two
nights. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure and in the
evening enjoy a traditional dinner. The next morning a full day
of exceptional sightseeing in and around Xi’an commences with
a visit to the world renowned Terracotta Warriors. Learn the history
behind their creation and recent discovery, and view the remaining
8,000 life-size soldiers that stand in traditional battle formation
over an ancient imperial necropolis, guarding the tomb of the first
Emperor of the Qin Dynasty. After lunch, return to Xi’an and
visit the Great Mosque, the bustling Muslim Quarter and the towering
Big Wild Goose Pagoda, built in 648 as a memorial to Crown Prince
Li Zhi’s mother. End the tour with a walk on the historic
city walls, one of the few remaining almost perfectly preserved
examples of this ancient form of city defence.
DAY 7
Fly with China Eastern Airlines to Guilin, stopping en route to
visit the 40,000 burial objects, including Terracotta Warriors,
chariots and weapons recently uncovered at the Han Yang Tombs. Arrive
mid afternoon in picturesque Guilin, nestled in a scenery so stunning
and magical, it is arguably the most beautiful area of China, and
transfer to the Universal Hotel for two nights. After breakfast
the following day enjoy a pleasurable cruise down the Li River to
the laid-back town of Yangshuo. The Li River is famed for its stunning
scenery of dramatic limestone karsts that rise majestically from
the waters edge and your relaxing cruise is simply the best way
to appreciate its natural beauty. Formed by geological disruptions
millions of years ago, these limestone formations over time have
been shaped by nature to form the breathtaking landscape we enjoy
today. Return to Guilin for an evening at leisure.
DAY 9
Your day begins with a visit to Elephant Trunk Hill Park and the
enchanting Reed Flute Cave, where the sheer beauty and magnitude
of its beguiling rock formations is brilliantly illuminated by a
series of brightly coloured lights. After lunch fly with China Eastern
Airlines to Shanghai and
transfer to the New Century hotel for two nights. The next day a
full day tour of Shanghai’s unmissable attractions begins
with the Shanghai Museum, the definitive guide to ancient Chinese
art and culture. Later stroll along the imposing Bund, a mile long
riverside collection of grand colonial buildings and take a short
boat ride along the Huangpu River. After lunch visit the Yu Garden
and Old Town of Shanghai, where tiny traditional buildings stand
firm against the sweeping tide of progress. In the evening enjoy
a Farewell Banquet followed by an amazing acrobatic show.
DAY 11
Fly British Airways in the morning to Heathrow, arriving later the
same day.
The A Taste of China tour is accompanied from Day 2 to Day 11 by
an experienced English speaking guide.
The tour includes:
- Porterage of one suitcase per person
- Transport by coach or minibus and any internal flights.
- Superior medium (Guilin only) and first class accommodation
- Sightseeing as indicated and all entrance fees
MINIMUM NUMBERS: The A Taste of China 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: Additional pre tour nights in Beijing are also available.
Extensions and pre nights to the main tour are unescorted, however
local assistance is available. |
