| An
outstanding Classic Escorted tour that combines the captivating
cities of Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai with the scenic splendour
of Suzhou, Hangzhou and the delightfully quaint canalside town of
Tongli.
DAY 1
Meet your Tour Manager at Heathrow who will accompany you all the
way through China. British Airways overnight flight from Heathrow
to Shanghai and upon arrival transfer to the Jianguo hotel for a
two night stay and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. The following
day 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, followed by a short
boat ride on the Huangpu River. After lunch visit the Old Town of
Shanghai, where tiny traditional buildings stand firm against the
sweeping tide of progress. Later visit the classical Yu Garden,
an oasis of peace in the heart of this bustling city and a stunning
example of a classic Ming and Qing garden. Finish the tour with
a visit to the Jade Buddha Temple, the most renowned of Shanghai’s
temples. This evening enjoy a rewarding dinner followed by an amazing
acrobatic show.
DAY 4
Drive to Suzhou for a two night stay at the Bamboo Grove hotel.
This afternoon visit the Garden of the Humble Administrator, the
largest of Suzhou’s picturesque classical gardens. The following
morning make the short drive to the delightfully preserved water
town of Tongli, a particularly romantic town where verdant green
willows, quaint stone bridges, elegantly arched roofs and monastic
buildings can be found throughout. Enjoy a cruise along the canals
then wander through the town to see at first hand its timeless beauty.
In the afternoon visit the ornate Garden of the Master of the Nets
in Suzhou.
DAY 6
After breakfast depart for Hangzhou, one of China’s most picturesque
cities for one night at the Lake View Hotel. This afternoon visit
the tranquil West Lake, bordered on three sides by majestic peaks
and its shores dotted with elegant pavilions and ornate bridges.
Visit the Lingyin Temple and its myriad of palaces, pavilions and
halls.
DAY 7
Transfer to the airport for your late morning Hainan Airlines flight
to Xi’an with two nights at the King Dynasty hotel. This afternoon
visit the Han Yang Tombs en route from the airport. Unveiled as
recently as 2001, these historic sites contain over 40,000 burial
objects, including Terracotta Warriors, chariots and weapons. This
evening enjoy a traditional dinner. Begin the next day with a visit
to the world-renowned Terracotta Warriors. Unearthed by accident
in 1974 by peasant farmers searching for water, they are undoubtedly
Xi’an’s most significant attraction. Following lunch
visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and end the day with a visit to
the Great Mosque and maze of alleyways that constitute the Muslim
Quarter, followed by a walk on the historic city walls.
DAY 9
After breakfast, transfer to the hotel for your Hainan Airlines
flight to Beijing and three nights at the Novotel Xin Qiao. On your
first afternoon in this historic city visit the stunning Temple
of Heaven, China’s largest temple and altar complex. The next
day enjoy a full day of exceptional sightseeing in and around Beijing,
visiting Tian’anmen Square and the enchanting Forbidden City.
Following lunch continue to the Summer Palace, the seasonal retreat
for the Qing Emperors and later enjoy a sumptuous Peking Duck dinner.
DAY 11
Today visit the Great Wall of China at the less crowded Mutianyu
section. Take a cable car journey to its summit and enjoy the memorable
experience of a walk along this fortified section admiring its
breathtaking panoramic vistas.
DAY 12
Transfer to the airport for your British Airways flight to Heathrow
arriving later the same day.
The Reflections of China tour is accompanied from Day 1 to Day 12
by an experienced British 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 Reflections 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: Also extend your stay with three nights in Hong Kong
staying at the first class Park Lane hotel. Extensions to the main
tour ar
unescorted however local assistance will be available. |
