Wonders of China

Your itinerary

Days 1-2: UK/Beijing

Fly to Beijing with British Airways. Upon arrival we are met by our National Escort and transferred to our hotel for 3 nights.

Day 3: Beijing

As the capital of the People's Republic of China, Beijing is the nation's political, economic, and cultural centre as well as being the most important centre in China for international trade and communications. We start our touring with a stroll along Tiananmen Square, past Chairman Mao's Mausoleum before walking through the treasure fi lled Forbidden City. This afternoon we enjoy a rickshaw ride through the traditional Hutong areas before visiting the unique Temple of Heaven built in the 15th Century. Our welcoming dinner includes a sample of the delicacy 'Peking Duck'.

Day 4: Beijing

An often quoted saying in Beijing is: "you haven't been to China until you have climbed the Great Wall". Built over two thousand years ago, it stretches all the way from the Shanhaiguan Pass on the east coast to the Gobi Desert in the west; more than 5,000kms away. Walk along the wall admiring the panoramic views and refl ect on the enormity of the material and labour required for its construction. It is estimated that a million people were used at different stages during the construction periods and that thousands died building it. This afternoon we will also wander through the landscaped beauty of the Summer Palace and then see a fascinating Chinese Acrobatic show in the evening.

Day 5: Beijing/Xian

Fly to the ancient city of Xian for a 2 night stay. Xian (which means Western Peace) is located on the banks of the Yellow River and has a history dating back to 1000BC. On arrival visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum before enjoying a traditional Shui Jiao dumpling meal this evening.

Day 6: Xian

We visit the most important archaeological discovery of the 20th Century, the life-size Terracotta Warriors before stopping at the Ancient City Wall, one of the few remaining in all of China. We stroll through the lively Muslim Quarter to visit the Great Mosque and explore the interesting Islamic food markets. This evening enjoy a performance of Tang Dynasty Dancing.

Day 7: Xian/Yangtze River Cruise

Visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda before flying to Wuhan. Transfer by coach (6 hours approx) to board our Yangtze River Cruise vessel for the next 4 nights.

Days 8-10: Yangtze River Cruise

Enjoy a tour to the Three Gorges Dam before cruising on the mighty Yangtze River. Along the way we will cruise through some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and take some shore excursions to explore the fascinating history and tranquil landscapes of the tributary streams (subject to change). Visit the captivating temples and legendary statues of the 'Ghost City' in Fengdu, explore the Lesser Gorges, see the 'trackers path' carved out of the steep rock walls of the gorges, or perhaps hop into a 'pea pod' boat to cruise up the Shennong Stream.

Day 11: Chongqing/Guilin

We disembark from our cruise and visit the new Panda House at Chongqing Zoo home to some of most adorable animals in China, who are the cute and memorable mascot for the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF). Transfer to the airport and fly to the beautiful city of Guilin, where we will stay overnight.

Day 12: Li River Cruise/Yangshuo

Relax on the Li River Cruise to Yangshuo. Our boat journey takes us past tranquil farming and fishing scenes and picturesque villages. The main attraction however, is the stunning limestone karsts that tower above the river creating a magical landscape of mountains and water. The unique and natural beauty of this region has for centuries been an inspiration to Chinese artists and poets alike. The small town of Yangshuo where we stay for the night is set in the lush green rice paddies of southern China, surrounded by meandering rivers and limestone peaks. Spend the evening walking the cobblestone streets or relax in a street side café and enjoy the colourful atmosphere of this enchanting town.

Day 13: Yangshuo/Guilin

Tomorrow visit the colourful local markets before returning to Guilin, where we will visit the stunning Reed Flute Caves.

Day 14: Guilin/Shanghai

Fly to Shanghai for 2 nights. Shanghai is often referred to as the 'Paris of the East' and later we will visit the superb antiquities and fine arts of the Shanghai Museum and wander around the neighbouring People's Square.

Day 15: Shanghai

We further explore the city today with sightseeing tours to the Yu Gardens, the Old Town and the famous Bund, home to an impressive collection of 1920's neo classical buildings. We also visit the Pudong New Economic Zone and explore the Xintiandi area with its 1920's style 'shikumen' buildings unique to Shanghai. This evening enjoy a cruise on the picturesque Huangpu River.

Day 16: Shanghai/UK

Board our British Airways flight to the UK arriving home later the same day filled with many wonderful memories. get more info »

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