China | Yangtze & Beyond
From an army of terracotta warriors to spectacular river gorges, and beyond. Experience the dramatic and ever-changing landscape of the the Yangtze River, and so much more on this fascinating 18-day journeyto the Yangtze and beyond. We begin in the capital, Beijing, before venturing to the ancient fortress city of Xian, home to the incredible Army of Terracotta Warriors. Spend some time amid the limestone karst scenery in Guilin and Yangshuo before embarking on the cruise of a lifetime, down the mighty Yangtze River. Your journey ends in Shanghai, where the futuristic skyline of Pudong will dazzle you while, in stark contrast, a boat trip along the tranquil waterways of Zhujiajiao will have you thinking you've stepped back in time.
| Duration: | 18 Days |
|---|---|
| Tour Code: | ITW76 |
| Trip Style: | Superior - 4 star |
| Departure Dates: | 01 Nov 2011, 15 Nov 2011, 13 Mar 2012, 27 Mar 2012, 10 Apr 2012, 08 May 2012, 22 May 2012, 19 Jun 2012, 24 Jul 2012, 14 Aug 2012, 28 Aug 2012, 11 Sep 2012, 09 Oct 2012, 30 Oct 2012, 13 Nov 2012, 12 Mar 2013, 26 Mar 2013 |
| Price: | From $3,730 |
| Single Supplement: | From $1,220 |
| Places you'll visit: |
|
| Highlights: |
|
Ideal for Solo Travellers
This small group journey is the perfect way for solo travellers to experience Asia. The style of travel means that you will experience Asia as a group of friends, not as part of an anonymous coach-load. Join your western tour leader and fellow travellers for an evening meal or sunset drink, or strike out on your own. The choice is always yours. This tour generally attracts a mix of couples, friends and solo travellers. The group never exceeds 16 passengers, which means you will always have the chance to get to know your fellow travellers.
If you don't want to pay a single supplement you can choose to share and pay the twin-share price. If there isn't one other person of the same sex willing to share on your departure, you will stay in a single room at no extra cost. Alternatively, you can ensure a room to yourself by paying a single supplement.
Trip Details
GROUP SIZE: 16 max.
SEASONAL PRICE RANGE: $3,730 to $4,090
Single Supplement: $1,220 to $1,315
Days 1 - 3 ~ Beijing
Arrive in Beijing and transfer to your hotel, where you will meet your tour leader and group for a briefing and welcome drink. Walk through the incredible expanse of Tiananmen Square before continuing on foot to the splendid Forbidden City. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony before heading into one of Beijing's few remaining hutongs, the city's traditional backstreets, for lunch in a local home and a rickshaw ride. See the city's famous Drum Tower, travel to the Great Wall at Mutianyu, and enjoy free time to explore the Wangfujing Night Markets.
Hotel: Novotel Xinqiao
Days 4 - 6 ~ Overnight Train & Xian
Explore Beijing further before boarding our comfortable overnight train to Xian. (Note: Deluxe option includes flight instead of train). In Xian, marvel at the life-size Terracotta Warriors, wander the streets of the thriving Muslim Quarter, visit the Wild Goose Pagoda and indulge in a sumptuous dumpling banquet.
Hotels: Overnight train, Bell Tower
Days 7 - 8 ~ Guilin & Longsheng
We fly to Guilin, one of China's most attractive cities. Climb the stone steps to the top of Fubo Hill for panoramic views of the city's rooftops and surrounding limestone mountains. We also visit the local Traditional Chinese Medicine Centre to learn about acupuncture, reflexology and herbal medicine. The following day we head to Longsheng, where we visit a local White Yao village and admire the spectacular rice terraces known as the Dragon's Backbone.
Hotel: Universal
Days 9 - 10 ~ Yangshuo
We enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Li River, the perfect opportunity to soak up the region's renowned limestone karst scenery. In charming Yangshuo, we take the time to wander the cobbled streets and explore local villages, rice paddies and lotus fields by bicycle. There is free time to visit the local markets or take a lesson in Chinese painting.
Hotel: Paradesa
Days 11 - 14 ~ Yangtze River Cruise
We fly to the city of Chongqing, to begin our cruise down the mighty Yangtze River. Over the next few days relax on board while viewing the ever-changing scenery, shiny new cities and remnants of towns swallowed by the waters of the dam project, and the amazing Three Gorges. We board smaller boats for an interesting side trip up Shennong Stream and enjoy a number of shore excursions, including a fascinating visit to the dam site.
Hotel: Victoria Rose (cruise ship)
Days 15 - 18 ~ Shanghai & Zhujiajiao
We fly to Shanghai, one of the world's most enticing cities. Admire the Art Deco streetscapes of the Bund, visit the superb Shanghai Museum and peaceful Yu Garden. We also take a day trip to the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao, discover the lively backstreets of the Chinese Quarter and see the famed Shanghai acrobats in action. Your journey ends with an aiport transfer on day 18.
Hotel: Rendezvous Merry
*Cruise ships and itineraries are subject to change due to weather conditions and water levels.
Trip grading: MODERATE
Suitable for travellers with an average level of fitness and independent mobility. Expect a fair amount of walking and you may need to carry your bags from time to time. Fly between major destinations, 1 overnight train. Boarding of small and large boats required.
DELUXE OPTION AVAILABLE - CONTACT US FOR DETAILS
Inclusions
- 13 nights hotel accommodation
- 1 overnight train (soft sleeper 4-berth shared cabin)
- 3 nights cruise ship
- flights as specified
- all road transport by air-conditioned vehicles
- all sightseeing as specified, entrance fees
- Western tour leader (7 or more travellers)
- local English-speaking guides throughout
- arrival and departure transfers
- breakfast daily, 5 lunches and 2 dinners
Terms & Conditions
Click here for our Terms & Conditions
For more information, availability and pricing and options, please contact our expert travel specialists at Inspired Travel Worldwide on (02) 9449 8598 or send us an email. We look forward to hearing from you.
