China | Yangtze & Yunnan
This wonderful 18-day journey will show you China in all her extremes. From the teeming cities of Beijing and Shanghai, to the historical treasures of Xian and the natural wonders of the Yangtze River and Yunnan. From the capital, Beijing, we head to Xian, home to the incredible Terracotta Warriors. Discover the beauty of the Three Gorges on a Yangtze River cruise and experience the contrasts of Shanghai, one of Asia's most fascinating cities. In the mountains of Yunnan you will find traditional towns of cobbled streets, colourful minority people, snowcapped peaks and clear mountain lakes - a truly different side of China.
| Duration: | 18 Days |
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| Tour Code: | ITW75 |
| Trip Style: | Superior - 4 star |
| Departure Dates: | 06 Nov 2011, 08 Apr 2012, 06 May 2012, 10 Jun 2012, 01 Jul 2012, 12 Aug 2012, 26 Aug 2012, 14 Oct 2012, 04 Nov 2012, 17 Mar 2013, 31 Mar 2013 |
| Price: | From $4,720 |
| Single Supplement: | From $1,105 |
| Places you'll visit: |
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| Highlights: |
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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: $4,720 to $5,125
Single Supplement: $1,105 to $1,225
Your journey starts Beijing, ends Kunming
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. We walk through the incredible expanse of Tiananmen Square before continuing on foot to the splendid Forbidden City. Take a break to enjoy a traditional tea ceremony before heading into one of Beijing's few remaining hutongs, the city's traditional back streets 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 and sample the renowned Beijing Duck.
Hotel: Yong An
Days 4 - 5 ~ Xian
Visit more of Beijing's sights including the Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace before boarding our flight to Xian, home to the remarkable Army of Terracotta Warriors. Marvel at these life size warriors, wander the thriving Muslim Quarter, and visit the Big Goose Pagoda. We also have the chance to indulge in a sumptuous dumpling banquet.
Hotel: Bell Tower
Days 6 - 8 ~ Yangtze River
We fly to the city of Chongqing to begin our Yangtze cruise. Over the next few days relax on board while viewing the ever changing scenery, shiny new cities, remnants of towns swallowed by 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 9 - 10 ~ Shanghai & Zhujiajiao
Fly to Shanghai, one of the world's most fascinating 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.
Hotels: Rendezvous Merry
Days 11 - 14 ~ Kunming, Dali & Lijiang
Fly to Kunming and spend the night, then on to Dali, an ancient town with a spectacular mountain backdrop. Here we visit the Three Pagodas and visit nearby Xizhou Village. A chair lift ride is the perfect way to absorb the stunning views of the area. From here we head to Lijiang, a quiet town of cobbled lanes, rushing canals and rustic stone and timber houses. Climb Lion Hill for impressive views over town and visit the peaceful Yufeng Monastery. There is time to wander the market square, take in a traditional Naxi music performance, or try a special Yunnan rice pot in a local restaurant.
Hotels: Golden Dragon, Asian Star, Grand Lijiang
Days 15 - 18 ~ Zhongdian & Kunming
The road beyond Lijiang winds its way along the upper reaches of the Yangtze, bringing us to Tiger Leaping Gorge. The gorge makes a dramatic sight as it cuts deep into the slopes of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Continue on to Zhongdian, a fascinating town that is home to a large Tibetan community. Here we visit the 300 year old Songzanlin Monastery, perched on a hillside above town, and visit a local Tibetan family - your chance to try some yak butter tea. Fly to Kunming, where we visit the fascinating Yunnan Museum and explore the crammed alleys of the Bird and Flower Market. Your journey ends with an airport transfer on day 18.
Hotels: Gyalthang Dzong, Golden Dragon
Note: Yangtze cruise boats 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. Boarding of small and large boats required. Prepare for 1 overnight train, some long road journeys and high altitude in Zhongdian.
Inclusions
- 14 nights hotel accommodation
- 3 nights cruise ship
- flights as specified
- all road transport by airconditioned 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, 4 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.
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