Land of the Dragon Family Holiday

14 days - from $2266

A journey of stunning contrasts through China. Modern, natural and ancient wonders ⓠthis trip has it all

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Shaolin monks & pandas
• â˜Dragonâ™s Backbone♠rice terraces
• Terracotta Warriors & Great Wall

In Beijing, capital of China, you can explore the crowded streets and marvel at the Forbidden City, before heading north to wander along the snake-like Great Wall of China and hear stories of horsemen invading from the north.

Song Shan is the spiritual home of Kung Fu. You will be amazed at the strength and agility of the Shaolin monks - who can balance on one finger. You continue your trip to the thousands of statues at the Longmen Caves. From Xian youâ™ll visit the amazing Terracotta Warriors, whose serried ranks served Emperor Qin, the first emperor of China over 2000 years ago. Seeing the warriors lined up is truly awe-inspiring.

You fly to Chengdu and visit the Panda Breeding and Research Centre, vital to the survival of this endangered animal. Your trip continues to Guilin and Yangshuo, set amongst spectacular limestone scenery and dramatic rice terraces and where you can enjoy many different activities. Finish with a visit to two different rural communities - enjoy wonderful views of mountain rice terraces and experience the traditions of Chinese minority groups.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Fly to Beijing Day 2 Beijing; free afternoon Day 3 Beijing; Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven Day 4 Beijing; Great Wall Day 5 Luoyang & Shaolin Temple Day 6 Visit Longmen Caves; transfer to Xian Day 7 Xian; city walk Day 8 Terracotta Warriors; travel to Chengdu Day 9 Panda Breeding & Research Centre; travel to Yangshuo Day 10/11 Yangshuo; bike ride into countryside Day 12 Longji Terraces; ethnic minority village Day 13 Mah An Zhai Village Day 14 Beijing Day 15 Fly home

Transport, accommodation and meals: Transport- Minibus, overnight train, domestic flight, on foot, bike, bamboo raft. Distinctive Accommodation- Hotels (10nts), guesthouse (2nts), sleeper train (1nt) You will stay in hotels with en suite rooms; your guesthouse may be basic but will have private facilities. On the overnight train, youâ™ll generally have a soft sleeper carriage with shared facilities. Meals included- 4 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 2 dinners.
Other costs: International airfare not included. Airport tax abroad not included.
Other info: Minimum age: 7 years This is a busy and varied itinerary. The heat and humidity in summer can make the walks and biking tiring, but any family in good health should be able to take part.
Group size: Maximum 16 people. 3-5 families.
Grade:
Climate: Year round destination.
Trip Reference: FCH