Essential China

10 days - from $1890

A short trip encompassing ancient and modern China
Visiting all that is China: the Terracotta Warriors, the Great Wall and the Forbidden City on this introductory exploration of one of the world's most diverse countries. Starting in Beijing our journey provides contrasting experiences at every turn. The frantic pace of life in the cities is complemented by discovering markets in Xi'an, and sitting down for a cup of tea with the locals or trying your hand at calligraphy. Rural Yangshuo with its spectacular karst scenery, much beloved by Chinese poets and painters, offers a tranquil change before ending our trip in the bright lights of Hong Kong.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Beijing; traditional Beijing Duck dinner. 2 Full day sightseeing to the Great Wall. 3 Day sightseeing in Beijing, visiting Tiananmen Square, Hutongs, Forbidden City and Summer Palace; evening sleeper train to Xi'an. 4 Arrive Xi'an; visit local markets, Grand Mosque and Muslim area. 5 Morning visit the famed Terracotta Warriors; afternoon fly to Guilin and transfer to stunning Yangshuo. 6 Free day: optional boat or bike ride, cooking lesson or calligraphy class available. 7 Free morning; afternoon drive to Guilin for overnight sleeper train to Guangzhou. 8 Catch ferry to Hong Kong; afternoon orientation tour including Victoria Peak and Stanley Market. 9 Free day. 10 End Hong Kong.

Mode of travel: Travel by train, ferry, private minibus and internal flight.
Group size: Normally 6 to 16, plus local leader, local guides and drivers.
Accommodation: 7 nights nights comfortable hotels, en suite. 2 nights 1st class sleeper train, soft-bed berths.
Food: All breakfasts, 3 lunches and 1 dinner included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $358.75
Trip Reference: ACW
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.
Trip Reference: ACW