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Known as "The Roof of the World", Tibet has spectacular and fascinating snow-capped peaks, glaciers, high mountains, wide rivers, unique highland lakes, geothermal springs, vast pastoral areas, magnificent monasteries, brilliant religious arts and interesting ethnic customs. This tour brings all your dreams of Tibet into reality. Begin our tour in Beijing, you can witness and climb the magnificent ancient construction of the Great Wall, and get a brief impression of this large capital. The ancient capital city Xi'an is really a Chinese history book, from which you read all the vicissitudes of this nation's civilization. Then we unfold our discovery to Tibet. With a long history, Tibet has magnificent and wonderful natural scenery as well as simple and unsophisticated Tibetan Monastery for us to explore. Also included is a memorable visit to one of the four enjoyments, a three-day long but comfortable cruise on the fabled Yangtze River, surrounded by dramatic gorges. Then we come to the largest city of China-Shanghai, which will amaze you by its modern atmosphere and traditional culture and art. Our tour ends in Guilin, where you can experience a cruise on the world-wide famous Li River through stunning karst landscapes in Guilin and learn Taiji in Yangshuo. Come and join us to unfold this splendid Tibet dream.
) : Always very easy to go! Sometimes getting around on your own, up and down steps and carrying your own small backpack.
) : Light walking or hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels. ) : May include moderate hiking, biking, rafting, kayaking and other activities that require only an average/moderate level of fitness to enjoy.
) : May include high altitude hiking of up to 4-6 hours per day some days of the tour or other activities that require a moderately high level of fitness.
) : High altitude trekking suitable only for those with a higher level of fitness and endurance. ) : Little or no adjustment at all is required. The comforts of home are here for the most part. ) : A generally easy trip but there may be the occasional local home accommodation, remote lodging or some public transportation, simple meal or language barrier. ) : Expect an occasional cold shower and remote or even multi-share accommodation, and public transportation or train ride without shower on board…Remember though, this is all part of your CET authentic travel experience! ) : Expect to rough it here and there. This may mean a packed public bus, very remote and rustic accommodation, and no access to western-style food. ) : You are totally off the beaten track with none of the comforts of home, and are exposed to a totally foreign culture to what you are accustomed ... Sounds fantastic, doesn't it!
Upon you arrival in Beijing, you will be met by our guide at the airport and be transferred to the hotel.
Stay overnight in Beijing.
Meals:
There is a famous saying that "You are not a hero unless you climb on the Great Wall." This morning we drive to the [Jinshanling Great Wall], the less developed and commercial section of the Wall. This historic construction is somewhat dangerous to climb because it winds up and down the precipitous ranges, but as a reward, splendid views are available. After the visit, we drive back to the hotel and have a rest in the afternoon. People say that a visit to Beijing isn't complete without trying the crispy and tasty Peking duck dinner, so we recommend that you try this famous dish for dinner, Quan ju de restaurant and Bianyi fang restaurant are well-known for its traditional Roast Duck.
Stay overnight in Beijing.
Meals: (B, L)
After breakfast, join us to visit the [Temple of Heaven], which is a complex of buildings, gardens, and pathways, its organization indicates relationship between Earth and heaven. Enjoy a walk on the [Tian'anmen Square]-one of the largest city squares in the world. It is located on the central axis of old Beijing. In the center of Tiananmen Square stands the [Monument to the People's Heroes]. Then we go to the [Forbidden City]- Imperial palaces for the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The city contains 800 ceremonial buildings, 9,999 rooms, and a courtyard that can hold 100,000 people. Best ancient Chinese architectural styles are well preserved here, consist an imposing view.
Stay overnight in Beijing.
Meals: (B, L)
This morning enjoy a leisure breakfast, and then we go to visit the [Hutong]. You can sit in a rickshaw to explore the traditional architecture which brings your imagination about the ancient history and culture of China. Then we take a flight to another important ancient capital of China- Xi'an. Upon arrival, be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel. With a history of more than 3,000 years, Xi'an has abundant collection of archaeological relies to express its rich history. This afternoon, we pay a visit to the [Museum of Stone Steles Forest]. With a history of 900 years, this treasure house holds a large collection of the earliest stone steles of different periods, from the Han Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty. All together, there are 3,000 steles and the museum is divided into seven exhibitions halls, which mainly display the works of calligraphy, painting and historical records.
Stay overnight in Xi'an.
Meals: (B, L)
This morning we go to visit [Banpo Museum], where you can see lots of precious unearthed cultural relics and artworks, indicating the prehistoric civilization. Then we head to the [Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses Museum] that situated east of Xi'an city is famous throughout the world for life-sized terra-cotta warriors and horses. The three pits of the terra-cotta warriors and horses excavated shows you how magnificent the structure of Emperor Qin Shihuang's Mausoleum was. Later this evening you may choose local special Dumpling Dinner and the Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show.
Stay overnight in Xi'an.
Meals: (B, L)
This morning we visit the [Provincial Museum], a striking Tang-Dynasty style pavilion, houses a large collection of 113,000 historic and cultural artifacts unearthed in Shaanxi. Also included is a visit to the [Big Wild Goose Pagoda]-one of the city's most distinctive and outstanding landmarks, possibly the most beautiful building left in Xian today. A bike tour aroundthe City Wall is highly recommended. The rest of the day is on your own.
Stay overnight in Xi'an.
Meals: (B, L)
This morning, we drive to the airport for a flight to Lhasa. Upon arrival, be transferred to the hotel and get acclimatize to the high altitude in the afternoon. The rest of day is your own.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Meals: (B, L)
This morning we visit the magnificent [Potala Palace]. The Potala Palace was originally built by King Songtsen Gampo 1,300 years ago in Tang Dynasty (618-907AD). Potala is the name of the place, which means residence of the Goddess of Mercy in Tibetan language. Covering an area of more than 130, 000 sq meters. It mainly consisted of the White Palace (administration building) and the Red Palace (religious building). Tourists are attracted to come to this grand site to admire complicated architectures, devotional atmosphere and exquisite artworks. After lunch, we visit the [Sera Monastery]- one of three most famous monasteries in Lhasa. Also included is a visit to the [Norbulingka Park]- the Summer Place of Dalai Lamas, where they handle political affairs and hold festival celebrations. Then we pay a visit to a [Tibetan family]. Dinner is served at your hotel.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Meals: (B, L)
This morning we visit the [Jokhang Temple]-the ultimate pilgrimage destination for devotional Pilgrims. It displays architectural styles of the Tang Dynasty and holds the mysterious legends. The flourishing [bazaar of Barkhor Street] is also a must-see place for the tourists. Located in the old area of Lhasa City, Barkhor Street is an ancient style street full of stalls of exquisite articles, here you may be amazed at delicate handicrafts and be happy to purchase some. After lunch, we go ahead to visit the [Tibet Museum] for a glance into Tibet's civilizations, and continue to the [Tibet Carpet Factory]- one of the remarkable enterprises in Tibet mainly producing traditional Tibetan Carpet. All the carpets here are hand-made, in beautiful pictures and excellent quality. Those elegant and colorful carpets are nice decorations. Every item is unique. Here you can purchase them at competitive prices with various choices. Dinner is served at your hotel.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Meals: (B, L)
This morning we drive to Gyangtse, stop on the way to visit the [Yomdrok Lake]. It lies on the north bank of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, surrounded by mountains. The serene and holy lake is a dreaming place where everybody is looking forward to. Upon arrival at Gyangtse, you will be transferred to the hotel. Visit the [Palkhor Monastery], another typical Tibetan monastery which is famous its unique structural style and be considered as the lord of Tibetan stupas. Then enjoy a walk to the [Gyangtse Old Street].
Stay overnight at Gyangtse.
Meals: (B, L)
Today we head to Shigatse. Situated in central - southern Tibet, Shigatse is the second largest city of Tibet and a political, economic and cultural center of the region. South of the city lies the [Tashilhumpo Lamasery]-one of the four lamaseries of the Galu sect of Lamaism and the residence of the Panchan Lama for long. The monastery was built in 1447 under the supervision of the First Dalai Lama Gedun Zhuiba, one of the disciples of Zonggaba. It was expanded by the Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Bainqen Lamas and has become the place of the reincarnation of the Bainqen Lamas. The monastery houses the 22.4-meter-high gilded bronze statue of Qiangba Buddha, the tallest of its kind in the world. The image of the Buddha is kind and generous, and is vivid. Also included is a visit to the [New Palace of Panchen Lama].
Stay overnight at Shigatse.
Meals: (B, L)
This morning we drive to Tingri. We will get off on the way to visit the [Sakya Monastery] and [Lhatse city]. Sakya Monastery has a history of more than 900 years, those cultural relics and classic books are extremely abundant. Especially famous are those scriptures. The out walls of building are usually white in Tibet, but here you can see walls are in different color. In the town, the ring of people leading along donkey are often heard, which takes place of the noise of video in large cities, and there are more animal power vehicles than motor vehicles. Besides, no electricity in the town, which make you feel like walking in a place 200 years ago. It's really a nice place to get new experience of living.
Stay overnight at Tingri.
Meals: (B, L)
Today we take a coach to the [Everest Base Camp], enjoy Everest and innumerable spectacular mountains views. Pay a visit to the world's highest monastery - [Rombuk Monastery] (5154meters above sea level) on the North Slope of Rombuk Glaciers. Mt. Everest can be seen right from there. Hike to Mt. Everest Base Camp and take pictures while enjoy the magnificent Himalayas natural scenery. Then we drive back to Tingri.
Stay overnight at Tingri.
Meals: (B, L)
Today we leave Tingri and drive back to Shigatse. Upon arrival, be transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day is leisure at relax. Stay overnight at Shigatse.
Meals: (B, L)
Today we return to Lhasa and transfer to the hotel. This afternoon is available for you to explore more of Lhasa. Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Meals: (B, L)
Enjoy a leisure breakfast, than we take a flight to Chongqing. The long and particular history, brilliant culture, mighty mountain and rivers have brought about numerous well known scenic spots, historic relics and magnificent landscape to Chongqing. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day is on your own to explore the city or take a good rest.
Stay overnight in Chongqing.
Meals: (B, L)
After breakfast, we begin our day tour in Chongqing, visit the [Eling Park]. Located on the ridge of Eling Mountain in the Yuzhong District, the park is so named because its topography resembles a goose neck. Eling Mountain, the commanding post of Central Chongqing, is an ideal spot to admire Chongqing Harbor, where the Yangtze River and Jialing River join forces. Then we go to [Ciqikou Old Town]. Ciqikou is an old town preserved in sprawling modern Chongqing, about an hour's drive from the city centre. It's an old sleepy town built in the Ming and Qing dynasties. Although it's preserved as a tourist town you don't have to pay to get in. The town's name, Ciqikou, means porcelain harbor, and the community prospered from the porcelain trade. Today it offers a glimpse of the peaceful laid-back life in the Chongqing countryside and is somewhere to take a break from the busy commercial world of Chongqing. Late this evening, we embark the ship for Yangtze cruise.
Stay overnight on the Yangtze Cruise boat.
Meals: (B, L)
Sailing down the Yangtze River from Chongqing to Yichang allows visitors to see the spectacular scenery of the Three Gorges along with its splendid cultural heritage and fabled local folklore. The cruise, which combines sightseeing with scientific, artistic and folklore exploration, is a national-caliber tourist program. The 193-km-long Three Gorges, consisting of the majestic Qutangxia, statuesque Wuxia and ferocious Xilingxia gorges, is one of and ferocious Xilongxia gorges, is one of the world's major canyons. Along the way there are such scenic attractions as the Fengdu Mountain. Baidi city, Shibao village, Zhang Fel's Temple, Qu Yuan's Temple, and the Three Gorges Dam. The stop today is Fengdu. Enjoy [a shore excursion to Fengdu city].
Stay overnight on Yangtze Cruise Boat.
Meals: (B, L, D)
Today's [shore excursion is to a tributary to the Yangtze], seeing waterfalls, monkeys and suspended coffins. Throughout the day you will pass various sights of significance with a local guide pointing out and explaining the old Chinese stories. Maybe one of the most notable aspects, are the sighs that show where the water will rise when the project is complete.
Stay overnight on Yangtze Cruise Boat.
Meals: (B, L, D)
We will get off for [a shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam project] to see one of the most massive projects that China launched in between two centuries. Being the largest water conservancy project ever undertaken by man, three gorges Dam is now being built in Sandouping, which is in the middle of the Xiling Gorge, the longest of the three gorges on the Yangtze River. We disembark at the Cruise pier and then are transferred to Yichang to catch a flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival in Shanghai, be met and transferred to the hotel.
Stay overnight in Shanghai.
Meals: (B, L)
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, and we go to visit the [Yuyuan Garden], where you find more delicate handicrafts and tasty Chinese snacks. Also include a visit to the [Jade Buddha Temple], an elegant structure famous for its Buddha statue which is carved of solid white jade and decorated by jewels. Lunch is arranged at a characteristic Shanghai restaurant. After lunch our guide takes you to the [Outer Bund], for a grand view of Shanghai and you may marvel at how modern this metropolis is while still containing its old traditions. Enjoy a walk on the [Nanjing Road], the most prosperous commercial street. You can find lots of world famous brands setting along the street and enjoy a good time in shopping.
Stay overnight in Shanghai.
Meals: (B, L)
After breakfast ,we will visit [Oriental Pearl TV Tower ] .It is the tallest TV tower in Asia and the third highest in the world, next to the 553, 33-meter-high Toronto Tower Canada and the 533-meter-high TV Tower in Moscow, Russia. Towering in Pudong Park in Lujiazui, it has been the symbol of Shanghai, consisted by 15 spheres of different size at different levels. The tower might bring to your mind an old famous poetic line-- "large and small pearls dropping onto a jade plate". Later this afternoon we drive to the airport for a pm flight to Guilin.
Stay overnight in Guilin.
Meals: (B, L)
This morning we embark the ship for [Li River cruise]. Cruising downstream with a pleasant breeze greeting, you can sit on cushion comfortably or enjoy the open-air viewing platform. Bring lots of film because this is a photographer's dream, where you are able to capture the dramatic landscapes that Chinese artists have been painting for centuries. Lunch will be served onboard. Enjoy the Li River picturesque scenery to Yangshuo. Disembark and walk to the West Street, which has received countless foreigners from all over the world and reputed as "Earth Village in China". Today, the 600 meters long street is over 300 cafes, restaurants, hotels art crafts and tourist stores, foreign language clubs, internet centers and Kungfu schools. This afternoon you are free at leisure, you can enjoy a coffee time at the West Street, or walk around the small Yangshuo town.
Stay overnight in Yangshuo.
Meals: (B, L)
Early this morning we drive back to Guilin city, spend the rest of the day in Guilin to discover its shinning scenic spots that make the city unique and especially beautiful. The [Elephant Trunk Hill] is the symbol of Guilin, standing in the Li River and looks like an elephant drinking water from the river. The [Reed Flute Cave] is one of the most spectacular caves displaying karst geographical formation in various shapes. After the visit, we will continue to the nearby [South China Sea Pearl Museum], where we can learn some knowledge of pearls and have the chance to purchase real sea pearl at competitive prices. After dinner, we recommend a cruise in the city's central area on a water system, which will absolutely give you a deep impression of Guilin.
Stay overnight in Guilin.
Meals: (B, L)
Today is on your own to relax and until you are ready to be transferred to the airport for a flight to Hong Kong to continue your tour or for departure.
Meals: (B)
US Dollar
Euro
GB Pound
CA Dollar
AU Dollar
HK Dollars
Renminbi
| 1 person | 2-5 persons | 6-9 persons | ≥10 persons | Single Room Supplement | |
| First Class Tour | $8018 | $5019 | $4266 | $3395 | $1760 |
| Comfortable Tour | $6387 | $4015 | $3263 | $2644 | $1010 |
| Standard Tour | $5270 | $3392 | $2761 | $2020 | $635 |
How to Pack up
We suggest that each person packs up one rollable suitcase with the weight under 20 kg/44lb. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like iPods and mobile phones.
Checklist
It's only for reference and you may not need all of them. Choose from below according to the tour you pick up:
Passport (with photocopies)
Travel insurance (with photocopies)
Airline tickets (with photocopies)
USD cash and travelers checks
Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
ChinaExpeditionTours vouchers and trip dossier
Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Day pack for daily personal items
Wet wipes / Moist towelettes
Alarm clock
Flashlight
Sun hat, Sun block, Sunglasses
Insect Repellent
Water bottle and Plastic mug for train journeys
Ear plugs for train journeys or light sleepers
Small towel and swim wear
Toiletries (biodegradable)
Sturdy walking shoes/Sport sandals
Money belt
Shorts for summer months (June – September)
Long pants
Shirts/T-shirts
Warm clothes for Nov-April. Fleece, Jacket, hat and gloves
Umbrella or waterproof jacket.
Cover for backpack or plastic bags to keep clothes dry.
Camera, film and memory chip
Reading/writing material
Binoculars
Pocketknife
First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).
Local Dress
Generally speaking, the dress standard is more conservative in China than it is in western countries. Things also changes quickly, nowadays the young Chinese share the same hobbies with their western counterparts. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of summers. In predominately Buddhist and Muslim regions we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites.
Spending Money
Every traveler is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travelers may drink more than others while other travelers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Money Exchange
As currency exchange rates in Asia fluctuate often we ask that you refer to internet for the recent exchange rates. There are many ATM machines that accept both Visa and MasterCard and other credit cards in most Chinese cities. We also recommend the use of cash and travelers checks in USD currency. Major credit cards are accepted in big shops but they may charge a 2-4% transaction fee. For the small shops and the street venders, they take cash (either Chinese Yuan or US dollar) only.
Meals
Eating is a big part of your traveling in China. Travelling with ChinaExpeditionTours you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally breakfasts and lunches are included except dinners to give you the flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. Your group leader or local guide will be able to suggest favorite restaurants during your trip.
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD200 (or equivalent) as an "emergency" fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control, necessitate a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Tipping
It is customary to tip service providers in travel industry in Asia, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from $6-$10 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service, for driver, it could be half. If necessary, ask your tour leader or call your ChinaExpeditionTours tour advisor for specific recommendations based on the circumstances. If you have a tour leader for the whole tour, at the end of the trip if you felt he/she did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference. However as a guideline $6-10 USD per person, per day can be used.
Local Flights
All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are all e-tickets. They are issued locally and You will be given the information of them prior to the flight departure.
Laundry
Generally laundry facilities are offered by our hotels for a charge. You also can go to a laundry service center near your hotel to have your clothing washed at a lower cost. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Safety and Security
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travelers' checks, cash and other valuable items. Many of the hotels we cooperate with have safety deposit boxes which are the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. When travelling on a trip, please note that your group leader or local guides has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your leader or local guides will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader or local guides will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time.
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of China but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is not acceptable for ChinaExpeditionTours travelers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. Use of illegal drugs is completely contrary to this philosophy and local law. Our group leader or local guides has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or used.
Health
If you want to fully enjoy your trip abroad, a good health and confidence in physical strength are important. This trip may contain a fair amount of walking up and down steps in towns or climbing mountains. For your comfort and safety, we recommend our trips only to individuals who are comfortable participating in 4-6 hours of daily physical activities and sightseeing. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders or local guides are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In China pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting a tour please carefully read the itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings in this dossier for trip specific information. For travelers over 70 years a completed Medical Form is highly suggested to bring forth. ChinaExpeditionTours reserves the right to exclude any traveler from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group leader or local guides they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.
Mountain Sickness
What the visitors to Tibet are concerned about is the mountain sickness. On highland, the air is thin and the air contains less oxygen. If the elevation increases quickly, you will find uncomfortable, such as taking airplanes or buses to Tibet. With mountain sickness, you will feel headache, dizzy, heavy breathing, tired and insomnia. Those with heart diseases or high blood pressure should be more careful.
Buying a Bottle of Oxygen in Case
Lack of oxygen is the main reason for mountain sickness. In many places in Tibet you can buy oxygen in bottles. You can buy one or two bottles in case. With an oxygen-taking mask, they cost 20 Yuan.
Medical Form
It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an "average level of fitness and mobility" is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travelers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own bags at a minimum. Travelers over the age of 70, or travelers with a pre-existing medical condition, are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that senior travelers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our leaders or local guides work hard to ensure that all our travelers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day's activities unaided.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. You must have comprehensive travel insurance that covers you for medical costs associated with hospitalization, emergency travel and repatriation back to your home country. Please take your insurance policy with you when you travel. You may take other cover, of course, but we require you to be adequately insured before we can allow you to participate in our programs. Your ChinaExpeditionTours leader or local guides will need to see and record your policy details at the pre-tour briefing at the starting city, so please bring a copy along to the meeting. If you arrive without travel insurance your tour leader or local guide will require you to purchase a policy before you continue your journey with us.
If you are covered by a policy arranged through your credit card company you will be asked to provide evidence of this cover, as well as a 24-hour emergency contact number. Many credit card companies do not provide an insurance policy number. In this instance, the tour leader or local guides will need to record your credit card number, as this is required to activate any request for emergency assistance. You should also bring along the travel insurance information booklet provided by your credit card company. It is your responsibility to ensure that you meet the requirements set out by your credit card company in order to be effectively covered and that the cover offered is of a suitable standard.
Passport & Visas
Well before travelling, please ensure that you have a current passport, with an accurate photo, that is valid for at least six months after your scheduled return home. Also check that your airline tickets are in exactly the same name as your passport.
Please note that visas for China and Hong Kong are the responsibility of the individual traveler. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. Americans, British, Canadians, Australians and New Zealanders do currently require a visa for China. For all other nationalities please reconfirm your visa requirements with your government. For the most up to date information please check your governments' foreign ministry website. It is important that you check for yourself. For most travelers there will probably have an embassy and consulate in the country that you live in. Please note if you are travelling from China, into Hong Kong then back into China, you will need a double entry Chinese visa. Note that on some occasions people transiting through China on way to Hong Kong have been made to go through immigration and had their single entry visa stamped making this invalid. Do not allow your visa to be stamped if you are only going through transit.
Tibet Permit
Tibet permit is necessary and issued to every foreign traveler (except for the diplomats, journalists, government officials) who want to travel in Tibet. It includes three kinds, Tibet Entry Permit (TTB), Tibet Travel Permit (PSB) and Military Permit.
TTB permit, issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau, is indispensable when each foreign visitor flies or takes a train from any city to Lhasa. Besides it is also needed when you buy a flight or train ticket. Moreover, when groups traveling by Land Cruiser, TTB permits are necessary and travel groups can only be arranged by travel agencies.
PSB permit, issued by People’s Security Bureau, is essential when you want to go further to the ‘unopened’ areas in Tibet. It only can be arranged after you arrive in Lhasa because it needs your original passport and China visa.
A short list of unopened areas up to now
(1) Shannan: Samye Monastery, Tomb of Tibetan King, Trandruk Monastery, Yumbulakhang
(2) Shigatse: Sakya Monastery, the Mt. Everest, Rongpu Monastery
(3) Gyangtse: Pelkor Chode Monastery & Kubum Stupa
(4) Ngari Region: Mt. Kailash, Manasarovar Lake, Tsaparang, Ali, etc.
(5) Linzhi Region: Basongcuo, Bomi, Rawotso, etc.
(6) Changdu Region: Changdu, Riwoche, Tengchen, etc.
Military Permit, issued by military affairs office, is indispensable when you travel to ‘unopened areas’, such as some villages and towns in Shigatse, Shannan, Linzhi, Ali, Zhada and Chayu, etc.
Please contact us to get the specific information about how to apply for these permits. It is recommended that please get ready for the related permits before your journey as early as possible.
Keeping in Touch
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road, rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the country, and have quickly become the preferred way for our leaders and travelers to stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact us so we can get into touch with your tour leader or local guide quickly by their cell phone and they can pass their cell phone to you! We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels en route, as our hotels are subject to change.
Feedback
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