Highlights
The Iron Pillar is actually a pillar made of iron in the Tiezhu Temple in Midu County. With a tallness of 3.3 meters, a circumference of 1 meter and weight of 2 tons, the iron pillar, has witnessed 1100 years of changes, is the oldest and famous historic relic in Midu County. The Iron Pillar is said to be cast by using the confiscated weapons at the order of Zhuge Liang, the most brilliant military consular in Three Kingdoms period (220-280).
The Baisha Mural is a group of murals scattered around Lijiang City, which took 300 years to complete, therefore it is a reflection of the true life in the late Ming Dynasty and early Qing Dynasty. Having been undergone over 500 years of history, part of the Baisha mural group somewhat becomes indistinct, but a large part of which still can tell you about the culture of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism.
Simply dipping into Tiger Leaping Gorge as part of a tour group rarely allows visitors to appreciate the breathtaking beauty along the road. As such, many people set out on their own treks through the gorge, in search of breathtaking views and inspirational sights.
Chinese architectural style is rather diversified. People build different houses to adapt to different climates and purpose. The Chinese can build great construction as the Great Wall and elegant water village as Zhouzhuang in Suzhou. Our tour begins from Beijing, to witness and climb the magnificent ancient construction of the Great Wall, wandering along Hutong to get a brief impression of this big capital. The largest city of China-Shanghai will amaze you by its modern atmosphere and traditional culture and art. Enjoy a day tour to Mo's Park-the ancient architecture pearl in China. The ancient capital city Xi'an is really a Chinese history book. Here you can visit the splendid Terracotta Warriors and Horses. The characteristic Yaodong dwelling house gives you a deep impression. Those ancient towns in Dali, Lijiang show you an isolated paradise of China. The Dai minority village welcomes you with its bamboo houses on poles. Then we come to Guiyang, where you will be amazed at the Diaojiao building created by intelligent minority people. What's more, you will marvel at the magnificent Terrace field in Longsheng, experience a cruise on the world-wide famous Li River through stunning karst landscapes in Guilin. Enjoy a leisurely walk at the West Street and be intoxicated in the warm and romantic atmosphere.
Itinerary
When you arrive in Beijing, our guide (CET representative) will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel.
Stay overnight in Beijing.
Meals included:
After breakfast, we will have a morning walk on the [Temple of Heaven], which is a complex of buildings, gardens, and pathways. What’s more, its organization indicates relationship between Earth and heaven. And then we will go to the [Tian'anmen Square]. You can be wandering on it while you can appreciate the magnificent of this architecture. It is one of the largest city squares in the world, located on the central axis of old Beijing. In the center of Tian'anmen Square stands the Monument to the People's Heroes. Followed we will go to the [Forbidden City], the 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, providing an imposing view. Later the day will be on your own to explore more about this city.
Stay overnight in Beijing.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
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 Great 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. People say that a visit to Beijing isn't complete without trying the crispy and tasty Peking duck dinner, so we highly recommend a featured dinner for you at one famous restaurant.
Stay overnight in Beijing.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
This morning we will pay a visit to [Hutong] (the Chinese word for alleys in Beijing) in Shichahai area. This area still looks as it did originally, presenting you the style of ancient Beijing. Tourists from all over the world gather here and go through Hutongs by sitting in a rickshaw, enjoying the concentrated old Beijing. The buildings in Hutong are almost in quadrangles. That means a building complex formed by four houses around a quadrangular courtyard. The quadrangles vary in size and design according to the social status of the residents. Then we will go to visit the [Summer Palace] to see one of China’s architectural masterpieces. The beauty of the Summer Palace is deliberated. The pavilions, kiosks, terraces, bridges, dikes, corridors are delicately crafted and placed, well displaying the thousand-year-old Chinese landscape gardening. The scenic spots contain a nation's profound philosophical and aesthetic tradition.
Later this afternoon, we will drive to the airport for a pm flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, you will be met by the guide and transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day will be on your own to relax.
Stay overnight in Shanghai.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Today we will guide you to a place where you find more delicate handicrafts and tasty Chinese snacks. That is the [Yuyuan Garden]. The exquisite layout, beautiful scenery and the artistic style of the garden architecture have made the garden one of the highlights of Shanghai. Also a visit to the [Jade Buddha Temple] will be included. It is an elegant structure famous for its Buddha statue which is carved of solid white jade and decorated by jewels. Lunch will be arranged at a characteristic Shanghai restaurant. After lunch our guide will take you to the [Outer Bund]. Some say actually that the Bund is like "an exhibition of buildings". Afterwards you may have a leisurely walk on the [Nanjing Road]. It is the most prosperous commercial street where you can find lots of world famous brands setting along the street and enjoy a good time in shopping.
Stay overnight in Shanghai.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Enjoying a reputation as "exposition of architecture of the world", Shanghai display elegant appearance of architecture in various style. There are building standing in various styles, Gothic, Baroque, Rome, Renaissance, Classic and the combination of Eastern and Western style. This morning we will pay a visit to [Shikumen Area]. It is emerged from the traditional quadrangular courtyard. When it appeared in Shanghai, it is in traditional wood structure and bricks with the frame of door made of stone materials. This kind of building that mix together Chinese and western art has given a deep influence in Chinese architecture history. Shikumen building began popular in the early twenties century. More than three quarter of local people lived in that kind of building. Until now there are still many citizens living in Shikumen building. You may feel the hint of the old Shanghai while enjoying a leisurely walk in that area. A cruise on the Huangpu River is recommended, where you are able to see wonderful night views of the bright city.
Stay overnight in Shanghai.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
This morning we will drive to [Zhujiajiao ancient town]. With a long history, this ancient town was a bazaar in Song and Yuan Dynasty. The crystal water and run through the town with 39 bridges connecting the nine old streets, forming a graceful water village scene. The north street still keeps its style of Ming and Qing Dynasty, displaying a picture of prosperous ancient commerce background in front of you. Local snacks are delicate and delicious, you can choose to have a try. After lunch, we will continue to [Zhouzhuang], one of the most famous water townships in China, only 30 kilometers (18 miles) southeast of Suzhou. It is noted for its profound cultural background, the well preserved ancient residential houses, the elegant watery views and the strong local colored traditions and customs. It abounds with rivers and lakes. We will enjoy a leisurely afternoon walking around. Stone bridges and overhanging towers span the waterways to provide free passage for the local people. The murmuring streams under small bridges and dwelling quarters with delicate courtyards are the distinct features of Zhouzhuang, now rarely seen in the whole of East China. In the evening, we will drive back to Shanghai.
Stay overnight in Shanghai.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Today we will drive to Pinghu city to visit the [Mo's Park]. It is a large scale ancient residential area. This residence has a total of 77 rooms and a total area of 2600 square meters. It belonged to Mo Fangmei and his family in the Qing Dynasty. Mo's Park is a classic of Chinese ancient residential complexes of the southern region. Its design is small, elegant, and sophisticated. Ancient red wood furniture comes from the Qing Dynasty. The entire park is filled with dark paint, white walls, and colorful ridges of houses. Wandering in this graceful park makes you feel as if you are travelling in the ancient times. Late the day we will drive back to Shanghai.
Stay overnight in Shanghai.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
This morning we will discover a different aspect about Shanghai by visiting the [Children's Palace] (when in session), there you may see lovely children take activities such as playing music instruments or dancing. After lunch we will drive to the airport for a pm flight to Xi'an.
Stay overnight in Xi'an.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
With a history of more than 3,000 years, Xi'an has abundant collection of archaeological relies to express its rich history. This morning we will go to visit [Banpo Museum], where you can see lots of precious unearthed cultural relics and artworks, indicating the prehistoric civilization. Also, situated east of Xi'an city, the [Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses Museum] is famous throughout the world for life-sized terra-cotta warriors and horses. The three pits of the terra-cotta warriors and horses excavated will show you how magnificent the structure of Emperor Qin Shihuang's Mausoleum was. In the evening you may choose local special Dumpling Dinner and the Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show.
Stay overnight in Xi'an.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Early this morning we will take a coach to Yan'an Town. We will go to visit the [Yaodong Dwelling house] of local people upon arrival. Yaodong is typical residential dwelling place in Loess Plateau of north China. The simple and unsophisticated architecture blend hillocks and gullies into a harmonious whole, which embody the simple, reserved and deep characters of local people. The doors and windows of Yaodong are exquisitely decorated by various paper-cutting red pictures, just like a folk artistic palace. The largest complex of Yaodong building is typical and magnificent, which draws many tourists to come and visit.
Stay overnight in Yan'an.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
In the morning, you enjoy a leisure morning on your own. After lunch, we will drive back to Xi'an. The rest of the day will be free on your own.
Stay overnight in Xi'an.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
This morning we will go to visit the ancient [City Wall] and the [Provincial Museum], a striking Tang-Dynasty style pavilion, houses a large collection of 113,000 historic and cultural artifacts unearthed in Shaanxi. And the [Big Wild Goose Pagoda] will be included. It is one of the city's most distinctive and outstanding landmarks, possibly the most beautiful building left in Xian today. And we then take a pm flight to Kunming.
Stay overnight in Kunming.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Today we will have a whole day tour to the [Stone Forest]. Those magnificent stone masterpieces, various strange and steep intricate formations, and countless labyrinthine vistas make Stone Forest (Shi Lin in Chinese) worthy of the fame as the “First Wonder of the World”. And there goes a local saying: 'It is a waste of time without appreciating the Stone Forest while visiting Kunming'. Later this afternoon we drive to Kunming Train Station to catch an overnight train to Dali after dinner.
Stay overnight on train.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
When you arrive at Dali Train Station, you will be picked up by your guide and transferred to your hotel in the Old Town. The rest time in the morning will be your own.
After lunch, we will set out to visit a typical sight of Dali-the [Three Pagoda Temple]. As its name implies, Three Pagodas are made up of three ancient independent pagodas forming a symmetrical triangle. This is unique in China. You can enjoy a walk along the [Dali Ancient Town]. It was an important gateway to the Silk Road in Southwest China, and also served as a seat of government and a major military barracks for Yunnan Province in ancient times. By witnessing some parts of the city wall and the tower remained, we can still explore the mystery belonging to the history. The city layout was uniform, with five main streets from south to north and eight main streets from east to west, while marketplaces were neatly arranged within the city, which has remained unchanged to this date. Traditional Bai ethnic minority folk houses can be seen everywhere, which give us a different feeling from any other Chinese cities. Then we will continue to [visit a local Bai Minority Family] for the first-hand experience of the local daily life. Their traditional way of life and finished handicrafts will surely impress you.
Stay overnight in Dali Old Town.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Today we will depart for Lijiang by private car, van or bus after lunch. It is roughly a 3.5hour-drive. The beautiful scenery on the way will surely give you some special feeling, and we will give you some spare time to relax and take some photos. You will arrive in Lijiang before dinner time.
Stay overnight in Lijiang.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Lijiang is an ancient town with unique architectural styles and people there still hold on their original way of living. This morning we will go to the [Jade Dragon Snow-capped Mountain]. With skyscraping snow-capped peaks and its imposing body, it reflects in the interlaced rivers flowing under the old town, composing a fabulous picture. Viewed from afar, the snow-capped range resembles a silver dragon with snow curling up its middle. Rich forest, herb and animal resources thrive on the mountain and a giant tram cart up here is one of the highest of its kind in China. Later we will take cables to climb the mountain and you will be intoxicated in the picturesque scenery. And we will also organize a [Naxi Minority family visit] in the afternoon.
Stay overnight in Lijiang.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Today we will depart for Zhongdian by private car, van or bus after breakfast. It will be a long drive. You will have a lunch on the half way. And the scenery all the way is fantastic. You will arrive in Zhongdian before dinner time.
Stay overnight in Shangri-la.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
[Songzanlin Monastery] is a spiritual hub for people to discover the mystery and traditions of Tibetan Buddhism and also is a famous Tibetan style Buddhist temple in China. Today we will go there as many tourists do, all of us are attracted to this scenic spot for they can enjoy the view and be lucky to take photos of girls wearing exquisite Tibetan costumes holding perfectly white fluffy lambs against the imposing mountains and blue sky. Simultaneously, we will visit the [old part of the town], a [Tibetan family visiting] included as well. The Tibetan built their houses in distinctive religious styles influenced by Buddhism. You can taste Tibetan specialties of yak butter tea, local yogurt and Tibetan barley. Later this afternoon will be on your own to walk around. We suggest you to get a feeling of local people's daily life by visit the local market.
Stay overnight in Shangri-la.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
We take a morning flight back to Kunming, and another flight followed from Kunming to Xishuangbanna. Upon arrival, our guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. This afternoon we will go to visit the [National Minorities Custom Park]. There are innumerable tropical and fruit trees around this area. Six minority group customs, including Dai, Akha, Jinuo, Bulang, La and Ya, are displayed here every day. Distinct, rich and colorful ethnic performances and activities are usually held each Wednesday, Saturday evening and the evenings of festivals. At harvest time, a certain area of the orchard is marked off so that visitors can pick up some tropical fruits like lichee and mango here by themselves, tasting the pleasure of harvest.
Stay overnight in Xishuangbanna.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Today we will drive to a [Dai Village] surrounded by water on three sides and characterized by blue waves and green fields and shaped like a jade hairpin. Among the green sub-tropical trees and fresh flowers are "the bamboo houses on poles." The houses are mainly made of bamboo, with leaves as the shelter covering their ceilings and walls. All houses are lifted above the ground by strong bamboo lumbers. Its unique and laudable architecture is well-known far and near, mainly consisting of a White Pagoda, Residential House and Craft House, a performing house for ethnic customs, a restaurant of local flavor and a Burmese Temple. In addition, there are some water splashing pavilions and wells enhancing the village complex. The small village is also famous for its warmhearted hospitality and good food. All kinds of ethnic cuisine can be tasted in several home-style restaurants. Have a great time there.
Stay overnight in Xishuangbanna.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
To the Dai people, the elephant is the symbol of good luck, might and longevity. The wild elephants of Xishuangbanna mainly live in the [Wild Elephants Valley] (yexianggu), at the juncture of the western and eastern part of Menyang natural reserve. Today we will drive there to visit the valley. About 300 wild Asian elephants live in the jungle, which has an area of 369 hectares. Actually this is the only place in Xishuangbanna, known locally as the "Kingdom of Elephants", you will marvel at these giant animals. There is an observation tower and a five kilometer-long sightseeing cableway, a 300-metre-long overhead corridor built for elephant watchers. A hotel is built right in the trees to satisfy the visitors who long to observing wild elephants more closely. The best time to see these impressive beasts is at dawn or dusk. If we are lucky enough we can catch the chance to watch the elephant shows which are held at 11:00 am-12:00 noon and 2:00-3:00 pm every day. Later the day we will drive back to Xishuangbanna.
Stay overnight in Xishuangbanna.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Today, you may consider it as a flight tour day. We are going to take a flight back to Kunming, and another flight followed from Kunming to Guiyang. Situated in southwest China, Guiyang has a population of about 3.5 million, of which 65% is Han and the rest a mixture of minorities such as Miao, Bouyei, Dong, Yi, Shui, Hui, Gelao, Zhuang, Yao, Bai, Tujia, etc. The most populous minority ethnic group is the Miao, and less populous are the Buyi, the Dong, and the Tujia. With beautiful scenery, pleasant climate and abundant tourist resources, it is a developing tourist resort of China. Upon arrival, your guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. The rest of the day will be leisure at relax.
Stay overnight in Guiyang.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
After breakfast, we will drive to Kaili. On the way we enjoy beautiful sceneries, and pass the [Nanhua Miao Village] and other minority villages. Then we will arrive at Langde Miao Village. Circled by green mountains, [Langde Shang Village] is situated at the foot of a mountain and beside a crystal stream. Row upon row of roofed wooden bridges, called "Wind and rain" bridges by the locals, stretching over the stream and making a picturesque scene. The [Diaojiao buildings] (wood houses propped up by wooden supports with ladders leading up), tier upon tier peaks rising one higher than another, are covered in the green forest. You will find that people wearing colorful and exquisite minority costumes, by marvel at their graceful songs, their traditions and cultures. Lunch will be finished at a local restaurant to taste the special sour fish dishes. Then we will continue to visit another village and their traditional way of paper making techniques.
Stay overnight in Kaili.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
This morning we will drive back to Guiyang city. We are going to the [Qianling Park] today. Qianling Mountain situated in Guiyang's northwestern corner provides a vast comprehensive garden for the city. And the park is located on Qianling Mountain, northwest of Guiyang. As one of the noted attractions on the Guizhou plateau, it boasts clear water, green mountains, tranquil forests and old temples. About 1500 kinds of trees and flowers as well as 1000 kinds of herbs have been found there in the Qianling Mountain. And there are gregarious macaques and flocks of birds too. More than 500 energetic and enchanting macaques live in the mountain in the park and add to the features of the park. There is a "holy fountain" up the mountain whose water is so clean that local people consider it coming from the heaven. The flowing steams from the fountain and the mist surrounding the forest make it one of the greatest eight scenic spots in Guiyang. This evening we will leave Guiyang for a flight to Guilin.
Stay overnight in Guilin.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Today we will go to Longji, a minority area with magnificent terraced rice paddies. You may have a chance to take some wonderful pictures of minority people wearing exquisite costumes along the way. The [Longji Terraces], located in the southeast of Longsheng County, are built into the hillsides which look like great chains or ribbons as they wind from the foot to the top of the hill. This ingenious construction makes best use of the scare arable land and water resources in the mountainous area. Later this afternoon we will drive to visit [Huangluo Red Yao minority village], women there all keep their hair to a length of more than one meter. You will be marvel at their characteristic red costumes and beauty.
Stay overnight in Longsheng.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Early this morning we will go to the Longsheng town, you can see daily life of local people by visiting the local market to have interesting discovery. Then we will drive back to Guilin city (about 2 hour drive).
Stay overnight in Guilin.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
This morning we need to catch a 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 place where you are able to capture the dramatic landscapes that Chinese artists have been painting for centuries. You will have lunch onboard while enjoying the landscape to Yangshuo. Disembark and walk to the West Street, which has received countless foreigners from all over the world and reputed as "Global 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 will be 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 included: Breakfast , Lunch
After breakfast, we will drive back to Guilin city, spending the rest of the day in Guilin to visit some 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. And, The [Reed Flute Cave], one of the most spectacular caves, displays 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 included: Breakfast , Lunch
Today will be 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. Our service will end at the airport.
Meals included: Breakfast
Pricing & Accommodation
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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 | $9608 | $6006 | $5114 | $4062 | $2100 |
| Comfortable Tour | $7670 | $4810 | $3919 | $3169 | $1210 |
| Standard Tour | $6313 | $4068 | $3318 | $2420 | $770 |
* Price in every box above is for each person.
* The default currency is in US dollar. Please use the Currency Converter to see the equivalent quote in your currency. Price is for references only, it may vary according to your actual travel itinerary, travel time, hotel price rise or fall, US dollar exchange rate fluctuation, car fuel price change and government tax adjustment, etc..
* The price is only for your reference and it is subject to seasons, high or low.Please send us your inquiry if you are interested.
* The differences between First Class Tour, Comfortable Tour and Standard Tour are mainly reflected in the hotels we use. For First Class Tour, we use mostly 5 star hotels (or hotels corresponded to 5 star ones), 4 star hotels for Comfortable Tour and 3 star hotels for Standard Tour. But there’re exceptions when there come home stay experience, remote destinations and other specified circumstances in the itinerary.
Inclusions / Exclusions
Inclusions:
- Attraction Entrance Fees
- Centrally Located Hotels
- Authentic Chinese Food
- Private Experienced Guides
- Private Cars/Van with Drivers
- Internal Flights/Train(s) in China
- Luggage Transfers
- Airport Taxes and Fuel Fees
- Service Charge & Government Taxes
- Travel Insurance
Exclusions:
- International Airfare to Enter/Leave China
- China Entry Visa Fees
- Excess Baggage Charges
- Personal Expenses
- Single Room Supplement
- Tips or Gifts to Guides/Drivers/Bellmen
Important Information
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 ChinaExpedtionTours 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. 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.
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.
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
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us and we'll record you and give you ChinaExpeditionTours travel points so you can use the points to get discount for your next ChinaExpeditionTours trip or your friends' ChinaExpeditionTours tours.
