Close to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, the Sofitel Wanda Beijing was designed to display the strong cultural links between France and China. Hotel amenities include four restaurants, bar, and lounge; Internet access; laundry and dry cleaning services; fitness center with massage and spa; and indoor pool. Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, in-room safe, mini-bar, TV, and phone.
Reservations:
Call Toll-Free,
1-888-370-6765
Monday – Friday
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Eastern Time
China in Depth
With Guilin, Hong Kong & Yangtze River Cruise
Tour membership limited to 12-24 guests
20 days from $5,437 total price from Los Angeles, San Francisco
($4,895 air, land & cruise inclusive plus $542 airline taxes
and departure fees)
Distinctive and comprehensive, this small group journey reveals the essence of present-day China, with an appreciative look at the past. From the classic sites of Beijing and Xian to vibrant Shanghai; the natural beauty of Guilin and the Yangtze to the sophistication of Hong Kong, we encounter a traditional nation on a course towards the future.
Itinerary
Day 1: Depart U.S. for Beijing, China
Day 2: Arrive Beijing We arrive in the Chinese capital and transfer to our hotel. After time to relax, we take a brief walking tour of the area surrounding our hotel. Dinner tonight is on our own.
Day 3: Beijing After this morning’s briefing about the journey ahead, we begin our discovery of this 2,000-year-old city at vast Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City, seat of imperial power from 1368-1911. Tonight we enjoy a traditional Peking Duck dinner at a local restaurant. B,D
Day 4: Beijing/Great Wall This morning we tour the splendid Temple of Heaven complex where Chinese royalty once worshipped; this afternoon we visit a section of the 4,000-mile Great Wall. B,L,D
Day 5: Beijing Our day begins with a small group highlight as we ride rickshaws through Bejiing’s ancient back roads and alleys (hutongs) to glimpse the traditional communal lifestyle that is ages old (and fast disappearing). We also visit with a local family in their home here. This afternoon we tour the Summer Palace, the former royal retreat that is now a lovely park. B,L
Day 6: Beijing/Xian We fly this morning to Xian, where we visit a local restaurant for a special dumpling lunch. This afternoon we tour the impressive ancient city walls and moat, followed by a tour of Shanxi Provincial Museum, housing an acclaimed collection of historic and cultural artifacts. Tonight we attend a Tang Dynasty show and dinner. B,L,D
Day 7: Xian This morning we visit Wild Goose Pagoda, one of China’s best preserved Buddhist temples. Then we tour one of the world’s greatest archaeological finds: the army of 7,000-plus life-sized Terra Cotta Warriors that had lain buried and forgotten for more than two millenia until rediscovered accidentally by local farmers in 1974. We also visit the site’s fascinating museum, where we see a brief film about this amazing find. B,L,D
Day 8: Xian/Shanghai This morning we venture into the countryside to visit a typical farming village. After lunch at a local restaurant we fly to Shanghai, China’s largest city and economic engine. We dine together tonight at our hotel. B,L,D
Day 9: Shanghai Our day begins with a walking tour of the Xin Tian Di shopping and entertainment area of reconstituted traditional homes. We continue on to beloved 16th-century Yu Yuan Gardens, whose plantings, courtyards, and pavilions create the illusion of mountains, caverns, and lakes. Then after lunch together we tour the acclaimed Shanghai Museum of ancient Chinese art and artifacts, known especially for its bronzes, ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy. Tonight we dine on our own then attend a lively acrobatics show. B,L
Day 10: Shanghai This morning we visit the Bund, the mile-long riverside embankment where foreign investors – and their buildings – once held sway over Shanghai. Still one of the city’s most popular attractions, the Bund draws visitors and locals alike. Then the remainder of the day is at leisure; your tour director will help you find your way from here. B
Day 11: Shanghai/Yichang/Yangtze Cruising We fly this afternoon to Yichang, where we have dinner in a local restaurant before boarding our Victoria Cruises river ship and setting sail. B,D
Day 12: Yangtze Cruising – Three Gorges Dam Site/Xiling Gorge Prized for its haunting natural beauty, the 3,600-mile Yangtze is one of the world’s busiest and longest rivers. We tour the site of the immense Three Gorges Dam this morning; later we transit the locks of 42-mile Xiling Gorge. B,L,D
Day 13: Yangtze Cruising – Small Three Gorges/Wu Gorge/Qutang Gorge Scenes from ancient Chinese scroll paintings come to life this morning as we dock in Wushan, board a small sampan, and cruise along the Daning River or Shennong Stream to the stunning Small Three Gorges. We return to the ship for lunch; this afternoon we cruise tranquil Wu Gorge, considered the most beautiful of the Three Gorges, and grand Qutang Gorge. B,L,D
Day 14: Yangtze Cruising – Fengdu or Shibaozhai/Qutang Gorge Depending on water levels, today we visit either the “ghost city” of Fengdu, or the Red Pagoda in Shibaozhai. B,L,D
Day 15: Chongqing/Guilin We disembark this morning in Chongqing, where we visit the beloved pandas at the local zoo. This afternoon we fly to Guilin, known for its ethereal landscapes and cultural riches. After checking in at the hotel, we take an informal walk with our tour director. B,L,D
Day 16: Guilin Scenes from ancient Chinese paintings come alive as we enjoy a half-day cruise on the scenic Li River, floating through breathtaking mountain passes, languid waters overhung with bamboo fronds, and fairy tale hills. B,L,D
Day 17: Guilin/Daxu/Hong Kong Today we visit two popular sights outside Guilin: the ancient Li River town of Daxu, with stone-paved streets, historic buildings, and a Ming Dynasty bridge; and Reed Flute Cave, whose stalactites and stalagmites offer a fascinating glimpse of the natural world. Tonight we fly to Hong Kong. B,L
Day 18: Hong Kong Our tour of this city that uniquely blends East and West begins with a tram ride up Victoria Peak, for truly spectacular views of Victoria Harbour and Kowloon. Then we take a sampan ride in Aberdeen Bay, where traditional fishermen live; visit the popular beach at Repulse Bay; and tour famed Stanley Market. After a special dim sum lunch, the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to explore independently. Dinner tonight is on our own in this most sophisticated city. B,L
Day 19: Hong Kong Today is at leisure to discover Hong Kong as we wish: perhaps riding the historic Star Ferry on Hong Kong harbor; shopping Nathan Road’s “Golden Mile;” or visiting the Jade Market, Ladies Market, exotic Bird Market, or one of the city’s 600 temples. Tonight we toast our China adventure together at a farewell dinner. B,D
Day 20: Depart for U.S. We depart for the U.S. this morning, arriving on the West Coast then connecting with our flights home. B
Please note: This trip involves full days of sightseeing and significant amounts of walking on stairs and uneven surfaces. You should be in good physical condition to enjoy the tour to the fullest.
Included
- Round-trip air transportation from listed cities; all flights within itinerary
- 18 nights’ accommodations: 4 nights aboard Superior First Class ship of Victoria Cruises; 14 nights in Deluxe, Superior First Class, and First Class hotels
- 43 meals: 18 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 12 dinners
- Extensive sightseeing as described, including all entrance fees
- Services of an Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director
- Private motorcoach transportation throughout your trip, including on shore excursions
- Luggage handling for one bag per person
- Gratuities for local guides, dining room servers, airport and hotel porters, and all drivers
- $100 frequent traveler credit towards your next Odysseys Unlimited tour ($200 after three tours)
Dates & Prices
2012 Tour Dates & Prices
including international airfare and all taxes, surcharges, and fees
Oct 25 |
Oct 18 |
Sep 6, 13 Sep 20 Sep 27 Oct 4 |
|
| Los Ang, San Fran | $5,437 | $5,537 | $5,737 |
| Port (OR), Seattle | $5,637 | $5,737 | $5,937 |
| Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Den, Detroit, Hou, Minn, New York, Phil, Phoenix |
$5,837 | $5,937 | $6,137 |
| Atlanta, Baltimore, Charlotte, Cinc, Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Wash, DC |
$5,937 | $6,037 | $6,237 |
Please call if your city is not listed or for land only prices. Prices are per person based on double occupancy in an outside cabin and include airline taxes, fuel surcharges, and departure fees of $542, which are subject to change until final payment is made.
Single travelers please add $1,695. Your $375 deposit is fully refundable up to 95 days prior to departure. All 2012 tour prices above (excluding airline taxes, fuel surcharges, and departure fees) are guaranteed.
Business Class upgrade on round-trip Trans-Pacific flight: $3,895 per person
Accommodations
-
Sofitel Wanda Beijing, Beijing / Days 2-5 / Deluxe
-
Sheraton Xian North City Hotel, Xian / Days 6-7 / Superior First Class
Opened in February 2012, the Sheraton Xian North City Hotel stands outside of Xian’s North Gate, just minutes from the old city. This contemporary-style hotel offers three restaurants and a lounge, fitness center with indoor pool, Internet access, laundry and dry cleaning services, and hair salon. Air-conditioned guests rooms have private bath with hair dryer, tea- and coffee-making facilities, in-room safe, mini-bar, TV, and phone.
-
Hilton Shanghai, Shanghai / Days 8-10 / Deluxe
This 43-story hotel in Shanghai’s commercial district offers a variety of amenities, including laundry/valet service, barbershop and beauty salon, gift shop, elevators, Internet access, several restaurants and lounges, and safety deposit boxes. The hotel also has a health club with fitness center, indoor pool, spa, sauna, steam bath, and massage service. Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, sitting area, mini-bar, in-room safe, TV, and phone.
-
Victoria Cruises, Yichang / Days 11-14 / Superior First Class
With the largest fleet to ply the Yangtze, Victoria Cruises is the leader in Yangtze River cruising. All premier ships that we use are air-conditioned and carry 198-308 passengers. All cabins are outside, non-smoking, and 155 square feet with private bathroom with bathtub and shower, balcony, and satellite TV. Hair dryers are available upon request. The ships offer breakfast and lunch buffets and classic Chinese dinner banquets, reading room, fitness area, gift shop, and beauty salon. On-board activities include lectures on Chinese history and culture, Tai Chi lessons, calligraphy demonstrations, and traditional entertainment in the evening. Victoria Cruises offers a comprehensive Yangtze experience, with multi-lingual cruise directors and informative river guides.
-
Sheraton Guilin, Guilin / Days 15-16 / First Class
The newly-renovated 408-room Sheraton Guilin stands along the Li River and in the heart of Guilin’s city center. This contemporary hotel offers a restaurant, bar, and café; salon; gift shop; laundry and dry cleaning services; Internet access; fitness center; massage treatments; and outdoor pool. Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, coffee- and tea-making facilities, in-room safe, mini-bar, TV, and phone.
-
Langham Place, Hong Kong / Days 17-19 / Deluxe
Well located in the heart of Kowloon’s Mongkok neighborhood and surrounded by bustling markets and noodle shops, the contemporary Langham Place connects directly to both the Langham Place Mall and Mongkok subway station. The 665-room hotel features four restaurants, including Michelin-rated Ming Court; a bar; Internet access; laundry and dry cleaning services; rooftop pool; fitness center with sauna and steam room; and full service spa. Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, in-room safe, coffee making facilities, mini-bar, TV, and phone.
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Ratings are based on the Hotel & Travel Index, the travel industry standard reference.
Small Group Tour Highlights
- Beijing touring, including Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, Great Wall, Ming Tombs
- Beijing hutong tour and home visit
- Four-night Yangtze River cruise
- Terra Cotta Warriors of Xian
- Comprehensive Shanghai touring
- Scenic Guilin, including Li River cruise
- Vibrant Hong Kong
- Dim Sum lunch
What people are saying about us
“I have traveled with [several travel companies] but Odysseys outshines them. You really make us feel special … Thank you so much.”
Lindsay Watson
Tampa, FL
For reservations, click here or call toll-free, 1-888-370-6765
Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Eastern Time
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