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China - The Middle Kingdom
18 DAYS FROM £1735
We have travelled with you on a number of previous occasions (Europe and the USA) but this trip surpassed all expectations. People were so friendly, they wanted to talk, and we had our photos taken with them so many times we felt like film stars!
During our first Chinese meal with other group members another couple said why did we choose Archers - I said "wait and see how professional they are". At the end of the trip they agreed.
Nothing was too much, the hotels were superb, trips and excursions were well planned and Carl our representative was brilliant. It was an incredibly relaxing way to see a fantastic, vibrant country.
The itinerary was very well designed and allowed us to fully explore each location and enjoy what the well spoken and informative local guides could tell us. But also allowed a balanced amount of time each day to either rest or go solo and investigate the local area at leisure. A point that we would like to stress to other customers is how friendly, CHEAP and easy local taxi's are to use, so there is no need to fear individual excursions too.
We saw all the major sights including the Great Wall, the Terracotta Warriors and the Bund etc, but we also enjoyed seeing real culture in the Streets of the Chongqing markets and local villages in Xian. Transport was comfortable, spacious and air conditioned at all locations and we were particularly pleased with the sale of trustworthy water on the coaches.
Tipping was something we were apprehensive to deal with because we have no idea how much we should distribute between the various people that helped us! So when we found we could tip collectively and give the money to our tour guide we were very pleased. This system is really helpful and makes life so much easier, you just don't know how much is enough otherwise..
Food was fantastic! There was just so much! The buffets provided a brilliant range of dishes and it was really nice to get a taste of proper traditional cuisine, with the odd Western dish to remind you of home. Meals were something we really looked forward to because it was good quality food prepared and in good measure! We are now experts with chopsticks!
Finally, we would like to send thanks to our tour guide, Lucy Liu. Her talents were endless; whether we needed haggling or were feeling ill she was always there to help. She was friendly, funny and approachable at all times. We felt safe and confident wherever we were, and Lucy gave us a fantastic insights to every location we visited. Having someone so knowledgeable allowed us to gain a deeper understanding and learn so much more than we could have if we had visited China independently and we just wanted to say a massive thank you for entrusting the group in such capable hands.
Thank you for helping us experience this truly beautiful country.
We wanted to do something different to celebrate our
60th birthdays and have absolute confidence in Archers
Direct having been on several European tours before.
We have always appreciated the value for money coupled
with attention to detail so we decided to choose
something a little bit more adventurous.
We had an absolutely fabulous tour of China. The
organization was first class - trains, planes, boats
and delightful hotels. The Chinese guides, couriers
and not forgetting the Archers staff were all first
class. So many lovely memories we could not begin to
list them all. Hopefully our pictures speak the words
for us.
Wonderful. Thank you Archers and Thank you China.
Anyone for Australia next year?
Our overall impression after travelling some 5600 miles in China was that it is much more advanced than UK newspaper convey. The country is exceptionally clean, the roads are magnificent particular what they call Expressways.. The cars, buses and lorries are all very modern and the shops are woman's delight. We were very impressed with Peking, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, the Great Wall etc. There is so much to see and marvel at. They are very fast, clean and exceptionally punctual.
We went to the Peking Opera, pleasant and colourful but it is very traditional Chinese. There were a number of shows which we enjoyed very much and we bought the DVD's. There were the Acrobats of Shanghai who were absolutely stunning. How a person can get into the shapes some of these people managed is beyond belief in spite of us seeing them. The Tang Dynasty show in Xian was outstanding with incredible costumes and colours. The Terracotta soldiers in Xian were another highlight so was the four-night trip down the Yangtze. There is so much to see and tell that I could write a book.
Thank you once again for a super holiday. We are not sure where we are going next year but we intend to use your organisation.
We found that the removal and return of luggage was second to none and we were amazed at the fact that the cases disappeared as we left the hotel only to re-appear when we arrived at a new hotel and were delivered to the room is rapid time.
Each hotel we stayed at was to a very high standard, and the food was plentiful, and served with smiles and explanations, where necessary.
I would have no hesitation about using your company again (I had never heard of you previously) and would certainly recommend you to all my friends.
In fact we are looking to go on a Safari next year and your brochures will definitely be among the first that we look at.
But the one thing we would really like to comment on was the national guide (English name Carl) he was the kindest, most helpful and efficient person we could have hoped to have, nothing was too much trouble for him and we hope Archers as a company realises what a treasure they have working for them.
A relaxing Yangtze River cruise, an ultra fast Bullet train, the Terracotta Warriors, plus the great and glorious cities of China that hold the secrets of this extraordinary culture.
Included highlights
Beijing City sightseeing including, The Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, Hutong tour in Rickshaw, Peking Duck dinner
Great Wall of China & Ming Tombs
Nanjing Full day excursion
Bullet Train from Nanjing to Suzhou
Suzhou Lingering Garden, Garden of the Master of the Nets, Water Gate, cruise on small canal
Shanghai City sightseeing and acrobatic show
Yangtze River Cruise Three Gorges Dam, Lesser Three Gorges (or Shennong Stream), Shibaozhai pagoda
Chongqing Short city tour
Xian Terracotta Warriors, City Wall, Tang Palace evening dinner show, Wild Goose Pagoda, Hu Xian Farmers Painting Village
Price Includes
Flights: UK - Beijing - Nanjing; Shanghai - Yichang; Chongqing - Xian - Beijing - UK
Accommodation on tour in twin room with private facilities
Meals on tour 16 breakfasts (B), 15 lunches (L), 15 dinners (D)
Travel on tour by comfortable air-conditioned transport
English speaking guide on tour
Transfers between overseas airports, hotels and cruise ship
All local and airport taxes
Not included in the price Tipping is at your own discretion, as a guide we recommend £3 per person per day
Holiday Itinerary
DAY 1: Depart UK.
Overnight flight to Beijing.
DAY 2: Beijing.
On arrival in Beijing you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for a three night stay. The rest of the day is yours to begin exploring this vibrant city, glorified by 13th- century Mongol leader Kublai Khan as the capital of his empire. (D)
DAY 3: Beijing. Included sightseeing.
Get ready to experience some of the world's most awe-inspiring sights. Our included city sightseeing tour will begin with a visit to the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world. Then on to the Summer Palace, a park of lakeside pagodas and the site of a marble boat made for Empress Dowager Ci Xi. This evening you may wish to join our optional excursion to see the world famous Peking Opera. (B, L)
DAY 4: Beijing - Great Wall of China - Beijing.
Our included full day excursion takes you to the amazing Great Wall of China, 3,800 miles long and at least 2,600 years old! You'll also visit the Ming Tombs, where 13 emperors are buried. The famous 'Peking Duck' will be served for your evening meal. (B, L, D)
DAY 5: Beijing - Nanjing.
In the morning we visit the Temple of Heaven, before transferring to the airport for your flight to Nanjing, where you will stay for the next two nights. (B, L, D)
DAY 6: Nanjing.
Located on the south bank of the Yangtze, Nanjing is a delightful, walled city with a rich Ming inheritance. Our full-day included sightseeing tour will show you the major attractions, including the Mausoleum of Dr Sun Yat-Sen, the Museum, Zhonghua City Gate, the Confucius Temple area and the bustling market. With lunch and dinner at a local restaurant, you'll truly experience Chinese culture. (B, L, D)
DAY 7: Nanjing - Suzhou by Bullet Train.
Today you will journey to Suzhou, travelling on China's new bullet train at speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour. Upon arrival enjoy a short cruise along the small canal in a traditional boat. Later tour the ancient street of Pingjiang by Rickshaw, with the chance to explore local life, before continuing to your hotel. (B, L, D)
DAY 8: Suzhou - Shanghai.
Famed for its gardens and silk making, Suzhou is one of China's loveliest towns. An interesting day lies ahead with a visit to the exquisite Lingering Garden, the Garden of the Master of the Nets, a photo opportunity by the Water Gate (Old City Gate) and a visit to one of the famous silk reeling factories, before a short train journey to Shanghai for a two-night stay. (B, L, D)
DAY 9: Shanghai. Included sightseeing.
Once known as the 'Paris of the Orient', pre-revolution Shanghai was a rich and decadent metropolis and remains one of China's most sophisticated cities. Your included sightseeing tour features visits to The Bund - Shanghai's famous riverside boulevard, Nanjing Road, the Yu Yuan Garden and the Jade Buddha Temple. In the evening, enjoy an included acrobatics show. (B, L, D)
DAY 10: Shanghai - Yangtze River.
This morning we visit the Shanghai Museum of Urban Planning, which houses a fascinating exhibition detailing past and future life in Shanghai. In the afternoon fly to Yichang to join your Yangtze cruise boat for an exciting four-night journey down this famous river. Your cruise ship is the President No. 4.
Note: If there is no direct flight from Shanghai to Yichang, we will fly to Wuhan and then take a 5 hour drive to Yichang. (B, L, D)
DAY 11: Yangtze River.
Your cruise boat passes through Xiling Gorge, known for its deep valley and serene beauty. You will also visit the Three Gorges Dam Project, one of the most incredible engineering projects ever undertaken. (B, L, D)
DAY 12: Yangtze River.
Today sees a shore excursion to the Lesser Three Gorges (or Shennong Stream), after which you sail through Wu Gorge and Qutang Gorge. (B, L, D)
DAY 13: Yangtze River.
Today you will visit Shibaozhai - an ancient pagoda, known as the shining pearl on the Yangtze. (B, L, D)
DAY 14: Yangtze River - Chongqing - Xian.
Disembark your cruise boat at Chongqing, situated at the junction of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, for a short city tour including the zoo (a chance to see pandas) and the old town area, before your flight to Xian for a three night stay. (B, L, D)
DAY 15: Xian. Included Terracotta Warriors.
Today sees one of the real highlights of your trip as we visit the first emperor's funeral vault to see the amazing Terracotta Warriors. Nothing will prepare you for this awe-inspiring spectacle; 8,000 life-sized model warriors, chariots and horses. Afterwards visit the Old Xian City Walls. In the evening, you'll enjoy the Tang Dynasty show, which includes dinner at the Tang Palace Theatre and Restaurant. (B, L, D)
DAY 16: Xian. Included sightseeing.
This morning we visit the Hu Xian Farmer's Painting Village, where you will see local people painting and will also experience a glimpse of local life. In the afternoon visit the impressive Wild Goose Pagoda, before returning to your hotel. (B, L, D)
DAY 17: Xian - Beijing.
Today fly to Beijing, where you will enjoy a short Hutong tour in a rickshaw. This evening dinner will be served in a local restaurant. (B, L, D)
DAY 18: Beijing - UK.
Transfer to Beijing Airport for your flight to the UK. (B)
Check prices and availability for this holiday
Visa Requirements
A visa is required for entry into China. This must be obtained prior to departure.
Accommodation on Tour
Beijing: Xiyuan (4*); Nanjing: Mandarin Garden (4*); Suzhou: Bamboo Grove (4*); Shanghai: Best Western New Century (4*); Xian: Garden (4*).
Note: Tour hotels will be as specified or alternatives of a similar standard.
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View Holiday Photos
View Deck PlansPresident No. 4
President No. 4, also known as the 'Yangtze', boasts fully-equipped modern facilities with comfortable surroundings from which to view life on the river. The Chinese officers and crew add to the authentic Yangtze experience providing a warm and friendly service.
Public Rooms & Facilities
The ship has a restaurant; ballroom; bars, inner and outer viewing areas; barbers and beauty salon; foot massage room; laundry service; shopping centre; sun bar on the top deck.
Dining
Your cruise is on a full board basis. During the cruise, evening meals will be traditional Chinese cuisine made and arranged by a high class chef. Breakfast and lunch features a Chinese and Western style buffet.
Cabins
All twin bedded cabins are outside facing with large windows and views over the river. Each cabin has air-conditioning, private facilities and satellite television. Your holiday price includes a standard cabin with window.
Options
Single Cabin; upgrade to a cabin with balcony on the Bridge or Recreation Deck.
Note: Please note sailing times and itineraries are subject to change. Whilst the order of the itinerary is subject to change the content will not be sacrificed in anyway. Occasionally it may be necessary to use alternative cruise ships of the same standard and with similar facilities.
Holiday Extensions
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View Holiday PhotosChina - The Middle Kingdom + Hainan Island - 4 Extra nights from £524
You can extend your China holiday with a 3 night stay in the picturesque beach resort of Sanya Bay on Hainan Island. Located just off China's south coast, Hainan Island deserves its reputation as the 'Oriental Hawaii', enjoying a pleasant year round climate, tropical scenery and white sand beaches.
On the last day of your tour fly from Beijing to Sanya for a 3 night stay at the Holiday Inn Sanya Bay. At the end of your stay, fly back to Beijing for an overnight stay, before returning to the airport for your flight to the UK. -
View Holiday PhotosChina - The Middle Kingdom + Hohhot - 3 Extra nights from £344
Why not extend your tour to China with a visit to mysterious Mongolia, home of the legendary Gengghis Khan? You'll stay in a 4 star hotel in Hohhot and, for that 'real' experience overnight in a Mongolian yurt, built with modern materials directly on the grasslands, comprising of basic accommodation including twin beds and private facilities.
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View Holiday PhotosChina - The Middle Kingdom + Hong Kong - 3 Extra nights from £94
Experience the teeming streets of the Central District, Causeway Bay or Kowloon's 'Golden Mile'. Just an hour from the city's vibrant atmosphere are the paddy fields and mountain ranges providing a further dimension to this unique holiday destination.
You can extend your China tour by adding 3 a night stay in Hong Kong before returning to the UK (via Beijing).
Accommodation on Extensions
China - The Middle Kingdom + Hainan Island - 4 Extra nights from £524
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View Holiday PhotosHoliday Inn Sanya Bay
Set close to the beach, this well-appointed resort hotel offers a fine selection of relaxational, recreational and entertainment facilities. For those who wish to explore, colourful Sanya City is just 8km away (reachable by the hotel's shuttle bus - a small charge may apply) and boasts a lively downtown area with markets selling spices and local produce.
Location: Next to Sanya Bay beach and 8km from Sanya City
Facilities: Outdoor swimming pool with swim up bar; international restaurant; Chinese restaurant; bar and lounge area; pool bar; beach bar; jacuzzi; fitness centre; sauna; spa; tennis court; billiards; cycle hire; gift shop; laundry facilities.
Note: Some facilities may incur a local charge.
Price includes: Bed and breakfast in a twin room with air conditioning; private bath and shower; hairdryer; satellite television; tea and coffee making facilities; mini-bar and safe.
China - The Middle Kingdom + Hohhot - 3 Extra nights from £344
China - The Middle Kingdom + Hong Kong - 3 Extra nights from £94
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View Holiday PhotosMetropark Hotel Kowloon
The Metropark Hotel Kowloon is situated within the heart of the Kowloon district and provides easy access to Hong Kong's major shopping areas, yet is set back from the bustle of the city, making it a peaceful haven of comfort in the heart of Hong Kong.
Location: The Metropark is situated in the bustling area of Mongkok with numerous shopping arcades, and entertainment places just round the corner.
Facilities: Swimming pool; poolside bar; health club; restaurants and bars; satellite TV.
Price includes: Room only in a well-appointed twin room with individually-controlled air-conditioning; TV with in-house movie system; radio channels; tea/coffee maker; minibar; refrigerator and private bathroom.
Options: Breakfast; single room.
Official category: 3 star. -
View Holiday PhotosHarbour Plaza
Situated perfectly on Victoria Harbour is Harbour Plaza Hong Kong - the perfect venue for peaceful respite.
Location: Located on the Whampoa waterfront with panoramic views overlooking Victoria Harbour and the South China Sea. Close proximity to Tsimshatsui area, Kowloon KCR Station, Cross Harbour Tunnel, Whampoa Garden's entertainment and shopping centre.
Facilities: Seven restaurants; bars; lounge; minibar; florist; internet access; 24-hour room service; laundry & valet.
Activities: Roof-top swimming pool with outdoor whirlpool; pool bar; sun deck with landscaped garden; fitness centre with gymnasium, sauna, steam bath, solarium and massage is available.
Price includes: Room only in a twin room with marble bathroom; TV; air-conditioning; in-room electronic safe; IDD telephone system; complimentary coffee/tea making facility and hair dryer.
Options: Breakfast; single room.
Official category: 5 star.
View My Holiday Photos
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NO HIDDEN EXTRAS: All
prices shown include ALL compulsory charges (Fuel Supplement,
Air Passenger Duty & Flight Supplement where applicable)
Book with confidence: We are members of ABTA and all our holidays are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme. |
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