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Beautiful China
19 DAYS FROM £1755
Having spent some time comparing what was being offered by the different companies in the high street, we found that Archers were extremely competitive. The itinerary to beautiful China covered more than what we actually expected and as much if not better than what others offered.
From the time we arrived in Shanghai to our departure 3 weeks later from Hong Kong, everything was well organised and things run so smoothly. The guides were absolutely brilliant, helpful, knowledgeable, professional and spoke really good English. We were so impressed with Archers Direct that we have already booked for South Africa this year and Australia and New Zealand next year
China was a tremendous holiday and so much to see, with Beijing and its Forbidden City , the Great Wall of China, the Terracotta Army at Xian, the Yangzte river cruise and last but not least the beautiful Guilin with it's limestone peaks. We will certainly recommend "Beautiful China tour" to anyone and if the tour is extended to cover Hong Kong, it will complete a marvellous holiday..
On arrival in Shanghai we were greeted by Jenny the national guide who proved happy and helpful throughout the whole trip right up to departure at end from Shanghai - and she made sure no-one got lost - and also dealt with the horrid problem of tipping - we know payment up front of £52 per head did not go down well but it certainly saved us all a lot of worry - Jenny was passing out envelopes like confetti!!
The holiday was hectic to say the least, up at the crack of dawn, coach, aircraft, river boat always on time and ready to shoot us off to next attraction, meal or entertainment. The sights & sounds of China were quite exhilarating, interesting & enthralling.
We saw all we expected to see and more: the Terracotta Army, Great Wall, Temples, Theatres, Forbidden City, Three Gorges dam, etc., etc. however my favourite was a small exhibition at the provincial Museum Wuhan of the tomb of the Marquis Ye of Zeng, it gave new meaning to the phrase 'wine, women and song' - do not miss the playing of the musical instruments, it was all quite moving - particularly when they played 'Ode to Joy'
Our final morning was spent a leisurely cruise on the Lijiang River at Guilin
Certainly the description of this holiday as 'Beautiful China' was very apt.
We are left with piles of photographs and many happy memories.
SHANGHAI - DAYS 1+2
Following a trouble free coach ride and check in at Heathrow we departed at 9.00pm on an East China airlines flight which was quite smooth and was an introduction to English as spoken by the Chinese. The two meals provided on the flight were also Chinese and rice based with the customary melon and drinks provided being the staple Coca Cola, Sprite or relatively weak beer which were supplied at every restaurant during our trip.
Shanghai airport was very impressive - immaculately clean and with all the usual facilities. The luggage arrived sooner than I expected and as the party assembled I was exploring the concourse in consequence I was the last to join the group.
The coach trip from Pudong airport was uneventful on busy clearways with cyclists and scooters on service roads alongside and we tried to absorb the contrasting sights of modern skyscrapers and old ramshackle blocks ofappartments. One of the largest surprises was to see a B+Q store and IKEA as well as the local Land Rover/Jaguar dealership. The drivers are quite erratic, constantly changing lanes and crossing junctions after the lights change, they appear to lead a charmed life although we did see a few collisions during our stay.
We arrived at Ruital hotel about 6.00pm and had a mad rush to be ready for dinner at 6.30 with our initiation into the usual mix of Chinese dishes and chopsticks. Coach to city centre for evening excursion on Huangpu river, a tributary of the Yangtze. The quayside was packed with Chinese visitors and street traders celebrating the holiday following National Day on October 1 when many start a week's holiday.
Very friendly people on the trip and a superb kite flyer demonstrating his dexterity on the coach parking area. We were soon introduced to the persistent street traders selling souvenirs and packs of postcards who will not take no for an answer and a few beggars around but no aggression despite the number of people - one of the largest gatherings we experienced.
The Chinese do not believe in energy saving - it is their commercial centre - and rivalled Trafalgar square for lights with most modern skyscrapers and older buildings floodlit- very dramatic seen from the river with numerous passenger steamers taking visitors on one hour trips. Conditions were perfect - a fine mild evening with no wind and it appeared to be one of the main attractions in the city. To bed about 11.00pm and wondering how we have kept going.
SHANGHAI - DAY 3
Start the day with fruit, fry up, toast and marmalade with coffee for breakfast - the best meal of the day!
Caught the coach at 9.00 for a visit to the Jade Buddha located in a temple in the centre of the town where we were besieged by the usual street traders with post cards and souvenirs, a ritual that was to be repeated at every tourist spot we visited.
Beautiful traditional buildings and jade statues in a fairly confined space but actively used by visiting Buddhists and priests in a casual way. Several tourist parties in attendance and a bit anxious at first how we keep in touch with our leader with a party of 36 tramping round. The Buddha is made from Jade and came from Burma originally and escaped the cultural revolution by being disguised in a packing case.
Followed on with a visit to a silk carpet and wall hanging factory with showroom where the intricate weaving technique was demonstrated by female workers who start at a very young age. The building also housed a craft fair comprising about 10 stalls with various products including baby clothes, paper cuts, prints and jade sculpture etc. Lunch was provided in a Mongolian style buffet where the meat was heated on a hot slab and vegetables or salad were self service.
The afternoon started with a visit to Yu Yuan Garden which was renovated after the Japanese invasion and destruction. It comprised beautiful traditional buildings and small lakes with limestone outcrops from Suzhou in the style of the Ming Dynasty. Their gardens are relatively formal and contain few flowers or flower beds. The route to the garden through a shopping precinct was packed with Chinese and detracted from the impact of the traditional buildings.
On to a walk by the riverside - The Bund - with views across the river to the business area comprising towering skyscrapers, evidence of Western influence and involvement in Chinese markets.
Finally a walk along Nanjing Road, one of the longest shopping roads in China, also very busy due to the national holidays. Managed to be caught by three students anxious to try their English and show us their display of paintings in a department store room. The stores were willing to negotiate prices - Louis Vuitton(?) handbag priced at 448Y was offered at 220Y - although a very attractive design it was in the wrong colour! Evidence of old dilapidated buildings on route to be demolished for Expo 2010.
Dinner Shanghai style then onto Acrobatic Show - 20 odd performers all very young and energetic with amusing and daring displays. Eventually back to hotel about 9.00pm after a long day. Weather was warm and humid, no sun and poor visibility probably due to pollution.
SHANGHAI + SUZHOU - DAY 4
First stop Shanghai museum - an excellent modern purpose built exhibition centre on 3 floors with plate glass cabinets and dual language labels clearly displayed, our 1.5 hour visit was barely adequate. On route we also passed IKEA, B+Q stores and the local Land Rover dealer before reaching a local restaurant for lunch where we met John and Wendy who had also been to the museum - fantastic coincidence as they were travelling for 27 days over a similar route.
Continued after dinner to Luxi, a 200 year old water town built on a canal which was a rural community and quite a contrast after the commercial city. Comprising quaint old waterside shops with the proprietors selling all manner of produce and souvenirs with the Cormorants sitting on boats as part of the scene.
Travelled on to Suzhou (Chris home town) known as the Chinese Venice and found our hotel about 4.30 where we had an excellent dinner and used the internet facilities to contact the family. Although we had a small fruit market under our bedroom windows we were not disturbed and slept soundly on another hard bed.
SUZHOU - DAY 5
Prompt start after breakfast with a 45 minute rickshaw ride through the town centre - alarming situation on a busy Saturday morning but survived to tell the tale. We finished up at a small formal garden where two musicians gave a short recital and a poem. We transferred to the car park on a paddle boat serenaded by the paddle woman and onto a silkworm factory and display store.
Following a demonstration of manufacturing silk (including silk worms) we visited the well stocked showroom with a selection of duvet covers and designer clothes (in slim Chinese sizes!) before dinner in the same location where John and Wendy were also dining once again.
The afternoon started with a canal boat ride through the town with some old properties being restored under preservation orders and many new blocks of flats.
Onto the Tiger Hill pagoda of Yunyan, a walk uphill for about 20 minutes where a celebration was in progress with exuberant dragon dancers and a large audience which restricted our view but a few photos were obtained.
Following an excellent dinner we visited the Garden of the Master of Nets for an evening of classical Chinese entertainment by local musicians and dancers in a series of small pavilions, very pleasant atmosphere for a unique occasion. Relaxing end to a fine sunny day.
SUZHOU + NANJING - DAY 6
Early call for breakfast to leave hotel at 8.00 and catch train for a 2 hour journey to Nanjing - about 10 immaculate carriages with reserved seats all taken and equivalent of a female guard allocated to each carriage, when we reached Nanjing she cleaned the coat of arms on the side of the carriage and the handrails on the access doors.
Our luggage had travelled overnight in advance and was waiting at the hotel.
Our local guide, a lady called Wang met us at the station and we visited a bridge over the Yangtse - built in 1960 it was the first one to cross the river at Nanjing as previously the cars and trains were ferried across - a three hour trip.
The entrance hall to the tower has one of the few statues of Chairman Mao left on display as most were destroyed after the cultural revolution. The observation tower also had the usual souvenir gallery with an artist demonstrating painting on a crystal glass globe from the inside.
After a good lunch we visited the city gate and wall and followed on to a shopping centre in a pedestrian area which compared with a Western shopping market where the shops were predominantly modern clothes. The hotel was close at hand and we also visited the shops in the evening when they were floodlit.
A sunny hot humid day with haze from the pollution as Nanjing is a heavy industry manufacturing city with coal mines and iron works.
NANJING + BEIJING - DAY 7
Our coach departed at 8.00am to visit the mausoleum of Dr Sun Yatsen, (1866-1925) the first president of post imperial China. An imposing memorial built on a hillside comprising several pavilions built in white granite with blue roof tiles with 392 steps leading up to the Memorial Hall. Dr Sun is revered by the Chinese and a pilgrimage to his burial place is high on their agenda. The approach is surrounded by woodland and flowerbeds tastefully arranged and well maintained.
A short distance away we visited a fresh water pearl farm (commercial tourist centre) where mother purchased a pair of ear rings after much bartering!
After an excellent lunch onto the airport for a 1.5 hour flight to Beijing where we met Lily, our courier for Beijing - the least said the better!
Staying at Best Western, not the best as far as we were concerned but adequate and as good as you will find in a big city on a tourist holiday. Western style buffet for dinner in the hotel and an early night for a change.
As we were on the 13th floor we did not suffer from the traffic noise with two busy clearways passing the hotel but could see the effects of the pollution on the visibility.
BEIJING - DAY 8
Initially a few irritations with lifts overloaded and breakfast organisation a bit chaotic due to large parties depleting food and plates etc. Coach left at 8.30 for Tian'anmen Square which was very impressive with spontaneous friendly atmosphere among the large crowds of visitors and groups.
A large indicator on the National Museum of China building showed the number of days to the start of the Olympics in 2008 and large models of the icons for the games were mounted in the centre of flower beds. Souvenirs for games featuring the symbols were available at every tourist centre we visited and they are obviously utilising every opportunity to promote the occasion.
Following a group photo in the square we were guided through the Forbidden City - a series of imposing pavilions - reputed to contain 9,000 rooms in a vast area and impossible to contemplate in the time available with the vast number of visitors constantly streaming into the buildings. The guides keep you on the move otherwise you could spend a tiring day wandering around and we eventually found the exit about 12.30 and onto a restaurant for lunch. There are no refreshment facilities in the Forbidden City or opportunities to sit for a rest so it is quite a marathon effort.
After lunch the next location was the Summer Palace set in a large park area with a lake and a kilometre walkway under a decorated roof which had just been restored to include paintings on the beams every 4 metres. The marble boat was built at the end of the 19th century to the instructions of the Dragon Empress (Empress Dowager Cixi) with funds intended to equip the navy. A short half hour boat trip across the lake brought us back to the coach for return to the hotel and dinner.
Evening trip to the Peking Opera where we had the opportunity to see the actors applying their make up prior to the performance. Two operettas were featured, one a tragedy with high pitched Chinese style singing and a comedy based on a robbery which was quite simple and amusing, beautiful costumes and an unusual experience.
A relaxing end to a memorable day in the sun and warm temperatures - about 25C.
BEIJING - DAY 9
Another early start (8.00am) after breakfast for our 2 hour coach ride to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall which is little further than other sections but not so crowded.
First stop was another commercial break to visit a factory where copper products are hand beaten and wire patterns applied to provide a guide for the artists applying the paint by pipette which can be added to and fired up to 6 times. The finished designs are buffed with stone and charcoal before a gold outline is then applied.
Onto the Great wall in perfect weather - intermittent sunshine - approached by a pedestrian way uphill to a ski lift, flagged by souvenir stalls with the inevitable traders doing their best to intercept you, not surprising as it is their only opportunity to earn a living on this day with few visitors. On alighting from the lift it is awe inspiring with wooded mountains in every direction and the sun breaking through and the wall disappearing into the horizon. Pat managed about quarter mile and waited while I went as far as we were allowed on this section - a further quarter mile plus a bit as I recall with about 100 steps up at the end. A tasty packed lunch was provided which we enjoyed in the shade at a picnic spot in the coach park.
We were offered an extra excursion on the route back - a rickshaw ride around the Hutongs in a suburb of Beijing where an elderly couple showed us their home - quite primitive (no bathroom) but comfortable with television and fridge and fire providing limited central heating. They had a small courtyard with numerous pets including birds in cages, chipmunk and fish tanks.
The Hutongs are gradually being demolished and replaced with modern high rise apartments but an enterprising Englishman has organised the rickshaw tours and it is hoped that the remaining 1,000 or so of these small alleyways which enter the small courtyards will be retained. An old way of communal living is being eroded as the young families move out. Communal also means public baths and toilets as there are no sewerage facilities.
Excellent Peking duck dinner in the hotel and the opportunity to dress up in traditional Chinese costumes before dinner.
BEIJING + WUHAN - DAY10
Leisurely breakfast for a change before visiting the Temple of Heaven located in a large park which the local population use as a recreational area.
This proved a most inspiring location with groups spontaneously exercising or practising on their musical instruments, dancing, tai chi exercises, a large choir was rehearsing and people were playing cards or just talking among themselves - complete relaxation - we almost felt we were on holiday. We also saw an old fashioned baby pram with a basket that could be used for carrying the child on the back, the parents cooperated while we took photos and were very proud of their offspring.
The centre of attraction for the tourists was a large imposing Temple used by the Emperor after fasting for three days to pray for fine weather and a good harvest. To augment the Temple a large display room gave details of the construction and an explanation of its purpose. It was also a relief to find a tourist shop with correct prices displayed and no bartering to complete a really stimulating atmosphere.
After lunch onto the airport and a long wait for a 4.00pm flight to Wuhan where we were met by another local guide, Stephen an older man with experience of the Cultural Revolution 1966-76.
Excellent hotel (Holiday Inn) with our bedroom overlooking the Yangtze and our dinner was served on the terrace overlooking the river. Dinner was accompanied by a touring song and dance group performing in national costume from the NW province of Xinjiang . They were very entertaining and spirited with different characteristics from the areas we have visited so far and persuaded Pat to dance a few steps - interrupting her dinner which was a wide selection from the self service buffet based on very spicy recipes from Xinjiang.
The evening finished with a light shower - our first rain.
WUHAN - DAY11
Very misty morning after overnight drizzle and humidity but dry. Excellent breakfast with fresh coffee which had the usual reaction for the first time.
8.45 start to visit a Bonzai garden and natural history museum with beautiful grounds. Followed on with incredible music museum where we had a short recital on instruments based on those found in the tomb of the Marquis Yi (433BC) in 1978 - the first evidence of a 7 tonal range as opposed to the normal Chinese 5. He was buried with 21 concubines who were poisoned and his dog.
Following lunch at Wuhan we started the four hour coach trip to Yichang for dinner, both excellent meals. Fascinating views of farmers on route - hand ploughing with water bullocks and harvesting second crop of rice as well as various dwellings and vehicles.
We arrived at the dock above the three gorges dam about 8.30pm where our liner was moored and fortunately a cabin with a balcony was available on the ship as when we booked all the balcony cabins were taken and we soon retired to our beds after another long day.
RIVER YANGTZE - DAY12 (YICHANG TO BADONG 77 MILES)
Some displeasure among the guests as the standard of accommodation in the cabins is not up to 5 star but as long as they are comfortable and clean - well just about - we can survive as the lounges and food are a good standard.
We go ashore before we sail to visit the 3 Gorges Dam - one of the largest civil engineering projects in the world at present. Half of the generators are already in use and the balance should be up and running next year. One series of 5 locks are operating and a second run of locks are under construction together with a boat lift for smaller ships - subject to resolving a few technical complications in consultation with German specialists. The tourist area is well landscaped with flower beds and fountains as well as a large model to show the appearance of the dam when it is completed, with the usual souvenir shop.
The Rough guide for China listed the following complications - corruption over funds; displacement of thousands of the local population; flooding of villages; pollution in the dam; destruction of wildlife and will it prevent flooding as projected. The main purpose is to avoid flooding in the cities along the Yangtze and control the flow of the river throughout the year.
Back to ship for a good lunch before we set sail at 2.30pm taking advantage of the sundeck with beautiful scenery through the Xiling gorge but a bit misty for good photographs. The views are mainly wooded hillsides and cliffs with evidence of people living on boats along the shores. River traffic included large barges carrying coal and various cargos as well as fast hydrofoil ferry services for the local communities and on this first day we sailed 77 miles and moored at Badong for the night.
Evening entertainment provided by the crew with dance routines, kung fu and mime performers, very good and well attended.
Fairly hard bunks which appears to be the norm in China but we slept soundly after a relatively relaxing day.
RIVER YANGTZE - DAY13 (BADONG TO FENGDU 164 MILES)
Transferred to a smaller launch for a memorable tourist trip up the Shennong stream, one of the 900 tributaries feeding the Yangtze for about 90 minutes when we transferred into 'pea boats' holding about 20 passengers where we were issued with life jackets.
The boats like large canoes are effectively propelled by a crew of 4 using the crude oars, extremely hard work followed by towing the canoes with bamboo woven ropes between the boulders for about 100 metres when we reached the rapids. After turning round without any mishaps we drift back through the rapids providing entertainment for the local population waving and children shouting 'we love you' in broken English. As the water level is due to rise by a further 10 metres due to the dam the buildings and small villages have been relocated on higher ground.
More dramatic scenery on route and three coffins resting in crevices in the rocks about 30 metres above the water line - reputedly in place for 2,000 years - but no one can determine how they were positioned on a vertical cliff face and a large cave provided a nesting area for a large colony of swallows.
Our guides were a delightful group of young Sichuan girls speaking excellent English.
Back to President 1 for lunch and more sun bathing and frustrating time trying to take interesting photographs in misty conditions as we sailed through the dramatic Wu and Qutang gorges.
Evening entertainment by the crew featuring the costumes and dances of the various provinces across China. Finally docked at Fengdu after sailing a further 164 miles up the Yangtze.
RIVER YANGTZE - DAY 14 (FENGDU TO CHONGQING)
FengDu (The Ghost City) A damp start to the day which entailed crossing a line of pontoons to reach the shore and our coach for a short ride to visit the Shibaozhai Pagoda known as the shining pearl of the Yangtze. Unfortunately nobody told the weather Gods and as we ascended the site in a ski type lift a tropical storm broke with thunder and lightening flashing overhead, I thought we were about to be fried as an offering.
What we saw of the Buddhas and Gods was quite dramatic but gave up on the final ascent as we were drenched by this time and took cover in the inevitable gift shop whilst most of the party carried on. Fortunately we returned to the ship after an hour or so and changed into dry clothes and a welcome hot drink before dinner.
The crew provided several activities and demonstrations during the afternoon including pictures made with silk embroidery and acupuncture by a Chinese trained doctor after which we relaxed before starting the final hectic days.
Fortunately the rain stopped as we proceeded up the river passing several towns on route with varied scenery to our final destination at Chongqing.
The groups of guests provided the evening entertainment with national songs and dances from their different countries (except the Brits of course - sad to say!).
The city of Chongqing was floodlit when we arrived with skyscrapers surrounding the dock area and a contrast to the primitive living conditions we had seen on route.
The worst day for weather of the whole holiday so we can't complain as there was little opportunity for sightseeing apart from the river bank.
CHONGQING + XIAN - DAY 15
Short tour of Chongqing - a very hilly city which in consequence meant very few cycles and a large amount of building in progress to accommodate the 2 million city dwellers and additional 30 million population in the area as a result of relocation from the dam project.
Our first stop was the zoo where we saw several Pandas happily chumping away on bamboo shoots in their large paddocks. The zoo also had a couple of tigers and bears which showed signs of frustration in their pens and an aviary with numerous species of birds from across the world. The garden areas were well maintained and attractively landscaped and provided a welcome contrast to the city landscape.
A large art gallery and school of art was attached to the grounds where we had a demonstration of Chinese painting and opportunity to view the galleries and purchase a print for us and a jade tortoise for Gay and Michael.
Our only opportunity to visit an open air market with stalls of local traders and open fronted shops including live catfish and several vegetable baskets for the local population and not dominated by tourists. Painters and decorators were also evident awaiting employment from the locals.
Following lunch we flew to Xian in an hour and beat our luggage for the first time so we had to eat in our day clothes after a quick bath. Very good dinner and emerged from the dining room to find a group of clergyman, including the Archbishop of Canterbury departing from the hotel after a conference. Used our spare time after dinner to email the family and have an early night.
XIAN - DAY 16
Started with viewing the city wall at the South gate which was recently restored and is part of the 12km around the centre of the city and only completed this year, a short stay as the weather was overcast with light rain.
Onto a Neolithic settlement called Banpo with a museum featuring the artefacts found on the site which was only discovered in 1953. The village dated from 3,750 to 4,500BC and showed remarkable evidence of tools, decorated pottery and implements used in that early civilisation as well as a plan of the dwellings on the site.
After an indifferent lunch we arrived at the exhibition centre of the terracotta warriors which are housed in three large hanger type structures and are very impressive in every aspect of the display. A dramatic cinema in the round provides a short explanation of the history of their origination and how they were discovered.
The whole concept is well presented with some guidance and receives revenues to ensure it is maintained. It is quite rightly of course a renowned tourist centre and suffers in consequence from the number of visitors which detracts from an otherwise excellent site. For a more detailed explanation we purchased the official guide book which is ostensibly signed by one of the original farmers who discovered the site in 1974.
A quick bath and change of clothes for the evening visit to a Tang era musical which was quite dramatic and well performed although influenced by European staging for the benefit of the foreign visitors. The trip included an excellent dinner served in the theatre (see menu) but unfortunately a traffic jam - the first significant one we experienced in China - delayed our arrival and by the time we sat down we were expected to eat the four course meal in about 20 minutes.
In retrospect this was one of the best days of the tour which was spoilt by trying to squeeze in too much activity - particularly due to the traffic delays returning from the warriors site and the volume of cars in the evening rush hour.
XIAN + GUILIN - DAY17
A short coach ride to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda where we suffered from the usual lack of time to explore more thoroughly. It was another tourist centre but retained a peaceful relaxed atmosphere with 100 monks still in residence and numerous pavilions used by the monks for their study, library, art studio and Buddha.
Our guide explained that as part of his role he was obliged to take us to another Jade showroom which had a discrete plaque stating it was an appropriate showroom for tourists and had the usual hoards of assistants and served free green tea. Quite interesting to see how the jade is worked and categorized as some of the craftsmen demonstrated their techniques for shaping the raw material.
Lunch was provided at an immaculate airport restaurant - a very modern building - which is scheduled to become an international airport. A one hour forty minute flight saw us in Guilin and a visit to the Reed Flute Caves while our luggage was sorted for the hotel.
The caves were picturesque and dramatically floodlit and the guide imaginatively interpreted the rock formations as animals etc. Despite the long days activities we volunteered to join a small party after dinner on a city coach tour and river trip (no pollution!) to see the fishermen successfully using their cormorants in the river to catch five or six fish. The city had a relaxed atmosphere with the river and plantations providing a backdrop as well as planted verges to the roads in some areas.
Eventually back to a comfortable bed in a well appointed hotel.
GUILIN - DAY 18
The day dawned misty and overcast with a promise it might improve later in the day - apparently this is normal for the river location and proved the case as the day progressed.
The launch was ideal for sightseeing with plenty of space on the open top deck and was perfect for taking photographs even if the weather was a bit dull at times. The river was so low that the launch scraped the riverbed on several occasions and the water buffalo were grazing on the shore line and in the shallows.
There is no escaping the traders as they punted out to the launch on bamboo rafts, almost colliding as they came alongside to try and sell their wares. They hitched a lift by hooking onto the launch and clambering aboard for a mile or so with their trinkets before casting off again - only for another trader to replace them for the next stretch in their anxiety to earn a living.
The scenery is absorbing and very dramatic with karst peaks dominating the skyline - quite unique as it changed every few minutes as we progressed up river. The crew also offered a few souvenirs including snake wine which we declined seeing three kinds of snake immersed in the wine - I dread to think what it tasted like.
The cruise lasted about 5 hours with lunch on board and was an opportunity to relax and chat to the other guests without food whizzing round or chasing your tail during a visit to a centre of interest.
We landed at Yangshuo, described by the guide as a hello market predominantly aimed at the tourists - it seems every stall holder tries to catch your attention shouting hello and holding out samples of their wares. It was a novelty at first but some are so persistent it became tedious and precludes you taking an interest in any goods without being enveloped in a negotiation whether you want the object or not. Some of the shops were quite appealing - particularly the artist supplies with a large selection of brushes and prints as well as a six month old baby in a pram which the father was very proud of.
An electric buggy took us to the coach park for our return to Guilin and the 10 passengers due to fly to Hong Kong stayed in Guilin while the rest of us had dinner and onto the airport for our final internal flight to Shanghai. A bit traumatic dragging our luggage round the airport at Shanghai as Chris mistook the coach park and we eventually reached the hotel about 11.00pm.
Putting together a total of eight flights, two train journey's, two cruise's and umpteen coach excursions, which ran to punctual timing was no mean fete and the hotel's we stayed at were first class, you must be congratulated.
On a recent Archer's trip to China, the sights (and sites) were almost overwhelming from the immaculate city of Shanghai with it's towering buildings and horrific traffic, to the magic of the Terracotta Warriors, and the immensity (and history) of Tiannamen Square, the beauty of the Three Gorges and the wonderful and fascinating Great Wall.
One of the most enduring impressions were the signs that we saw, from the one outside the lavatories in the Forbidden City, which proudly boasted that it was a "5 star toilet" to one on the motorway which read "Please drive tiredly".
Most of the sites were very busy, and had signs saying "Please be a decent visitor and queue one by one", and also "Please be care of something with you". In the shops we saw "Everybody, if you don't take the escalator, please walk" and in a window "Genuine Rolex, Fake Rolex, Genuine Fake Rolex."
We were very pleased to be able to take a chair lift up the great wall, and took due note of the instructions.
Whoever got a heart condition or a seriously deformed body, please do not take the cable car.
When old man or child take the cable car they must be accompanied by an adult.
To march into the platform one by one, each must stand on the pointed place with the help of the staff.
Please sit on the hanging chair quickly, and put down the safety frame, while you taking do not smoke, swing or play.
Arrived, lift up your feet from the foothold and lift up the frame.
To get off it, one left, one right.
Passengers are prohibited from carrying inflammables, explosives and poisons on the cable car.
Perhaps the most poignant was at the Neolithic site. "A three-four year old girl was buried in a coffin pit that was usually used for burying the adults and she enjoyed a wooden coffin uniquely". In the same museum we saw a clearly marked "Fire Exiting User Box".
Experience the potent beauty and history of China on this magical holiday taking in Shanghai, Guilin, Beijing, a cruise on the mighty Yangtze and the legendary Terracotta Army.
Included Highlights
Shanghai Yu Yuan Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, evening acrobatic show
Suzhou Garden of the Couples, Garden of the Master of Nets
Grand Canal Cruise
Nanjing Train to Nanjing, Mausoleum of Dr Sun Yat-Sen, Zhonghua Gate
Beijing Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, Peking Duck Dinner
Great Wall of China
Wuhan Provincial Museum
Yangtze River Cruise Three Gorges Dam, Lesser Three Gorges (or Shennong Stream), Shibaozhai pagoda
Xian Terracotta Warriors, Wild Goose Pagoda, Tang Palace evening dinner show, City Walls
Guilin Cruise on the Li River, Reed Flute Cave
Included in the Price
Flights UK - Shanghai; Nanjing - Beijing - Wuhan; Chongqing - Xian - Guilin - Shanghai - UK
Accommodation on tour in twin room with private facilities
Meals on tour 17 breakfasts (B), 16 lunches (L) and 16 dinners (D)
Travel on tour by air-conditioned transport
English speaking guide on tour
Transfers between the 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: UK - Shanghai.
Overnight flight to Shanghai.
DAY 2: Arrive Shanghai.
On arrival in Shanghai, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for a two night stay. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. (D)
DAY 3: Shanghai.
Once dubbed the Paris of the Orient, cosmopolitan and exhilarating Shanghai still retains much of the sophistication and ebullience of yesteryear. Your included sightseeing tour features the famous Yu Yuan Garden, the atmospheric old town and the stunning Jade Buddha Temple. The afternoon is at leisure to explore 'The Bund' riverside walkway and Nanjing Road. In the evening, join us for an exciting acrobatics show. (B, L, D)
DAY 4: Shanghai - Suzhou.
This morning visit the splendid Shanghai Museum, which houses thousands of exquisite Chinese archaeological and artistic exhibits. After lunch drive to Luzhi, a 2000 year old 'watertown' with many small canals and bridges. Experience the life of local people living along the canals, before continuing on to Suzhou. (B, L, D)
DAY 5: Suzhou.
Suzhou is famed for its silk industry and was dubbed the Venice of the East because of its many ancient canals and bridges. Your memorable time here begins with a visit to Tiger Hill, on the summit of which stands the Pagoda of Yunyan, before a short cruise along the Grand Canal. After lunch visit a silk factory, followed by a rickshaw ride along the canal banks to the Garden of the Couples. This evening, musicians with eight classical Chinese instruments, folk singers and dancers will entertain you in Suzhou's scenic Garden of the Master of the Nets. (B, L, D)
DAY 6: Suzhou - Nanjing.
A morning's train ride takes you to Nanjing, a delightful walled city on the Yangtze with a rich Ming history. After lunch, soak up the breathtaking views from the Yangtze River Bridge and Zhonghua City Gate, China's greatest ancient city gate, followed by a stroll around the lively Confucius Temple area with its Ming-style shops. (B, L, D)
DAY 7: Nanjing - Beijing.
A great morning's sightseeing at the Mausoleum of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, the pioneer of the Chinese Revolution, before an afternoon flight to Beijing for a three night stay in China's fascinating capital. (B, L, D)
DAY 8: Beijing.
Beijing holds many wonders for the visitor, from the historic to the enigmatic and stirring. Highlights include the legendary, vast Tiananmen Square, home to the imposing city museum and Great Hall of the People and the magnificent Forbidden City, the palace complex that was home to successive Emperors for over 500 years. Afterwards, we continue to the glorious Summer Palace, with its exquisite gardens and landscapes. (B, L)
DAY 9: Beijing.
An unforgettable day travelling to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, which criss-crosses forested mountain tops (return cable-car rides are included). One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Wall stretches nearly 4,000 miles and makes a spectacular sight you'll be sure never to forget. Your day ends with a traditional Peking Duck dinner in Beijing. (B, L, D)
DAY 10: Beijing - Wuhan.
After a morning visit to Beijing's Temple of Heaven, we fly to Wuhan for an overnight stay. (B, L, D)
DAY 11: Wuhan - Yichang - Yangtze River.
Your day starts at Wuhan's Provincial Museum to view its fine art collections, followed by lunch and a drive to Yichang, where after dinner, you board the President No. 1 cruiser for your exciting four night journey upstream. (B, L, D)
DAY 12: Yangtze River.
After setting sail this morning, watch endless dramatic vistas unfold from your boat as it passes through the serenely beautiful Xiling Gorge, the Yangtze's longest. After a shore excursion to the incredible Three Gorges Dam, the world's biggest, you'll then sail through the Three Gorges Dam Five Stage Ship Lock. (B, L, D)
DAY 13: Yangtze River.
Today experience the swift, crystal waters of the Shennong Stream - a Yangtze tributary - or the 'Lesser Three Gorges'. With both trips involving travel through magical, fairytale landscapes you won't find anywhere else in the world. Later you will pass through Wu Gorge and Qutang Gorge. (B, L, D)
DAY 14: Yangtze River.
Today we will visit Shibaozhai - an ancient pagoda, known as the shining pearl on the Yangtze. (B, L, D)
DAY 15: Yangtze River - Chongqing - Xian.
We leave your cruiser at Chongqing for a short city tour around the atmospheric old town and city Zoo, which is home to China's famous giant panda, then continue to the airport for your flight to Xian for a two night stay. (B, L, D)
DAY 16: Xian. Included Terracotta Warriors.
Yet another highlight of your tour, the remarkable Terracotta Warriors, built in around 250 BC to guard an Imperial Tomb and comprising of thousands of full-size, hand-carved clay soldiers, chariots and horses. Next on to Ban Po, a Neolithic settlement, followed by a meander along the city's ancient walls. In the evening, enjoy a dinner with a Tang-era music show. (B, L, D)
DAY 17: Xian - Guilin.
After a morning visit to Xian's Wild Goose Pagoda, a revered Buddhist pagoda built around 600 AD, we fly to Guilin for an overnight stay. (B, L, D)
DAY 18: Guilin - Shanghai.
Enjoy a leisurely morning cruise along the picturesque Li River, which snakes through limestone pinnacles and rice fields. After lunch on board and returning to Guilin, you'll visit the Reed Flute Cave - a vast cavern pitted with stalagmites and stalactites, named after the nearby reeds that were used to make flutes. Evening flight to Shanghai for an overnight stay. (B, L, D)
DAY 19: Shanghai - UK.
Transfer to Shanghai Airport for your flight to the UK. (B)
Check prices and availability for this holiday
Accommodation on Tour
Shanghai: Ruitai (3*); Suzhou: Guanyun Glamour (4*); Nanjing: Manderin Garden (4*); Beijing: Plaza Hotel (4*); Wuhan: Holiday Inn Riverside (4*); Xian: Le Garden (4*); Guilin: Park (4*).
Note: Tour hotels will be as specified or alternatives of a similar standard.
Visa Requirements
A visa is required for entry into China. This must be obtained prior to departure.
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View Holiday PhotosPresident No. 1
President No. 1 is a large, modern cruiser which comfortably accommodates passengers in 94 cabins and is designed for comfort, flexibility and the smooth navigation of the Yangtze's spectacular twists and turns.
Public Rooms & Facilities
Restaurant; bar; inner and outer observation areas; beauty salon; sauna; laundry service; shopping centre; massage room.
Dining
Your cruise includes full board. A Chinese and Western style buffet is available for breakfast and lunch while dinner will be Chinese cuisine.
Cabins
All twin bedded cabins are outside facing with large windows offering views over the river. Each cabin has air-conditioning, private facilities and satellite television. Your holiday price includes a standard cabin.
Options
Single Cabin. Cabin with balcony.
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 PhotosBeautiful China + Hainan Island - 5 Extra nights from £484
You can extend your China holiday with a 4 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 Shanghai to Sanya for a 4 night stay at the Holiday Inn Sanya Bay. At the end of your stay, fly back to Shangahi for an overnight stay, before returning to the airport for your flight to the UK. -
View Holiday PhotosBeautiful China + Hong Kong - 3 Extra nights from £200
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 Shanghai).
Accommodation on Extensions
Beautiful China + Hainan Island - 5 Extra nights from £484
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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.
Beautiful China + Hong Kong - 3 Extra nights from £200
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View Holiday PhotosThe Mira Hong Kong
At the Mira Hong Kong, you will feel perfectly at home. The designer lobby of this luxurious hotel complements the 500 newly refurbished rooms, which are spacious and beautifully appointed. The hotel offers onsite dining and it is convenient to shopping, attractions and entertainment venues.
Location: Conveniently located on Nathan Road, the hotel overlooks Kowloon Park and is a short walk from the famous landmarks and Star Ferry. Adjacent to the hotel, find retail promenades with boutiques, large shopping malls, outlets and eateries.
Facilities: Indoor pool heated in winter; spa; restaurants/bar; minibar; coffee shop; fitness centre; shopping centre.
Price includes: Room only with 1 king size bed or 2 doubles, bath; shower; air-conditioning; satellite TV; tea/coffee making facilities; safe.
Options: Breakfast; single room.
Official category: 4 star. -
View Holiday PhotosThe Park Lane
The Park Lane, a top class hotel overlooking Victoria Park and the famous Hong Kong Harbour, offers the discerning traveller a deluxe address, superior service and easy access to Hong Kong's shopping mecca of Causeway Bay.
Location: The hotel is in an excellent location for shopping and near all major transport systems including taxis, cross harbour tunnel and MTR (the Mass Transit Railway).
Facilities: Laundry and valet service; florist; minibar; shopping arcade; broadband internet access in bedrooms; rooftop restaurant - Riva Restaurant & lounge and lobby bar; the recently opened, fashionable George & Co. bar and restaurant.
Activities: Fitness centre.
Price includes: Room only in a twin room with air-conditioning; satellite/cable TV.
Options: Breakfast; single room.
Official category: 4 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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