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China - The Middle Kingdom
18 DAYS FROM £1969

This holiday has departures available between: 6th Oct 2008 to 13th Oct 2008
Great reductions on British Airways flights!! - Prices on BA flights have been reduced by £200 per person for 2008 and £125 per person for April 2009. Book by 30 September to qualify. Offer subject to availability.

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

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.

Visa Requirements

A visa is required for entry into China. This must be obtained prior to departure.

  • President No. 4 DiamondDiamondDiamondDiamond

    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

  • China - The Middle Kingdom + Hainan Island - 4 Extra nights from £596

    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.

  • China - The Middle Kingdom + Hohhot - 3 Extra nights from £386

    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.

  • China - The Middle Kingdom + Hong Kong - 3 Extra nights from £110

    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 £596

  • Holiday Inn Sanya Bay DiamondDiamondDiamondDiamond

    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 £386

China - The Middle Kingdom + Hong Kong - 3 Extra nights from £110

  • Metropark Hotel Kowloon DiamondDiamondDiamond

    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.

  • Harbour Plaza DiamondDiamondDiamondDiamondDiamond

    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.