China Experience

All content by Intrepid

21 days (ex Beijing)

Destinations visited: China, Běijīng, Hong Kong, World

Physical rating:
Culture shock rating:

Physical Ratings

The physical rating gives you an idea of how much huffing and puffing you can expect on the trip. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our ratings follows:

Rating 1

These trips are a relaxing break. You don't have to worry about doing anything physically demanding unless you want to.

Rating 2

Some easy physical activities included in your trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey.

Rating 3

This trip will raise your heartbeat. Moderate physical activities are included and a good level of fitness is required.

Rating 4

Be prepared for some serious physical activity. The majority of activities included on this trip will be challenging. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy your holiday.

Rating 5

Intrepid’s highest physical rating. Get ready for a heart-pumping adventure with plenty of challenges and some extreme conditions. You will be required to be seriously fit for this trip as difficult activities are included.

Culture Shock Ratings

The culture shock rating considers the level of development in the location, the area's infrastructure and how easy it is to access services. It also takes into consideration how different the food and customs are and whether English is widely spoken. While generalisations are always tricky, here’s a summary of the ratings:

Rating 1

This is the least confronting of Intrepid's product range. English is the native language and the food, customs and access to services will be familiar to you.

Rating 2

You will probably have experienced food like this in restaurants back home and English is commonly spoken. Services are available most of the time but there may be some cultural differences.

Rating 3

Expect some culture shock. You will be exposed to signs of poverty and access to services may be sporadic. The food will be quite different to home and English speakers harder to find. Respecting the local culture will make it easier to fit in and really experience the location.

Rating 4

The comforts of home are more of a rarity. English is not common and the food will be quite different to what you are used to. It is important to observe some of the local customs to not cause offence. Many of the locals' standard of living may be confronting.

Rating 5

You're really out there! You'll need to pay specific attention to health and hygiene. A large proportion of locals' living conditions are a world away from standards you are used to. You may have difficulty finding an English speaker and there is little or no access to services. Paying heed to local customs is essential.

LAST MINUTE OFFER

Leave Jul 22, 2012 and save 25% $2,355

from USD$3,140

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Description

This in-depth tour has proven to be one of the most popular we offer in China. Experience the Middle Kingdom as you take in the major tourist attractions in China and visit some of its lesser-known sites. See the majestic splendour as you tour Beijing, visit the Great Wall of China and the Terracotta Warriors before travelling to Hong Kong to soak up the electric vibe. From sizzling Sichuan dishes in Chengdu to the tranquillity of the Buddhist temples in Emei Shan, experience the true essence of China - you won't be disappointed.

Highlights

Cruise along the Yangzi River.
Join the pilgrims on Emei Shan.
Admire the Three Gorges.
Experience electric Hong Kong.
Cycle through China's stunning countryside.
Scale the Great Wall of China.
Tour Beijing's architectural wonders.
See the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an.
Sample sizzling Sichuan cuisine in Chengdu.
Fall in love with giant pandas.

Itinerary

Days 1-4 Beijing/Great Wall

Walk a stretch of the Great Wall of China, check out Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, and stop by Beijing Hui Ling, an Intrepid-supported local organisation that supports intellectually disabled members of the community.

Days 5-7 Xi'an

The ancient capital Xi'an is abundant with cultural marvels, including the famous Terracotta Warriors. Perhaps walk or cycle the city wall then devour some tasty morsels at the Muslim Quarter night markets.

Days 8-9 Chengdu/Leshan

The Chengdu region is home to spicy Sichuan cuisine, including the much-loved hot pot. Visit the residents of a giant panda reserve and perhaps watch locals practise tai chi in People's Park. In Leshan, marvel at the world's largest carved stone Buddha.

Days 10-11 Emei Shan

With clear mountain streams running through subtropical rain forest and old growth forest shrouding ancient monasteries, Emei Shan is one of the most famous Buddhist sites in China. Soak up the immense beauty of the region on a cable car ride.

Days 12-16 Yangzi River

Travel to Chongqing, gateway to the majestic Yangzi River. Cruise the river and witness the dramatic scenery of the Three Gorges. Relax on board or perhaps enjoy a side trip down a tributary of the river.

Days 17-19 Yangshuo

With limestone mountains towering over rice paddies and the meandering Li River, Yangshuo is a traveller's delight. Cycle through the idyllic countryside past villages, rivers and farms.

Days 20-21 Hong Kong

Experience the dynamic atmosphere of Hong Kong, where skyscrapers nestle alongside ancient temples and modern city life is only minutes from picturesque islands and beaches. Stay on to go shopping, sample street food or venture up Victoria Peak for fabulous views over the harbour and city skyline.

Group Size

Maximum of 12 travellers per group

Accommodation

Hotel (10 nts), Overnight sleeper train (4 nts), Guesthouse (3 nts), Overnight boat (3 nts)

Transport

Metro, Bus, Overnight sleeper train, Private Bus, Cable Car, Cruise ship, Boat, Bicycle, Taxi

Budget

Allow USD $300 for meals not included.

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Book this trip with Intrepid Travel on their site

from USD$3,140

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