Cherry Lane Riverside Scenic Park Qīngmíng Garden

China Getaway

All content by Intrepid

12 days (ex Shanghai)

Destinations visited: China, Běijīng, Shànghǎi, 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.

from USD$1,250

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Description

Travel to China and discover the ancient sights and modern delights of the northern region. From Shanghai to Beijing and through the old world cities of Xitang, Xi'an and Pingyao, see the best that North China has to offer. Immerse yourself in this land of friendly people, bustling markets and amazing historical landmarks - China is full of crazy contrasts and profound experiences at every turn.

Highlights

Sample an exotic treat from a street vendor.
See the sun rise over the Great Wall of China.
Join the hustle and bustle of busy Beijing.
Explore the walled city of Pingyao.
Visit China and see modern Shanghai.
Sip tea by a canal in charming Xitang.
Discover the Muslim Quarter of Xi'an.

Itinerary

Days 1-2 Shanghai

Travel to China and see the bustling metropolis of Shanghai. A perfect blend of old-world character and modern charms, Shanghai is the perfect place to begin your China adventure. Take in the futuristic skyline, stroll the Bund or grab a bargain at the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar. Perhaps stop by the Shanghai Museum and delve deeper into China's storied history.

Days 3-4 Watertown

Leave the bright lights of Shanghai behind and step back in time in Xitang. Visit ancient villas and stroll alongside the many canals that crisscross the town. Explore the well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings and absorb the old-world atmosphere.

Days 5-6 Xi'an

With a plethora of historical sites and all conveniences of a big city, Xi'an is a place of contrasts. Explore the Muslim Quarter and Great Mosque or taste exotic food from busy street stalls. Leave time for an optional visit to China's ancient Terracotta Warriors, lined up with extraordinary military precision. Cycle or walk the city walls and take in the views from the top of the Bell or Drum towers.

Days 7-8 Pingyao

The walled city of Pingyao offers a rare glimpse into the architecture of imperial China. Spend the day exploring the temples, houses and museums of this former commercial centre. Perhaps take a calligraphy class or indulge in a relaxing massage.

Days 9-12 Beijing/Great Wall

China's grand city of Beijing is overflowing with both ancient and modern sights. Stroll across Tiananmen Square, explore the Forbidden City, wander through the maze of hutongs and give bargaining skills a workout at the many markets. A chance to see China's most iconic sight - the Great Wall - slowly illuminated by the sunrise is a fitting end to the China Getaway adventure.

Group Size

Maximum of 16 travellers per group

Accommodation

Hostel (6 nts), Overnight sleeper train (3 nts), Guesthouse (2 nts)

Transport

Bus, Overnight sleeper train, Private Bus, Taxi

Budget

Allow USD $200 for meals not included.

Check dates and prices
Book this trip with Intrepid Travel on their site

from USD$1,250

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