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South China Express

All content by Intrepid

6 days (ex Hong Kong)

Destinations visited: China, Shànghǎi, 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.

from USD$1,195

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Description

Travel through Hong Kong, Yangshuo and Shanghai on this South China express adventure tour. Take in some of China's iconic sights and highlights on this whirlwind adventure. From Hong Kong to Shanghai, discover ancient relics, natural wonders, vibrant cities and a culture and history that stretch back thousands of years. Cycle past paddy fields and see towering skyscrapers nestled alongside ancient temples in Shanghai and Hong Kong - this really is a taste of the best of China's contrasts.

Highlights

See the countryside on two wheels in Yangshuo.
Admire the spectacular architecture of Shanghai.
Discover the heart of rural China.
Experience the vibrant contrasts of Hong Kong.
Ride with Chinese locals on an overnight train trip.
Soak up the cosmopolitan vibe of Chinese megacities.
Find serenity in China's immaculate gardens.

Itinerary

Days 1-2 Hong Kong

Travel to China and visit Hong Kong. Arrive early to make the most of this city's vibrant culture, where the East really does meet with the West. Perhaps take a ferry ride around Hong Kong's scenic islands or venture up to the top of Victoria Peak for a bird's-eye view of the spectacular cityscape. Take advantage of the nightlife, snare a bargain at the shopping malls or check out the dazzling harbour at night. Be sure to sample some local cuisine - a true Hong Kong highlight. Catch an overnight train to Guilin, a great opportunity to meet new friends.

Days 3-4 Yangshuo

Discover the heart and soul of rural China. In this truly stunning region, the Li River winds its way past limestone karst mountains through Yangshuo. Take a cycling tour into the picturesque countryside to gain an insight into rural life and eat lunch at a farmhouse or local cafe. Optional activities abound, so why not kayak down the river, learn the fine art of calligraphy, take a cooking class or join a relaxing tai chi class.

Days 5-6 Shanghai

Jet into Shanghai and soak up the cosmopolitan flair of this thriving city. Stroll along the waterfront Bund to see a fascinating array of art deco buildings, explore the tree-lined avenues of the old French Concession area, or go in search of the ultimate Chinese feast. For a slower pace, explore the many treasures of the Shanghai Museum or head to the Yuyuan Gardens, an oasis of calm amid the chaos of this big city. The Propoganda Museum is well worth a look for history enthusiasts. Famed for its fashion, why not shop for last-minute souvenirs as a final farewell to this South China Express tour?

Group Size

Maximum of 12 travellers per group

Accommodation

Hotel (4 nts), Overnight sleeper train (1 nt)

Transport

Taxi, Train, Bus, Bicycle, Plane, Private Bus

Budget

Allow USD $230 for meals not included.

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

from USD$1,195

Book now

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