China featuring T ibet & Hong Kong
China featuring T ibet & Hong Kong
China featuring T ibet & Hong Kong
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<strong>China</strong><br />
<strong>featuring</strong> T<strong>ibet</strong> & <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong><br />
Handmade Holidays<br />
for Travellers<br />
2010/2011
Contents<br />
How to Use this Brochure 1<br />
<strong>China</strong> Introduction & Map 2 - 3<br />
Footloose <strong>China</strong> 4 - 7<br />
Beijing & Beyond – Touring 8 - 9<br />
Beijiing Hotels 10 - 11<br />
Shanghai & Beyond – Touring 12 - 13<br />
Shanghai Hotels 14 - 15<br />
Insight into Xian – Touring 16<br />
Xian Hotels 17<br />
Experience Guilin & Yangshuo – Touring 18<br />
Guilin & Yangshuo Hotels 19<br />
Yangtze River Cruising 20 - 23<br />
Small Group Journeys 24 - 25<br />
Discover Yunnan Province – Touring 26<br />
Yunnan Hotels 27<br />
Explore Sichuan Province – Touring 28<br />
Sichuan Hotels 29<br />
All-Inclusive Coach Touring 30 - 37<br />
Handmade Holidays for Travellers<br />
On behalf of the Travel Indochina team I am very proud to welcome you to our<br />
Handmade Holidays collection.<br />
We all know that handmade treasures are unique. Handcrafted watches are of superior quality and<br />
tailormade clothing makes for a better fit. Your Handmade Holiday will ensure you have a memorable<br />
experience with the real Asia. Our team on the ground, and here in Australia, have created this<br />
brochure with you, our travellers, in mind. It represents our many years of combined experience<br />
and everything that we have come to love about this special part of the world. In designing<br />
Handmade Holidays, we’ve avoided the clichés of generic package holidays and bring you real<br />
experiences with the full flavour that can only come from local knowledge and expertise.<br />
Asia’s diversity and magic are legendary. You’re about to discover her most treasured secrets<br />
with the people who know her best – the experts at Travel Indochina.<br />
Our Handmade Holidays collection represents the very best experiences in Asia. On the pages that<br />
follow you will find specially selected hotels and resorts, Small Group Journeys and private touring<br />
options. No matter what your interests, this brochure will allow you to tailor your own Handmade<br />
Holiday in Indochina. Each hotel, package and destination has been specially selected by our local<br />
experts with your ideal experience in mind. We have also included a selection of our Small Group<br />
Journeys; make sure to check out our Small Group Journeys brochure for many, many more.<br />
And because we’re based in Asia, you can be sure we are at the forefront; this means we can<br />
arrange the very best customised holidays for individuals, families and special interest groups.<br />
So if, like us, you want to combine your love of travel and culture with an amazing holiday,<br />
look no further. I look forward to seeing you in Asia.<br />
Paul Hole<br />
Managing Director & Co-founder, Travel Indochina.<br />
paulh@travelindochina.com.au<br />
For more information, visit www.handmadeholidays.com.au<br />
<strong>China</strong> is serviced by a number of world-class airlines. Your air arrangements can be booked with the following international<br />
carriers, with whom Travel Indochina proudly works:<br />
T<strong>ibet</strong> Introduction 38<br />
Spirit of T<strong>ibet</strong> – Touring 39<br />
The Legendary Silk Road – Touring 40<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> Introduction 41<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> Highlights – Touring 42<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> Hotels 43-44<br />
Conditions of Reservation 45<br />
Small Group Journeys<br />
Our exciting range of Small Group<br />
Journeys offers a great way to<br />
experience <strong>China</strong>’s highlights – and<br />
some hidden gems.<br />
Led by expert Western leaders and<br />
local English-speaking guides, our<br />
small groups have a maximum<br />
of 18 people, guaranteeing you a<br />
personal experience. Each carefully<br />
crafted itinerary includes unique<br />
special touches which allow you to<br />
meet the people, experience the<br />
culture, and savour the cuisine of this<br />
extraordinary country.<br />
This brochure contains a sample<br />
of the journeys you can experience<br />
with us, ranging from 8 to 18 days<br />
in length.<br />
See pages 24-25 for more details.<br />
Footloose <strong>China</strong><br />
Our new Footloose <strong>China</strong><br />
itineraries are perfect for the<br />
independent traveller who wants<br />
the combination of flexibility and<br />
great value. Our Footloose options<br />
combine flexibility with good<br />
quality budget accommodation<br />
and some transport.<br />
Perfect for budget-minded,<br />
adventurous travels, it takes the<br />
hassle out of travel while offering<br />
free time to explore and do what<br />
interests you most.<br />
Itineraries can be customized to<br />
include some half or full day tours<br />
in certain destinations, should you<br />
prefer a combination of tours and<br />
free time.<br />
See pages 4-7 for more details.<br />
All-Inclusive<br />
coach Touring<br />
We are excited to announce our<br />
new portfolio of high quality allinclusive<br />
touring options, presented<br />
in association with our partner<br />
Pacific Delight, an operator with<br />
over 39 years experience in the<br />
business of coach touring in <strong>China</strong>.<br />
Tours include 4-5 star hotel and<br />
cruise accommodation, all transport,<br />
most meals and comprehensive<br />
guided sightseeing including<br />
entrance fees.<br />
This style of travel is ideal for those<br />
who like to have every detail of their<br />
holiday mapped-out, along with the<br />
knowledge that the essential costs<br />
of the journey have been paid before<br />
departing Australia.<br />
See pages 30-37 for more details.
How to Use This Brochure<br />
No matter what your interests, this brochure will allow you to tailor your own<br />
Handmade Holiday in <strong>China</strong>, T<strong>ibet</strong> & <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>. Each option on the following<br />
pages has been specially-selected by our local experts. Rather than listing every<br />
hotel in a town along with the standard tourist fare we have handpicked the best<br />
of every destination to allow you to craft a holiday that suits your interests and<br />
budget. While this brochure can be used as a stand-alone reference to allow<br />
you to make the decisions about your next holiday, feel free to call us on 1300<br />
365 355, or ask your local travel agent for assistance.<br />
‘From’ Pricing in this Brochure As pricing can fluctuate throughout the<br />
year we have given a ‘from price’ as an indication of cost. This price is based<br />
on the low season costing for the service or hotel and is intended as a guide.<br />
To find out the best pricing specific to your travel dates, simply ask your travel<br />
agent or call one of our experts on 1300 365 355.<br />
City Stays & Short Breaks These private packages include<br />
accommodation with breakfast and touring that cover the major sights in<br />
each destination. The cities of Asia offer a great diversity in attraction and our<br />
City Stays cover all there is to see and do, along with a few special touches to<br />
enhance your stay. As you will find, they’re also great value.<br />
Independent Journeys We have carefully researched and selected a<br />
range of independent journeys that we believe show the best <strong>China</strong> has to offer.<br />
Tours range from one to nine days. Some are adventurous, some luxurious,<br />
but all have some unique aspect that takes you beyond the mainstream.<br />
All ‘from’ prices are based on private touring unless otherwise indicated.<br />
Tour Gradings All tours have been graded by level of activity for your<br />
convenience. In all cases travellers should remember that in many parts of<br />
Asia the travel industry is still in its infancy. Whilst the freshness and novelty<br />
of tourism is in part the appeal to many visitors, others might see it differently.<br />
Approaching travel in Asia with an open mind, tolerance for the cultural<br />
differences and a flexible and patient attitude will ensure that you benefit from<br />
the many rewards that this wonderful part of the world has to offer.<br />
Easy Suitable for people of all ages with average levels of fitness and mobility<br />
Moderate Suitable for people of reasonable fitness levels, with a keen interest<br />
in exploring<br />
Adventurous For people of reasonable fitness levels, with a keen sense of<br />
adventure (these options may include some long road journeys, walking or high<br />
altitude conditions)<br />
Hotel Facilities Unless otherwise indicated, all hotels in this brochure<br />
have air-conditioned rooms with en suite bathroom, IDD phone, television<br />
(with at least some channels in English), a safety deposit box either in-room<br />
or at reception, refrigerator and basic facilities for making (Chinese/green) tea<br />
and coffee. Other important facilities in addition to these are specified under<br />
the heading 'Extra Facilities'.<br />
Hotel Ratings<br />
No Frills Comfortable rooms and usually limited public areas. Generally a<br />
limited range of facilities.<br />
Standard Smart, comfortable accommodation with a good range of room and<br />
public facilities.<br />
Superior Generally a wide range of room and public facilities and high service<br />
standards. Sometimes part of an international chain, may be locally rated 5 star,<br />
but lacking the fuller range of facilities offered at deluxe hotels.<br />
Deluxe An extensive range of facilities – room, dining, recreational and<br />
other. Often part of an international chain, offering high standards of service,<br />
often ‘formal’.<br />
Out of the ordinary Does not fit into any other category and might be a<br />
converted hutong houses, an eco-lodge, or home stay experience.<br />
Travel Indochina Special Offers<br />
For many hotels, we have special deals that give you even better value. Check if<br />
your preferred hotel has one of the following exclusive offers:<br />
Breakfast In <strong>China</strong> nearly all our hotel rates include breakfast. This is specified<br />
in the hotel ‘from’ price.<br />
Bonus A bonus is usually offered if you stay in a hotel for more than three or<br />
four nights. You may receive an extra night, a free upgrade or another perk that<br />
will save you money.<br />
Honeymooners Asia offers some of the world’s most exotic and romantic hotels<br />
and resorts. These properties have been selected for their atmosphere, location<br />
or service – some aspect that will make your honeymoon or romantic holiday<br />
even more special.<br />
Families Whilst much of <strong>China</strong> is still developing in terms of family-specific<br />
facilities, many of the hotels featured in this brochure do offer special rates for<br />
children. Some international hotels also feature “Kids’ Clubs”, discount meals<br />
and other facilities. Many of our City Stays or Touring Options featured are<br />
graded “Easy” and suitable for most families. Whether you want to participate<br />
in activities together or relax and let someone else take care of the kids, let us<br />
know and we’ll do our best to arrange a holiday that is fun for the whole family.<br />
Child Prices Generally, children under 12 years of age stay for free if sharing a<br />
room with two adults on a room-only basis in existing bedding, but charges for<br />
breakfast may apply. Ask us for more details when booking.<br />
Our approach to Responsible Travel Travel Indochina practises a thorough, realistic Responsible Travel Policy.<br />
We believe that travel should entail an exchange of knowledge and perspectives, a sharing of wealth, and a genuine appreciation of<br />
Asia’s beautiful natural environments. This philosophy underpins the heart and soul of our style of travel. It drives all that we strive<br />
to deliver to our travellers and shapes the contact we have with our colleagues in Asia. We encourage our travellers to refer to our<br />
websites for our full Responsible Travel Policy, as well as our downloadable ‘Tread Lightly’ guide to responsible travel.<br />
I 1
Handmade Holidays in <strong>China</strong><br />
<strong>China</strong> has fascinated Western travellers such as Marco Polo for centuries.<br />
Immense in every respect, <strong>China</strong> offers the fascinating history and cultural<br />
gems of Beijing and Xian, the stunning scenery of Guilin, Yunnan, the famous<br />
Yangtze River, and the hustle and bustle of Shanghai and <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>. Now is<br />
the time to discover <strong>China</strong> as she races to dominate the 21st Century.<br />
Money The local currency in <strong>China</strong> is officially known as the Renminbi (RMB),<br />
or colloquially as the Yuan. At the time of writing the Australian Dollar (AUD) is<br />
equivalent to 5.9RMB. ATM access and money changing facilities are available<br />
in major cities, and it is also possible to change AUD at many hotels. Credit<br />
cards are accepted in select major hotels, restaurants and shops, and are<br />
not widely accepted in rural areas. Travellers cheques can be exchanged in<br />
most major hotels.<br />
Passports & Visas To enter <strong>China</strong> you will require a passport valid for<br />
at least six months beyond the date of your entry to <strong>China</strong> and with at least<br />
one full blank page. Chinese visas cost $40AUD and must be obtained before<br />
departing Australia. Travellers should allow at least two weeks for processing.<br />
One completed and signed visa form, one passport photo and an outline of<br />
your itinerary (including accommodation for the first 7 days of your stay) must<br />
be supplied with each application. Please check with your local embassy or<br />
consulate for any additional requirements at the time of your application.<br />
Health & Vaccinations Travellers to <strong>China</strong> should take precautions as<br />
they would for travel to any part of Asia. Western medical facilities are available<br />
in major cities, but in remote areas of <strong>China</strong> medical facilities can be basic.<br />
Vaccinations are strongly recommended for visitors. Please consult your doctor<br />
for more information on vaccinations.<br />
Safety & Security <strong>China</strong> is generally a safe country; however, petty street<br />
crime is on the rise as tourist numbers increase. In larger cities we recommend<br />
you wear as little jewellery as possible and make sure your spending money is<br />
kept in a secure place close to your body. We also recommend you take taxis<br />
rather than walk at night.<br />
Communications International phone and fax facilities are widely available,<br />
although they are often expensive. Email services are inexpensive and available<br />
in most tourist areas.<br />
Climate Although <strong>China</strong> can present extremes in climate, travel is possible<br />
year-round. Winters are usually dry and sunny, but temperatures can<br />
drop below freezing. In the humid summer months (from June to August),<br />
temperatures can rise to over 30 Celsius, with possible rain. The spring and<br />
autumn seasons are the best times to travel, as they offer more moderate<br />
temperatures. High-altitude areas such as Zhongdian have cooler climates<br />
and experience sudden changes in weather.<br />
Average Minimum/Maximum Temperatures in Celsius<br />
JAN APR JUL OCT<br />
Beijing -10°–2° 9°–19° 21°–32° 9°–18°<br />
Shanghai 0°–8° 9°–18° 24°–32° 13°–23°<br />
Xian -5°–5° 8°–21° 21°–34° 9°–20°<br />
Guilin 5°–12° 16°–22° 25°–33° 17°–26°<br />
Chengdu 5°–10° 8°–16° 22°–29° 13°–19°<br />
“After travelling to this country of contrasts for over 14 years, I’m constantly<br />
amazed by its ability to surprise and delight me at every turn! Whether exploring<br />
the imposing remains of a glorious past, drinking-in breathtaking scenery,<br />
wandering the backstreets of towns which time seems to have forgotten, or getting<br />
a taste of the action in its pulsating cities, <strong>China</strong> will leave you wanting more.<br />
Like me, I’m sure your first foray into this extraordinary country won’t be your last!”<br />
Jackie Firmstone – Product Manager, <strong>China</strong><br />
2 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
I 3
Introducing Footloose <strong>China</strong>!<br />
Footloose <strong>China</strong> is an exciting new addition to our<br />
travel range. Travelling in a vast country such as <strong>China</strong> which is so<br />
different from anywhere else on earth can be a challenge even for the<br />
most independent and adventurous of travellers. So this is where we<br />
step in with a programme just perfect for those in search of a unique<br />
but flexible <strong>China</strong> experience.<br />
The concept is simple. We have partnered with Air <strong>China</strong>* to<br />
provide your travel basics – flights and other essential transport plus<br />
accommodation including breakfast – and you decide how to spend<br />
your days. This allows you the freedom to decide which local sites you<br />
want to see, and how much time you spend at each one. And if there are<br />
sites where you’d like a guided tour, just ask us and select from our wide<br />
range of optional guided half and full day tours.<br />
*Packages also available based on Singapore Airlines<br />
Your included accommodation is simple but comfortable hotels – all<br />
<strong>featuring</strong> private rooms, attached Western bathrooms, and daily breakfast,<br />
some even with great extras like a pool.<br />
In the following pages you’ll find the information you need to<br />
design your own <strong>China</strong> adventure, combining your choice of<br />
flights, transfers, hotels and tours to create an independent journey that<br />
won’t break the bank.<br />
Choose from our range of packages, designed to form the<br />
foundation of an amazing journey through <strong>China</strong>.<br />
Package options include<br />
• Introductory international flight and city stays • <strong>China</strong> Explorer – two<br />
cities plus free domestic air ticket • Footloose itineraries <strong>featuring</strong> <strong>China</strong>’s<br />
most popular sites and cities<br />
Air <strong>China</strong><br />
Singapore Airlines<br />
What better way to start your journey to one of the world’s most<br />
fascinating destinations than by flying with Air <strong>China</strong>, <strong>China</strong>’s National<br />
Carrier and a member of the Star Alliance?<br />
Air <strong>China</strong> operates 11 direct weekly flights from the east coast of<br />
Australia to <strong>China</strong> with connections to 86 cities within <strong>China</strong> as well as<br />
42 countries within Asia, Europe, North America and the Middle East.<br />
With an average aircraft age of just over 3 years, Air <strong>China</strong> boasts<br />
one of the world’s most modern fleets which includes the new<br />
Boeing B747-400, B777-200, B767-200/300, B757-200,<br />
B737-300/600/700/800, Airbus A320-200, A330-200, A340-200,<br />
and A319-100 which is currently used on both the International and<br />
domestic routes.<br />
Singapore Airlines is the perfect partner for your holiday to <strong>China</strong>.<br />
Singapore Airlines operates over 90* non-stop flights a week from<br />
Australia to Singapore with onward connections to 10 major cities in<br />
<strong>China</strong> – Beijing, Shanghai, <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>, Nanjing, Guangzhou, Chengdu^,<br />
Chongqing^, Kunming^, Shenzhen^ and Xiamen^.<br />
When you fly with the world’s most awarded airline, you’ll enjoy a<br />
standard of inflight service even other airlines talk about. Onboard, you’ll<br />
experience unprecedented levels of comfort and World Gourmet Cuisine<br />
inspired and created by an international panel of world acclaimed chefs.<br />
You’ll also enjoy KrisWorld, your personal inflight entertainment system<br />
offering an extensive range of entertainment options complete with<br />
Audio Video-On-Demand # .<br />
*Frequency and network correct as at 01/12/09.<br />
^Flights operated by Singapore Airlines’ subsidiary airline, SilkAir.<br />
#AVOD available on B747-400, A340-500, A380-800, A330-300 and selected B777 aircraft.<br />
4 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Footloose <strong>China</strong><br />
Flight & City Stay Introductory packages 5 DAYS/4 NIGHTs From $ 1253 PP<br />
Try one of these neat 4-night flight and accommodation packages, designed to<br />
get your <strong>China</strong> adventure off to a great start. Discover the extraordinary ancient<br />
sites of Imperial Beijing or the fantastic contrasts of the old, the new and the<br />
futuristic in pulsating Shanghai which in 2010 will host World Expo 2010. After<br />
that, why not extend your stay? Your return flight to Australia can be scheduled<br />
to suit your plans and, with a free domestic flight from Beijing plus some<br />
fantastic discounts on additional flights, you can explore more of <strong>China</strong>’s rich<br />
and varied history, captivating culture and natural beauty.<br />
Beijing. From $ 1253PP TWIN<br />
Includes flights ex Sydney or Melbourne, arrival transfer, plus<br />
4 nights in 3-star accommodation with breakfast. 1 free domestic<br />
air ticket (valid for specific sectors only). Contact us for details.<br />
Shanghai. From $ 1281PP TWIN<br />
Includes flights ex Sydney or Melbourne, arrival transfer, plus 4 nights in 3-star<br />
accommodation with breakfast<br />
World Expo Shanghai 2010. From $ 1385PP TWIN<br />
Includes flights ex Sydney or Melbourne, arrival airport transfer, 4 nights in<br />
3-star accommodation with breakfast, 1-day pass to World Expo 2010 and<br />
one-way transfer to the site.<br />
per person<br />
Twin Share<br />
Beijing 18 Jan 10 - 04 Feb 10 & 15 Feb 10 - 28 Feb 10 $1253<br />
Shanghai 18 Jan 10 - 04 Feb 10 & 15 Feb 10 - 28 Feb 10 $1281<br />
World Expo 4 May 10 - 25 Jun 10 & 12 Jun 10 - 17 Sep 10 $1385<br />
• The prices above are based on Air <strong>China</strong> departures ex Sydney and ex Melbourne on selected days.<br />
Please contact us for prices ex Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra and Hobart.<br />
• Prices above include airline fuel surcharges and taxes of $195 (Beijing) and $227 (Shanghai)<br />
(as at 2 Dec 09, subject to change).<br />
<strong>China</strong> Explorer 8 DAYS/7 NIGHTs<br />
Starts: Beijing. Ends: Shanghai.<br />
From $ 1467 PP<br />
Soak up the atmosphere, immerse yourself in the local culture or delve<br />
into the intriguing past of <strong>China</strong>’s most famous cities.<br />
We book your international flights, arrival transfers, accommodation in<br />
both Beijing and Shanghai (and the flight between them) then the rest is<br />
up to you!<br />
Use one free domestic air ticket plus some fantastic discounts on<br />
additional flights to explore the parts of <strong>China</strong> that interest you –<br />
head to historic Xian to marvel at the extraordinary Army of the Terracotta<br />
Warriors; to the mystical landscapes of Guilin; to Yunnan, home to many<br />
of the country’s ethnic minorities; or the giant pandas, spectacular scenery<br />
and spicy cuisine of Sichuan.<br />
Inclusions Return international flights from Sydney or Melbourne<br />
• 4 nights Beijing and 3 nights Shanghai in 3-star hotels including<br />
breakfast daily • domestic flight Beijing-Shanghai, 1 additional<br />
free domestic flight (valid for specific sectors only, contact us for details)<br />
• arrival transfers in Beijing and Shanghai<br />
per person<br />
Twin Share<br />
Flight inclusive with Air <strong>China</strong> 18 Jan 10 - 04 Feb 10 & 15 Feb 10 - 28 Feb 10 $1467<br />
• The price above is based on Air <strong>China</strong> departures ex Sydney and ex Melbourne on selected days.<br />
Please contact us for prices ex Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra and Hobart.<br />
• Price above includes airline fuel surcharges and taxes of $195 (as at 2 Dec 09, subject to change).<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 5
Footloose <strong>China</strong><br />
10 DAY FOOTLOOSE CHINA 10 DAYS/9 NIGHTS<br />
4 NIGHTS Beijing, 2 NIGHTS Xian, 3 NIGHTS Shanghai. Starts: Beijing. Ends: Shanghai. Selected weekly departures.<br />
From $ 1388 PP<br />
Fly to Beijing with Air <strong>China</strong>, then spend 4 days exploring <strong>China</strong>’s capital – why not start with<br />
the infamous Tiananmen Square, the magnificent Forbidden City and a rickshaw ride through<br />
the city’s ancient hutongs? A morning at the Temple of Heaven followed by the opulently<br />
decorated Summer Palace can easily fill your second day and be sure to set some time aside<br />
to explore some of Beijing’s markets like the renowned Panjiayuan Dirt Market (only open<br />
weekends) and lively Wangfujing night market. An excursion to the incredible Great Wall makes<br />
a memorable finale to your visit to Beijing – why not take our tour to the less-visited section<br />
at Mutianyo?<br />
On day 5, a morning flight brings you to historic Xian. After transferring to your hotel, head out<br />
into town to explore the Bell and Drum Towers, the Grand Mosque within the colourful Muslim<br />
Quarter and the excellent Shaanxi Provincial Museum. The following day will surely be spent<br />
on an excursion to the famed Army of the Terracotta Warriors. From Xian, fly to Shanghai – a<br />
dazzling melange of the old and new from the elegant colonial structures along the Bund to<br />
the cutting-edge architecture of futuristic Pudong. Those looking for bargains will be spoilt<br />
for choice with the city’s wide range of modern department stores or, for a more traditional<br />
shopping experience, check out the Yu Garden Bazaar and Fanbang Street in the Chinese Old<br />
Quarter. And don’t miss Shanghai’s pulsating restaurant and nightlife scene, not to mention a<br />
jaw-dropping performance by the world famous Shanghai Acrobats! Your journey ends with a<br />
departure transfer on day 10 for your return flight to Australia.<br />
Inclusions Return flights from Sydney or Melbourne • 9 nights in 3-star hotels with<br />
breakfast daily • domestic flights as specified and all airport transfers.<br />
per person<br />
Twin Share<br />
Flight inclusive with Air <strong>China</strong> 18 Jan 10 - 04 Feb 10 & 15 Feb 10 - 28 Feb 10 $2088<br />
Land only 18 Jan 10 - 04 Feb 10 & 15 Feb 10 - 28 Feb 10 $1388<br />
• Flight inclusive price above with Air <strong>China</strong> is based on departures ex Sydney and Melbourne on selected days.<br />
Please contact us for prices ex Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra and Hobart.<br />
• Flight inclusive price above with Air <strong>China</strong> includes airline fuel surcharges and taxes of $227 (as at 2 Dec 09,<br />
subject to change).<br />
• This package is also available ex Perth based on Singapore Airlines. Singapore Airlines departures also<br />
available ex Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane. Contact us for details and prices.<br />
• Land only price includes domestic flights. International flights excluded.<br />
13 DAY FOOTLOOSE CHINA 13 DAYS/12 NIGHTS<br />
4 NIGHTS Beijing, 2 NIGHTS Xian, 3 NIGHTS Guilin, 3 NIGHTS Shanghai. Starts: Beijing. Ends: Shanghai. Selected weekly departures.<br />
From $ 1627 PP<br />
This 13 night package starts with 4 days in Beijing with plenty of time to visit famous sites like<br />
the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace and the amazing Great Wall of<br />
<strong>China</strong>. You should also make time to see some of Beijing’s impressive examples of inspired<br />
modern architecture such as the ‘Water Cube’ and the ‘Bird’s Nest’ stadium, the focus of world<br />
attention during the 2008 Olympics.<br />
Fly to Xian for 2 days to soak up the unique atmosphere of this historic walled city and marvel<br />
at the incredible Terracotta Warriors. Continue with a flight to Guilin, renowned for its magical<br />
landscapes. You may like to take a tour of the spectacular chambers and caverns of the Reed<br />
Flute Cave; venture into the mountains to Longsheng, home to a variety of fascinating minority<br />
groups, or take a cruise along the tranquil Li River to the charming town of Yangshuo.<br />
Finally, fly to Shanghai for 3 days of sightseeing – check out the famous Bund with its colonial<br />
architecture and views over the Huangpu River to Pudong, the excellent Shanghai Museum<br />
and the tranquil Yu Garden - plus some of Asia’s best shopping, finest restaurants and vibrant<br />
nightlife. For the ultimate in contrasts, step back in time with a day trip to the ancient water<br />
town of Zhujiajiao. On day 13, your tour ends with a transfer to the airport – on request, we<br />
can arrange for you to transfer by metro and the Maglev train, which travels at an incredible<br />
speed of 430 km/h!<br />
Inclusions Return international flights from Sydney or Melbourne • 12 nights<br />
accommodation in 3-star hotels including breakfast daily • domestic flights as specified and<br />
all airport transfers<br />
per person<br />
Twin Share<br />
Flight inclusive with Air <strong>China</strong> 18 Jan 10 - 04 Feb 10 & 15 Feb 10 - 28 Feb 10 $2392<br />
Land only 18 Jan 10 - 04 Feb 10 & 15 Feb 10 - 28 Feb 10 $1627<br />
• Flight inclusive price above with Air <strong>China</strong> is based on departures ex Sydney and Melbourne on selected days.<br />
Please contact us for prices ex Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra and Hobart.<br />
• Flight inclusive price above with Air <strong>China</strong> includes airline fuel surcharges and taxes of $275 (as at 2 Dec 09,<br />
subject to change).<br />
• This package is also available ex Perth based on Singapore Airlines. Singapore Airlines departures also<br />
available ex Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane. Contact us for details and prices.<br />
• Land only price includes domestic flights. International flights excluded.<br />
6 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
14 DAY FOOTLOOSE CHINA & YANGZTE 14 DAYS/13 NIGHTS<br />
4 NIGHTS Beijing, 2 NIGHTS Xian, 3 NIGHTS Shanghai, 4 NIGHTS Yangtze Cruise. Starts: Beijing. Ends: Beijing. Selected weekly departures.<br />
From $ 2462 PP<br />
This fabulous package includes all the time and essential travel arrangements you need for<br />
an exploration of the remarkable Middle Kingdom, plus the addition of a fine quality, leisurely<br />
cruise along the majestic Yangtze River.<br />
After 9 days and nights at leisure to experience amazing sites like Beijing’s Forbidden City,<br />
the Temple of Heaven and the Great Wall, Xian’s astounding Army of Terracotta Warriors and<br />
Shanghai’s mind-boggling contrasts of the ancient and the modern, plus its fabulous shopping<br />
and exciting nightlife, you’ll fly to Yichang. Here, board your Yangtze River boat and spend the<br />
evening relaxing as you cruise down the lower reaches of the Yangtze.<br />
The following day your first stop is at the fascinating Three Gorges Dam site before sailing<br />
through the impressive ship locks and into the towering cliffs and mountains of the Xiling<br />
Gorge. You will journey through the 'smaller three gorges' in ferries and sampans on clear blue<br />
water and glide past ancient hanging coffins on the nearby cliff faces. Enjoy the full majesty of<br />
Wu and Qutang Gorges from the deck.<br />
The next day, cruise past rural scenery and new villages built as part of the Three Gorges Dam<br />
Project. On your final morning disembark and transfer to Chongqing Airport for your flight to<br />
Beijing in time to connect with your return flight to Australia.<br />
Inclusions Return flights from Sydney or Melbourne • 9 nights in 3-star hotels with<br />
breakfast daily • 4 night Yangtze cruise including all meals, shore excursions and on-board<br />
entertainment • domestic flights between cities and all airport transfers.<br />
per person<br />
Twin Share<br />
Flight inclusive with Air <strong>China</strong> 01 Jun 10 - 25 Jun 10 & 12 Jul 10 - 31 Aug 10 $3079<br />
Land only 01 Jun 10 - 25 Jun 10 & 12 Jul 10 - 31 Aug 10 $2462<br />
• Flight inclusive price above with Air <strong>China</strong> is based on departures ex Sydney and Melbourne on selected days.<br />
Please contact us for prices ex Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra and Hobart.<br />
• Flight inclusive price above with Air <strong>China</strong> includes airline fuel surcharges and taxes of $309 (as at 2 Dec 09,<br />
subject to change).<br />
• This package is also available ex Perth based on Singapore Airlines. Singapore Airlines departures also<br />
available ex Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane. Contact us for details and prices.<br />
• Land only price includes domestic flights. International flights excluded.<br />
FOOTLOOSE - FROM BEIJING TO THE ROOF OF THE WORLD 10 DAYS/9 NIGHTS<br />
4 NIGHTS Beijing, 4 NIGHTS Lhasa, 1 NIGHT Sky Train Lhasa to Xining, 1 NIGHT Xining. Starts: Beijing. Ends: Xining/Beijing. Selected weekly departures.<br />
From $ 2830 PP<br />
Experience the immense beauty and contrasts which typify <strong>China</strong> with 4 days in the fast-paced<br />
capital of Beijing, followed by 4 days in the beguiling T<strong>ibet</strong>an capital of Lhasa, and then board<br />
the extraordinary Sky Train for a memorable journey along the world’s highest railway line.<br />
Fly from Australia to Beijing for 4 days at leisure to enjoy all this amazing city has to offer.<br />
Discover its exceptional historic sites, inspired modern architecture, fabulous shopping and<br />
glimpse the daily life of the local people.<br />
On day 5, fly to Lhasa, situated at an elevation of 3,700m in a wide valley flanked by soaring<br />
mountains. On arrival, transfer to your hotel in the centre of Lhasa, then take the time to adjust<br />
to the altitude before losing yourself in the magic and mystery of the city. Over the next 4 days<br />
enjoy guided visits to sites like the Jokhang Temple, and the T<strong>ibet</strong>an Quarter. Walk the Barkhor<br />
Prayer Circuit, see Sera Monastery and take a trip up to hilltop Pawang Ka. You’ll also visit the<br />
T<strong>ibet</strong> Museum, historic Dreprung Monastery, the Muslim Quarter, the sacred pilgrimage site of<br />
Chagpo Ri and the iconic Potala Palace.<br />
On day 9, transfer to the train station to board the Qinghai-T<strong>ibet</strong> Railway, also known as the<br />
Sky Train. This 1,956 kilometre railway linking Lhasa with Xining, offers a once-in-a-lifetime<br />
experience. You will travel over the 5,000 metre-high Tanggula Pass, making this the world’s<br />
highest rail journey and one of its most spectacular. On arrival in Xining, transfer to your hotel<br />
in the centre of town for 1 night. Your adventure ends with a transfer to Xining Airport for a<br />
flight to Beijing in time to connect with your return flight to Australia.<br />
Inclusions Return flights from Sydney or Melbourne • 8 nights in 3-star hotels with<br />
breakfast daily • Guided sightseeing in Lhasa including entrance fees • 1 night soft sleeper on<br />
the Sky Train from Lhasa to Xining • domestic flights between cities and all airport transfers<br />
per person<br />
Twin Share<br />
Flight inclusive with Air <strong>China</strong> 19 Apr 10 - 25 Jun 10 & 12 Jul 10 - 31 Aug 10 $3514<br />
Land only 19 Apr 10 - 25 Jun 10 & 12 Jul 10 - 31 Aug 10 $2830<br />
• Flight inclusive price above with Air <strong>China</strong> is based on departures ex Sydney and Melbourne on selected days.<br />
Please contact us for prices ex Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra and Hobart.<br />
• Flight inclusive price above with Air <strong>China</strong> includes airline fuel surcharges and taxes of $227 (as at 2 Dec 09,<br />
subject to change).<br />
• This package is also available ex Perth based on Singapore Airlines. Singapore Airlines departures also<br />
available ex Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane. Contact us for details and prices.<br />
• Land only price includes domestic flights. International flights excluded.<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 7
Beijing and Beyond<br />
BEIJING<br />
With a history dating back a thousand years, <strong>China</strong>’s modern capital is a complex and exciting place to explore. Ancient remains from its<br />
Imperial past stand proudly beside iconic sites like Tiananmen Square and some of the world’s most extraordinary examples of cutting-edge<br />
modern architecture. Many of the most popular sections of the Great Wall are within easy reach of the city. A little further afield you will find the<br />
lovely summer retreat of the Qing Dynasty emperors at Chengde and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed ancient town of Pingyao.<br />
Beijing City Stay<br />
5 days/4 nights. Departing Beijing. daily<br />
From $ 768 pp<br />
<strong>China</strong>’s capital is a study in contrasts: from Imperial grandeur to tranquil temples, modern<br />
shopping malls and traditional markets, Beijing is sure to fascinate. Experience all this city<br />
has to offer on this exciting city stay.<br />
Start with a walk through Tiananmen Square, popular meeting place and site of historical<br />
significance, then continue under the beautiful Gate of Heavenly Peace with its iconic portrait<br />
of Chairman Mao to the splendid Forbidden City. Explore some of Beijing’s few remaining<br />
hutongs (backstreets) by rickshaw and enjoy lunch with a local family. Your exploration of<br />
the city also includes a visit to the beautiful Summer Palace and a chance to experience the<br />
lively early-morning atmosphere at the park that surrounds the Temple of Heaven, where<br />
locals gather to practice calligraphy, Tai Chi, traditional dance and opera. You will also travel<br />
to the amazing Great Wall of <strong>China</strong> at Mutianyu, known for its panoramic views and restored<br />
watchtowers, and fewer tourist numbers. Evenings will feature activities like an incredible<br />
Chinese acrobatic show, a stroll around Wangfujing Night Market and a tasty meal of<br />
Peking Duck.<br />
Inclusions 4 nights accommodation with breakfast daily • one lunch and one dinner<br />
• private touring • transport • entrance fees • acrobat performance • arrival and<br />
departure transfers • local English-speaking guide.<br />
Standard, Superior and Deluxe options<br />
available<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $768<br />
Beijing Day Tours<br />
Departing Beijing. daily<br />
From $ 26<br />
Per person twin<br />
Beijing. Full Day. from $ 134 PP.<br />
Begin at the Temple of Heaven, then visit Tiananmen Square. Explore the Forbidden City<br />
and the Summer Palace with its magnificent lakeside grounds and temples.<br />
Beijing City & Modern Architecture. Half Day. from $ 92 PP.<br />
Visit the Beijing Planning Exhibition Hall for a glimpse of the city’s past, present<br />
and future developments. View some of the city’s state-of the-art architecture by car,<br />
including the famous Water Cube, the Bird’s Nest stadium and Beijing’s stunning new<br />
Opera House.<br />
Beijing Forbidden City & Hutong. Full Day. from $ 130 PP.<br />
See the vast Tiananmen Square and majestic Forbidden City, and the city’s ancient<br />
hutong quarter. Stop at a family home and enjoy a delicious local lunch before hopping on<br />
rickshaws for more close-up glimpses of local life.<br />
Great Wall at Mutianyu. from $ 127 PP.<br />
Visit the Great Wall of <strong>China</strong> at Mutianyu, a section of the Wall known for its dramatic<br />
vistas and restored watchtowers. Enjoy an optional hike and a picnic on the wall.<br />
Walking the Great Wall from Jinshanling to Simatai.<br />
Full Day. from $ 147 PP.<br />
Explore the Great Wall of <strong>China</strong> on a 4–5 hour trek along an original unrestored section of<br />
Wall. Enjoy a picnic lunch and incredible views. Note: for adventurous travellers only.<br />
Hutongs, Bell & Drum Tower. Half Day. from $ 80 PP.<br />
Explore the ancient streets of Beijing’s hutongs by rickshaw. Visit a produce market and<br />
enjoy lunch with a local family before a stroll to the famous Bell & Drum Towers.<br />
Beijing Markets. Full-Day. from $ 100 pp.<br />
Start at Panjiayuan Dirt Market, an open-air handicraft extravaganza. Shop for knickknacks<br />
at Curio City, designer (and imitation!) goods at the Silk Market, and pearls at<br />
<strong>Hong</strong>qiao Market. Finish at Liulichang Street, home to antiques and calligraphy paintings.<br />
Note: tour operates weekends only.<br />
Peking Opera. from $ 26 pp.<br />
Take in an evening performance of this famous music-drama, filled with colour, incredible<br />
costumes and painted faces.<br />
Chinese Acrobats. from $ 44 pp.<br />
Experience the awesome skill and agility of <strong>China</strong>’s best known acrobatic troupe at an<br />
evening performance.<br />
All day tours are private.<br />
All prices valid 01 Jan 10 –13 Mar 11<br />
8 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Beijing and Beyond<br />
BEIJING<br />
Handmade from local knowledge. Handpicked by us.<br />
Overnight at the Great Wall<br />
2 days/1 nights. Departing Beijing. daily<br />
Grading: Adventurous<br />
From $ 456 pp<br />
The Great Wall of <strong>China</strong> is one of humankind’s most awesome creations. If you are<br />
physically fit and keen to get off the beaten path, this is the journey for you.<br />
Depart Beijing and drive to Jinshanling, a lesser-visited section of the Great Wall. From<br />
here, begin the four to five hour hike on unrestored sections of the wall – expect uneven<br />
surfaces but also an authentic experience. The views here are amazing and experiencing<br />
the Wall without all the crowds will make this all the more incredible. At the end of your trek,<br />
transfer to the Red Capital Ranch, a boutique ecolodge built on a private estate surrounded<br />
by mountains and the Great Wall itself. The next day, continue to the more-explored section<br />
of the Great Wall at Mutianyu. Though still not the most visited stretch, there is a significant<br />
contrast between today and yesterday’s experiences. Get to see restored sections of the<br />
ramparts and dramatic watchtowers, and perhaps enjoy an exciting toboggan ride to the<br />
bottom. Return to Beijing in the early afternoon.<br />
Inclusions 1 night accommodation • one breakfast • two lunches<br />
• private touring • transport • entrance fees • transfers to and from Beijing<br />
• local English-speaking guide<br />
NOTE: This tour does not run December to mid-March. Accommodation is only available in double beds.<br />
Boutique option only.<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 11 $456<br />
Simatai & Chengde Overnight Tour<br />
2 days/1 nights. Departing Beijing. daily<br />
Grading: Moderate<br />
From $ 553 pp<br />
For those seeking a more in depth Great Wall experience, and a look at some of <strong>China</strong>’s<br />
natural beauty this is the perfect overnight journey from the country’s capital.<br />
Begin with a trek along the Great Wall from Simatai. This is a rarely-visited section of the<br />
wall, where crumbling stones along unrestored stretches and stunning vistas make for a<br />
remarkable hike, although you should be physically fit to get the most out of the experience.<br />
Continue to Chengde, set in a valley bordered by lazy rivers and rural countryside. Visit<br />
Putuozongcheng Zhi Miao, the largest of the Eight Outer Temples that surround the valley,<br />
which were built to resemble Potala Palace in T<strong>ibet</strong>. You will also see the Temple of Universal<br />
Peace, a working monastery, with its combination of Han Chinese and T<strong>ibet</strong>an architectural<br />
styles, prayer wheels, stupas and a 22-metre high wooden statue of the Buddhist goddess<br />
Guanyin. A visit to the Summer Resort, Bishushanzhuang, allows you to learn more about the<br />
Qing Dynasty emperors and see the grand temples, exquisite pavilions and tranquil lakes that<br />
made it a favourite holiday spot.<br />
Inclusions 1 night accommodation • one breakfast • two lunches • one dinner<br />
• private touring • transport • entrance fees • transfers to and from Beijing<br />
• local English-speaking guide<br />
Superior option only.<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Apr 10 - 30 Jun 10 $553<br />
Pingyao Ancient Town<br />
3 days/2 nights. Departing Taiyuan Station. daily<br />
Grading: Easy to Moderate<br />
From $ 802 pp<br />
If you are looking to experience the atmosphere of medieval <strong>China</strong>, look no further than<br />
World Heritage-listed Pingyao, probably the best preserved walled city in the country.<br />
Begin by getting to get to know some of little-visited Pingyao’s hidden treasures within<br />
the Ming City Walls, which are still relatively intact. The Ri Sheng Chang Financial House,<br />
or first bank in <strong>China</strong>, provides an insight into trade in the <strong>China</strong> of old. You’ll also have<br />
the chance to wander Pingyao’s charming old streets, admiring the many examples of<br />
traditional architecture. The next day drive a short distance to Wang’s Family Courtyard, a<br />
labyrinth of courtyards, gardens and gateways waiting to be explored. On your final day,<br />
drive to Shuanglin Temple, which was built during the Ming and Qing Dynasties and is home<br />
to thousands of Buddhist statues. From here head to Qiao Jia Dayuan, a beautifully-kept<br />
courtyard house that was the setting for Zhang Yimou’s famous film, Raise the Red Lantern.<br />
Later, transfer back to Taiyuan Station to connect with the overnight train back to Beijing, or<br />
on to Xian.<br />
Logistics Overnight trains and flights operate daily from Beijing and Xian to Taiyuan<br />
Inclusions 2 nights accommodation • two breakfasts • three lunches • two dinners<br />
• private touring • transport • entrance fees • transfers to and from Taiyuan Station<br />
• local English-speaking guide.<br />
Standard, Superior and Deluxe options<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
available.<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 11 $802<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 9
Beijing Hotels<br />
BEIJING<br />
Handmade from local knowledge. Handpicked by us.<br />
Lu Song Yuan<br />
★★★ Out of the ordinary<br />
From $ 56 pp<br />
Map location number 1<br />
3<br />
4<br />
Buried in a maze of quiet back alleys just<br />
two kilometres from the Forbidden City, the<br />
Lu Song Yuan is a traditional Qing Dynastystyle<br />
compound built around a network of<br />
shared courtyards. Ornate wooden furniture,<br />
antique dial telephones and Chinese<br />
lanterns set the scene. Facilities are limited<br />
but the friendly staff and old fashioned<br />
ambience more than make up for this. Part<br />
of the joy of this property is getting lost in<br />
the surrounding alleyways where tourists<br />
rarely, if ever, travel – you will revel in the<br />
experience of being a local as opposed to<br />
just another hotel guest.<br />
Extra Facilities 59 rooms • two<br />
computers with internet access • one<br />
restaurant and tea room<br />
Traveller’s View The quintessential<br />
hutong experience for independent and<br />
adventurous travellers – don’t expect fivestar<br />
facilities, but do anticipate an authentic<br />
and memorable stay.<br />
Families One child under 12 stays free<br />
if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(breakfast included).<br />
1<br />
N<br />
5<br />
6<br />
7<br />
2<br />
twin share excl breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $56<br />
Tianan Rega Hotel<br />
★★★ Standard<br />
From $ 57 pp<br />
Map location number 2<br />
Yong An Hotel<br />
★★★ Standard<br />
From $ 41 pp<br />
Map location number 3<br />
This simple hotel offers comfortable modern<br />
rooms, good facilities and a fabulous<br />
location, just a short walk from some of<br />
Beijing’s most famous landmarks including<br />
Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City<br />
as well as the bustling Wangfujing Street<br />
shopping area and night market. Other areas<br />
of the city are within easy reach via Beijing’s<br />
efficient subway system, which is also a<br />
short walk from the hotel.<br />
Extra Facilities 126 rooms • bar<br />
• café • business centre • rooftop terrace<br />
with city views • restaurant<br />
Traveller’s View The perfect choice<br />
for those looking for simple comforts<br />
within walking distance of the city’s<br />
major landmarks.<br />
Situated in a quiet street in the East<br />
Embassy area of Beijing, the Yong An is<br />
within easy reach of transport, shopping,<br />
restaurants and bars. It is conveniently<br />
located just a short walk from Nong Zhan<br />
Guan station on Beijing’s user-friendly<br />
subway system, which provides access to<br />
the city’s major landmarks and sites. Rooms<br />
are spacious and comfortable with modern<br />
décor and a good range of facilities.<br />
Extra Facilities 383 rooms • fitness roof<br />
• business centre • hairdresser • gift shop<br />
• café/bar • 2 restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View A great option for<br />
those on a budget, <strong>featuring</strong> all the essential<br />
facilities and good transport links to Beijing’s<br />
main points of interest.<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $57<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $41<br />
10 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Beijing Hotels<br />
BEIJING<br />
Handmade from local knowledge. Handpicked by us.<br />
Novotel Xinqiao<br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
From $ 55 pp<br />
Map location number 4<br />
Novotel Beijing Peace<br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
From $ 67 pp<br />
Map location number 5<br />
The Novotel Xinqiao Beijing is an<br />
international hotel that’s conveniently<br />
located a brisk walk or short subway ride<br />
from Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden<br />
City. This property has a bright, pleasant<br />
reception area and tastefully decorated<br />
rooms. This is a perfect hotel for firsttime<br />
visitors to <strong>China</strong> and those seeking<br />
fantastic value.<br />
Extra Facilities 700 rooms • minibar<br />
• hairdryer • 1 bar • business<br />
centre • fitness centre • outdoor tennis<br />
court • massage and sauna centre<br />
• 5 restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View With comfortable,<br />
modern interiors and the choice of spacious<br />
Superior rooms or more compact, newly<br />
renovated Standard rooms, this international<br />
hotel is hard to pass at this price.<br />
Bonus Stay four nights for the price of<br />
three (valid during low season).<br />
Families Two children under 12 stay<br />
free if sharing with two adults (one in<br />
existing bedding, one on a rollaway bed,<br />
breakfast included).<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $55<br />
Superbly located in Beijing’s Wangfujing<br />
commercial district, this popular hotel<br />
is a short walk from the capital’s major<br />
attractions, including the Forbidden City<br />
and Tiananmen Square and close to<br />
shopping malls, entertainment options and<br />
night markets. All rooms feature modern<br />
furnishings and amenities, and some have<br />
great views of the city. Dining facilities<br />
include two great restaurants and a bright<br />
and cheery breakfast area. The swimming<br />
pool, sauna and fully-equipped fitness<br />
centre are modern and well-maintained.<br />
This property will suit travellers seeking a<br />
prime location and that extra bit of comfort<br />
and service.<br />
Extra Facilities 402 rooms • bar<br />
• business centre • indoor heated pool<br />
• fitness centre • sauna • beauty salon<br />
• two restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View The location of this<br />
hotel, a short stroll from the Wangfujing<br />
Night Market, is its best feature.<br />
Families Two children under 16 stay<br />
free if sharing with two adults (one in<br />
existing bedding, one on a rollaway bed,<br />
breakfast free).<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $67<br />
The Peninsula Beijing<br />
★★★★★ Deluxe<br />
From $ 130 pp<br />
Map location number 6<br />
Raffles Beijing Hotel<br />
★★★★★ Deluxe<br />
From $ 141 pp<br />
Map location number 7<br />
Landmark Room<br />
The Peninsula Beijing is a stand-out option<br />
for deluxe travellers to <strong>China</strong>’s capital.<br />
The location is excellent and with rooms<br />
<strong>featuring</strong> hardwood floors and other<br />
thoughtful luxuries, a deluxe ‘home away<br />
from home’ experience is ensured. Facilities<br />
include the award-winning Jing Restaurant,<br />
which serves Asian-fusion cuisine. The<br />
Lobby offers a delicious afternoon tea set<br />
and is also a great spot to start your evening<br />
with a cocktail.<br />
Extra Facilities 525 rooms<br />
• complimentary internet access • MP3/<br />
MP4 connectivity • DVD/CD player & DVD<br />
library • electronic bedside control panels<br />
• shopping arcade • bank • fitness centre<br />
• indoor swimming pool • business centre<br />
• 1 bar • The Peninsula Spa by ESPA<br />
• The Club Lounge • 2 restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View The Peninsula offers<br />
a superb deluxe experience in Beijing and<br />
The Peninsula Spa by ESPA offers an added<br />
touch of luxury.<br />
Families Two children under 12 stay free<br />
if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(breakfast is payable).<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $130<br />
Originally built in the 1900s, today the<br />
Raffles Beijing is one of the most elegant<br />
hotels in the capital. Tasteful guestrooms<br />
feature Asian and European influences,<br />
spacious bathrooms and a grand, colonial<br />
feel. Modern conveniences such as an<br />
on-call room valet and indoor swimming<br />
pool combine with traditional touches like<br />
grand staircases, opulent drawing rooms<br />
and refined cigar bars for a complete<br />
experience. You can also expect some fine<br />
in-house dining options, including haute<br />
French cuisine and the Raffles High Tea.<br />
Extra Facilities 171 rooms • broadband<br />
& wireless internet access • business centre<br />
• on-call room valet • mini-bar<br />
• fitness centre • indoor swimming pool<br />
• 4 restaurants & bars<br />
Traveller’s View The Raffles is suited to<br />
the discerning traveller who enjoys refined<br />
service and classic, colonial-era ambience,<br />
not to mention an unbeatable location.<br />
BONUS Stay 4 nights pay 3 (valid<br />
16 Nov 10 - 28 Feb 11).<br />
Families Two children under 12 stay free<br />
if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(breakfast included).<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
16 Nov 10 - 28 Feb 11 $141<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 11
Shanghai & Beyond<br />
A brilliant mélange of old and new, Shanghai embodies all that is modern <strong>China</strong> but at the same time, it is unlike anywhere else in the country.<br />
There are surprises and delights at every turn – from the futuristic skyline to the Colonial Bund, from quiet alleyways and peaceful parks to glitzy cocktail bars.<br />
After a few days soaking up the excitement of one of Asia’s most vibrant cities, why not head out to one Shanghai’s neighbouring ancient canal towns such<br />
as Zhujiajiao, Suzhou or Wuzhen. The picturesque West Lake of Hangzhou is also nearby and further afield is the magnificent fabled mountain of Huang Shan.<br />
Shanghai<br />
Shanghai City Stay<br />
5 days/4 nights. Departing Shanghai. daily<br />
Grading: Easy<br />
From $ 458 pp<br />
On our unique City Stay experience you will explore the sights for which Shanghai is most<br />
famous, along with some of its hidden gems.<br />
Your exploration of Shanghai begins with a walk along the historic riverfront Bund, home to<br />
an impressive collection of Art Deco buildings, and some of the city’s classiest dining and<br />
shopping. Wander through the bustling Old Chinese Quarter and the contrasting tranquility of<br />
Yu Garden before heading to the Shanghai Museum and People’s Square. End your day with<br />
a visit to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Centre for a glimpse of Shanghai’s future.<br />
During your stay you will also travel to the ancient canal town of Zhujiajiao and stroll the<br />
backstreets, cruise the waterways and absorb its charming, old world atmosphere. A visit to<br />
the famous Jade Buddha Temple and an evening acrobatics performance also awaits. Before<br />
you leave, there’ll be a chance to view a unique private collection of propaganda art and<br />
witness the modern Shikumen developments of Xintiandi in the French Concession. On your<br />
final evening, view Shanghai by night on a river cruise.<br />
Inclusions 4 nights accommodation with breakfast daily • private touring • transport<br />
(including Huangpu River cruise, weather permitting and Zhujiajiao canal cruise) • entrance<br />
fees • local English-speaking guide • arrival and departure transfers<br />
Want more? After a few days exploring the city, why not kick back on the deck of a<br />
Yangtze cruise to experience some of <strong>China</strong>’s fabulous scenery? Refer to pages 20-23 for<br />
our range of cruising options.<br />
Standard, Superior and Deluxe options twin<br />
per person<br />
available.<br />
01 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $458<br />
World Expo 2010 Shanghai<br />
3 days/2 nights. Departing Shanghai. daily<br />
From $ 353 pp Shanghai is buzzing with talk of the next World Expo which the city will host in 2010!<br />
World Expo 2010 will run from May to October, with national pavilions and exhibitors from all<br />
over the world showcasing a dazzling array of art, culture, performing arts, design, science<br />
and technology.<br />
Events are designed to intrigue and entertain with something on offer to surprise and delight<br />
everyone. To ensure you don’t miss out on this very special event when visiting Shanghai in<br />
2010, ask us about our World Expo packages which include accommodation plus transfers<br />
and entrance fees to the World Expo site.<br />
Inclusions Return airport transfers • 2 nights accommodation with breakfast daily<br />
• 1-day pass to World Expo 2010 Shanghai<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
• one-way transfer to the World Expo site<br />
4 May 10 - 25 Jun 10<br />
$353<br />
12 Jun 10 - 17 Sep 10<br />
Shanghai Day Tours<br />
Departing Shanghai. daily<br />
From $ 17<br />
Per person twin<br />
Shanghai. Full-Day City Tour. from $ 99 pp.<br />
Stroll the Bund and famous Nanjing Road, explore the Old Chinese Quarter market and the<br />
tranquil Yu Garden, then visit the excellent Shanghai Museum and People’s Square.<br />
Shanghai Pudong. Half-Day Tour. from $ 119 pp.<br />
Stroll from the historic Bund through the Bund Tourist Tunnel on a ‘futuristic’ journey<br />
underneath the Huangpu River to modern Pudong. View Shanghai from the top of the<br />
Oriental Pearl TV Tower or Jinmao Tower before exploring the History Museum.<br />
Wuzhen Water Town. Full-Day Tour. from $ 195 pp.<br />
Escape to charming Wuzhen with its network of waterways, old wooden houses, stone<br />
bridges and narrow laneways, and explore its maze of waterways on a canal cruise.<br />
Zhujiajiao Water Town. Half-Day Tour. from $ 124 pp.<br />
Explore the ancient Chinese canal town of Zhujiajiao. Visit the Yuanjin Monastery and Taoist<br />
Temple, the great Qing Post Office and the old Chinese Pharmacy. Take a canal cruise and<br />
browse through hole-in-the-wall family-run stores.<br />
Shanghai Markets. Full-Day Tour. from $ 86 pp.<br />
Begin your day at Dongtai Lu Antique Street, then visit Dongjiadu Fabric Market. In Yu Garden<br />
Bazaar and Fangbang Street in the Chinese Old Quarter, shop for ceramics, paintings, gold<br />
and more.<br />
Shanghai Acrobats. from $ 17 pp. (Price applicable when combined with a day tour).<br />
Experience the incredible skill and agility of Chinese acrobats. This is one of the most<br />
entertaining, jaw-dropping shows in the Middle Kingdom!<br />
All day tours are private.<br />
All prices valid 01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 11<br />
12 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Handmade from local knowledge. Handpicked by us.<br />
Suzhou Gardens & Waterways<br />
2 days/1 night. Departing Shanghai. daily<br />
From $ 361 pp<br />
Suzhou is an ancient city built on a network of peaceful waterways feeding a series of<br />
impressive classical gardens for which Suzhou is renowned. Suzhou is also famous for its<br />
beautiful silks.<br />
Drive approximately 60 kilometres from Shanghai to Suzhou. Visit a selection of Suzhou’s<br />
best gardens, starting at the famous Garden of the Master of the Nets, reputed to be the<br />
smallest but most intricate. You will also see the charming Humble Administrator’s Garden –<br />
a 16th century garden filled with streams, ponds, bridges and islands of bamboo. From the<br />
14th century onwards, Suzhou established itself as <strong>China</strong>’s leading silk producer. See how<br />
silk is produced today and learn about the industry’s past at a silk and embroidery factory.<br />
Stroll through the Lingering Garden, which dates back to the Ming Dynasty and enjoy an<br />
interesting cruise on the historic Grand Canal, once a major transit waterway in the areas<br />
surrounding Shanghai. Return to Shanghai after lunch on day 2.<br />
Inclusions 1 night accommodation with breakfast • two lunches • private touring<br />
• all transport • entrance fees • local English-speaking guide<br />
Superior and Deluxe options available.<br />
Grading: Easy<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 11 $361<br />
Wuzhen & Hangzhou Short Stay<br />
3 days/2 nights. Departing Shanghai. daily<br />
From $ 454 pp<br />
As one of the larger water canal towns in the Shanghai area, Wuzhen offers a peaceful,<br />
scenic experience. Hangzhou, a town on the banks of a beautiful lake, is a wonderful off-thebeaten-path<br />
destination.<br />
Leave the bright lights of Shanghai and drive to Wuzhen, one of <strong>China</strong>’s most beautiful<br />
water canal towns. On arrival, get to know the town by exploring its canals on a relaxing<br />
cruise before driving to Hangzhou and the famous West Lake. Stay overnight in Hangzhou<br />
and over the next two days explore some of the town’s many attractions. Visit Felai Feng, or<br />
‘Flying Peak,’ a place of stunning natural beauty and explore Lingyin Si, the Temple of Soul’s<br />
Retreat, as well as the Longjing Tea Plantations. Explore West Lake’s serene waters on a<br />
small boat cruise and climb the spiraling interior staircase of the Six Harmonies Pagoda, a<br />
masterpiece of ancient Chinese architecture. At the top you will be rewarded with sweeping<br />
river views. Your Short Stay ends with a transfer to Shanghai.<br />
Inclusions 2 nights accommodation • breakfast daily • three lunches and two dinners<br />
• private touring • all transport • entrance fees • local English-speaking guide<br />
Superior and Deluxe options available.<br />
Grading: Easy<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 11 $454<br />
Yellow Mountain Escape<br />
3 days/2 nights. Departing Shanghai. daily<br />
Grading: Adventurous<br />
From $ 967 pp<br />
Huang Shan or Yellow Mountain is one of the most iconic and beautiful natural attractions in<br />
<strong>China</strong>. Fresh air, interesting rock formations and awesome vistas await.<br />
From your hotel in Shanghai, transfer to the airport for your short flight to Tunxi, your<br />
jumping-off point to Yellow Mountain. The next day, take the scenic cable car to the summit<br />
of Yellow Mountain where you will explore the bizarre rock formations, alpine forest and<br />
multiple viewpoints. You will spend the night at the mountain summit – giving you the chance<br />
to fully appreciate the beauty of the destination. There will be plenty of walking and many<br />
stairs, and you should be prepared to carry your own small overnight bag. Be sure to include<br />
something warm – it can be cool at night! The next day take more time to explore Huang<br />
Shan at your leisure before taking the cable car down the mountain. Return to Tunxi, where<br />
there is time to explore the handicraft and tea stores on Old Street before your onward flight<br />
to Shanghai.<br />
Inclusions 2 nights accommodation • breakfast daily • two lunches and two dinners<br />
• private touring • all transport (including domestic flight) • entrance fees • local Englishspeaking<br />
guide<br />
Note: If you are travelling in winter months (November to February), flights between Tunxi and Shanghai may need to<br />
be replaced by road travel due to minimal air connections.<br />
Standard option available.<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 11 $967<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 13
Shanghai Hotels<br />
Handmade from local knowledge. Handpicked by us.<br />
Shanghai<br />
HengSheng Peninsula International<br />
Hotel ★★★ Standard<br />
From $ 48 pp<br />
Map location number 1<br />
TO<br />
PUDONG<br />
AIRPORT<br />
1<br />
7<br />
6<br />
N<br />
5<br />
This modest property is located north of the<br />
famous Bund and is only a short stroll from<br />
the riverfront. Each of the well-appointed<br />
rooms features spacious bathrooms, and<br />
many have grand views of the Huangpu<br />
River, Pudong, and overlook some traditional<br />
Longtang housing from the 1870s. On-site<br />
dining options include Chinese, Japanese,<br />
Western, and French cuisines. Glass<br />
enclosed elevators on the exterior of the<br />
hotel allow great views of the surrounding<br />
city. The small indoor lap pool is a plus<br />
during steamy Shanghai summers.<br />
Extra Facilities 360 rooms • mini-bar<br />
• hairdryer • work desk • room service<br />
• business centre • indoor lap pool<br />
• beauty parlour • sauna<br />
Traveller’s View Though the level of<br />
service is still improving, this is a good value<br />
hotel for those who want a comfortable room<br />
close to the Bund area.<br />
Families One child under 12 stays free<br />
if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(breakfast payable).<br />
Note. This hotel is not managed by The Peninsula<br />
Hotels group.<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $48<br />
4 2 3<br />
TO<br />
HONGQIAO<br />
AIRPORT<br />
Ambassador Hotel<br />
★★★ Standard<br />
From $ 49 pp<br />
Map location number 2<br />
Rendezvous Merry<br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
From $ 33 pp<br />
Map location number 3<br />
Located in the popular shopping and<br />
commercial district of Jing An, the<br />
Ambassador offers simple, affordable<br />
accommodation and friendly service. Rooms<br />
are spacious and modern, with lots of<br />
natural light and great city views. The vibrant<br />
area surrounding the hotel has a selection<br />
of bars, restaurants and cafes as well as<br />
taxi and subway transport to Shanghai’s<br />
main attractions. The Ambassador also has<br />
its own coffee shop offering light western<br />
meals and drinks, a Chinese and a Japanese<br />
restaurant and its leisure facilities include a<br />
gym, sauna and massage centre.<br />
Extra Facilities 308 rooms<br />
• mini-bar • in-room coffee machine<br />
• ATM • business centre<br />
Traveller’s View This relaxed, simple<br />
business hotel offers all the essentials,<br />
complimented by great service from the<br />
Ambassador’s friendly, obliging staff.<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $49<br />
The Rendezvous Merry is a welcoming,<br />
modern property in the heart of the central<br />
Jing An area. The hotel is within easy<br />
walking distance of attractions such as<br />
the historic Jing An Temple and French<br />
Concession area. This Australian-managed<br />
property offers a welcoming ambience,<br />
tasteful décor and some of the best four-star<br />
guestrooms in town (including city views<br />
from most rooms).<br />
Extra Facilities 342 rooms<br />
• mini-bar • hairdryer • bar • nightclub<br />
• business centre • spa • sauna • gym<br />
• restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View The Rendezvous Merry<br />
is a favourite due to the combination of great<br />
rooms, excellent value, and efficient service.<br />
The location is great too, with Jing An Park,<br />
the subway and the Bund all nearby.<br />
Bonus Stay 4 nights, pay 3<br />
(valid 01 Jan - 31 Mar 10).<br />
Stay 7 nights, pay 5<br />
(valid 01 Jun - 31 Aug 10 &<br />
01 Dec 10 - 31 Mar 11).<br />
Families One child under 12 stays free<br />
if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(breakfast payable, age five and above).<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $33<br />
14 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Shanghai Hotels<br />
Handmade from local knowledge. Handpicked by us.<br />
Shanghai<br />
Holiday Inn Vista<br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
From $ 60 pp<br />
Map location number 4<br />
Sofitel Hyland Shanghai<br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
From $ 97 pp<br />
Map location number 5<br />
The recently renovated Holiday Inn Vista is<br />
located in a vibrant area just a stone’s throw<br />
away from a great range of restaurants,<br />
bars and cafes and within easy reach of<br />
the city’s attractions. Facilities is on offer<br />
include a massage room, swimming pool<br />
and sauna – perfect for relaxing after the<br />
rigours of shopping and sightseeing in<br />
bustling Shanghai! The hotel’s inviting rooms<br />
are well-equipped, bright, fresh and modern,<br />
most boasting fabulous Shanghai city views.<br />
Extra Facilities 290 rooms • mini<br />
bar • room service • café • bar • gym<br />
• laundry • foreign exchange • beauty<br />
salon • business centre • restaurant<br />
Traveller’s View A well run hotel in a<br />
lively area of Shanghai with all mod-cons<br />
and excellent service.<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $60<br />
Families One child under 12 stays free<br />
if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(breakfast payable, age three and above).<br />
Centrally positioned on Shanghai’s famous<br />
Nanjing Road, the Sofitel Hyland Shanghai<br />
is close to the city’s shops, subways and<br />
restaurants and must-see attractions such<br />
as the Bund, Shanghai Museum and Grand<br />
Theatre. Rooms are tastefully decorated<br />
and feature modern bathrooms. The Sofitel<br />
Hyland Shanghai recently completed major<br />
renovations to its rooms and facilities,<br />
so travellers can now expect the kind of<br />
comfort and service expected from the<br />
Sofitel name.<br />
Extra Facilities 401 rooms • internet<br />
access • mini-bar • hairdryer • bar<br />
• business centre • fitness centre • spa<br />
• conference facilities • 4 restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View We recommend<br />
upgrading to a Club Floor room for that little<br />
extra touch of luxury including Club Lounge<br />
benefits plus excellent city views.<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $97<br />
Renaissance Shanghai<br />
Yuyuan Hotel ★★★★★ Superior<br />
From $ 87 pp<br />
Map location number 6<br />
The Westin Bund Center Shanghai<br />
★★★★★ Deluxe<br />
From $ 125 pp<br />
Map location number 7<br />
Grand Deluxe<br />
Located close to the famous Yu Yuan<br />
Gardens, Old Town and some of the city’s<br />
best shopping spots, the Renaissance<br />
Shanghai Yuyuan Hotel has all the facilities<br />
needed to make your stay a comfortable<br />
one. The rooms and suites feature<br />
contemporary decor, high speed internet, flat<br />
screen televisions and comfortable bedding.<br />
Highlights are the city views attainable<br />
from the 17th floor Club Lounge and the<br />
treatments on offer at the award-winning<br />
‘Quan’ spa. A 24-hour gym, indoor spa<br />
garden and a great swimming pool are other<br />
excellent features of this recently built hotel.<br />
Extra Facilities 340 rooms • high speed<br />
internet access • mini-bar • 24-hour gym<br />
• swimming pool • indoor spa garden<br />
• Quan spa • bar • conference facilities<br />
• business centre • 2 restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View The completion of a<br />
brand new line of the Shanghai subway just<br />
steps away from the Renaissance Shanghai<br />
Yuyuan has added to the great appeal of<br />
this stylish, contemporary and centrallylocated<br />
hotel.<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $87<br />
The Westin Shanghai is one of the best<br />
international five-star properties in the<br />
prestigious Bund area. Rooms feature plush,<br />
signature ‘Heavenly Beds’, sleek décor, cosy<br />
armchairs and state-of-the-art facilities. The<br />
spacious, elegantly designed bathrooms<br />
are superb, with rainforest showers and<br />
separate bathtubs.<br />
Extra Facilities 570 rooms • high speed<br />
internet access • mini-bar • 24-hour room<br />
service • business centre • ATM • indoor<br />
heated pool • fitness centre • Jacuzzi<br />
• steam rooms • sauna • live entertainment<br />
• seven restaurants and lounges<br />
Traveller’s View This is one of<br />
Shanghai’s best contemporary hotels. Don’t<br />
miss an indulgent treatment at the Banyan<br />
Tree Spa, before retreating to your ‘Heavenly<br />
Bed’ for the night.<br />
Bonus Receive a free upgrade to a Grand<br />
Deluxe or Crown Deluxe room when you stay<br />
four nights or more. Receive a free Ginseng<br />
back scrub or Banyan Foot massage at the<br />
Banyan Tree Spa when booking a Club room.<br />
Families Two children under 12 stay free<br />
if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(breakfast payable).<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $125<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 15
Insight to Xian<br />
Xian<br />
Xian is <strong>China</strong>’s oldest city; in its imperial heyday it was considered, along with Rome and Constantinople, one of the most culturally important cities<br />
in the world. Serving as the imperial capital for over a thousand years, and an important hub on the ancient Silk Road, today Xian remains a melting pot<br />
of cultures and rich in sights including the Ming City Walls, the lively Muslim Quarter and the remarkable Army of Terracotta Warriors.<br />
Xian City Stay<br />
4 days/3 nights. Departing Xian. daily<br />
Grading: Easy<br />
From $ 427 pp<br />
Discover the highights of Xian on this 4-day City Stay, as well as a number of hidden gems.<br />
From the wonder of the Army of Terracotta Warriors to delicious regional cuisine, your stay<br />
here will be a memorable one.<br />
After arriving in Xian, the rest of the day is free to explore. The next day begins with a walk<br />
along the top of the Old City Walls. You may choose to take a short cycle along the walls<br />
before continuing on to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Built in 652, this beautiful temple was<br />
designed to house the Buddhist scriptures brought back from India. Explore the heart of the<br />
lively Muslim Quarter and visit the Great Mosque, an interesting fusion of Middle Eastern and<br />
traditional Chinese architectural styles and visit the fascinating Shaanxi History Museum –<br />
one of the best in <strong>China</strong>. The following day you’ll visit the Army of Terracotta Warriors – one<br />
of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. Afterwards take a stroll<br />
down atmospheric Calligraphy Lane. You stay ends with an airport transfer on day 4.<br />
Inclusions 3 nights accommodation with breakfast daily • private touring • transport<br />
• entrance fees • arrival and departure transfers • local English-speaking guide<br />
Standard, Superior and Deluxe options twin<br />
per person<br />
available.<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $427<br />
Xian Day Tours<br />
Departing Xian. daily<br />
From $ 108<br />
Per person twin<br />
Xian. Full-Day City Tour. from $ 108 pp.<br />
Begin with a visit to the Old Ming City Walls and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Explore the Great<br />
Mosque, an interesting fusion of architectural styles and an important place of worship, then<br />
visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum before ending the day with a stroll down Calligraphy Street.<br />
Terracotta Warriors. Full-Day Tour. from $ 113 pp.<br />
The remarkable Army of Terracotta Warriors is one of the most important archaeological<br />
discoveries of the 20th century. Your guide will lead you into three unearthed excavation<br />
pits, and take you to the 360-degree circle vision cinema that portrays the reign of the<br />
Qin Emperor and the creation of the warriors.<br />
Tombs & Warriors. Full-Day Tour. from $ 171 pp.<br />
Visit Banpo Village, where excavations have revealed items that date back to the Neolithic<br />
era (6,000 years ago). Head to the famous Terracotta Warriors site then visit the Han<br />
Yangling Tombs, which offer an insight into the art and culture of the Han Dynasty.<br />
Hua Shan. Full-Day Tour. from $ 198 pp.<br />
Hua Shan, or ‘Flower Mountain,’ is located 120 kilometres from Xian and is so-named<br />
because, from afar, its five peaks look like five flower petals. Take a cable car to the north<br />
peak for a picnic lunch with breathtaking views of the peaks and forests. Expect a fair<br />
amount of walking.<br />
All day tours are private. All prices valid 01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 11<br />
Longmen Grottoes & Shaolin<br />
3 days/2 nights. Departing Xian. daily<br />
Grading: Easy<br />
From $ 503 pp<br />
A captivating journey which takes you to the Longmen Grottoes, renowned for their Buddhist<br />
rock carvings constructed over a period of 400 years, plus the intriguing Shaolin Temple,<br />
home to a famous order of fighting monks.<br />
Your tour begins on arrival in Louyang, when you will be met at the station and transferred<br />
to your hotel. The next day visit the largest and most impressive of the Longmen Grottoes,<br />
the Ancestor Worshipping Temple. Spend time exploring some of the area’s 2,000 caves and<br />
after lunch head to White Horse Temple, the first Buddhist temple in <strong>China</strong>, dating back to<br />
68AD. Spend time discovering its vast system of hallways then relax in the peaceful temple<br />
grounds. The next day visit Shaolin Temple and nearby ‘Pagoda Forest’ – a cemetery of 246<br />
pagodas commemorating renowned Shaolin monks – and see a short Kung Fu show. In the<br />
afternoon, transfer to Zhengzhou airport or to your hotel.<br />
Logistics Trains to Luoyang operate daily from Xian (approximately 5 hours)<br />
Inclusions 2 nights accommodation with breakfast daily • private touring • transport<br />
• entrance fees • arrival and departure transfers • local English-speaking guide<br />
Superior and Deluxe options available. twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $503<br />
DISCOVER THE SILK ROAD<br />
Xian was both the start and termination point of the legendary Silk Road.<br />
Delve into the fascinating cultures and religions and the ever-changing landscapes<br />
along this ancient trade route on our ‘Legendary Silk Road’.<br />
See page 40 for details.<br />
16 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Xian Hotels<br />
Xian<br />
Handmade from local knowledge. Handpicked by us.<br />
Bell Tower Hotel<br />
★★★ Standard<br />
From $ 51 pp<br />
UAA Hotel<br />
★★★ Standard<br />
From $ 34 pp<br />
The Bell Tower Hotel has one of the best<br />
locations in Xian, in the heart of the Old<br />
City and facing the historic Bell Tower, just<br />
a short stroll from the Great Mosque and<br />
Muslim Quarter. Its relaxing ambience and<br />
friendly service make it a favourite with<br />
travellers; guestrooms are spacious, offering<br />
contemporary furnishings and bathrooms.<br />
Most rooms feature wall-to-wall windows<br />
with fantastic views of the Bell Tower and the<br />
square below. Dining options are excellent<br />
and recreation facilities include a wellequipped<br />
gym, sauna and snooker room.<br />
Extra Facilities 321 rooms • mini-bar<br />
• in-house movies • beauty salon • sauna<br />
• business centre • 4 restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View A long-time favourite<br />
in Xian, the Bell Tower has a prime location<br />
with the best views of its namesake; you do<br />
pay a premium for the iconic location.<br />
Families One child under 12 stays free<br />
if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(breakfast payable).<br />
The Union Alliance Atravis Executive Hotel,<br />
or UAA Hotel, enjoys a wonderful location in<br />
a quiet street, in the heart of Xian within the<br />
Old City Walls. Restaurants and shopping are<br />
right on your doorstep and many of Xian’s<br />
attractions are within easy reach including<br />
the famous Bell and Drum Towers and<br />
the lively Muslim Quarter. The hotel has a<br />
charming atrium style tea lounge – a great<br />
place to relax after a long day of explorations<br />
in Xian. Rooms are comfortable, modern and<br />
well appointed.<br />
Extra Facilities 190 rooms<br />
• internet access • mini bar • business<br />
centre • sauna/spa • shop located in lobby<br />
• 2 restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View A simple yet<br />
comfortable and convenient hotel which<br />
makes a great base for exploring Xian.<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $51<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $34<br />
Grand Mercure Renmin Square<br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
From $ 38 pp<br />
Sofitel Renmin Square<br />
★★★★★ Deluxe<br />
From $ 66 pp<br />
Premier Room<br />
This heritage building, located in the<br />
grounds of Renmin Square, first opened its<br />
doors in 1957, and still evokes the grandeur<br />
of a bygone era. Service is attentive and<br />
friendly and the guestrooms are fantastic;<br />
rich reds and golds and tasteful design<br />
make rooms both comfortable and elegant.<br />
The bathrooms feature marble fittings,<br />
bathtubs with separate showers and plenty<br />
of space. The property’s façade reflects the<br />
Chinese and Russian architectural styles of<br />
Renmin Square itself.<br />
Extra Facilities 202 rooms • broadband<br />
internet access • hairdryer • mini-bar<br />
• in-house movies • trouser press<br />
• massage services • business centre<br />
• bar • restaurant<br />
Traveller’s View An excellent<br />
international hotel that offers large rooms<br />
and modern bathrooms at a great price,<br />
the Grand Mercure is both stylish and<br />
comfortable. Enjoy free use of the Sofitel<br />
Renmin Square’s fabulous gym and pool,<br />
just steps away!<br />
Families One child under 12 stays free<br />
if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(breakfast payable, age three and above).<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $38<br />
Located in Renmin Square, this luxury<br />
property incorporates elements of the past<br />
but exudes modern chic. We recommend<br />
the hotel’s Premier rooms for their 5-star<br />
style, with light beechwood colours and<br />
wall-to-wall windows overlooking the city.<br />
The bathrooms feature a welcoming bathtub<br />
and rainforest shower – perfect after a day<br />
of touring.<br />
Extra Facilities 414 rooms<br />
• broadband internet • mini-bar • hairdryer<br />
• room service • indoor swimming<br />
pool • spa by Le Spa • fitness centre<br />
• Jacuzzi • massage services • sauna<br />
• babysitting services • children’s<br />
playground • laundry • dry cleaning<br />
Traveller’s View Travellers who seek<br />
modern luxury in the centre of town<br />
need look no further than Xian’s Sofitel<br />
Renmin Square. Be sure to upgrade to a<br />
Premier room.<br />
Bonus Complimentary room upgrade with<br />
in-room WiFi access during low season.<br />
Families One child under 12 stays free<br />
if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(breakfast payable, age three and above).<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $66<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 17
Experience Guilin<br />
and Yangshuo<br />
Yangshuo<br />
Guilin<br />
Located on the banks of the Li River, Guilin and its environs are famous for their exquisite landscapes of impressive limestone peaks which<br />
have inspired poets and painters throughout history. Enjoy the spectacular natural scenery on a visit to the rice terraces of Longsheng, an amazing<br />
cruise on the Li River or perhaps a leisurely bicycle ride through the countryside of Yangshuo.<br />
Guilin and Yangshuo Wanderer<br />
5 days/4 nights. Departing Guilin. daily<br />
Grading: Easy to Moderate<br />
From $ 482 pp<br />
Guanxi Province is storybook <strong>China</strong> – a region of gently flowing rivers, dramatic karst<br />
scenery, iridescent rice paddies and friendly people. Experience the best of this beautiful<br />
region on this 5 day tour.<br />
Your explorations begin with a visit to Longsheng. Wander through the maze of stone<br />
pathways to a White Yao village with its wooden houses on stilts, and hike further up the<br />
mountain to admire some of <strong>China</strong>’s most spectacular rice terrace scenery. In the evening<br />
take a walking tour of Guilin’s town square and riverside, including a fascinating night<br />
market. The next day board your boat for a scenic journey along the Li River. The cruise<br />
will take you through magical karst limestone landscapes to peaceful Yangshuo. Set<br />
among lush rice paddies and surrounded by limestone peaks, Yangshuo provides an<br />
interesting contrast to <strong>China</strong>’s big cities. The following day begins with a Tai Chi lesson,<br />
followed by a bike ride among surrounding villages, rice paddies, lotus fields and fish<br />
farms. Return to town for a free evening before your transfer to the airport on day 5.<br />
Inclusions 4 nights accommodation with breakfast daily • 1 lunch<br />
• private touring • transport • entrance fees • arrival and departure transfers<br />
• local English-speaking guide<br />
Standard and Superior options available.<br />
Note: Standard only in Yangshuo.<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $482<br />
Guilin and Yangshuo Day Tours<br />
Departing Guilin. daily<br />
From $ 110<br />
Per person twin<br />
Longsheng Rice Terraces. Full-Day Tour. From $ 172 pp.<br />
See spectacular towering limestone karst cliffs and ascend a winding road that snakes<br />
up the mountainside to Longsheng, home to various ethnic minority groups. Wander<br />
through the maze of narrow stone pathways and traditional wooden houses on stilts of<br />
the Zhuang and Yao people, and admire some of <strong>China</strong>'s most spectacular rice terraces.<br />
This area is known as the Dragon's Backbone and the paddy fields, which cling<br />
precariously to the slopes of nearby peaks and valleys, are a photographer's dream.<br />
You are sure to be in awe of the area's stunning natural beauty – the terraced rice fields<br />
here are renowned as one of <strong>China</strong>'s most loved and enduring sites.<br />
Li River Cruise – Guilin to Yangshuo (Return). From $ 163 pp.<br />
Board a boat for the scenic and interesting journey along the Li River. Your journey will<br />
take you past tranquil farming, fishing and village scenes, where a snapshot of rural life in<br />
<strong>China</strong> will captivate your imagination.<br />
The main attraction is the stunning limestone karsts that tower above the river and create<br />
a magical landscape. The natural beauty of this region has inspired Chinese poets and<br />
painters for centuries.<br />
Cruise downstream to Yangshuo, a small town set in lush green rice paddies and<br />
surrounded by meandering rivers and limestone peaks. Spend the afternoon walking the<br />
cobblestone streets, relax in a café and soak up the atmosphere before driving back to<br />
beautiful Guilin.<br />
Note: Lunch is served onboard but is not included in the tour cost; we recommend you choose from the<br />
many lunch options on arrival in Yangshuo.<br />
Guilin. Full-Day City Tour. From $ 110 pp.<br />
A short drive from Guilin, take an illuminated tour through the popular Reed Flute Cave<br />
to see its many chambers and caverns – an entertaining and fun experience! Head<br />
back towards town for the short climb up Fubo Hill for amazing 360-degree views of<br />
Guilin town and the Li River.<br />
Return to the city for lunch at a local restaurant and visit Seven Star Park and<br />
Elephant Trunk Hill. End the day with a relaxing foot massage at the Chinese Traditional<br />
Medicine Institute where you will learn the merits of this ancient practice.<br />
All day tours are private.<br />
All prices valid 01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 11.<br />
18 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Guilin and Yangshuo Hotels<br />
Handmade from local knowledge. Handpicked by us.<br />
Yangshuo<br />
Guilin<br />
Universal Hotel Guilin<br />
★★★ Standard<br />
From $ 39 pp<br />
Guilin Bravo<br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
From $ 44 pp<br />
Conveniently located beside the famous Li River<br />
and close to Guilin’s town square, shops and<br />
night markets, the Universal Hotel is a very handy<br />
choice. Rooms are comfortable and offer all the<br />
standard amenities. The hotel’s restaurants and<br />
other facilities such as the swimming pool and<br />
sauna are great after a busy day's sightseeing.<br />
Extra Facilities 230 rooms • mini-bar • inhouse<br />
movies • hairdryer • room service • hair<br />
& beauty salon • swimming pool • tennis courts<br />
• sauna • spa • business centre • cafe • bar<br />
• nightclub • live entertainment • restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View A good value, comfortable<br />
hotel in a very handy location, perfect for<br />
travellers on a budget.<br />
twin share inc breakfast<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $39<br />
Located along Banyan Lake Park in the city<br />
centre, the Guilin Bravo is one of the best hotels<br />
in town. Its comfortable well appointed rooms<br />
have large windows, allowing natural light to flood<br />
each room. Restaurants and bars include the<br />
Patio Cafe and the Skylight Lobby Bar – a perfect<br />
spot to relax over drinks after a long day’s touring.<br />
Extra Facilities 329 rooms • free in-room<br />
internet access • air-conditioning and heating<br />
• hairdryer • free in-house movies • mini bar<br />
• swimming pool • health club • sauna & steam<br />
bath • gym • business centre • beauty salon<br />
Traveller’s View The Guilin Bravo offers<br />
rooms and services a notch above many in this<br />
popular tourist destination.<br />
twin share inc breakfast<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $44<br />
Lijiang Waterfall Hotel Guilin<br />
★★★★★ Superior<br />
From $ 68 pp<br />
Yangshuo Regency<br />
★★★ Standard<br />
From $ 26 pp<br />
With its wonderful location next to the Central<br />
Square and the Li River, the Lijiang Waterfall Hotel<br />
is one of the best accommodation options in<br />
Guilin. This hotel features spacious and relaxing<br />
rooms with lovely furnishings and modern<br />
bathrooms. Facilities include an indoor swimming<br />
pool and a range of restaurants. Rooms with lake<br />
views are available at a supplement.<br />
Extra Facilities 646 rooms • mini-bar<br />
• ironing board • hairdryer • in-house movies<br />
• swimming pool • sauna • massage services<br />
• business centre<br />
Traveller’s View Be sure to see the nightly<br />
waterfall display which is the hotel’s namesake –<br />
best viewed from the centre square!<br />
twin share inc breakfast<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $68<br />
Conveniently located on popular West Street,<br />
the Yangshuo Regency is a pleasant Chinesestyle<br />
hotel with western comforts. Rooms are<br />
simple, yet equipped will all mod cons. A Chinese<br />
restaurant offers Cantonese dishes and local<br />
Yangshuo delicacies. Light Western meals are<br />
available from the coffee shop while the lobby bar<br />
is a relaxing place to kick back with a drink before<br />
heading out to explore the town’s nightlife.<br />
Extra Facilities 70 rooms • business<br />
centre • mini-bar • coffee shop • lobby bar<br />
• restaurant<br />
Traveller’s View A simple, affordable option<br />
for the budget conscious traveller looking for a<br />
base right in the heart of Yangshuo.<br />
twin share inc breakfast<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $26<br />
Green Lotus<br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
From $ 63 pp<br />
Located at the foot of Green Lotus Peak by the banks of the Li River and close to lively<br />
West Street, the new Green Lotus Hotel is the finest place to stay in this charming<br />
little town. The hotel’s design aims to integrate Yangshuo’s stunning setting with the<br />
architecture of the local ethnic minorities. Rooms are bright, spacious and modern<br />
with the majority overlooking the Li River. A great range of facilities includes a relaxing<br />
outdoor swimming pool area where you can soak up the sun while sipping a cool drink<br />
and taking in the picturesque scenery surrounding the hotel.<br />
Extra Facilities 333 rooms • mini-bar • bar • hairdryer • in-house movies<br />
• swimming pool • sauna • steam bath • business centre • 2 restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View You can’t beat the beautiful scenery that surrounds the Green Lotus<br />
Hotel. This is the place to stay in Yangshuo, when only the best will do.<br />
Families One child under 12 stays free if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(breakfast payable).<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Dec 10 - 28 Feb 11 $63<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 19
Discover the majesty of the Yangtze<br />
The Yangtze is without a doubt one of the world’s great rivers. Rising in the Tanggula Mountains on the T<strong>ibet</strong>an Plateau,<br />
the river winds its way some 6,300 kilometres across south-central and east-central <strong>China</strong>, to the East <strong>China</strong> Sea near Shanghai.<br />
A journey along this magnificent waterway is sure to be a highlight of your <strong>China</strong> experience. From the wonder of the<br />
Three Gorges soaring high above the river, to the incredible scale of the dam project that is changing the face of modern <strong>China</strong>; from modern cities<br />
to timeless rural scenes, a boat trip along the Yangtze is unforgettable.<br />
Chongqing<br />
This mountain city<br />
clings to steep cliffs at<br />
the confluence or the<br />
Yangtze and Jialing<br />
Rivers – your journey<br />
will start or end here.<br />
Lesser Three<br />
Gorges and<br />
Daning River<br />
Board small river boats<br />
for an excursion along<br />
the Daning through the<br />
‘lesser three gorges’,<br />
surrounded by the cliffs<br />
of Longman Xia, local<br />
rural scenes and the<br />
sound of chattering<br />
monkeys.<br />
Shennong Stream<br />
Some cruises include<br />
a trip up this delightful<br />
tributary. To reach the<br />
clear waters upstream<br />
you will travel first by<br />
ferry, then transfer to<br />
local ‘pea-pod’ boats<br />
where experienced local<br />
trackers pole the vessels<br />
through shallow waters.<br />
Three Gorges<br />
Dam Project<br />
A project of monumental<br />
proportions completed in<br />
2009. This extraordinary<br />
engineering feat, which<br />
involved the flooding<br />
of 20 towns and the<br />
relocation of about 1.3<br />
million people, provides<br />
a large portion of<br />
<strong>China</strong>’s energy.<br />
Qutang Gorge<br />
The shortest and most<br />
dramatic of the stunning<br />
Three Gorges, with an<br />
entrance guarded by two<br />
mountains – Chijia Shan<br />
(Red Passage Mountain)<br />
and Baiyan Shan (White<br />
Salt Mountain).<br />
Witches Gorge<br />
This middle gorge is<br />
best known for twelve<br />
unique peaks, often<br />
hidden in swirls of mist.<br />
The most famous,<br />
Shennu Feng (Goddess<br />
Peak), resembles<br />
a kneeling maiden.<br />
Xiling Gorge<br />
This is the longest<br />
and the deepest of the<br />
famous Three Gorges<br />
with towering cliffs<br />
rising to over 1,200m.<br />
It is actually comprised<br />
of seven smaller gorges,<br />
all named after ancient<br />
legends, such as ‘Yellow<br />
Ox’, ‘Bright Moon’ and<br />
‘Lantern Shadow’.<br />
Yichang<br />
Situated at the entrance<br />
to the Xiling Gorge,<br />
this once sleepy town<br />
has been transformed<br />
by the Three Gorges<br />
Dam Project into the<br />
economic and cultural<br />
centre of the western<br />
Hubei Province.<br />
Huang Shan<br />
(yellow mountain)<br />
This breathtaking<br />
UNESCO World Heritage<br />
site with its mist<br />
shrouded limestone<br />
peaks, surrounded by<br />
quaint traditional villages<br />
and patchwork of<br />
farmlands, has inspired<br />
artists and poets for<br />
centuries.<br />
SHANGHAI<br />
The excitement,<br />
history and impressive<br />
cityscapes of Shanghai<br />
make a fabulous starting<br />
point or grand finale<br />
for a journey along the<br />
Yangtze.<br />
20 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Cruising the Yangtze<br />
On these pages you will find information about our wide selection of river boats and Yangtze cruise itineraries with daily departures<br />
from March to November and limited departures from December to February. Our sample itineraries below are based on the<br />
‘Victoria Cruises’ schedule, although the 4 day cruise from Chongqing to Yichang (and vice-versa) is similar across all river boats.<br />
Exact sailing itineraries can vary depending on river conditions.<br />
Contact us for departure dates and details of your preferred river boat and we can help put together your perfect Yangtze experience.<br />
For a more luxurious experience why not upgrade to a higher cabin type? Ask us for details.<br />
Chongqing<br />
Shanghai<br />
Yichang<br />
Yangtze Cruise<br />
From $ 625 pp<br />
4 days/3 nights. Downstream from Chongqing to Yichang<br />
Cruise the magnificent Yangtze River downstream from Chongqing, experiencing the<br />
wonder of the Three Gorges, the might of the Dam Project and more.<br />
Your experience begins with a transfer from Chongqing Airport to your Yangtze cruise<br />
boat for one of the world’s great river journeys. Begin your cruise downstream past<br />
small towns with close ties to the waters of the Yangtze. Cruise through the towering<br />
cliffs and mountains of the amazing Qutang, Wu and Xiling Gorges and enjoy shore<br />
excursions to local towns and historical sites that will be affected by the final flooding<br />
stages of the Three Gorges Dam Project. Take a trip up one of the Yangtze tributaries,<br />
inaccessible to large cruise boats, to see some of the superb rural scenery up close.<br />
Continue through the mighty ship locks and visit the Three Gorges Dam site to marvel<br />
at the enormity of this awesome project. On arrival in Yichang at midday, disembark<br />
after lunch and transfer to Yichang Airport.<br />
Note: Ask us about our 5 day/4 night upstream option that covers this same itinerary but in reverse.<br />
Inclusions 3 nights accommodation in private twin share cabins • all meals while on<br />
board (excluding dinner on boarding day) • shore excursions (not including chair lifts)<br />
• shared English-speaking local guides • private airport transfers<br />
Similar itineraries (5 days/4 nights) operate in the reverse direction from<br />
Yichang to Chongqing.<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Mar 10 - 31 Aug 10 $625<br />
Grading: Easy to Moderate<br />
Grand Yangtze Discovery<br />
From $ 1265 pp<br />
9 days/8 nights. Upstream from Shanghai to Chongqing<br />
This upstream journey takes you all the way from Shanghai to Chongqing. Witness<br />
the incredible scale of the Three Gorges Dam Project and the stunning Three Gorges<br />
themselves, with time to absorb the surrounding scenery and enjoy a number of shore<br />
excursions on this 9 day cruise.<br />
Transfer from the Shanghai Airport to your Yangtze River boat and begin your journey<br />
by cruising out of this extraordinary city as the sun goes down. Your first stop the next<br />
day is Nanjing where you visit the Mausoleum of Sun Yat-sen, widely considered to be<br />
the father of modern <strong>China</strong>, and a Qing Dynasty style bazaar surrounding a Confucian<br />
Temple. The journey continues with an excursion to magnificent Huang Shan, ‘Yellow<br />
Mountain’* and then it’s on to the city of Wuhan. Upon reaching Yichang, your first stop<br />
is at the fascinating Three Gorges Dam Project site. Gain an insight into the project<br />
and its effect on the surrounding countryside before sailing through the impressive<br />
ship locks and into Xiling Gorge. Cruise the smaller gorges of the river in ferries and<br />
sampans, gliding past ancient hanging coffins on the nearby cliff faces. Enjoy the full<br />
majesty of Wu and Qutang Gorges from the relaxing deck of your cruise boat. The<br />
next day, cruise past rural scenery and new villages. Enjoy an emperor’s banquet on<br />
your final evening before disembarking at Chongqing the next morning where you will<br />
transfer to the airport for your onward flight.<br />
*Note: Jiuhuashan or ‘Mountain of the Nine Lotuses’ may be substituted if weather or road conditions prevent<br />
a visit to Huang Shan.<br />
Inclusions 8 nights accommodation in private twin share cabins • all meals whilst<br />
on board (excluding dinner on boarding day) • shore excursions (not including chair<br />
lifts) • shared English-speaking local guides • private airport transfers<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Mar 10 - 31 Aug 10 $1265<br />
Grading: Easy to Moderate<br />
Dazu Caves Day Trip<br />
Departs Chongqing. daily<br />
From $ 218 pp<br />
A day trip to Dazu Grottoes makes a worthwhile addition to your Yangtze experience,<br />
either before or after embarkation. Just a two-hour drive from Chongqing, the Dazu<br />
Grottoes comprise one of the four renowned Buddhist cave art sites in <strong>China</strong> and<br />
boasts a superb collection of sculptures dating back to the Song dynasty, many over<br />
1,000 years old. The colour preservation is magnificent!<br />
Inclusions Private touring and transport • local English-speaking guide • lunch<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 11 $218<br />
Grading: Easy<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 21
Yangtze River Boats<br />
Our featured selection of luxury cruises includes only the finest river boats on the Yangtze.<br />
Chongqing<br />
Choose from our wide range of 4- and 5-star cruising options.<br />
The Victoria Cruises range is the only American cruise line on the river and is renowned for its reliable service, comfortable cabins<br />
and Western cruise directors. Victoria Cruises operate seven departures a week between Chongqing and Yichang (six on 5-star cruise<br />
boats and one on the 4-star Victoria Rose). Century Star, operated by New Century Cruises, operates twice weekly and offers a 5-star<br />
sailing experience. Or try Orient Royal Cruises’ Yangtze Explorer for the ultimate in luxury on the Yangtze which offers an exclusive,<br />
intimate experience and features spacious cabins, fine cuisine, deluxe amenities and attentive service. It operates twice weekly.<br />
Shanghai<br />
Yichang<br />
All cruise packages include enjoyable daily shore excursions and a<br />
program of on-board entertainment such as lectures • cooking demonstrations<br />
• traditional art/craft classes • cabaret shows<br />
Other on-board facilities include lounge and bar areas • observation<br />
decks • a business centre • beauty salon • medical clinic • restaurants serving<br />
Western and Chinese cuisine buffet-style<br />
Standard cabins on all cruises feature outward-facing windows • twin<br />
beds (which can be moved together to make doubles) • private en suite facilities<br />
Victoria Rose<br />
4 Days/3 Nights*<br />
From $ 625 pp<br />
★★★★ superior<br />
Traditional and intimate in character, the Victoria Rose boasts home-style comforts and<br />
friendly service from its attentive staff. This charming small vessel has 63 comfortable<br />
cabins and 2 suites and carries a total of 130 passengers.<br />
Facilities include internet access • fitness equipment • laundry service • reading room<br />
• gift shop • bar • restaurant<br />
*Downstream cruise Chongqing to Yichang.<br />
Upstream cruises (5 days/4 nights) also available. Contact us for details.<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Mar 10 - 31 Aug 10 $625<br />
Victoria Prince<br />
9 Days/8 Nights<br />
From $ 1265 pp<br />
★★★★★ Deluxe<br />
The Victoria Prince is the flagship for Victoria's upgraded fleet, used exclusively for the<br />
Grand Yangtze Discovery cruise between Shanghai and Chongqing. As is the experience<br />
with all of Victoria’s fleet, the Prince’s attentive, well-trained staff make passengers feel<br />
comfortable and quite at home aboard this floating hotel. Its 104 well appointed cabins have<br />
been thoughtfully designed with private balconies to allow intimate, private viewing of the<br />
scenery of the Three Gorges.<br />
Facilities include gym • lecture room • reading room • beauty salon • massage room<br />
• gift shops • meeting room • ‘Yangtze Club’ entertainment venue • observation room<br />
• sun deck • bar • restaurant<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Mar 10 - 31 Aug 10 $1265<br />
22 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Century Star<br />
Century Star<br />
4 Days/3 Nights*<br />
From $ 544 pp<br />
★★★★★ Deluxe<br />
From the grand two-storey spiral lobby to the beautiful ballroom and elegant restaurant,<br />
the Century Star offers a truly 5-star cruise experience. All cabins and suites are stylishly<br />
decorated, well equipped and have private balconies.<br />
Facilities include • internet bar • library • games room • fitness room • sauna<br />
• beauty salon • shopping centre • bar • coffee shop • restaurant<br />
*Downstream cruise Chongqing to Yichang.<br />
Upstream cruises (5 days/4 nights) also available. Contact us for details.<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Mar 10 - 31 Aug 10 $544<br />
Yangtze Explorer<br />
4 Days/3 Nights*<br />
From $ 1260 pp<br />
★★★★★ Deluxe<br />
The Yangtze Explorer takes cruising to a new level of comfort for discerning travellers<br />
and offers the ultimate in luxury. Carrying just 124 passengers, this stylish vessel offers<br />
an intimate cruising experience and efficient personalized service. Its elegant, beautifully<br />
appointed cabins all have private balconies and are among the most spacious available<br />
on the Yangtze.<br />
Facilities include • espresso bar • fitness centre • spa • library • Tang Theatre<br />
• five shops and boutiques • laundry service • room service • bar • restaurant<br />
*Downstream cruise Chongqing to Yichang.<br />
Upstream cruises (5 days/4 nights) also available.<br />
Contact us for details.<br />
twin<br />
14 Mar 10 - 28 Mar 10<br />
03 Jun 10 - 05 Sep 10<br />
per person<br />
$1260<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 23
Small Group Journeys…<br />
Our Small Group Journeys offer a great way to see <strong>China</strong>’s<br />
famous highlights and some off the beaten path gems, while<br />
travelling in a small group. A maximum group size of just<br />
18 people ensures a more intimate experience of authentic<br />
<strong>China</strong> with opportunities to meet local people and learn<br />
about their culture first hand. When you join one of our Small<br />
Group Journeys you will also have the combined benefit of<br />
our professional English-speaking local guides and expert<br />
Western tour leaders – quite literally the best of both worlds.<br />
Accommodation is selected based on our local knowledge,<br />
and is well located and comfortable, with great atmosphere<br />
and extra facilities such as pools in many places. To<br />
experience that extra bit of luxury, choose one of our<br />
journeys with a Deluxe option. These pages feature a<br />
sample of our favourite journeys in <strong>China</strong>. Contact us for a<br />
full range of Small Group Journeys.<br />
VIETNAM CAMBODIA LAOS THAILAND<br />
Treasures<br />
Yunnan<br />
8 DAYS From $ 1870 PP 9 DAYS From $ 2485<br />
Explorer<br />
of <strong>China</strong><br />
KUNMING • DALI • LIJIANG<br />
• TIGER LEAPING GORGE<br />
• ZHONGDIAN • KUNMING<br />
BEIJING • XIAN<br />
• GUILIN • YANGSHUO<br />
• HONG KONG<br />
Highlights<br />
of <strong>China</strong><br />
10 DAYS From $ 1995<br />
BEIJING • XIAN<br />
• SHANGHAI • ZHUJIAJIAO<br />
Three Gorges<br />
Discovery<br />
12 DAYS From $ 3125<br />
BEIJING • XIAN<br />
• YANGTZE RIVER • SHANGHAI<br />
• ZHUJIAJIAO<br />
Start Kunming • Thursday<br />
End Kunming • Thursday<br />
Operates March to November;<br />
monthly departures.<br />
Start Beijing • Saturday<br />
End <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> • Sunday<br />
Operates February to November;<br />
1 or 2 departures a month.<br />
Start Beijing • Sunday<br />
End Shanghai • Tuesday<br />
Operates February to November;<br />
1 or 2 departures a month.<br />
Start Beijing • Monday<br />
End Shanghai • Friday<br />
Operates March to November;<br />
1 or 2 departures a month.<br />
In the mountains of Yunnan you<br />
will find ancient towns of cobbled<br />
streets, colourful minority people<br />
in traditional dress, snowcapped<br />
peaks and clear mountain lakes.<br />
Experience it all on our 8-day<br />
‘Yunnan Explorer’. From the<br />
capital, Kunming, we fly to lakeside<br />
Dali, driving through spectacular<br />
scenery past the upper reaches<br />
of the Yangtze to magical Lijiang<br />
and on to Zhongdian, known as<br />
‘Shangri La’. Wander through<br />
peaceful monasteries, meet the<br />
friendly locals and discover a<br />
completely different side of <strong>China</strong>.<br />
Experience some of <strong>China</strong>’s<br />
most famous sights on this 9-day<br />
journey, from the capital, Beijing,<br />
to harbourside <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>. In<br />
Xian we see the incredibly lifelike<br />
Terracotta Warriors before<br />
heading south to the pictureperfect<br />
landscapes of Guilin and<br />
Yangshuo. Here you can practice<br />
Tai Chi alongside the locals and<br />
cycle backroads to charming<br />
villages. Your journey ends in<br />
dynamic <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>.<br />
Experience the very best of<br />
the Middle Kingdom in just 10<br />
days. From historical and cultural<br />
Beijing to fascinating Shanghai,<br />
you will experience a land of<br />
immense beauty and contrasts.<br />
Wander Tiananmen Square,<br />
take a rickshaw ride through<br />
Beijing’s hutongs, climb the Great<br />
Wall at lesser-visited Mutianyu<br />
and witness Xian’s incredible<br />
Terracotta Warriors.<br />
Experience the dramatic scenery<br />
of the Three Gorges and witness<br />
the spectacle of the largest dam<br />
in the world on the 12-day Three<br />
Gorges Discovery. Your adventure<br />
begins in historical and cultural<br />
Beijing, before heading to Xian and<br />
its Terracotta Warriors. Discover<br />
the beauty of the Three Gorges as<br />
we cruise down the Yangtze River<br />
before reaching vibrant Shanghai.<br />
Deluxe option available.<br />
Contact us for departure dates. Contact us for departure dates. Contact us for departure dates. Contact us for departure dates.<br />
Ask your travel agent for a free copy of our Small Group Journeys brochure<br />
or visit us at travelindochina.com.au<br />
24 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
INDIA CHINA TIBET JAPAN<br />
Panorama<br />
Road<br />
& Beyond<br />
monasteries, some Buddhist rock<br />
15 DAYS From $ 3125 PP 17 DAYS From $ 4625 PP 18 DAYS From $ 3995 PP paintings and a seldom visited<br />
T<strong>ibet</strong>an nunnery. Your journey<br />
T<strong>ibet</strong> Experience<br />
CHENGDU • LHASA • YAMDROK<br />
LAKE • GYANTSE • SHIGATSE<br />
• TSEDANG • CHENGDU<br />
Start Chengdu • Sunday<br />
End Chengdu • Thursday<br />
Operates April to October;<br />
1 departure per month.<br />
This spectacular 12-day journey<br />
will introduce you to the highlights<br />
and complex history of T<strong>ibet</strong>. We<br />
spend some extra time in Lhasa<br />
in order to get acclimatised to<br />
<strong>China</strong><br />
The Silk<br />
Yangtze<br />
the altitude, and visit remarkable<br />
BEIJING • XIAN • LANZHOU<br />
starts and ends in Chengdu, home<br />
• JIAYUGUAN • DUNHUANG<br />
to the world famous Giant Panda.<br />
• TURPAN • KASHGAR • URUMQI<br />
BEIJING • XIAN • CHENGDU<br />
• GUILIN • LONGSHENG<br />
• YANGHSHUO • SHANGHAI<br />
• ZHUJIAJIAO<br />
Start Beijing • Saturday<br />
End Shanghai • Saturday<br />
Operates February to November;<br />
1 or 2 departures a month.<br />
The 15-day ‘<strong>China</strong> Panorama’<br />
combines impressive manmade<br />
structures with timeless<br />
landscapes. From Beijing we travel<br />
to Xian, then on to Chengdu,<br />
where we spend a morning at the<br />
captivating Giant Panda Research<br />
& Breeding Base. Afterwards, relax<br />
among the stunning rural scenery<br />
of Guilin and Yangshuo, and visit a<br />
spectacular nearby hilltribe area.<br />
Your journey ends in exciting<br />
Shanghai.<br />
Start Beijing • Sunday<br />
End Urumqi • Tuesday<br />
Operates April to October;<br />
1 or 2 departures a month.<br />
Experience the rich convergence<br />
of cultures and religions as you<br />
travel one of the world’s great<br />
trade routes on this incredible<br />
17-day journey. From Xian’s famed<br />
Army of Terracotta Warriors to<br />
the oasis town of Turpan and<br />
fabled Kashgar, explore lively local<br />
markets, visit an Uygher home<br />
in Turpan and take a camel ride<br />
among sand dunes.<br />
BEIJING • XIAN • GUILIN<br />
• LONGSHENG • YANGHSHUO<br />
• YANGTZE RIVER • SHANGHAI<br />
• ZHUJIAJIAO<br />
Start Beijing • Wednesday<br />
End Shanghai • Saturday<br />
Operates March to November;<br />
monthly departures.<br />
This fascinating 18-day journey<br />
starts with Beijing and the major<br />
sights of historic Xian. Admire<br />
the limestone karst scenery<br />
in Guilin and Yangshuo where<br />
you'll also learn about traditional<br />
Chinese medicine and perhaps<br />
enjoy a reflexology foot massage.<br />
Then embark on the cruise of<br />
a lifetime on the mighty Yangtze<br />
River before flying to Shanghai,<br />
where the futuristic skyline of<br />
Pudong contrasts with the tranquil<br />
waterways of ancient Zhujiajiao.<br />
Deluxe Option available.<br />
Contact us for departure dates. Contact us for departure dates. Contact us for departure dates.<br />
12 DAYS From $ 3855 PP I 25<br />
Contact us for departure dates.<br />
OUR SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS<br />
PRICES INCLUDE:<br />
• All hotel and cruise ship<br />
accommodation as per itinerary<br />
• Breakfast daily, plus lunches and<br />
dinners as specified<br />
• Overnight train journeys<br />
as specified in soft-sleeper<br />
air-conditioned 4-berth<br />
compartments<br />
• Domestic flights and road<br />
transport as per itinerary<br />
• Sightseeing as per itinerary<br />
including entrance fees<br />
• English-speaking local guides<br />
throughout<br />
• Western tour leader based on a<br />
minimum of 7 travellers<br />
• Arrival and departure airport<br />
transfers
Discover Yunnan Province<br />
Rich in natural beauty and cultural diversity, Yunnan is one of <strong>China</strong>’s most alluring provinces. It is home to a third of <strong>China</strong>’s ethnic minorities,<br />
fiercely proud and protective of their cultures, with varied landscapes ranging from towering T<strong>ibet</strong>an peaks to rainforests teeming with wildlife.<br />
Yunnan’s capital, Kunming, is a relaxed, cosmopolitan city. Beyond its borders lie charming towns such as Dali and Lijiang, quite unlike anywhere<br />
else in <strong>China</strong>, and tiny villages rarely visited by tourists.<br />
kunming<br />
Mountains & Monasteries of Yunnan<br />
Take a spectacular journey into the heart of Shangri-La, a region of <strong>China</strong> fabled for its<br />
6 days/5 nights. Departing Kunming. daily From $ 1061 pp<br />
stunning natural scenery. Experience T<strong>ibet</strong>an towns, traditional life and some of the most<br />
beautiful landscapes in <strong>China</strong>.<br />
Start with a night in Kunming, then fly to Lijiang. Spend time exploring this enchanting<br />
town, with its rich Naxi minority culture, cobbled streets and local handicrafts. Make<br />
a stop at Lion Hill for sweeping views of Lijiang’s distinctive rooftops. In the evening<br />
enjoy a captivating performance by the Traditional Naxi Orchestra. Take a walk around<br />
off the beaten path Baisha Village. Liuli Dian Temple is a beautiful place to explore and<br />
learn more about regional beliefs. Discover the tranquil T<strong>ibet</strong>an Yufeng Monastery and<br />
see the home of Joseph Rock, the famous Austrian researcher who was considered<br />
the world expert on Naxi culture and Chinese botany. Visit the Dongba Museum of Naxi<br />
Culture and admire snowcapped Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Drive from Lijiang past<br />
Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the largest chasms in the world. Walk along the river’s edge<br />
and experience the thrill of surging waters crashing against a cliff face metres below.<br />
Continue on to Zhongdian, often referred to as Shangri-La. Explore fascinating Zhongdian;<br />
view a neighbouring alpine lake, and visit the amazing Songzanlin Monastery. Destroyed<br />
during the Cultural Revolution, the rebuilt monastery offers an insight into the T<strong>ibet</strong>an<br />
belief system. Visit one of the monastery’s ‘Living Buddhas’ if possible, and witness some<br />
T<strong>ibet</strong>an religious practices. Tour the Old Town and visit a T<strong>ibet</strong>an family home for yak<br />
butter tea. Take a return flight to Kunming on your final day.<br />
Want more? ‘Mountains & Monasteries’ can be easily combined with our ‘Lijiang<br />
Wenhai Ecolodge’ tour (below).<br />
Logistics There are good daily flight connections between Kunming and other capital<br />
cities in <strong>China</strong> such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xian and Chengdu.<br />
Inclusions 5 nights accommodation with breakfast daily • private touring • transport<br />
• entrance fees • local English-speaking guides • private arrival and departure transfers<br />
Standard and Deluxe options available.<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 11 $1061<br />
Grading: Moderate to Adventurous<br />
Yunnan Day Tours<br />
Departing Kunming, Dali and Lijiang. daily<br />
From $93<br />
Per person<br />
Kunming. Half-Day City Tour. From $ 93 pp.<br />
Fascinating Kunming is the gateway to Yunnan and home to the majority of <strong>China</strong>’s ethnic<br />
minority groups. Begin at Green Lake, the scenic centre of the city then visit the Minority<br />
Museum. Learn about regional costumes, instruments and religious beliefs here. Next,<br />
the Bird & Flower Market offers glimpses into the <strong>China</strong> of old. Explore interesting Muslim<br />
Street before returning to your hotel.<br />
Stone Forest. Half-Day Tour. From $ 166 pp.<br />
Take a scenic drive from Kunming to the legendary Stone Forest, which covers an area<br />
of over 300 square kilometres, and was formed 270 million years ago when an immense<br />
body of water worked its way against the limestone sediment of the seafloor. Explore the<br />
peaks and pillars of stone in the forest, which are absolutely breathtaking.<br />
Kunming City & Stone Forest. Full-Day Tour. From $ 177 pp.<br />
This offering allows you to combine our ‘Stone Forest Half-Day Tour’ with Green Lake and<br />
the Bird & Flower Market.<br />
Dali. Full-Day City Tour. From $ 196 pp.<br />
Dali is an ambient small town that typifies Yunnan, with its stunning mountain scenery<br />
and diverse minority groups. Experience rural Xizhou village and its small, rustic market,<br />
plus Yen’s Family Home, an historic example of Chinese architecture. Walk around Dali<br />
Old Town then visit the Three Pagodas. A scenic chair lift offers brilliant views of the town<br />
and lake. This tour can easily be included in our ‘Mountains & Monasteries’ tour.<br />
Lijiang Wenhai Ecolodge. Full-Day Tour. From $ 183 pp.<br />
Experience ecotourism at its best, outside Lijiang. Two-hours away from Lijiang is the<br />
Wenhai Ecolodge, a community-operated property on the banks of a stunning lake with<br />
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance. Enjoy lunch here before visiting a Naxi<br />
family home before returning to Lijiang. This tour can easily be added to our ‘Mountains<br />
& Monasteries’ experience.<br />
All day tours are private.<br />
All prices valid 01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 11<br />
26 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Yunnan Hotels<br />
Handmade from local knowledge. Handpicked by us.<br />
kunming<br />
Grand Lijiang<br />
★★★ Standard<br />
From $ 46 pp<br />
Gyalthang Dzong<br />
★★★★ Superior/Out of the Ordinary<br />
From $ 43 pp<br />
A firm favourite with travellers, the<br />
Grand Lijiang is the perfect base for your<br />
explorations of enchanting Lijiang and<br />
its environs. It is situated opposite the<br />
entrance to Lijiang’s Old Town near the<br />
lovely Jade River with views of Jade Dragon<br />
Snow Mountain. Rooms are simple, yet<br />
comfortable and well equipped. The lobby<br />
bar has lovely views of the Jade River and<br />
the hotel’s restaurant serves Cantonese,<br />
Naxi and western dishes.<br />
Extra Facilities 126 rooms • internet<br />
service • lobby bar • business centre<br />
• restaurant<br />
Traveller’s View Quite simply, the best<br />
hotel in town with a superb location.<br />
Families Two children under 12 stay free<br />
if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(breakfast included).<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $46<br />
The Gyalthang Dzong Hotel offers T<strong>ibet</strong>an<br />
lamasery architecture, great atmosphere<br />
and cosy, unique lodgings with international<br />
standards of service that bely the remote<br />
surrounds. All rooms face an internal<br />
courtyard and are decked out in richly hued<br />
ethnic textiles, reflecting T<strong>ibet</strong>an Buddhist<br />
aesthetics. Rooms offer spectacular valley<br />
or mountain views. Indulge in a pampering<br />
treatment at the hotel’s relaxing Angsana<br />
Spa, try some T<strong>ibet</strong>an cuisine in the<br />
Courtyard Cafe or Metok Pema Restaurant<br />
or indulge in a drink by the fireplace in the<br />
chilled out Aku Lemu Bar.<br />
Extra Facilities 52 guestrooms and<br />
suites • heatering • bar • conference hall<br />
• Angsana Spa • 2 restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View The Gyalthang Dzong’s<br />
unique style, friendly staff, boutique<br />
guestrooms and stunning views make it a<br />
truly special experience.<br />
Families Two children under 12 stay free<br />
if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(breakfast payable).<br />
Note: This resort is closed from December to March due<br />
to icy weather conditions.<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Mar 10 - 30 Apr 10 $43<br />
Banyan Tree Lijiang<br />
★★★★★ Deluxe/Out of the Ordinary<br />
From $ 125 pp<br />
Banyan Tree Ringha<br />
★★★★★ Deluxe/Out of the Ordinary<br />
From $ 130 pp<br />
This luxurious, charming property reflects<br />
the area’s strong cultural heritage. Each<br />
private villa offers a relaxing haven with<br />
panoramic views of breathtaking natural<br />
beauty. Each villa includes a spacious<br />
bedroom with local design flourishes, study<br />
and bathroom, a heated outdoor jet pool or<br />
your own private plunge pool.<br />
Extra Facilities 88 Naxi style villas with<br />
heater • internet connection • mini-bar<br />
• mini-stereo • DVD player • hairdryer<br />
• heated outdoor jet pool (some villas<br />
with heated private plunge pool) • spa<br />
treatments • bar • library • outdoor stage<br />
• 2 restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View Luxury and originality<br />
combine to make a stay here fit for a<br />
Chinese emperor. A spa treatment is a must;<br />
the service and spa therapists are both of<br />
the highest standard.<br />
Bonus Book a Deluxe Garden or Pool Villa,<br />
or a Two-Bedroom or Presidential Pool<br />
Villa and receive a range of complimentary<br />
benefits including discounts off selected<br />
spa treatments.<br />
Honeymoon Complimentary Honeymoon/<br />
Wedding Anniversary set up with a bottle of<br />
house wine, flowers and cake.<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $125<br />
With accommodation comprising authentic<br />
T<strong>ibet</strong>an farmhouses that have been<br />
relocated and reconstructed in traditional<br />
style, the Banyan Tree Ringha features an<br />
idyllic setting, by the shores of a rushing<br />
river. Rooms feature intricate carvings,<br />
open fireplaces, spacious bathrooms<br />
with free-standing wooden hot tubs and<br />
wide balconies, perfect for admiring the<br />
surrounding scenery. Myriad scenic walks<br />
await for the more active.<br />
Extra Facilities 32 rooms with private<br />
balcony • mini-bar • hairdryer • spa<br />
• tea room • 2 restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View A truly unique<br />
experience in a remote and stunning part of<br />
<strong>China</strong> – the perfect blend of luxury and local<br />
culture that will surprise and tantalise the<br />
senses. The journey itself to the Banyan Tree<br />
Ringha is spectacular as well. Spoil yourself!<br />
Bonus Book a T<strong>ibet</strong>an Spa Suite or Ringha<br />
Lodge and receive daily in-suite tea & fruit<br />
service and discounts off selected spa<br />
treatments.<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $130<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 27
Explore Sichuan Province<br />
Sichuan is renowned for its dramatic mountain scenery, dense forests, diversity of natural and historical sites and its world famous<br />
spicy cuisine! This is the place to see the iconic pandas, or simply to experience a <strong>China</strong> that is worlds away from Beijing and Shanghai.<br />
The major city, Chengdu, is a Chinese city with a difference and despite rapid development, there are still delightful pockets of backstreet life,<br />
teahouses and riverside parks to explore.<br />
Chengdu<br />
Sichuan Alpine Explorer<br />
3 days/2 nights. Departing Jiuzhai Airport. daily<br />
Grading: Adventurous<br />
From $ 930 pp<br />
For a surreal outdoor experience and breathtaking natural beauty, the ‘Sichuan Alpine<br />
Explorer’ is the perfect option.<br />
Your explorations begin in Huanglong, after transferring from the airport. From here take a<br />
one-way cable car and take a short hike above the long valley dotted with turquoise terraced<br />
pools. The dramatic contrast of evergreen forest, shimmering pools and yellow limestone is<br />
truly a sight to behold. From here, drive to Jiuzhaigou, one of <strong>China</strong>’s most beautiful natural<br />
reserves, famous for evergreen alpine forests, spectacularly clear turquoise lakes and<br />
snowcapped mountains. No private buses are allowed in the national park, so you will use<br />
a combination of park transportation and boardwalk hiking to see the highlights. Autumn<br />
marks a distinctive change with the green leaves turning a radiant golden orange. From here<br />
transfer to Jiuzhai Airport for your onward flight.<br />
Logistics Jiuzhai Airport is a one-hour flight north of Chengdu.<br />
Inclusions 2 nights accommodation with breakfast daily • private touring • all transport<br />
(park transport within Jiuzhaigou Park) • entrance fees • local English-speaking guide<br />
• private airport arrival and departure transfers<br />
Note: This tour involves plenty of walking in high altitude regions. This tour does not operate from November to April<br />
due to icy conditions and low water levels in the lakes. This tour does not include flights into or out of Jiuzhai Airport.<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Mar 10 - 30 Jun 10 $930<br />
Chengdu Day Tours<br />
Departing Chengdu. daily<br />
From $ 40<br />
Per person twin<br />
Chengdu. Full-Day City Tour. From $ 152 pp.<br />
Visit Chengdu’s most important Taoist temple and the home of renowned Tang Dynasty poet,<br />
Dufu. Explore sculpted gardens, teahouses and People’s Park, then shop for handicrafts on<br />
Qingtai Old Street.<br />
Giant Panda Research & Breeding Base. Half-Day Tour. From $ 79 pp.<br />
A fascinating place to observe Giant Pandas and to learn more about these endangered<br />
animals.<br />
Leshan Big Buddha. Full-Day Tour. From $ 279 pp.<br />
Take a cruise to appreciate the full stature and splendour of the world's largest outdoor<br />
seated Buddha, a 1,200 year-old statue overlooking the confluence of two rivers.<br />
Emei Shan. Full-Day Tour. From $ 312 pp.<br />
Emei Shan is one of four famous Buddhist mountains in <strong>China</strong>. This forested region is dotted<br />
with temples, monasteries, mist-shrouded peaks and stunning viewpoints. Take a cable car<br />
ride and enjoy a vegetarian lunch at Wannian Temple.<br />
Sichuan Opera. From $ 40 pp.<br />
A celebrated experience only available in Sichuan, the local opera involves elaborately<br />
costumed actors accompanied by wind and percussion instruments.<br />
All day tours are private. All prices valid 01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 11<br />
Chengdu & Emei Shan<br />
5 days/4 nights. Departing Chengdu. daily<br />
Grading: Easy<br />
From $ 1219 pp<br />
Experience Sichuan’s heart and soul, from the capital Chengdu, to Giant Pandas, the<br />
Buddha of Leshan and the temples of Mount Emei.<br />
Begin with a visit to the Giant Panda Research & Breeding Base and learn about the efforts<br />
being made to protect these amazing animals. On return to Chengdu, stop at the garden<br />
home of the renowned Tang Dynasty poet, Dufu. Relax in the teahouses of People’s Park<br />
before exploring Qingtai Old Street. After a Sichuan hotpot dinner, enjoy a Sichuan Opera<br />
performance. The next day drive south to Leshan to see Da Fo, the largest Buddha statue<br />
in the world and enjoy a cruise at its base. Head further south to Mount Emei (Emei Shan),<br />
one of four famous Buddhist mountains in <strong>China</strong>. This cool, forested region is dotted with<br />
temples, monasteries and mist-shrouded peaks. Take a cable car up to Wannian Temple,<br />
enjoy a delicious vegetarian lunch then walk down the mountain through dense forest. Drive<br />
back to Chengdu where your tour ends the following day with a transfer to the airport.<br />
Inclusions 4 nights accommodation with breakfast daily • one lunch • one dinner<br />
• private touring • transport • entrance fees • river cruise in Leshan • one-way cable car<br />
in Emei Shan • Sichuan Opera performance • local English-speaking guide • arrival and<br />
departure transfers<br />
Superior and Deluxe options available.<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 11 $1219<br />
28 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Sichuan Hotels<br />
Handmade from local knowledge. Handpicked by us.<br />
Chengdu<br />
Yinhe Dynasty Hotel<br />
★★★ Standard<br />
From $ 63 pp<br />
The Yinhe Dynasty Hotel offers a spectacular location, with the shops and attractions of<br />
Chengdu just a short walk away.<br />
Rooms are clean and comfortably appointed with all mod cons.<br />
The staff are quite helpful and accommodating, and though there are abundant<br />
dining options just outside the lobby doors, the on-site restaurants offer a wide range of<br />
cuisines for guests who would prefer to stay in.<br />
The sauna comes highly recommended after a day of walking through Chengdu’s parks,<br />
and most guestrooms have large windows with views of the city below.<br />
Extra Facilities 360 rooms • internet • mini-bar • 24-hour room service<br />
• indoor swimming pool • fitness centre • beauty salon • sauna • bars<br />
• tearoom • restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View This property’s highlights are its great location and affordable price.<br />
Guestrooms are comfortable (though be prepared for a firm mattress!)<br />
Families One child under 12 stays free if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(discounted breakfast payable).<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 11 $63<br />
Sofitel Wanda Chengdu<br />
★★★★★ Deluxe<br />
From $ 117 pp<br />
The Sofitel Wanda Chengdu brings the creature comforts and silver service one would<br />
expect to a lovely location in Sichuan Province.<br />
Conveniently located opposite Chengdu’s river walkway and close to shops and<br />
restaurants, the city of Chengdu is at your doorstep.<br />
Both the lobby and guestrooms are beautifully appointed, with very comfortable beds.<br />
Restaurants range from refined French to Western, Chinese, and a small Japanese<br />
outlet serving up innovative dishes.<br />
Extra Facilities 262 rooms • broadband internet & WiFi • mini-bar<br />
• hairdryer • heated indoor swimming pool • sauna • spa, fitness centre<br />
• Jacuzzi • massage services • 4 bars • 3 restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View This is our favourite place to stay in Chengdu, and the beds<br />
and pillows are some of the comfiest in all of <strong>China</strong>. The heated lap pool is one of our<br />
favourite features – perfect after a day seeing Chengdu’s attractions.<br />
Families One child under 12 stays free if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(discounted breakfast payable).<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $117<br />
Emei shan Honzhushan Hotel<br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
From $ 52 pp<br />
Situated at the foot of Emei Shan and close to Baoguo Monastery, Emeishan Honzhushan<br />
Hotel is surrounded by picturesque valleys, mountains and lakes. A series of villas are<br />
connected by a long pathway interspersed with pavilions and bridges.<br />
The rooms are contemporary with a bright, fresh feel, and large windows looking out to<br />
the lush landscape. A highlight is the <strong>Hong</strong>zhu Hot Spring, comprising 14 different pools.<br />
Sporting facilities, a heated swimming pool, sauna and teahouse are other great facilities.<br />
Note: We recommend only building number 5, home to Deluxe and Executive room types, with a choice of mountain<br />
or lake views.<br />
Extra Facilities 277 rooms (in building 5) • internet connection • mini-bar<br />
• 2 bars • nightclub • gym • heated swimming pool • sauna • massage facilities<br />
• table tennis • badminton court • tennis courts • games room • tearoom<br />
• electronic golf • billiards room • 5 restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View The Emeishan Honzhushan Hotel has excellent facilities – everything<br />
you could ask for and more. The hot springs are a great way to end the day, and the<br />
surrounding scenery is amazing.<br />
Families One child under 12 stays free if sharing existing bedding with two adults<br />
(discounted breakfast payable).<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $52<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 29
all-inclusive Coach<br />
Touring<br />
A strong partnership<br />
We are excited to announce our new portfolio of high quality<br />
all-inclusive coach-touring options to <strong>China</strong>, presented in association with<br />
our partner Pacific Delight Tours, a multi-award winning operator with over<br />
39 years experience in the business of coach touring in <strong>China</strong>.<br />
All tours include 4- and 5-star hotel accommodation and 5-star<br />
cruising on the Yangtze, all transport, most meals and comprehensive guided<br />
sightseeing including entrance fees. Our partner’s longstanding relationships in<br />
the region have given them unrivalled buying power – meaning you can enjoy<br />
real luxury at 3-star prices. This style of travel is ideal for those who like to have<br />
every detail of their holiday clearly mapped-out, along with the knowledge that<br />
all the essential costs of the journey have been paid before departing Australia.<br />
SuperValue Deluxe series The tours featured in these pages are a<br />
selection of all-inclusive coach tours chosen from Pacific Delight’s Supervalue<br />
Deluxe range, which blends deluxe tour inclusions with affordable prices.<br />
Pacific Delight Tours <strong>China</strong> SuperValue program makes coach<br />
touring in <strong>China</strong> more accessible and more affordable…than ever.<br />
Well-rounded and thoughtfully designed to include the most enchanting cities<br />
and sites in <strong>China</strong>, tours are escorted or locally guided programs <strong>featuring</strong><br />
4- and 5-star hotels, popular sightseeing, and select dining. Meals include<br />
daily breakfast, plus lunches and dinners as noted. You will dine at some of<br />
<strong>China</strong>’s best restaurants. Select tours include feasts such as delicious Beijing<br />
Duck banquets and tasty dim sum lunches.<br />
Yangtze cruises are aboard the fine ships of American-owned<br />
Victoria Cruises. All cabins are outside-facing with private balcony and<br />
fully-equipped en suite bathrooms. Thoughtful service, a wide range of<br />
onboard amenities, excellent dining and memorable shore excursions are<br />
just some of the highlights.<br />
30 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
YOUR ACCOMMODATION<br />
The Capital Hotel Beijing<br />
★★★★★ Deluxe<br />
Boasting one of the best locations in Beijing, this first class<br />
hotel is situated within walking distance of iconic sites like<br />
Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the fantastic<br />
shopping and lively night market on Wangfujing Street. The<br />
hotel’s Superior Rooms are comfortable and well equipped<br />
with fresh modern décor. Leisure facilities include two bars,<br />
seven restaurants serving a wide variety of Asian and Western<br />
food, a fully-equipped gym, heated indoor swimming pool,<br />
sauna, steam bath, billiards and a bowling alley. A range of<br />
traditional Chinese therapies such as body massage, foot<br />
reflexology and acupuncture are also available.<br />
Grand New World Hotel Xian<br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
The Grand New World Hotel reflects the mix of tradition and<br />
modernity which characterizes the extraordinary city of Xian.<br />
With tastefully decorated guestrooms, international dining<br />
and first class facilities the hotel is an ideal choice for both<br />
business and leisure travellers. Facilities include a coffee shop<br />
serving international dishes, Chinese restaurant, swimming<br />
pool, gym, sauna, beauty salon, shopping arcade and business<br />
centre with internet access.<br />
Hua Ting Hotel & Towers<br />
Shanghai<br />
★★★★★ Deluxe<br />
Located in the bustling Xu Jia Hui business district of<br />
Shanghai, the Hua Ting Hotel & Towers is a fine combination<br />
of luxury and convenience. Guests enjoy the hotel's stylish<br />
accommodation, a range of quality restaurants and bars and<br />
excellent transport links. The hotel's superb leisure and health<br />
facilities include the newly-renovated Clark Hatch Health Club<br />
with gymnasium, swimming pool, sauna, billiards and more.<br />
Guilin Bravo Hotel<br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
The Guilin Bravo Hotel (formerly Holiday lnn Guilin) occupies a<br />
lovely lakeside setting in the centre of Guilin, with quick access<br />
to many of Guilin’s most popular attractions. The Patio Café<br />
offers international and Chinese cuisine throughout the day,<br />
while recreation facilities like the tennis court and gym are<br />
available for the more health conscious. The Guilin Bravo Hotel<br />
is only ten minutes from the night market and the city centre<br />
on the Banyan Lake Park (Ronghu).<br />
Victoria Cruises<br />
★★★★★ Deluxe<br />
Like our Handmade Yangtze Touring, Pacific Delight tours<br />
use the American-owned and managed Victoria Cruises, a<br />
company that boasts the finest fleet of cruise ships on the<br />
Yangtze. All ships have been designed and built to international<br />
standards, a feature which carries through to the standard<br />
of cruise operations. Staff on board (including western cruise<br />
directors, knowledgeable river guides and local crew) are well<br />
trained, with attention to the interests and requirements of<br />
foreign travellers. Much thought has been put into the design<br />
of the cabins and there is a selection of delectable Chinese<br />
and Western dishes and wines from around the world served<br />
in the ships’ bars and restaurants.<br />
Regal Kowloon, <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong><br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
Conveniently located in the commercial and entertainment<br />
district of Tsim Sha Tsui, the Regal Kowloon Hotel is a fine<br />
blend of classic European elegance and Oriental hospitality.<br />
Catering for the needs of the most discerning travellers,<br />
the hotel offers gracefully furnished guestrooms, an array<br />
of excellent food including Italian cuisine, modern grills,<br />
international buffets, delectable desserts and healthy<br />
specialities, as well as stylish spaces to relax over a coffee or<br />
cocktail and enjoy some live entertainment.<br />
I 31
Classic <strong>China</strong><br />
The middle kingdom<br />
Beijing – Xian – Guilin – Shanghai<br />
Classic <strong>China</strong> -<br />
The Middle Kingdom<br />
11 Days<br />
From $ 1983 pp<br />
Follow in the footsteps of ancient emperors on a journey<br />
through <strong>China</strong>’s imperial cities before heading south to the<br />
breathtaking landscapes of Guilin and Yangshuo.<br />
Highlights<br />
Visit the Great Wall of <strong>China</strong><br />
Discover the sites of Beijing, including the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square<br />
See the Terracotta Warriors in Xian<br />
Enjoy a Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo<br />
Explore Shanghai, ‘The Pearl of the Orient’<br />
YOUR ACCOMMODATION<br />
BEIJING. The Capital Hotel. 3 nights<br />
XIAN. Grand New World Hotel. 2 nights<br />
GUILIN. Bravo Hotel. 2 nights<br />
SHANGHAI. Hua Ting Hotel. 3 nights<br />
YOUR MEALS<br />
Full American or buffet breakfast daily at hotels<br />
Choice of Western or Chinese cuisine at select meals<br />
Regional culinary specialties such as Beijing Duck Dinner<br />
per person<br />
Twin Share<br />
per person<br />
Single<br />
Land only 19 Mar 10 - 29 Mar 10 $1983 $2744<br />
Flight inclusive with Air <strong>China</strong> 19 Mar 10 - 29 Mar 10 $3088 $3850<br />
Flight inclusive with Singapore Airlines 19 Mar 10 - 29 Mar 10 $3396 $4157<br />
• Tour departs Beijing on selected Fridays from Mar 2010 to March 2011. Contact us for full departure date and<br />
price details.<br />
• Flight inclusive price above with Air <strong>China</strong> is based on departures ex Sydney and Melbourne. Please contact us<br />
for prices ex Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra and Hobart. Price includes airline fuel surcharges and taxes of $223<br />
(as at 2 Dec 09, subject to change). Prices do not include pre- or post-tour accommodation, if required<br />
• Flight inclusive price above with Singapore Airlines is based on departures ex Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide,<br />
Brisbane and Perth. Price includes airline fuel surcharges and taxes of $493 (as at 2 Dec 09, subject to change).<br />
Prices do not include pre- or post-tour accommodation, or arrangements in Singapore, if required.<br />
• Land only price does not include arrival and departure airport transfers on days 1 and 11.<br />
Inclusions<br />
Experienced English speaking guides throughout <strong>China</strong><br />
Comprehensive sightseeing as specified including entrance fees<br />
10 nights in 4- and 5-star hotels<br />
10 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 8 dinners as specified (B – breakfast, L – lunch, D – Dinner)<br />
Arrival and departure airport transfers when international flights between Australia and<br />
<strong>China</strong> are purchased through Travel Indochina<br />
All road transport by comfortable air conditioned coach<br />
Domestic flights as specified<br />
Baggage handling, hotel taxes and service fees<br />
32 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Day 1. Arrive Beijing<br />
Arrival at Beijing International Airport, where you will be met<br />
and transferred to your luxury hotel.<br />
Day 2. Beijing<br />
This morning, see the vast Tiananmen Square and the<br />
extravagant Ming-era Imperial Palace in the Forbidden City,<br />
including the jewellery section. After lunch, visit the elegant<br />
Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with the<br />
largest imperial garden in the world. The grounds include<br />
over 3,000 structures with a variety of pavilions, towers<br />
and arched bridges surrounding Lake Kunming. Weather<br />
permitting, you will take a short boat ride on the lake before<br />
returning to the city for a special Beijing Duck dinner. (B,L,D)<br />
Day 3. Beijing<br />
Today experience one of this tour’s main highlights as you<br />
visit the renowned Great Wall. On the way, if traffic allows,<br />
stop to photograph the iconic ‘Bird’s Nest’, the Beijing<br />
National Stadium, host to many spectacular events of the<br />
2008 Summer Olympics. Then arrive at the amazing Great<br />
Wall and walk along its ancient ramparts, as emperors once<br />
did. After lunch, visit a cloisonné factory and observe the<br />
skilled artisans at work creating intricate designs. The rest of<br />
the afternoon is at leisure to shop and explore on your own.<br />
(B,L,D)<br />
Day 4. Beijing to Xian<br />
Your final morning in Beijing is free to relax and explore.<br />
Perhaps shop for local bargains or just stroll the streets<br />
soaking up the atmosphere. Then fly to historic Xian,<br />
former capital of <strong>China</strong>. (B,D)<br />
Day 5. Xian<br />
A memorable day of sightseeing begins as you view<br />
remnants of <strong>China</strong>’s ancient past: the astounding legion<br />
of life-sized Terracotta Warriors, buried with the emperor<br />
for over 2,200 years. You will also see the famous Bronze<br />
Chariot and an interesting circle vision film about the history<br />
of the Army of the Terracotta Warriors. Return to Xian via its<br />
impressive and well preserved ancient City Wall. (B,L,D)<br />
Day 6. Xian to Guilin<br />
Today’s flight takes you to Guilin, set amid a valley of<br />
dramatic peaks that have inspired artists through the<br />
centuries. This afternoon a tour of local sights takes you<br />
to intriguing Reed Flute Cave and Fu Bo Hill’s dramatic<br />
rock formations. (B,D)<br />
Day 7. Guilin<br />
Enjoy a memorable cruise along the Li River, with lunch<br />
served aboard ship. Sit back and absorb the haunting beauty<br />
of Guilin’s misty peaks surrounding the river en route to<br />
Yangshuo. (B,L,D)<br />
Day 8. Guilin to Shanghai<br />
This morning is at leisure in Guilin. Later, fly to exciting<br />
Shanghai, ‘pearl of the Orient’ and <strong>China</strong>’s centre of<br />
commerce. The rest of the day is free to explore this city of<br />
contrasts: admire the futuristic skyline, take a stroll among<br />
the colonial architecture of the Bund or seek out a bargain in<br />
the local markets. (B,D)<br />
Day 9. Shanghai<br />
Start the day with a guided discovery tour of Shanghai’s<br />
highlights: the Shanghai Museum including an audio tour<br />
describing the special features of the museum’s permanent<br />
collections; Children’s Palace or the Urban Planning<br />
Centre; Yu Garden and the Old Town; the city’s colonial<br />
European past at The Bund; the modern Xintiandi; and a<br />
renowned Shanghai carpet factory. Lunch and dinner at<br />
local restaurants. (B,L,D)<br />
Day 10. Shanghai<br />
A free day to explore and enjoy Shanghai on your own. (B)<br />
Day 11. Depart Shanghai<br />
After breakfast, bid farewell to <strong>China</strong> as you fly home. (B)<br />
Extend your Journey<br />
From Shanghai, it’s just a short flight to the stunning<br />
mountain scenery and fascinating minority cultures of<br />
Yunnan Province.<br />
See pages 26-27 of this brochure to find out more about<br />
the experiences on offer in this wonderful corner of<br />
<strong>China</strong> such as our 5 night ‘Mountains and Monasteries of<br />
Yunnan’ tour or spoil yourself with a relaxing stay at the<br />
Bayan Tree Lijiang or the Banyan Tree Lingha, offering and<br />
idyllic combination of modern luxury and traditional style.<br />
Call us for more details.<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 33
Ancient <strong>China</strong><br />
and The Yangtze<br />
Shanghai – Yangtze Cruise – Xian – Beijing<br />
Ancient <strong>China</strong><br />
and The Yangtze<br />
12 Days<br />
From $ 2135 pp<br />
A journey which combines the very best of ancient <strong>China</strong>’s<br />
Middle Kingdom with a relaxing, luxurious cruise among the dramatic<br />
scenery of the mighty Yangtze River and the famous Three Gorges.<br />
Highlights<br />
Explore Shanghai, ‘The Pearl of the Orient’<br />
Cruise the Yangtze on the luxurious Victoria Empress<br />
See the Giant Pandas at Chongqing Zoo<br />
Marvel at the Terracotta Warriors in Xian<br />
Visit the Great Wall of <strong>China</strong><br />
Explore the sites of Beijing, including the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square<br />
On board the Yangtze<br />
Enjoy small group excursions, traditional performances and entertainment,<br />
Tai Chi lessons, educational lectures, captain’s cocktail party and farewell banquet<br />
Why not treat yourself to an extra touch of luxury with an upgrade to a Suite on<br />
the Victoria Empress? Contact us for details and prices.<br />
YOUR ACCOMMODATION<br />
SHANGHAI. Hua Ting Hotel. 2 nights<br />
YANGTZE CRUISE. Victoria Empress. 4 nights (outside cabin with balcony<br />
XIAN. Grand New World Hotel. 2 nights<br />
BEIJING. The Capital Hotel. 3 nights<br />
YOUR MEALS<br />
Full American or buffet breakfast daily at hotels<br />
Choice of Western or Chinese cuisine at select meals<br />
Regional culinary specialties such as Beijing Duck Dinner<br />
per person<br />
Twin Share<br />
per person<br />
Single<br />
Land only 20 Mar 10 - 31 Mar 10 $2135 $3202<br />
Flight inclusive with Air <strong>China</strong> 20 Mar 10 - 31 Mar 10 $3241 $4308<br />
Flight inclusive with Singapore Airlines 20 Mar 10 - 31 Mar 10 $3548 $4615<br />
• Tour departs Beijing on selected Fridays from Mar 2010 to March 2011. Contact us for full departure date and<br />
price details.<br />
• Flight inclusive price above with Air <strong>China</strong> is based on departures ex Sydney and Melbourne. Please contact us<br />
for prices ex Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra and Hobart. Price includes airline fuel surcharges and taxes of $223<br />
(as at 2 Dec 09, subject to change). Prices do not include pre- or post-tour accommodation, if required<br />
• Flight inclusive price above with Singapore Airlines is based on departures ex Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide,<br />
Brisbane and Perth. Price includes airline fuel surcharges and taxes of $493 (as at 2 Dec 09, subject to change).<br />
Prices do not include pre- or post-tour accommodation, or arrangements in Singapore, if required.<br />
• Land only price does not include arrival and departure airport transfers on days 1 and 12.<br />
Inclusions<br />
Experienced English speaking guides throughout <strong>China</strong><br />
Comprehensive sightseeing as specified including entrance fees<br />
7 nights in 4- and 5-star hotels<br />
4 nights on Victoria Cruises Five-Star Yangtze River Cruise ship with private balcony,<br />
full meal service offering fine cuisine<br />
11 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 10 dinners as specified (B – breakfast, L – lunch, D – Dinner)<br />
Arrival and departure airport transfers when international flights between Australia and<br />
<strong>China</strong> are purchased through Travel Indochina<br />
All road transport by comfortable air conditioned coach<br />
Domestic flights as specified<br />
Baggage handling, hotel taxes and service fees<br />
34 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Day 1. Arrive Shanghai<br />
Your <strong>China</strong> experience will begin in Shanghai, the Middle<br />
Kingdom’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. You will be<br />
met on arrival at the airport and transferred to your 5-star<br />
accommodation. Spend the rest of the day relaxing and<br />
settling in to your surrounds.<br />
Day 2. Shanghai<br />
Today enjoy a guided discovery tour of Shanghai’s highlights:<br />
the Shanghai Museum including an audio tour describing<br />
the special features of the museum’s permanent collections;<br />
Children’s Palace or the Urban Planning Centre; Yu Garden<br />
and the Old Town; the city’s colonial European past at The<br />
Bund; the modern Xintiandi; and a renowned Shanghai carpet<br />
factory. (B,L,D)<br />
Day 3. Shanghai to Yichang<br />
The morning is at leisure to continue your explorations of<br />
Shanghai, or simply relax. Later fly to Yichang*, where you<br />
board a 5-star Victoria Cruises ship to begin your memorable<br />
up stream cruise. (B,D)<br />
*Note: If direct flight is not available, fly to Wuhan and travel by motorcoach<br />
on to Yichang.<br />
Day 4. Yangtze Cruise. San Dou Ping &<br />
Xiling Gorge<br />
Stop at the village of San Dou Ping to see the amazing Three<br />
Gorges Dam, the largest hydroelectric project in the world.<br />
Return to your ship and cruise upriver through the massive<br />
Three Gorges ship locks. Once past the dam, pass through<br />
scenic Xiling Gorge, longest of the famed Three Gorges.<br />
(B,L,D)<br />
Day 5. Yangtze Cruise. Wu Gorge - Small<br />
Gorges Excursion - Qutang Gorge<br />
This morning, marvel at Wu Gorge’s deep valley. At Wushan,<br />
a cruiser takes you for an amazing excursion up the scenic<br />
Daning River’s renowned ‘Small Gorges’ – Dragon Gate,<br />
Misty or Emerald. Continue by sampan to the picturesque<br />
mini-gorges of the Ma Du River with its clear, swift running<br />
water, unusual rock formations, and monkeys and goats<br />
along the banks. Depending on the water level and river<br />
conditions of the Yangtze River, your excursion may be on<br />
Shennong Stream with its equally spectacular small gorges.<br />
Depart Wushan, passing through dramatic Qutang Gorge,<br />
with steep mossy cliffs that crowd the sky. (B,L,D)<br />
Day 6. Yangtze Cruise. Fengdu<br />
A shore excursion at Fengdu* shows the unique temples at<br />
Mingshan Hill, filled with statues of ghosts and devils. (B,L,D)<br />
*Due to local conditions a shore excursion to visit Wanzhou may<br />
be substituted.<br />
Day 7. Chongqing to Xian<br />
Disembark in Chongqing and take the time to visit the<br />
Chongqing Zoo, renowned for its giant and red panda<br />
enclosures. Later transfer to the airport for your flight to<br />
historic Xian. (B,D)<br />
Day 8. Xian<br />
A memorable day of sightseeing begins as you see remnants<br />
of <strong>China</strong>’s ancient past: the astounding legion of life-sized<br />
Terracotta Warriors, buried with the emperor for over 2,200<br />
years. You will also see the famous Bronze Chariot and an<br />
interesting circle vision film about the history of the Army of<br />
the Terracotta Warriors. Return to Xian via its impressive and<br />
well preserved ancient City Wall. (B,L,D)<br />
Day 9. Xian to Beijing<br />
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for flight to <strong>China</strong>’s<br />
illustrious capital, Beijing. Tonight, attend a Beijing Duck<br />
dinner. (B,D)<br />
Day 10. Beijing<br />
This morning, see the vast Tiananmen Square and the<br />
extravagant Ming-era Imperial Palace in the Forbidden City,<br />
including the jewellery section. After lunch, visit the elegant<br />
Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, with<br />
the largest imperial garden in the world. The grounds include<br />
over 3,000 structures with a variety of pavilions, towers and<br />
arched bridges surrounding Lake Kunming. Enjoy a boat ride<br />
on the lake if weather permits. (B,L,D)<br />
Day 11. Beijing<br />
Today experience one of this journey’s major highlights<br />
as you visit the renowned Great Wall. On the way, if traffic<br />
allows, stop to photograph the iconic ‘Bird’s Nest’, the Beijing<br />
National Stadium, host to many spectacular events of the<br />
2008 Summer Olympics. Then arrive at the incredible Great<br />
Wall and walk along its ancient ramparts as emperors once<br />
did. After lunch, visit a cloisonné factory and observe the<br />
skilled artisans at work creating intricate designs. The rest of<br />
the afternoon is at leisure to shop and explore on your own.<br />
(B,L,D)<br />
Day 12. Depart Beijing<br />
After breakfast, bid farewell to <strong>China</strong> as you fly home. (B)<br />
Extend your Journey<br />
If you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines, why not<br />
stopover on the way home to take advantage of<br />
Singapore’s fabulous shopping and see some of the city’s<br />
interesting sites? Then, after a busy day, relax with a<br />
Singapore Sling at the famous Raffles Hotel’s Long Bar!<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 35
Wonders of <strong>China</strong><br />
and The Yangtze<br />
Beijing – Shanghai – Yangtze Cruise – Xian – Guilin – <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong><br />
Wonders of <strong>China</strong><br />
and The Yangtze<br />
17 Days<br />
From $ 3509 pp<br />
An enthralling journey which encompasses the iconic sites of<br />
<strong>China</strong>’s imperial cities, the magical landscapes of Guilin and the<br />
bright lights and excitement of Shanghai and <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>!<br />
Highlights<br />
Visit the Great Wall of <strong>China</strong><br />
Discover the sites of Beijing, including the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square<br />
Explore Shanghai, ‘The Pearl of the Orient’<br />
Cruise the Yangtze on the luxurious Victoria Queen<br />
See the Giant Pandas at Chongqing Zoo<br />
Marvel at the Terracotta Warriors in Xian<br />
On board the Yangtze<br />
Enjoy small group excursions, traditional performances and entertainment,<br />
Tai Chi lessons, educational lectures, captain’s cocktail party and farewell banquet<br />
Why not treat yourself to an extra touch of luxury with an upgrade to a Suite<br />
on the Victoria Queen? Contact us for details and prices.<br />
YOUR ACCOMMODATION<br />
Beijing. The Capital Hotel. 3 nights<br />
Shanghai. Hua Ting Hotel. 2 nights<br />
Yangtze. Victoria Queen. 4 nights (outside cabin with balcony)<br />
Xian. Grand New World Hotel. 2 nights<br />
Guilin. Bravo Hotel. 2 nights<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>. Regal Kowloon. 3 nights<br />
YOUR MEALS<br />
Full American or buffet breakfast daily at hotels<br />
Choice of Western or Chinese cuisine at select meals<br />
Regional culinary specialties such as Beijing Duck Dinner<br />
per person<br />
Twin Share<br />
per person<br />
Single<br />
Land only 20 Mar 10 - 5 Apr 10 $3509 $5186<br />
Flight inclusive with Air <strong>China</strong> 20 Mar 10 - 5 Apr 10 $4887 $6565<br />
Flight inclusive with Singapore Airlines 20 Mar 10 - 5 Apr 10 $4953 $6630<br />
• Tour departs Beijing on selected Saturdays from Mar 2010 to March 2011. Contact us for full departure date<br />
and price details.<br />
• Flight inclusive price above with Air <strong>China</strong> is based on departures ex Sydney and Melbourne. Please contact us<br />
for prices ex Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra and Hobart. Price includes airline fuel surcharges and taxes of $223<br />
(as at 2 Dec 09, subject to change). Prices do not include pre- or post-tour accommodation, if required<br />
• Flight inclusive price above with Singapore Airlines is based on departures ex Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide,<br />
Brisbane and Perth. Price includes airline fuel surcharges and taxes of $493 (as at 2 Dec 09, subject to change).<br />
Prices do not include pre- or post-tour accommodation, or arrangements in Singapore, if required.<br />
• Land only price does not include arrival and departure airport transfers on days 1 and 17.<br />
Inclusions<br />
Experienced English speaking guides throughout <strong>China</strong><br />
Comprehensive sightseeing as specified including entrance fees<br />
12 nights in 4- and 5-star hotels<br />
4 nights on Victoria Cruises Five-Star Yangtze River Cruise ship with private balcony,<br />
full meal service offering fine cuisine<br />
16 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 11 dinners as specified (B – breakfast, L – lunch, D – Dinner)<br />
Arrival and departure airport transfers when international flights between Australia and<br />
<strong>China</strong> are purchased through Travel Indochina<br />
All road transport by comfortable air conditioned coach<br />
Domestic flights as specified<br />
Baggage handling, hotel taxes and service fees<br />
36 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Day 1. Arrive Beijing<br />
Your tour begins in the Middle Kingdom’s dynamic capital,<br />
Beijing. Upon your arrival at the Beijing International Airport<br />
you will be met and transferred to your luxury hotel. The rest<br />
of the day is at leisure.<br />
Day 2. Beijing<br />
This morning, see the vast Tiananmen Square and the<br />
extravagant Ming-era Imperial Palace in the Forbidden City,<br />
including the jewellery section. After lunch, visit the elegant<br />
Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, with<br />
the largest imperial garden in the world. The grounds include<br />
over 3,000 structures with a variety of pavilions, towers and<br />
arched bridges surrounding Lake Kunming. Enjoy a boat ride<br />
on the lake if weather permits. (B,L,D)<br />
Day 3. Beijing<br />
Today you will visit one of <strong>China</strong>’s greatest treasures - the<br />
renowned Great Wall. On the way, if traffic allows, stop to<br />
photograph the iconic ‘Bird’s Nest’, the Beijing National<br />
Stadium, host to many spectacular events of the 2008<br />
Summer Olympics. Then arrive at the amazing Great Wall<br />
and walk along its ancient ramparts as emperors once<br />
did. After lunch, visit a cloisonné factory and observe the<br />
skilled artisans at work creating intricate designs. The<br />
rest of the afternoon is at leisure to shop and explore on<br />
your own. (B,L,D)<br />
Day 4. Beijing to Shanghai<br />
In the late morning fly to Shanghai. Transfer to your 5-star<br />
hotel and check in, spending the rest of the day at leisure. (B)<br />
Day 5. Shanghai<br />
Today enjoy a guided discovery tour of Shanghai’s highlights:<br />
the Shanghai Museum including an audio tour describing<br />
the special features of the museum’s permanent collections;<br />
Children’s Palace or the Urban Planning Centre; Yu Garden<br />
and the Old Town; the city’s colonial European past at The<br />
Bund; the modern Xintiandi; and a renowned Shanghai carpet<br />
factory. (B,L,D)<br />
Day 6. Shanghai to Yichang<br />
The morning is at leisure to continue your explorations of<br />
Shanghai, or simply relax. Later fly to Yichang*, where you<br />
board a 5-star Victoria Cruises ship to begin your memorable<br />
up stream cruise. (B,D)<br />
*If direct flight is not available, fly to Wuhan and travel by coach<br />
on to Yichang.<br />
Day 7. Yangtze Cruise. San Dou Ping -<br />
Xiling Gorge<br />
Stop at the village of San Dou Ping to see the amazing Three<br />
Gorges Dam, the largest hydroelectric project in the world.<br />
Return to your ship and cruise upriver through the massive<br />
Three Gorges ship locks. Once past the dam, pass through<br />
scenic Xiling Gorge, longest of the famed Three Gorges.<br />
(B,L,D)<br />
Day 8. Yangtze Cruise. Wu Gorge - Small<br />
Gorges Excursion - Qutang Gorge<br />
This morning, marvel at Wu Gorge’s deep valley. At Wushan,<br />
a cruiser takes you for an amazing excursion up the scenic<br />
Daning River’s renowned Small Gorges – Dragon Gate, Misty<br />
or Emerald. Continue by sampan to the picturesque minigorges<br />
of the Ma Du River with its clear, swift running water,<br />
unusual rock formations, and monkeys and goats along the<br />
banks. Depending on the water level and river conditions<br />
of the Yangtze River, your excursion may be on Shennong<br />
Stream with its equally spectacular small gorges. Depart<br />
Wushan, passing through dramatic Qutang Gorge, with steep<br />
mossy cliffs that crowd the sky. (B,L,D)<br />
Day 9. Yangtze Cruise. Fengdu*<br />
A shore excursion at Fengdu shows the unique temples at<br />
Mingshan Hill, filled with statues of ghosts and devils. (B,L,D)<br />
*Due to local conditions a shore excursion to visit Wanzhou may<br />
be substituted.<br />
Day 10. Chongqing to Xian<br />
Disembark in Chongqing and take the time to visit the<br />
Chongqing Zoo, renowned for its giant and red panda<br />
enclosures. Later transfer to the airport for your flight to<br />
historic Xian. (B,D)<br />
Day 11. Xian<br />
A memorable day of sightseeing begins as you see remnants<br />
of <strong>China</strong>’s ancient past: the astounding legion of life-sized<br />
Terracotta Warriors, buried with the emperor for over 2,200<br />
years. You will also see the famous Bronze Chariot and an<br />
interesting circle vision film about the history of the Army of<br />
the Terracotta Warriors. Return to Xian via its impressive and<br />
well preserved ancient City Wall. (B,L,D)<br />
Day 12. Xian to Guilin<br />
Today’s flight takes you to Guilin, set amid a valley of<br />
dramatic peaks that have inspired artists through the<br />
centuries. This afternoon a tour of local sights takes you<br />
to intriguing Reed Flute Cave and Fu Bo Hill’s dramatic<br />
rock formations. (B,D)<br />
Day 13. Guilin<br />
Today enjoy a memorable cruise along the Li River, with<br />
lunch served aboard ship. Sit back and absorb the haunting<br />
beauty of Guilin’s misty peaks surrounding the river en route<br />
to Yangshuo. (B,L,D)<br />
Day 14. Guilin/<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong><br />
Enjoy a morning at leisure in Guilin before boarding your flight<br />
to vibrant <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>. Transfer to your hotel on arrival. (B)<br />
Day 15. <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong><br />
Get to know exciting <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> on a city tour. Discover<br />
Stanley Market, Repulse Bay and Aberdeen’s floating<br />
community. Ascend Victoria Peak for panoramic views of the<br />
city and its harbour. (B)<br />
Day 16. <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong><br />
Enjoy a free day to shop and explore <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> on your own.<br />
Search for bargains in the markets of Kowloon or take a ferry<br />
ride across the harbour. You may wish to join an optional<br />
tour. (B)<br />
Day 17. Depart <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong><br />
After breakfast, bid farewell to <strong>China</strong> as you fly home. (B)<br />
Extend your Journey<br />
From <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> all of Asia is at your fingertips.<br />
Fancy a few days at the incredible ancient city of Angkor?<br />
Or seeing the glittering temples and morning procession<br />
of a thousand monks in Luang Prabang? Or stopping in<br />
Saigon for a steaming bowl of noodle soup? All are just a<br />
short flight away. We can organise all this and more.<br />
Ask one of our experts.<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 37
T<strong>ibet</strong><br />
Handmade from local knowledge. Handpicked by us.<br />
T<strong>ibet</strong>, the rooftop of the world, has long fascinated travellers. The wild and beautiful high-altitude<br />
scenery of snowcapped mountains, yak-dotted plains, turquoise lakes and deep valleys is like<br />
nowhere else in the world. Add to this the charming and inspiring T<strong>ibet</strong>an people and their<br />
unique and spiritual culture, and it’s easy to see why T<strong>ibet</strong> is considered one of Asia’s most<br />
remarkable destinations.<br />
Money<br />
As in other regions of <strong>China</strong>, the local currency in T<strong>ibet</strong> is the Renminbi (RMB), known<br />
colloquially as the Yuan. At the time of writing the Australian Dollar (AUD) is equivalent to<br />
5.9RMB. It is possible to change AUD at major hotels in Lhasa. Outside of Lhasa money<br />
changing, ATM and credit card facilities are extremely limited.<br />
Passports, Visas and Permits<br />
As T<strong>ibet</strong> is a part of <strong>China</strong>, the normal <strong>China</strong> tourist visa applies for T<strong>ibet</strong>. In addition to the <strong>China</strong><br />
tourist visa, a travel permit is also required, and organised as part of your touring arrangements<br />
with Travel Indochina. You will, however, need to arrange a <strong>China</strong> visa in advance of arrival into<br />
<strong>China</strong>, with a copy of this visa being faxed to the Travel Indochina office for the necessary T<strong>ibet</strong><br />
permit application to be processed. It is recommended you allow a minimum of ten working days<br />
for processing, in addition to the time it takes to obtain your visa for <strong>China</strong>.<br />
Health & Vaccinations<br />
Travellers to T<strong>ibet</strong> should take the same precautions they would elsewhere in Asia. Western<br />
medical facilities are basic and very limited in remote areas of T<strong>ibet</strong>. As T<strong>ibet</strong> is at a high altitude,<br />
travellers are likely to experience some form of altitude sickness (breathlessness, dizziness,<br />
headaches, loss of appetite or difficulty sleeping). The touring itineraries that follow all factor in<br />
extra time to allow your body to adjust to this change; however, travellers tend to be affected in<br />
different ways. Vaccinations are strongly recommended prior to travelling in T<strong>ibet</strong>. Please consult<br />
your doctor for more information on vaccinations.<br />
Safety & Security<br />
T<strong>ibet</strong> is generally a safe destination; however, petty street crime is on the rise as tourist numbers<br />
increase. We recommend you wear as little jewellery as possible and make sure your spending<br />
money is kept in a secure place close to your body.<br />
Communications<br />
International phone and fax facilities are available in Lhasa, although they can be expensive.<br />
Climate<br />
The high altitude in T<strong>ibet</strong> causes climatic extremes. The country has an average altitude of<br />
4,000 metres, so some visitors might experience altitude sickness in higher areas. The weather<br />
is very changeable and it is not uncommon to experience four seasons in one day. Highs in the<br />
summer (June to August) reach 20 or 21 degrees Celsius, while the winter months can see the<br />
temperatures plummeting below -10 degrees Celsius with fierce winds. The best time to visit<br />
is between May and November, although it is possible to experience rain in July and August.<br />
Between December and February travel is restricted to Lhasa and low-lying areas, although even<br />
here temperatures may fall well below -10 degrees Celsius at night.<br />
Average Minimum/Maximum Temperatures in Celsius<br />
JAN APR JUL OCT<br />
Lhasa -10°–8° 1°–17° 9°–22° 11°–17°<br />
“T<strong>ibet</strong> offers one of the most unique and spiritual experiences imaginable.<br />
Not only is the scenery amongst the most spectacular in the world, but its rich<br />
culture and history and the air of mystery surrounding this land leaves an<br />
indelible imprint on your soul. For anyone seeking a true ‘old fashioned’ adventure<br />
you can’t go past T<strong>ibet</strong>!”<br />
Claudia Wolf – NSW Business Development Manager<br />
38 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Spirit of T<strong>ibet</strong><br />
Handmade from local knowledge. Handpicked by us.<br />
Lhasa<br />
Lhasa City Stay<br />
5 days/4 nights. Departing Lhasa. daily<br />
Grading: Moderate to Adventurous<br />
From $ 1007 pp<br />
Modern Lhasa shares many similarities with other Chinese cities, yet retains a distinctly<br />
T<strong>ibet</strong>an character. Your T<strong>ibet</strong>an guide will share unique insights into the region’s struggles<br />
and triumphs, culture and traditions.<br />
Set in a marshy valley dotted by surrounding mountain peaks Lhasa is one of the highest<br />
cities in the world. On arrival meet your T<strong>ibet</strong>an local guide and drive into Lhasa. Take the<br />
time to adjust to the altitude before losing yourself in the magic and mystery of the city.<br />
Visit the Jokhang Temple, the most important structure in all of T<strong>ibet</strong>, explore the T<strong>ibet</strong>an<br />
Quarter and walk the Barkhor Prayer Circuit, known as kora. At Sera Monastery watch the<br />
debating monks, and take a short drive to hilltop Pawang Ka. In the following days visit<br />
historic Dreprung Monastery, share stories with a local family over a cup of yak butter tea,<br />
visit a nunnery and the Muslim Quarter and explore the iconic Potala Palace. You’ll also visit<br />
Chagpo Ri, a sacred pilgrimage site and the T<strong>ibet</strong> Museum before transferring to the airport<br />
or train station for your onward journey.<br />
Inclusions 4 nights accommodation with breakfast daily • private touring<br />
• all transport • entrance fees • local English-speaking T<strong>ibet</strong>an guide • private arrival and<br />
departure transfers<br />
Note: The order of Lhasa touring is subject to change depending on prearranged appointment times for<br />
Potala Palace.<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $1007<br />
T<strong>ibet</strong> Explorer<br />
9 days/8 nights. Departing Lhasa. daily<br />
From $ 1776 pp<br />
Get off the beaten path to explore the real T<strong>ibet</strong> on this exciting and authentic adventure.<br />
After arriving in Lhasa, spend the day relaxing and adjusting to the altitude. Over the next<br />
few days explore this magical city. Witness the constant stream of pilgrims in kora, or prayer<br />
circuit, at Jokhang Temple, drive to Pawang Ka, a hilltop temple with incredible views, and<br />
explore the iconic Potala Palace with its myriad hallways, chambers and stupas. From here<br />
drive to Yamdrok-tso, a stunning turquoise lake flanked by mountains, stopping at a local<br />
family home to share stories over a cup of yak butter tea. In Shigatse, T<strong>ibet</strong>’s second largest<br />
town, see the impressive Tashilunpo Monastery and enjoy a walking tour through the Old<br />
Quarter to the T<strong>ibet</strong>an markets. Head to Gyantse to see the Kumbum, a giant stupa dating<br />
back to the 15th century then take a spectacular drive through the Yarlung Valley to the<br />
beautiful region of Tsedang. Join local pilgrims on a ferry ride to Samye Monastery, T<strong>ibet</strong>’s<br />
first. The next day ransfer to Lhasa’s Gongkar Airport or train station where your tour ends.<br />
Inclusions 8 nights accommodation with breakfast daily • private touring<br />
• all transport • entrance fees • local English-speaking T<strong>ibet</strong>an guides<br />
• private arrival and departure transfers<br />
Note: The order of Lhasa touring is subject to change depending on prearranged appointment times for<br />
Potala Palace.<br />
Grading: Adventurous<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 10 $1776<br />
Sky Train to Xining<br />
Departing Lhasa. daily<br />
From $ 286 pp<br />
The Qinghai-T<strong>ibet</strong> Railway, also known as the Sky Train, is 1,956 kilometre railway<br />
linking Lhasa with Xining.<br />
This scenic, once-in-a-lifetime experience includes a crossing of the 5,000 metre high<br />
Tanggula Pass, making this the world’s highest rail journey. This adventurous journey<br />
affords incredible views of one of the world’s most spectacular regions.<br />
Accommodation is in soft sleeper, four-berth shared compartments, and the journey can<br />
be taken from Lhasa to Xining (at a duration of 24 hours; recommended) or even further<br />
to Xian or Beijing (with 36 or 48 hours travel time respectively).<br />
Contact us for touring options in Xining post your Sky Train journey.<br />
Note: This train can only be booked for journeys from Lhasa, not to Lhasa.<br />
Although the train operates year-round, travel is not recommended in the extremely<br />
cold winter months (December to March).<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Jan 10 - 31 Mar 11 $286<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 39
The Legendary Silk Road<br />
<strong>China</strong>’s Silk Road is the stuff of legends. Experience the rich convergence of cultures and religions as you travel one of the world’s great<br />
trade routes on this incredible journey. From Xian – the famous gateway to the Silk Road – to the oasis town of Turpan and fabled Kashgar,<br />
explore lively local markets, experience diverse cultures and witness stunning landscapes. When you travel with us, expect special touches such<br />
as a visit a Uygher home in Turpan, a camel ride among sand dunes near Dunhuang, and a guided tour through the backstreets of Kashgar.<br />
Turpan<br />
Kashgar<br />
Xian<br />
The Legendary Silk Road 13 DAYS/12 NIGHTS<br />
LANZHOU - JIAYUGUAN - DUNHUANG - TURPAN - KASHGAR - URUMQI. Departs Thursdays from Xian<br />
From $ 3597<br />
Days 1–4. LANZHOU, OVERNIGHT TRAIN & JIAYUGUAN<br />
Transfer to Xian railway station to board the overnight sleeper train. Nestled in a narrow<br />
valley, Lanzhou was once a major transport hub and garrison on the Silk Road. Wander along<br />
the banks of the Yellow River and climb the peak of White Pagoda Hill for incredible views<br />
of the city below. Tonight you might like to try some delicious noodle soup. Take a boat ride<br />
to Bingling Si Caves before boarding an overnight train to Jiayuguan. Here, the vast desert<br />
is flanked by snowcapped peaks, making for a stunning contrast. Visit an ancient frontier<br />
fortress, climb a remote part of the Great Wall, and visit the Great Wall Museum.<br />
Days 5–8. DUNHUANG & TURPAN<br />
Travel by road to the oasis town of Dunhuang, the ideal location for a camel ride and perhaps<br />
some tobogganing in the nearby sand dunes. Visit Mogao Caves, birthplace of Chinese<br />
Buddhism and setting for some ancient Buddhist cave art before taking an overnight train to<br />
Turpan, home to the striking Emin Minaret. Enjoy lunch with a Uygher family, explore a local<br />
vineyard and visit the colourful local bazaar.<br />
Days 9–13. URUMQI & KASHGAR<br />
We drive to Urumqi, where we visit the fascinating Xinjiang Provincial Museum and bustling<br />
local market before boarding our flight to Kashgar. This fascinating frontier town is still an<br />
important hub for traders throughout Central Asia. Experience the clamour and excitement of<br />
the Sunday Bazaar, visit the Id Kah Mosque and step back in time on a walking tour through<br />
the city’s backstreets. Back in Urumqi, take a side trip to the beautiful Heavenly Lake. Set<br />
against the spectacular ice-capped Tianshan Mountain Range, the area is dotted with<br />
traditional yurts inhabited by Kazak people. Your Silk Road experience ends with a farewell<br />
dinner then an airport transfer on day 13.<br />
Want more? There are good regular flight connections between Urumqi, the finishing point<br />
of this tour, and other cities in <strong>China</strong>. For the ultimate in contrasts, why not extend your stay<br />
with a visit to the vibrant metropolis of Shanghai?<br />
Note: Variations on the above itinerary can also be arranged.<br />
Please contact us to discuss the range of options available.<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
01 Apr 10 - 30 Sep 10 $3597<br />
Grading: Adventurous<br />
40 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong><br />
Handmade from local knowledge. Handpicked by us.<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>, the cosmopolitan gateway to Southern <strong>China</strong>, has a well-earned reputation as a<br />
shopping mecca. But there’s much more to <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> than retail therapy; make sure to allow<br />
enough time to ride the famous Star Ferry and admire the panoramic views of <strong>China</strong>’s mainland<br />
from Victoria Peak. Explore Stanley’s seaside sights and Central’s antique district, stroll through<br />
Kowloon’s backstreets and nibble on the local delicacy, dim sum (yum cha). Families (or the<br />
young at heart), be sure to enjoy <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>’s Disneyland, or if you want to experience Portugal’s<br />
colonial-era history take the JetCat ferry to Macau. With such an amazing array of experiences<br />
on offer, every traveller will be captivated by <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>.<br />
Money<br />
Although <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> is a part of the People’s Republic of <strong>China</strong>, the territory has retained its<br />
own currency, the <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> Dollar (HKD). At the time of writing the Australian Dollar (AUD)<br />
is equivalent to $6.5HKD. Money changing facilities and ATMs are widely available, and major<br />
credit cards are accepted in most restaurants and shops.<br />
Passports & Visas<br />
Travellers on an Australian passport can enter <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> (a Special Administrative Region of<br />
<strong>China</strong>) without a visa for a period of 90 days.<br />
Airport Taxes<br />
A departure tax of $120HKD is payable for all travellers over 12 years of age who stay in <strong>Hong</strong><br />
<strong>Kong</strong> for more than 24 hours. This amount is usually included in the price of your air ticket.<br />
Health & Vaccinations<br />
Vaccinations are not required for visitors to <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>, although travellers should consult their<br />
doctor for the most updated medical advice.<br />
Safety & Security<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> is generally a safe destination to explore; however, petty street crime is always a<br />
risk (as it is in any metropolis). We recommend you wear as little jewellery as possible and make<br />
sure your spending money is kept in a secure place close to your body. We also recommended<br />
you take taxis at night, rather than walk. Leave valuables (passports, credit cards, excess cash<br />
and jewellery) in your hotel safety deposit boxes.<br />
Communications<br />
International phone and fax facilities, as well as inexpensive email and internet services, are<br />
widely available.<br />
Climate<br />
During the hotter months of June to September, daily temperatures can average over<br />
30 degrees December to February temperatures may fall below 10 degrees Celsius in<br />
the evenings.<br />
Average Minimum/Maximum Temperatures in Celsius<br />
JAN APR JUL OCT<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> 10°–19° 16°–23° 24°–32° 19°–28°<br />
“For me, <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> is the perfect ‘big city’ destination, combining the exotic allure of<br />
Asia with all the excitement and convenience you expect to find in one of the world’s<br />
great metropolises. ‘The city of life’, as <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> is known, really has something to<br />
offer everybody from amazing shopping, to vibrant night life and even some exquisite<br />
parklands and beaches. Be sure to visit Victoria Peak for unbeatable landscape<br />
views of the city.”<br />
Jennifer Brockhoff - Sales and Marketing Executive<br />
I 41
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> Highlights<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> Stopover<br />
4 days/3 nights. Departing <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>. daily<br />
Grading: Easy<br />
From $ 295 pp<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong><br />
Why not stop over in <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> on your way to or from home?<br />
Take a few nights to break up your journey and enjoy this ideal introduction to the island,<br />
along with plenty of time to shop, relax, and explore at your leisure. Transfer from the<br />
airport to this exciting city, where you will spend the next few days.<br />
Begin with an island tour and a cocktail cruise on the lovely Victoria Harbour to be<br />
introduced to amazing <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>. Then, spend a few days hitting some of the city’s<br />
plethora of shops and markets, indulging in the city’s cafes, bars and fine restaurants and<br />
exploring its interesting back alleys before transferring to the airport on day 4 for your<br />
onward flight.<br />
Inclusions 3 nights accommodation with breakfast daily<br />
• join-in <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> Island Tour with entrance fees and local English speaking guide<br />
• return join-in airport transfers.<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
21 Jan 10 - 24 Mar 10 $295<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> Day Tours<br />
Departing <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>. daily<br />
From $ 31<br />
Per person twin<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> Island. Half-Day Tour. From $ 31 pp.<br />
Discover sights including Victoria Peak, Stanley’s beach and markets, and Aberdeen’s<br />
floating fishing village.<br />
New Territories. Half-Day Tour. From $ 49 pp.<br />
Explore Cheuk Lam Sim Yuen, one of <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>’s most impressive Buddhist monasteries,<br />
the Taipo Wishing Tree, the Kam Tim Walled Village, and the Lok Ma Chau border lookout.<br />
Lantau Island. Full-Day Tour. From $ 116 pp.<br />
Discover peaceful Lantau Island, with its beaches, fishing villages, Po Lin Monastery and the<br />
world’s largest Buddha. A vegetarian lunch is included.<br />
Shenzhen Shopping. Full-Day Tour. From $ 128 pp.<br />
Enjoy a brief city tour and lunch, then head to the famous Lo Wu Mall. Includes return firstclass<br />
train from <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>.<br />
Macau. Full-Day Tour. From $ 123 pp.<br />
Explore Kum Yam Temple, Penha Hill, Barrier Gate and the ruins of St Paul’s Cathedral.<br />
Lunch, return JetCat and free time to visit the Casino Lisboa are included.<br />
Guangzhou. Full-Day Tour. From $ 198 pp.<br />
Travel to Shekou by hovercraft to visit Shenzhen Safari Park, a Terracotta Warrior Exhibition<br />
and more. In Guangzhou see the Six Baiyan Temple, the market and Dr Sun Yat-sen’s<br />
Memorial Building. Lunch is included.<br />
Ocean Park for Kids. From $ 70 pp.<br />
See the Giant Panda habitat and the fascinating Oceanarium, and ride the rollercoaster on<br />
this thrilling adventure.<br />
Cocktail Night Cruise on <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> Harbour. From $ 58 pp.<br />
Sip unlimited free cocktails and enjoy amazing views on this pre-dinner harbour cruise on a<br />
traditional Chinese junk.<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> for Families<br />
From $ 516 pp<br />
2 days/1 night. Departing <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>. daily (except Tuesdays)<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> is an ideal destination for travellers of all ages – from family favourite Disneyland<br />
to iconic <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> experiences on the Star Ferry and the Goldfish Markets, this is an ideal<br />
stopover option for families travelling on to other parts of the world.<br />
Begin with a tram ride to the top of Victoria Peak for amazing views over the harbour and<br />
beyond. Later, enjoy a Star Ferry trip across to Kowloon to visit the <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> Space<br />
Museum, home to one of the world’s largest planetariums. Take the MTR (train service) to<br />
Mongkok to embark on a fascinating walking tour and visit the vibrant Bird, Flower & Goldfish<br />
Markets. This is the <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> of yesteryear, and kids will marvel at the contrast from the<br />
city’s glittering skyscrapers. Later, enjoy a spectacular light and sound show as you cruise<br />
Victoria Harbour. Then it’s time to experience <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> Disneyland! At the end of a fun day,<br />
return to your hotel for a much needed rest, or head out and enjoy some of the many dining<br />
and entertainment options <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> has to offer.<br />
Inclusions 1 night accommodation at Harbour Plaza North Point in a Family Suite with<br />
breakfast • private touring • mixture of private and public transport • entrance fees<br />
(Disneyland ticket for ‘regular day’ admittance – surcharges may apply on selected peak<br />
days) • local English-speaking guide<br />
twin<br />
per person<br />
02 Jan 10 - 24 Mar 10 $516<br />
Grading: Easy<br />
42 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> Hotels<br />
Handmade from local knowledge. Handpicked by us.<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong><br />
B P International<br />
★★★ Standard<br />
From $ 53 pp<br />
Map Location Number 1<br />
4<br />
N<br />
1<br />
6<br />
5<br />
2<br />
This is a great hotel for those seeking<br />
the convenience and modern comfort of<br />
well-located accommodation. From the<br />
moment you step into B P International,<br />
you will be impressed by its refreshingly<br />
new design and a comfortable environment<br />
where guests will feel right a home. Most of<br />
the rooms have a view of Victoria Harbour<br />
or the lush green of Kowloon Park against<br />
the backdrop of the city’s spectacular<br />
skyline. The B P International is just a short<br />
stroll from bustling Nathan Road and the<br />
convenient subway system to reach other<br />
areas of the city.<br />
Extra Facilities 529 rooms • broadband<br />
internet • hairdryer • currency exchange<br />
• babysitting services • laundry • lounge<br />
• coffee shop • restaurant<br />
Traveller’s View The B P International<br />
serves as a great, affordable base from<br />
which to explore the city.<br />
Families One child under 12 stays free if<br />
sharing existing bedding with two adults.<br />
twin share excl breakfast per person<br />
21 Jan 10 - 24 Mar 10 $53<br />
7<br />
3<br />
Holiday Inn Golden Mile<br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
From $ 98 pp<br />
Map Location Number 2<br />
Harbour Plaza North Point<br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
From $ 48 pp<br />
Map Location Number 3<br />
Nestled in the heart of Kowloon, the Holiday<br />
Inn Golden Mile features a superior location,<br />
contemporary conveniences, and all the<br />
luxuries of home. The hotel is centrally<br />
located close to the MTR (<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>’s<br />
efficient metro system) and the famous Star<br />
Ferry. With comfortable guest rooms, awardwinning<br />
restaurants, a landscaped rooftop<br />
pool and a state-of-the-art health club it’s<br />
hard to go past the Holiday Inn Golden Mile!<br />
Extra Facilities 609 rooms and suites<br />
• hairdryer • in room pay-per-view movies<br />
• iron & ironing board • mini bar • outdoor<br />
pool • sauna • fitness centre • concierge<br />
services • gift shop • newsstand<br />
• business centre • bar • 4 restaurants<br />
including café/delicateseen<br />
Traveller’s View A comfortable base<br />
for your explorations of <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>. After a<br />
busy day’s sightseeing or shopping, some<br />
time spent relaxing by the lovely rooftop<br />
swimming pool is a must.<br />
twin share excl breakfast per person<br />
01 May 10 - 18 Sep 10 $98<br />
The Harbour Plaza North Point is a modern<br />
hotel with a relaxed ambience. Conveniently<br />
situated just across the road from an MTR<br />
station, the hotel has great facilities that<br />
include a 25-metre swimming pool and<br />
a Jacuzzi, sauna, plus some great food<br />
and beverage outlets. The Hoi Yat Heen<br />
restaurant features excellent Chinese<br />
regional specialties, while Greens features a<br />
buffet and International menu.<br />
Extra Facilities 669 rooms • broadband<br />
internet • mini-bar • swimming pool<br />
• fitness centre • 24-hour business centre<br />
• 4 restaurants & cafés<br />
Traveller’s View This hotel is great<br />
for families (ask about their family suites),<br />
long-stay guests and those who seek a<br />
quality room on <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> Island at a<br />
reasonable price.<br />
Bonus Stay two nights and receive a<br />
complimentary upgrade to a Side Harbour<br />
View Room (during low season).<br />
Families One child under 14 stays free in<br />
extra bed when sharing with two adults.<br />
twin share excl breakfast per person<br />
02 Jan 10 - 24 Mar 10 $48<br />
Pricing and validity dates specified are based on low season and intended as a guide only. Contact us for full price details for 2010 - 2011.<br />
I 43
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> Hotels<br />
Handmade from local knowledge. Handpicked by us.<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong><br />
Eaton Hotel<br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
From $ 75 pp<br />
Map Location Number 4<br />
Kowloon Hotel<br />
★★★★ Superior<br />
From $ 67 pp<br />
Map Location Number 5<br />
Located on the Golden Mile of Nathan Road<br />
in downtown Kowloon, the distinctive Eaton<br />
Hotel <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> is in the very heart of <strong>Hong</strong><br />
<strong>Kong</strong>’s commercial district and shopping<br />
areas. This smart, contemporary hotel is only<br />
steps from tourist attractions such as the<br />
Temple Street and Jade Markets, and public<br />
transport including the MTR. Rooms are<br />
elegantly appointed and cleverly equipped<br />
with many modern features, plus sumptuous<br />
bedding for a blissful night’s sleep.<br />
Extra Facilities 465 rooms and<br />
suites • in-room broadband internet<br />
access • hairdryer • mini bar • outdoor<br />
heated swimming pool • fitness facilities<br />
• concierge service • café • guests’ lounge<br />
• bar • Tai Chi classes • 3 restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View This hotel offers a<br />
great location, and is stylish, modern and<br />
comfortable with excellent amenities.<br />
Located in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui on<br />
Nathan Road, with direct access to Tsim Sha<br />
Tsui MTR station (with connections across<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> and to the <strong>China</strong>-Shenzhen<br />
border), The Kowloon Hotel makes an ideal<br />
<strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> base. Guestrooms are compact,<br />
yet modern and comfortable. On-site<br />
facilities are limited but guests have access<br />
to the fitness centre and swimming pools at<br />
the YMCA across the street and the Harbour<br />
Plaza Metropolis, located 5 minutes away by<br />
regular shuttle bus.<br />
Extra Facilities 734 rooms • high-speed<br />
wireless internet • mini-bar • hairdryer<br />
• in-room massage & beauty treatments<br />
• two restaurants and bar<br />
Bonus Stay six nights and receive a free<br />
upgrade to a Harbour View Room (subject<br />
to availability, not valid in high season).<br />
During low/shoulder season receive a<br />
complimentary welcome drink coupon and a<br />
late check-out of 4pm.<br />
Honeymooners Receive complimentary<br />
fruit, chocolate and sparkling wine.<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 May - 31 Aug 10 $75<br />
twin share excl breakfast per person<br />
01 May 10 - 16 Sep 10 $67<br />
Harbour Grand Kowloon<br />
★★★★★ Deluxe<br />
From $ 95 pp<br />
Map Location Number 6<br />
The Peninsula <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong><br />
★★★★★ Deluxe<br />
From $ 272 pp<br />
Map Location Number 7<br />
This luxury hotel, formerly known as the<br />
Harbour Plaza <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>, offers panoramic<br />
water views in a serene setting. Guestrooms<br />
are spacious (a rarity in <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>!) and<br />
well-appointed, and the large rooftop<br />
swimming pool has stunning views of<br />
the harbour.<br />
Extra Facilities 554 rooms • wireless<br />
broadband internet • mini-bar • hairdryer<br />
• swimming pool • whirlpool • fitness<br />
centre • spa • business centre • 2 bars<br />
• café • 4 restaurants<br />
Traveller’s View This hotel offers<br />
waterfront <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong> in style, but without<br />
the high price tag of similar properties. The<br />
rooftop swimming pool is a welcome retreat.<br />
Bonus Stay four nights and receive a free<br />
upgrade to a Deluxe Room category with<br />
one day complimentary afternoon tea at<br />
the Harbour Club Lounge and a late checkout<br />
of 4pm (during low season, subject<br />
to availability).<br />
twin share inc breakfast per person<br />
01 May 10 - 11 Nov 10 $95<br />
The Peninsula’s rooms are some of the<br />
most luxurious in <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>, with opulent<br />
furnishings and all the latest technology. The<br />
hotel features nine restaurants and bars,<br />
The Peninsula Spa by ESPA, a state-of-theart<br />
fitness centre and a huge Roman-style<br />
swimming pool opening onto a sun terrace.<br />
An iconic member of <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>’s elite hotel<br />
scene, The Peninsula’s famed service levels<br />
will cater to your every need.<br />
Extra Facilities 300 rooms<br />
• wired and wireless broadband internet<br />
• mini-bar • daily fresh fruit and newspaper<br />
• DVD/VCD/CD player • hairdryer<br />
• business centre • fitness centre<br />
• The Peninsula Spa by ESPA<br />
Traveller’s View This is THE place to<br />
stay – a truly unforgettable hotel experience.<br />
Don’t miss the Peninsula’s famous Afternoon<br />
Tea – a real institution in <strong>Hong</strong> <strong>Kong</strong>.<br />
Honeymooners/Anniversaries<br />
All honeymooners and Gold and Silver<br />
Anniversary guests receive a complimentary<br />
upgrade to a Deluxe Courtyard Room<br />
(Original Building, minimum two nights stay),<br />
with fruit, flowers, Champagne and late<br />
check-out (subject to availability).<br />
twin share excl breakfast per person<br />
18 Jan 10 - 28 Feb 10 $272<br />
44 I CHINA <strong>featuring</strong> TIBET AND HONG KONG
Booking conditions<br />
Travel Indochina A division of Stella Travel Services (Australia) Pty. Ltd. ABN 84 003 237 296<br />
The information contained herein is offered to you, the client, by Travel Indochina ABN 84 003 237 296<br />
(“Travel Indochina”, “we”, “us” or “our”) of 403 George Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia.<br />
Important Notes<br />
• The travel industry in developing Asia is still in its infancy. Whilst the freshness of novelty of tourism in these countries is part<br />
of the appeal to many visitors, others might see things differently. It is important to recognise that the level of service and<br />
standards in some areas, whilst improving, is not yet comparable to service standards in more mature travel destinations.<br />
• The information contained in these conditions of reservation (“Conditions of Reservation”) is an invitation to you to travel<br />
with us and can only be accepted by us. Once we have accepted your booking and you have paid your deposit there will be a<br />
legally binding contract between us.<br />
• The Conditions of Reservation can only be varied or modified in writing by us. You must not vary or modify the Conditions of<br />
Reservation without our prior written agreement.<br />
• It is your responsibility to read the Conditions of Reservation carefully and if you do not understand them you must contact<br />
your travel agent for further information.<br />
Small Group Journey Conditions of Reservation<br />
A separate set of Conditions of Reservation governs the operation of Small Group Journeys.<br />
Please refer to travelindochina.com.au for these conditions, or to our separate Small Group Journeys brochure.<br />
Reservations - Bookings can be made by calling 1300 365 355 or through one of our preferred travel agents.<br />
Deposits & Balance - A deposit of $300 per person is due 7 days after issuance of invoice. For bookings at a value of less<br />
than $300, full payment is due at time of booking. By paying a deposit it will be understood that you have read and accepted<br />
these Conditions of Reservation. Your balance is due and payable to Travel Indochina 65 days prior to the scheduled date for<br />
departure from Australia notified to you in your confirmation of booking. Failure to pay in full by the due date may result in the<br />
automatic cancellation of your booking without refund of monies paid. Please note that different deposit and payment terms<br />
may apply to selected products. In these cases terms are made clear in the product description text herein or at the time of<br />
making a reservation.<br />
Amendments - Once itineraries are requested, with or without deposit on file, one free amendment is allowed. A fee of $60<br />
is required for every amendment thereafter but the amendment will only be actioned if the deposit is paid. If an amendment is<br />
requested within 60 days of the scheduled departure date a cancellation fee may also apply.<br />
Late Bookings - Full payment is required at the time of booking within 1 month prior to scheduled departure from Australia.<br />
Bookings made 7 days or less prior to scheduled departure from Australia will be subject to a late booking fee of $50 per<br />
application. Please note that we are unable to accept cheques for late bookings.<br />
Same Day Confirmations - Requests for same day confirmation within 14 days of departure will attract an additional<br />
booking fee of $20.<br />
Minimum/ Land Only Booking Fee - Bookings of 3 nights or less and less than $500 incur the below minimum booking fee.<br />
No airfares can be booked with Travel Indochina if less than 4 nights (6 nights in the case of some airlines) accommodation have<br />
been booked. Please check with your consultant at time of booking.<br />
1 night = $50 2 - 3 nights = $35<br />
Agent Responsibilities - It is the responsibility of the travel agent to ensure that all invoice and itinerary details issued to<br />
the traveller/s are correct, including airfare taxes. Agents are responsible for queuing passengers’ PNR to Travel Indochina for<br />
checking and ticketing purposes. PNRs and payment for airfares must be received no later than 7 days prior to Ticketing Time<br />
Limit imposed by the airline. Travellers must be made aware of amendment and cancellation conditions, and other key terms in<br />
these Conditions of Reservation. Travel Indochina will not accept responsibility for any additional charges to bookings imposed<br />
should the above reservation conditions not be met.<br />
Prices & Fluctuation - ‘From’ prices represent low season twin share prices (unless otherwise clearly stated) and include all<br />
government levies and airport taxes as at the date of publication. Please note that these levies and taxes are subject to change.<br />
Additionally, due to the unstable nature of the Australian dollar, regrettably currency surcharges may be necessary. Travel<br />
Indochina will without guarantee try to give clients who have paid deposits a grace period to pay in full in order to avoid any<br />
surcharge. However, the best way to avoid surcharges is to pay in full as soon as possible.<br />
Bonus and Honeymoon Offers - These are subject to change and availability.<br />
Cancellation & Refunds - Requests for cancellation of confirmed bookings must be made in writing and will be subject to the<br />
following cancellation fees applied per person, per confirmed booking:<br />
• For requests for cancellation made more than 60 days before the scheduled date for departure from Australia -<br />
the deposit will be forfeited to Travel Indochina<br />
• For requests for cancellation made between 30-60 days before the scheduled date for departure from Australia -<br />
a cancellation fee of 25% of the travel and booking fee or $300 (whichever is the greater) will be payable<br />
• For requests for cancellation made less than 30 days before the scheduled date for departure from Australia -<br />
100% of the travel and booking fee will be payable<br />
Cancellation of air and rail arrangements will be subject to fees charged in accordance with the type of airfare used and airline<br />
tariff regulations. Refunds will not be given for unused or cancelled services after your tour arrangements have commenced.<br />
Airfares, Cancellations & Amendments - Prices herein do not include airfares from or to your departing destination.<br />
Check with your agent for fares with all carriers to Asia. Ask us for the best deals to match your chosen holiday. Separate terms<br />
and conditions will apply to your airfares. It is your responsibility to carefully read and understand the terms and conditions<br />
that relate to your airfare and contact the relevant airline if you require further information. Cancellation and refund policies<br />
associated with airfares vary according to airfare terms and conditions and the relevant airline. Discounted airfares are often<br />
non-refundable and non-changeable after ticket issue. Depending on the reason for airfare cancellation and the type of<br />
insurance policy you possess, air cancellation fees may be recoverable from your insurance company.<br />
Insurance - Medical facilities across Asia are often unable to provide the full range of medical services that are available in<br />
developed countries, making evacuation a requirement in many non-life threatening medical situations. The costs of evacuation<br />
as well as international standard care are extremely high. In the most serious emergencies, travellers may not be capable of<br />
authorising payment for an appropriate medical response that is urgently required. This may delay or prevent the provision of<br />
critical and possibly life-saving medical attention. For these reasons, regardless of the type of your holiday arrangements, we<br />
strongly recommend that you take out travel insurance at the time of booking. It is a condition of travel on our Small Group<br />
Journeys you possess travel insurance.<br />
Note that travel insurance ‘attached’ to credit cards is often limited in scope (e.g. not covering serious medical, repatriation or<br />
evacuation expenses) and in any case is usually effective only if travel arrangements have been purchased with the card. Please<br />
note also that government regulations in Asia do not always require or enforce the possession of liability insurance by hotels,<br />
transport and other suppliers. Even when insurance is in place, it can be for very limited coverage only. Travel Indochina does<br />
its best to work with suppliers who possess liability insurance, however it is not always possible to find and contract with such<br />
suppliers. Contact your travel agent to organise insurance for your holiday.<br />
Special Needs - If you have special travelling needs, you are obliged to make us aware of these at the time of booking request.<br />
Bedding Configuration - Requests for specific bedding types must be made at the time of booking. We may not always be<br />
able to accommodate your needs, depending on the room types available at particular hotels. Note that double rooms can be<br />
fitted with either double or twin beds, and note also that single rooms are often smaller than other rooms. Triple rooms usually<br />
comprise a twin bed room with an additional sofa bed, roll-away bed or a fold-away bed for a third person, and can sometimes<br />
be crowded.<br />
Travelling with Children - Where a child stays for free in a room sharing with two paying adults, generally the hotel will<br />
expect the child to share the parent’s bed and will not provide an extra bed. Additional charges may be levied for child meals.<br />
Where a child rate is provided in this brochure, an extra roll or fold-away bed is usually provided. Children are charged an adult<br />
rate if staying in a room without adults.<br />
Documents - Travel documents will be issued after final payment has been received and are normally sent two weeks prior<br />
to departure.<br />
Consumer Claims - We strive to ensure your arrangements are delivered smoothly, however there are times when problems<br />
arise on the ground. You should first try to resolve service problems with the provider of the service. If the problem cannot<br />
be resolved you should contact the emergency contacts provided in your detailed itinerary. If you fail to take these steps you<br />
may be affecting your recourse for a future claim. If a problem is not resolved during your journey you should send us written<br />
correspondence detailing the nature of your complaint as well as the efforts you went to resolve the problem while in Asia.<br />
Please send this correspondence to us, with supporting documentation, via your travel agent, within 30 days of the date of<br />
service delivery. We will not consider claims made after this period.<br />
Destination Advice - Travel Indochina destinations are at various stages of economic development. Whilst most<br />
accommodation and transport utilised in the programs meet international standards, the destinations themselves sometimes<br />
do not provide infrastructure of the same standard as Australia. Specifically roads, wharves, hospital facilities and other<br />
infrastructure may be below western standards. Travellers should check with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade<br />
(www.dfat.gov.au or phone 1300 555 135) for the latest advice about a particular destination. Please ensure that you are<br />
aware of health and entry/exit requirements that may apply to places you are visiting and check with the World Health<br />
Organisation at www.who.int. You are responsible for meeting any requirements recommended by these websites.<br />
Visas for Australian Passport Holders<br />
• <strong>China</strong>, India and Vietnam - must be acquired prior to departure<br />
• Brunei, Cambodia and Laos - can be obtained on arrival at international airports or land borders<br />
• Japan - temporary visitor visas are issued on arrival<br />
• Thailand - not required, provided stay is less than 30 days<br />
• Malaysia - not required, provided stay is less than 60 days<br />
• Singapore - not required, provided stay is less than 90 days<br />
Your Travel Agent or Travel Indochina can assist you with acquiring visas, however, the timely acquisition of a valid visa and other<br />
official travel documents remains your responsibility. It is highly recommended that you allow a minimum of 10 working days<br />
for each visa application. Please note if you leave and re-enter any country that requires a visa you may need to obtain a double<br />
entry visa for that country. Please also note that most countries in Asia insist that passports are valid for at least six months after<br />
date of entry into Asia.<br />
Liability Disclaimer - To the extent permitted by law and subject to the statutory warranties referred to below,<br />
Travel Indochina:<br />
a) does not guarantee the accuracy of, and disclaims all liability for any inaccuracies relating to the information contained herein<br />
including, without limitation, descriptions of accommodation, photographs and general product and service descriptions,<br />
much of which is provided by the respective suppliers<br />
b) disclaims all warranties, terms and conditions with regard to such information, products and services, including all implied<br />
warranties, and conditions, of suitable quality, fitness for a particular purpose, title, and non-infringement<br />
c) excludes liability (whether that liability arises under contract, tort (including negligence) or statute) for any special, indirect<br />
or consequential loss or damage (including without limitation loss of revenue and loss of, or damage to, data) suffered or<br />
incurred in connection with use of the information contained herein or your participation in a journey<br />
d) in relation to all other loss or damage, limits its liability to a maximum of the cost of the journey booked<br />
e) disclaims all liability and will make no refund in the event of any delay, cancellation, overbooking, strike, force majeure or<br />
other cause beyond its direct control and will have no responsibility for any additional expense, omissions, delays, re-routing<br />
or acts of any government or authority<br />
Travel Indochina acts as contractor only for the persons or companies providing or offering the means of travel conveyance,<br />
transport, accommodation or other services (‘Suppliers’) and all receipts, tickets, vouchers and coupons are issued subject to<br />
the terms and conditions under which such transportation and services are offered by such persons. Some of these Suppliers<br />
limit or exclude their liability, and action against these Suppliers may be subject to international convention between countries.<br />
To the extent permitted by law, Travel Indochina excludes all liability in respect of any acts, errors, omissions, representations,<br />
warranties, breaches or negligence of any such suppliers or for any personal injury, death, property damage or other expenses<br />
resulting from the supply of goods or services by these Suppliers or by any third party.<br />
The inclusion or offering of any products or services herein do not constitute any endorsement or recommendation of such<br />
products or services by us.<br />
You are solely responsible for the suitability of any travel services which you purchase from or through Travel Indochina. In<br />
particular, we are not liable for any inconvenience caused or expense incurred as a result of any unsuitability of travel services.<br />
These Conditions of Reservation must be read subject to any statutory provisions. If such statutory provisions apply to limit<br />
the disclaimer referred to above, to the extent that Travel Indochina is entitled to do so, the liability of Travel Indochina will be<br />
limited at its option to:<br />
a) in the case of supply of goods, the replacement of the goods, or supply of equivalent goods, the payment of the costs of the<br />
replacing the goods or requiring the goods, the payment of the cost of having the goods repaired, or the repair of the goods<br />
b) in the case of services, the supply of the services again, or the payment of the cost of having the services performed again<br />
Indemnity - You agree to indemnify, and keep indemnified, Travel Indochina and any of its officers, directors, employees and<br />
agents from and against any claims, causes or action, demands, recoveries, losses, damages, fines, penalties or other costs<br />
or expenses or any kind arising out of our in relation to any action, inaction or omission by you including, without limitation,<br />
your breach of:<br />
a) these Conditions of Reservation<br />
b) any laws or the rights of a third party<br />
Our Privacy Policy - You consent to our processing personal information about you and other members of your party. We will<br />
hold your name, address and any other details you supply us with on our database. This information will be used to make your<br />
travel arrangements and to send you information about Travel Indochina. In order to make your travel arrangements we will<br />
need to pass your details to companies and individuals outside Australia, where less stringent data protection controls may be in<br />
place. We will not pass on your details to any third parties that are not responsible for your travel arrangements.<br />
Errors & Omissions - We reserve the right to correct any errors in rates quoted or calculated for any service, with immediate<br />
effect. We will use our reasonable endeavours to notify you of such corrections.<br />
Governing Law - These Conditions of Reservation are governed by the laws of New South Wales, Australia. You herby submit<br />
to the exclusive jurisdiction of New South Wales’ courts in all disputes or any other action arising out of or in relation to these<br />
Conditions of Reservation or any journey.<br />
Assignment - We may, and you may not, assign, convey, subcontract or delegate any rights, duties or obligations hereunder.<br />
Performance of these Conditions of Reservation by us, our affiliates and suppliers is subject to existing laws in New South Wales,<br />
Australia and any destination of your journey. Nothing contained in these Conditions of Reservation is in derogation of the right<br />
or requirement to comply with law enforcement requests or requirements relating to your journey or information provided to or<br />
gathered by us in relation to your journey.<br />
If any part of these Conditions of Reservation is determined to be invalid or unenforceable pursuant to applicable law then the<br />
invalid or unenforceable provision will be deemed superseded by a valid, enforceable provision that most closely reflects the<br />
intent of the original provision and the agreement shall continue in effect. Travel Indochina reserves the right to change the<br />
terms, conditions, and notices contained herein and will use its reasonable efforts to notify you of any material change.<br />
Any rights not expressly granted herein are reserved.<br />
All contents of the publication are © 2009 Stella Travel Services (Australia) Pty Ltd ACN 003 237 296. Except as permitted<br />
under the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth), no part of this publication may be reproduced, copied, stored or transmitted in any form or<br />
by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the copyright owner.<br />
Travel Indochina is a trademark of Stella Travel Services (Australia) Pty. Ltd.
I 2<br />
Designer:<br />
Date: ____________<br />
Art Director:<br />
Date: ____________<br />
Studio Manager:<br />
Date: ____________<br />
Production:<br />
Date: ____________<br />
Client:<br />
Date: ____________<br />
The Travel Indochina Collection<br />
DELHI<br />
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Handmade Holidays<br />
Handmade Holidays<br />
Handmade Holidays<br />
for Travellers<br />
for Travellers<br />
for Travellers<br />
2009/2010<br />
2010/2011<br />
2010/2011<br />
Version:<br />
F A<br />
Thailand<br />
VIETNAM CAMBODIA<br />
LAOS THAILAND JAPAN<br />
INDIA CHINA & TIBET<br />
QUALITY SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS 2010 -11<br />
Handmade Holidays<br />
for Travellers<br />
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CLASSIC JOURNEYS I DELUXE JOURNEYS I FAMILY JOURNEYS<br />
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Travellers: handmadeholidays.com.au<br />
Sydney Level 10, 403 George St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia<br />
Agents only Phone 1300 362 777 Email: travindo@travelindochina.com.au Online booking engine: ticconnect.com.au<br />
Traveller enquiries Phone 1300 365 355 Fax: (02) 9244 2233 Email: info@travelindochina.com.au Web: www.handmadeholidays.com.au<br />
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Thank you to our photographers David Mannix, Paul Hole, Mark Bowyer, Eric Finley, Jackie Firmstone, Antony Giblin, Jo Howell,<br />
Phil Jordan, Linh Le, Josh Owen, Darren Szwarcburg, Scott Woodward, Lesley Wright, Victoria Hotels & Resorts, Travel Indochina<br />
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