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Picture a China tour that takes you behind the scenes at ancient treasures, exotic gardens, architectural masterpieces and compelling UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Forbidden City, the Great Wall and the Terra Cotta Warriors... includes a memorable 4-night cruise through the Yangtze River's Three Gorges aboard the Yangzi Explorer... and is filled with exclusive experiences ranging from an insider experience in Beijing's hutongs – including a visit with a local family. Experience China travel by rickshaw in Beijing, by sampan in Shennong Stream, via funicular up Victoria Peak in Hong Kong, and by gondola and on foot along the Great Wall. Meet a conservation expert at the Terra Cotta Warriors museum in Xi'an, and families at a Three Gorges Dam relocation village along the Yangtze. There's no end to the enriching discoveries you'll make on Tauck's comprehensive China tour!
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Welcome to Hong Kong
Tauck's China tour begins at The Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong. A transfer is included upon your arrival from Hong Kong International Airport to The Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong, in the heart of the city's bustling Kowloon section. Please join us this evening for a welcome reception followed by dinner.
Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong
Hong Kong from many perspectives
You'll experience Hong Kong from different perspectives this morning – by ferry, via double-decker bus, and on a funicular tram ride up Victoria Peak. After lunch at a local dim sum restaurant, take a crash course in Hong Kong's cultural, archaeological, and natural history with a visit to the renowned Hong Kong Museum of History. This remarkable harbor city is yours to explore as you please for the rest of the day and evening. Your hotel is in the Kowloon section, home to many shops and markets. Dinner is on your own tonight.
History in Hong Kong and on to Shanghai
Fly to Shanghai, China's great seaport at the mouth of the Yangtze – and one of the country's most cosmopolitan cities – where you'll spend the next three nights of your China tour at Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund, a landmark hotel on Shanghai's premier promenade boulevard, the Bund. Dine at your hotel this evening.
Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund
Yu Gardens, the Bund, daring acrobats & more in Shanghai
Today you'll explore Shanghai's famous waterfront Bund. First up, visit
the historic and harmonious Yu Gardens, whose original grounds and
temple date back to the 1550s; the word yu translates to "peace and
health." Pathways wind through rock gardens and bamboo stands, and stone
bridges cross pools filled with bright carp. Have lunch today at the
charming "M on the Bund" – and then tonight, watch from premium seating as
the daring acrobatic performers of Shanghai's acclaimed ERA show
entertain you. A day to remember... a China travel experience to savor.
Views of the city, the Shanghai Museum & a dining treat
Your China tour continues when you get a good introduction to Shanghai at the Shanghai Urban Planning Center showcasing the city's future urban development through detailed models
and multimedia displays. Explore the center's exhibits on this historic
port city's past, present and future, including a mock-up of 1930s
Shanghai; a huge model of what the city might look like in 2020; a
360-degree, 3-D film and more. Then tour the Shanghai Museum, displaying
120,000 works of art and artifacts. After lunch on your own in the
Xintiandi neighborhood, you'll have time to explore the area – and on a
guided walk, learn about its vanishing traditional stone-gated shikumen
homes. This evening, a special experience – dinner at the wonderful
restaurant Jean Georges Shanghai, known for its cuisine and views.
A flight to Yichang to begin your Yangtze cruise
Fly from Shanghai to Yichang and board the Yangzi Explorer this afternoon to continue your China tour with a memorable four-night cruise through the Three Gorges of the mighty Yangtze River. Dine à la carte aboard ship this evening before setting sail on your cruise, bound upstream (westbound) to Chongqing.
Aboard Yangzi Explorer
The Three Gorges Dam and Xiling Gorge
As your China tour continues, visions of knobby, mist-shrouded mountains steeped in the mystique of old China surround you along the Yangtze aboard the recently renovated Yangzi Explorer, one of the finest and roomiest ships on the river. Tour the largest hydroelectric project on Earth, the Three Gorges Dam, prior to sailing through Xiling Gorge, largest of the Three Gorges. During today's cruise, enjoy afternoon tea aboard ship, meet the Yangzi Explorer's Captain and crew at the Captain's welcome reception followed by dinner à la carte, and attend an entertaining show performed by the crew.
Pavilions and pagodas along the Yangtze
View centuries-old pagodas and temples built against steep-sided cliffs, ancient roads and terraced fields along the river's edge as you continue your Yangtze cruise today. Disembark for a Shennong Stream excursion aboard a traditional sampan poled by a Tujia boatman, then re-board Yangzi Explorer for this afternoon's cruise of Wu and Qutang gorges, both equally breathtaking. Shipboard activities range from a dumpling-making lesson to a documentary film screening after dinner à la carte tonight.
Yangtze cruising and a relocation village
Continue your China tour with a shore excursion to Fengdu, China's ancient "Ghost City," or the remote village of Wanzhou (depending on river conditions), and a visit to a "relocation village" to meet local farmers and villagers whose traditional homes and land were affected by the Three Gorges Dam project. Shipboard diversions on the final day of your cruise include a calligraphy and brush painting demonstration, an introduction to the ancient game of mahjong, and a Mandarin language lesson, followed by an on-board farewell dinner.
From Chongqing to Guilin for a cruise on the city's canals
Disembark Yangzi Explorer in Chongqing this morning and fly to Guilin, among China's most picturesque places, whose landscapes have inspired poets and artists for centuries. After checking in and relaxing at bit at your hotel, the Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin, set out on an evening cruise through the center of the city along its delightful canals. As you cruise, you'll pass under bridges built to resemble some of the world's most famous spans, including San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge and the Tower Bridge in London; enjoy a demonstration of cormorant fishing along the way. Dinner is à la carte this evening at your hotel.
Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin
A cruise on the Li River and a cooking lesson in Guilin
Spend the morning on a private Tauck cruise along the storied Li River today; feast your eyes and your soul on tranquil groves, fishermen on bamboo rafts, breathtaking limestone peaks and views of traditional village life that seem to be lifted from an ancient Chinese scroll painting! Following your cruise, attend a cooking lesson on local cuisine – then eat what you helped make for lunch! Dinner is à la carte this evening at your hotel in Guilin.
On to Xi'an, former capital of ancient China
Fly to the ancient city of Xi'an; set at the eastern end of the Silk Road, it's one of the country's oldest cities and served as the capital during the Han, Qin, Tang and other early dynasties. Upon arrival you'll visit an amazing place – the Han Yang Ling
Underground Mausoleum. Known locally as "the most underrated tomb in
Xi'an," it was undisturbed for about 2,100 years before opening to the public
in the last decade. You'll find an amazing collection of cultural relics
in this unique underground "museum" that depict life as it was during
the Western Han Dynasty. Dine at your leisure at the hotel this evening.
Shangri-La Hotel, Xi'an
The Terra Cotta Warriors and more Shaanxi history
Get the inside story of Xi'an's amazing Terra Cotta Warriors – 8,000 individualized, life-size terra cotta statues of soldiers who stood guard at the underground tomb of Qin Shi Huangdi, China's first emperor, for more than 2,000 years – as you visit the site today with Tauck. They were discovered by farmers digging a well in 1974, and are now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site! View the incredible statues, tour the site's museum, and get the scoop on future plans for their preservation during a talk with one of the museum's leading staff members. Enjoy a traditional
dumpling lunch at a local restaurant. Continue on to the Shaanxi History Museum, whose splendid collection of more than 350,000 artifacts illustrates the story of ancient China's feudal dynasties, many of which had their capitals here in Xi'an.
From ancient X'ian to modern Beijing
The final segment of Tauck's memorable China tour commences as you fly from the ancient capital of Xi'an to Beijing – arriving midday in this remarkable city that's been at the center of Chinese life for centuries, and serves as the capital of the People's Republic today. After lunch, a local expert shares insights on the city's centuries-old hutongs – unique traditional neighborhoods threatened by ongoing urban development – and leads you on a private tour of a hutong, where you'll ride a rickshaw and visit a local family in their hutong home. The last three nights of Tauck's China tour are spent at The Waldorf Astoria Beijing in the heart of the city; dine at your choice of the hotel's four restaurants this evening.
Waldorf Astoria Beijing
Along the Great Wall of China
Besides being the only man-made structure visible from space, the Great Wall of China tops most travelers' lists of the Earth's must-visit places. And today, you'll not only visit it, but experience it in more ways than one – exploring its Badaling section, walking down to the bottom along an ancient stone path, and having lunch with views of this architectural wonder spread out all around you at the Commune by the Great Wall where you'll have lunch. The rest of your afternoon and evening are free to explore as you wish in Beijing; have dinner on your own tonight.
The Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and more
To Tauck, travel means more than simply seeing each destination – and today on your China tour, you'll explore the delicate balance between Beijing's past, present and future at some of the capital's landmark sites. Begin with a grand example of traditional Chinese architecture – Beijing's Temple of Heaven, a round, three-tiered wood structure intricately decorated with gold leaf and colorful designs; try to imagine a long-ago time when the emperor and his entourage would travel here in secret processions from the Forbidden City to hold solemn ceremonies asking the gods for a bountiful harvest. Learn the moves from the locals as you take part in a Tai Chi racquet lesson in one of the Temple's beautiful parks. After lunch at a local restaurant, you'll explore the legendary Forbidden City itself, where Imperial China's emperors dwelt for centuries; tour the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Hall of Middle Harmony, the Hall of Preserved Harmony, the Hall of Mental Cultivation, the Imperial Garden and more. Just beyond the Forbidden City, continue to Tiananmen Square, a witness to much of modern Chinese history and home to Mao Zedong's mausoleum; view his portrait hanging above the "Gate of Heavenly Peace." Join us this evening for our farewell reception and dinner at the Waldorf Astoria Beijing.
Bound for home
Tauck's China tour ends in Beijing. Your grand China travel adventure ends in Beijing, where you'll catch your return flight home. A transfer is included from Waldorf Astoria Beijing to Beijing Capital International Airport; you should allow 3 hours for flight check-in.
Small Group Departures
– Select small group departures averaging 24 Tauck guests,
priced from $7,990 per person double (westbound) plus on-tour air; specific dates
apply – select "Small Group" in the pull-down menu above for complete
Special Solo Traveler Savings
– on select special departures you save $500 on the single room price;
specific dates apply – select "Singles Departures" in the pull-down menu
above for complete pricing.
Let Tauck reserve your flights
Traveling with Tauck ensures more than a memorable travel experience; it also enables you to take advantage of additional "do it for you" travel services that take the hassle out of arranging them yourself! As an added service, we can make flight arrangements for your journey, if your travels originate in the United States, offering you a number of welcome advantages. With Tauck, you can:
What's more, if you purchase Tauck's Guest Protection, you'll receive a refund should you need to cancel your flights due to covered reasons. Another great reason to buy your air from Tauck!
Tauck Guests enjoy complimentary Internet access in guest rooms!
Located on the waterfront overlooking bustling Victoria Harbour, the landmark Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong offers panoramic views of the Harbour and the city itself. Guest rooms, all of which feature floor-to-ceiling bay windows, are known as being exceptionally large when compared to those of other luxury hotels in Hong Kong. Each one provides coffee and tea making facilities, electronic safe, in-room movie channels, international direct-dial telephone, satellite and cable TV and a minibar. A new Health Club, with an indoor swimming pool, includes a state-of-the-art gym, solarium, sauna and steam bath. Dining choices include the Shang Palace offering Cantonese cuisine, Nadaman, with a Japanese menu, Café Kool serving international cuisine and Angelini featuring Italian food. Vegetarians are well cared for at all the hotel's restaurants. Enjoy your favorite libation at the Tapas Bar or the elegant Lobby Lounge. The Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong was voted one of the best 500 hotels in the world by the readers of Travel + Leisure.
The Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund is located on the former site of the exclusive, circa 1911, Shanghai Club on the best-known street in the city. Guests are welcomed with a skillful blend of the character and culture of this historic street with contemporary sophistication and the legendary service associated with the name Waldorf Astoria. Gracious guest rooms provide a marble-finished bathroom, walk-in closet, and a separate bath and shower as well as a host of amenities designed to envelope guests in "better than home" comfort, from the right lighting to the right music as preferred by individual guests. The Health Club on Level 3 offers state-of-the-art cardiovascular equipment, an indoor heated swimming pool, a steam room and a sauna – and the Waldorf Spa, is a peaceful oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation that provides a wide array of spa treatments. Reproductions of Chinese antiques accented by intriguing latticework complement the authentic regional Chinese delicacies on its menu at Wei Jing Ge. At Pelham's, the subtle references to New York are enhanced by a menu featuring modern New York-style cuisine. An exhibition kitchen anchors the Grand Brasserie, reminiscent of the classic brasseries in Paris and London, offering an extensive menu of European and Chinese dishes. Peacock Alley, reflecting the elegance of its namesake at the Waldorf Astoria New York while adding its own unique touches, like an exclusive pastry and chocolate alcove, offers quick meals, afternoon tea as well as signature Waldorf Astoria dishes.
Carrying just 124 guests with a crew of 130 attending to their needs, Yangzi Explorer offers an intimate and personal 5-star cruise experience. Comfortable cabins provide a mini bar, bathrobes and slippers, telephone, private safety box, TV, hair dryer and balcony. A wide range of on-board entertainment and informative lectures enriches the experience of sailing on the Yangtze. During leisure time, see what the on-board shops have to offer, head to the library, keep up with your workout routine in the gym or find a comfortable lounge chair on deck. International buffets are offered for breakfast and lunch while dinner tempts with a variety of international and Chinese specialties – if you're still hungry, there's even a complimentary midnight snack.
*Internet service available (very slow, additional charge)
The Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin overlooks the Li River in a location convenient to the Zhengyang Pedestrian Street with its many shops and lively nightlife. Guest rooms, the most spacious in Guilin, feature CD/DVD and MP3 player, LCD TV with cable and satellite channels plus in-house movie channels, complimentary broadband Internet access, minibar and coffee / tea making facilities, hair dryer, separate shower and tub and anti-fog mirrors, an iron and ironing board and an in-room electronic safe. During leisure time, take advantage of the indoor and outdoor swimming pools, keep up with your workout routine in the fully equipped gymnasium or play some tennis on the two lighted courts. Watch chefs at work preparing Asian and international dishes at live cooking stations in the Li Café, dine on Cantonese, Huanese, Huaiyang and Guilin specialties at the Shang Palace or enjoy the most authentic western grill in town at the U Bar. Live music accompanies light snacks throughout the day, afternoon tea and evening cocktails with a view of the landscaped gardens in the Lobby Lounge.
With the best of the city on its doorstep, the Shangri-La Hotel, Xi'an welcomes you with Shangri-La Hotel's signature hospitality. The guest rooms' floor-to-ceiling windows afford views of the city or the hotel's landscaped gardens and feature LCD TV with satellite and cable channels, wired or wireless broadband Internet access, a separate rainforest shower and premium Shangri-La bath amenities, iron and ironing board, electronic safe and coffee and tea making facilities. After a busy day, unwind in the 25-meter heated swimming pool or work out the kinks with the Health Club's state-of-the-art facilities… or perhaps enjoy a massage at The Spa. The Yi Café's entire kitchen is a stage where talented chefs prepare a vast array of flavors and dishes from China, Southeast Asia, Japan and Europe at live cooking stations. The Siam Garden restaurant specializes in Thai cuisine and the Tian Xiang Ge features authentic Cantonese dishes. With its floor-to-ceiling windows framing engaging views, the Lobby Lounge offers afternoon tea as well as evening cocktails and live nightly entertainment.
Experience a signature blend of contemporary elegance, personalized service and contemporary amenities at the Waldorf Astoria Beijing in the heart of iconic Wangfujing. Luxuriate in spacious and superbly appointed guest rooms featuring plush pillow-top beds dressed with fine linens, expansive work area, flat-panel HDTV, alarm clock with CD and MP3 player, minibar, coffee and tea facilities including in-room expresso machine, safe, iron/ironing board, and a lavish bath with granite countertops, twin vanity, exquisite amenities, bathrobe and slippers, and hair dryer. The hotel's sophisticated Chinese Restaurant offers the finest Cantonese and Beijing delicacies and a choice of elegant settings. Inspired by its namesake at the Waldorf Astoria New York, Oscar's Brasserie offers an ambience of relaxed, contemporary luxury and a choice of both buffet and a la carte dining options. And the stylish and sophisticated Peacock Lounge provides the ideal setting for a relaxed light lunch, an informal business meeting or bespoke cocktails before dinner.
Many Tauck travelers prefer arriving at their destination a day before
their Tauck journey begins, or often extend a stay at the end of their
trip. As a service, Tauck will make hotel reservations before and after
your journey.
The hotel has 700 of the city's largest and most elegantly appointed guest rooms. Decorated with contemporary art, marble bathrooms, and sleek furnishings, each room also offers floor-to-ceiling bay windows with sweeping views of Victoria Harbor. Generous amenities include air conditioning, satellite/cable television, writing desk, dual-line direct dial telephone with voicemail, Internet access, mini-bar, coffee & tea maker, hair dryer, bathrobes, slippers, iron & ironing board, and in-room safe.
In addition to a wide variety of exercise equipment, the health club includes an indoor pool, spa tub, solarium, sauna, steam bath, as well as reflexology, massage, and facial services. Fine dining restaurants offer Japanese, Italian, and Cantonese cuisines, while a tapas bar and an international buffet are available for casual dining.
A surcharge may be applied to some services and amenities.
Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong64 Mody RoadTsim Sha Tsui EastKowloon, Hong Kong, The People's Republic of ChinaPhone: 852 2721 2111Fax: 852 2723 8686
Check in time is 2pm; check out time is 12pm.
Included:Tax is included.Breakfast is included.
Transportation to the airport:Chek Lap Kok International Airport is approximately 23 miles (37 kilometers) away; travel time is about 45 minutes. Transfers to the airport are included.
Transportation from the airport:Beijing Capital International Airport is approximately 16 miles (26 kilometers) away; travel time is about 45-60 minutes. Transfers to the hotel are included, provided we have complete and current arrival flight information at least two weeks prior to departure.
There are bound to be questions when travelling. Information on everything from weather to internet connections can be found below.
Special Luggage Restrictions for this Tour
Due to strictly enforced weight restrictions on intra-China flights, luggage weight per person must not exceed 44 lbs (20 kg) and you are permitted only one piece of checked luggage. Luggage exceeding the allowable weight is subject to excess baggage charges which can result in a considerable additional expense. The charge for overweight baggage can range from $1 to $5 USD per pound, per flight sector. It is your sole responsibility to pay for any excess baggage charges.
Regulations within most airports require that you handle your own luggage through customs. On these occasions, luggage carts will be available.
The Chinese government has strict regulations regarding carry-on luggage as well. The maximum allowable weight is 11 lbs (5 kg), and the maximum allowable dimensions are 22" by 15" by 8" (55 cm 380 cm by 20 cm). THESE DIMENSIONS INCLUDE ALL WHEELS, HANDLES, ETC. If these dimensions are exceeded, the carry-on will be checked. This requirement is enforced by the airport, not the airline, and is done before you go through to passport control or the gate.
On on-tour flights, the following additional items are allowed: One small size handbag / purse One coat or blanket One umbrella or one walking stick One pair of crutches One small camera \ binoculars
Checked Luggage - General
Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.
Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.
Please be sure to attach your Tauck luggage tag to your suitcase before leaving home!
Carry-on Luggage – General
Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.
For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and only those items you need handy during the day such as purses, make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or in the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.
Your Tauck Director will assist with information on free-time activities based on honest opinion and guidance, but will not sell you anything. This means better value and a more relaxed, pleasant experience for you.Your Tauck Director will assist you with information on free-time activities based on honest opinion and guidance, but will not sell you anything. This means better value and a more relaxed, pleasant experience for you.
Five on-tour flights, including the flight from Hong Kong to Shanghai on Day 3, must be purchased through us as part of your tour package.
All U.S. citizens require a valid passport to enter China, and that passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the completion of travel. (Please note that although adult passports are valid for a full ten years, children's passports require renewal every five years.) Your passport must also contain at least one blank visa page according to the Chinese government, but we recommend at least two blank pages. If you are a United States citizen and do not have a valid passport, please contact the closest U.S. passport agency or consult the U.S. State Department web site for detailed information on how to obtain or renew your passport at: www.travel.state.gov.
In addition to a valid passport, and as noted in the Summary of Purchase you received confirming your reservation, U.S. citizens are also required to have a visa to enter China. Please note that this visa must be processed within six months of your arrival. Your Summary of Purchase also indicated various options on how to obtain your visa. To review (and if you are currently within the parameters of the timeframe noted above), you may elect to work with VisaCentral (a visa-assistance provider) to obtain your visa, with another visa-assistance provider of your choosing, or by working directly with the Chinese Embassy or Consulate. (If you opt to work with VisaCentral, their services are available online at www.visacentral.com/tauck.)
PLEASE NOTE: To secure a visa for China, an "invitation" must be extended to each visitor. Tauck will provide these invitation letters to VisaCentral or they will be provided to you by Tauck upon request if you are using another visa-assistance provider. For assistance in obtaining your invitation letter, contact our Journey Preparation Team at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Non-U.S. citizens should check with the Chinese Embassy or Consulate to determine necessary travel documents.
It is a good idea to carry a photocopy of the photo page of your passport in a place other than with the original, and to leave a copy of all your travel documents with a friend or relative at home.
Transportation to the tour departure point and from the tour ending point is not included.
Although every effort is made to handle guests' luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft, or fair wear and tear through hotel, airline and group carrier handling. Therefore, it is important for your own protection that you make certain you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities. Please refer to the Tauck Travel Protection Product section below for more information.
Lost luggage is an unfortunate possibility in today's world of airline travel. We suggest that you:
Your Tauck Director will assist you with airline and other carrier communications, but has no inside contacts to guarantee or expedite recovery of lost luggage. All recovery costs, including the communication costs, are your responsibility. Check your travel protection details for covered expenses.
To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces and be able to stand for extended periods of time. This rigorous journey covers 1,065 m (1,714 km), and includes five on-tour flights and a riverboat cruise. The benefits are many and require the effort to match. Various modes of transportation will be used to highlight different aspects of China's culture and geography, including airplane, riverboat, sampan, trishaw, aerial lift and funicular.
Much of the sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot and it is strongly suggested that you pack sturdy, comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in in order to appreciate fully what China has to offer.
Depending on the water level in the Yangtze River at different times of the year, it may be necessary to walk over several pontoons and climb up approximately 50 to150 steps without handrails in order to reach the motorcoach.
Although there is no significant altitude change from location to location, the air quality is poor in Beijing and most of the cities visited, and it is hot and humid throughout China and Asia in the summer months.
There are no restrooms on the motor coaches in China and there are no laws regarding disabilities similar to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) laws in the U.S. Therefore, at some of our destinations, restrooms do not have western commodes, nor do they have soap or paper towels. We suggest you bring tissues, handkerchiefs, soap leaves and antibacterial lotion. The hotels do have western commodes as well as soap and paper towels. Some hotels have washroom attendants; it is customary to tip these attendants.
The local water is not potable and we will supply bottled water or water in thermoses throughout the tour.
AN IMPORTANT NOTE ON SUPPLEMENTAL OXYGEN AND MOBILITY ISSUES: This Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate oxygen tanks, wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Oxygen tanks are strictly prohibited in many foreign countries on regional flights aboard small aircraft, such as those intra-tour flights featured on this Tauck journey. Likewise, the very limited cargo capacity on such flights prohibits the transport of wheelchairs or motorized scooters.
Guests should also bear in mind that the infrastructure in many foreign countries, particularly in developing countries, often presents severe and even insurmountable challenges for those with walking difficulties or other mobility issues. The responsibility of the Tauck Director is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.
A physician on board the riverboat is qualified in both western and Chinese medicine. The riverboat does not carry a defibrillator. Customary charges are in effect for medical care.
If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.
Some of the countries visited on this itinerary may require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases in order to enter the country. These requirements are subject to frequent change as outbreaks occur and subside in different areas, and it is therefore crucial that you obtain the very latest information on entry requirements as you prepare for your journey.
For the most current information, please consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by clicking here and the World Health Organization (WHO) by clicking here. You may also wish to visit the web sites for the embassies of the countries you will be visiting. Besides providing details on vaccination requirements, these sites can also provide information on vaccinations that may be recommended (but aren't required) and other potential health issues for which no vaccines are available.
Any decisions relating to your health, of course, should not be based solely on information provided by a web site. It is critically important that you consult with your personal physician prior to your journey to obtain any required vaccinations and to review any optional recommendations offered by the CDC or other sources.
Please be sure to discuss your journey with your physician at least four to six weeks in advance of your departure, as certain vaccinations take time to become fully effective. Also, be certain to ask your physician for proof of any vaccinations you receive, and to pack this proof along with your other travel documents in your carry-on luggage (not in your checked luggage).
Researching and complying with vaccination entry requirements for the countries visited on this itinerary is the responsibility of the traveler and not Tauck. Tauck is therefore not responsible for any expenses incurred or disruptions to travel caused by improper or incomplete vaccinations, or by the failure to provide proof of required vaccinations.
If you do not obtain the necessary vaccinations and proper documentation, you may be denied entry into one or more countries, or temporarily quarantined until the necessary vaccinations are administered, or until proper documentation is provided.
Airline Disinsection
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a guidance letter that requires airlines and travel agents to disclose to consumers countries that require the use of insecticides by airlines. Please click here for more information.
Age Recommendations - Children 5 years of age or older at the time of travel are welcome on this Tauck journey. Based upon our experience with family travelers, we have a minimum recommended age for each journey to encourage comfort and enjoyment for all of our guests. All children must be accompanied on activities by a parent or guardian. At least one guest in the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older in order to make a reservation.
Babysitting -Our journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. If you require babysitting services, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer on-site babysitting services; however, babysitting services may not be available at all of our hotels. Please note that our Tauck Directors are not responsible for providing babysitting services.
Safety and Welfare Responsibility - We welcome the participation of child travelers on our exciting excursions. If you are traveling with a child on a Tauck journey, you have the sole responsibility for ensuring that that the child with whom you are traveling follows all rules of safety throughout the tour. By traveling with us, you release Tauck, Inc. and our partners of all liability for any risks and/or injuries to the child with whom you are traveling.
Special Travel Documentation for Children
Authorization for Travel
If you travel into or out of the U.S. with children under the age of 18, you should be aware of the following: because of increasing incidents of child abductions in disputed custody cases and because children are at risk as possible victims of child pornography, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strongly recommends that unless the child is accompanied by both parents, you should have a notarized note from the child's other parent (or, in the case of a child traveling with grandparents, uncles or aunts, sisters or brothers, or friends, a note signed by both parents) stating that the parent(s) not traveling acknowledge that the parent(s), family members, etc. who are traveling into or out of the U.S. with the child have permission to do so. While CBP may not ask to see this documentation, if they do ask, and you do not have it, you may be detained until the circumstances of the child traveling without both parents can be fully assessed.
If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (parent deceased, sole custody, etc.), other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, or a death certificate, will be useful.
Many other countries also share this concern for children who travel without both parents. To ensure smooth travel, we require you to comply with the travel regulations of each country visited. This information may be obtained from a country's consulate or embassy.
Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment
In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, a medical facility will require permission from the child's parents to provide treatment. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you bring along a letter from both parents (including other pertinent documents as cited above) authorizing emergency medical treatment for their child.
Children who are U.S. citizens must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the completion of the journey. We are not responsible for the disruption of travel caused by the improper documentation of any guest, including children traveling without both parents. While there is no definitive format or standard, click here to view a sample letter for guardians or one parent traveling with a child.
If you are traveling from the U.S., the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that your name, as it appears on your domestic or international airline ticket, must precisely match your name as it appears on the government-issued photo ID (i.e., passport or driver's license) that you present during security screening. The ID name must also match any additional airline data, such as frequent-flyer information. For example, if you present your driver's license to security and it says John T. Smith, your ticket must also say John T. Smith, not John Thomas Smith, Jack Smith, or any other variant. Your date-of-birth and gender information provided to the airline must also match your passport.
If you make your air travel arrangements through us, please ensure that the name you provide us precisely matches your name as shown on the identification you will use while traveling. If you make your own airline reservations, please ensure that the airline has the correct information.
For more information on the TSA's requirements, please visit their website by clicking here.
If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S., you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification is required for that particular airport.
Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter, or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, or aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times.
You must provide your passport number, passport type and date of birth to us at time of booking. We must provide this information to the cruise line before departure or you may be denied boarding.
Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site.
Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing. For the welcome and farewell receptions, casual resort wear is appropriate; formal wear is never required for dining with your fellow guests at a Tauck provided dinner. When dining on your own, you may have the opportunity to dine at an upscale restaurant, which may require men to dress in coat and tie, and women in more elegant eveningwear.
The climate in China is similar to the United States as it is generally temperate and seasonal. During the cooler spring months of March through April wearing a sweater and a warm, water-proof jacket is recommended. During the warmer summer months, June through September, we still recommend a sweater for cool nights as well as a water-proof jacket. Layering is essential throughout the cooler months, as temperatures will vary.
Comfortable, well broken-in walking shoes are highly recommended. . For the welcome and farewell receptions and dinners, and for other fine dining experiences, we recommend a casually elegant outfit for ladies and a jacket for men.
Valet laundry service is available throughout the entire tour. Irons and ironing boards are available upon request.
Prescription drugs are not available in China. We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription, or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed
We recommend you pack the following items for you journey to China:
The hotels, riverboat and motor coaches on this tour are air-conditioned for your comfort.
Complimentary basic Internet where available in hotel rooms; service levels are not guaranteed. Wireless access available throughout the ship, please note that it can be intermittent.
The maximum elevation on this itinerary is 1,900 ft (579 m).
The climate of China is temperate, similar to the United States. Expect cool, sometimes cold, weather in Beijing in spring and fall with temperatures ranging from 40 to 65 ºF (4 to 18 ºC). During the summer months, the temperatures are warm, and generally range from 75 to 85 ºF (24 to 29 ºC).
The average temperature in Hong Kong rarely dips below 60 ºF (16 ºC). From April through October you can expect temperatures to vary between 65 and 85 ºF (18 and 29 ºC).
Temperatures in the Three Gorges region (Yangtze) and Guilin average 65 ºF (18 ºC) in April and May and 80 ºF (27 ºC) in June, July and August. Temperatures return to about 65 ºF (18 ºC) in October.
Please note that although it does appear to be quite rainy in some areas of the tour at different times of the year, the rain is often intermittent, and does not occur throughout the entire month. It is entirely appropriate to encourage travel during these months.
To determine current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov, by clicking here.
To help expedite your booking, please have the following information ready before you call us:
For reservations, call 800-788-7885 or contact your travel agent to book today!
Tauck Reservation Sales Counselors are available:
Monday through Friday 6 am - 8 pm
Saturday 9 am - 5 pm
Sunday 12 pm - 5 pm (E.S.T.)
Monday through Friday 6 am - 8 pm
Saturday 9 am - 5 pm
Sunday 12 pm - 5 pm (E.S.T.)
The Deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking. Your deposit is $600 per person.
We will be happy to advise hotels of any special requests, provided we receive them at time of booking. We regret that requests cannot be guaranteed.
Final Payment is due at Tauck's Norwalk, CT office 60 days before departure. Any bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice.
Final Documents, which may include airline tickets, when applicable, are sent by first class mail upon receipt of final payment. They include joining instructions, hotel lists, tour itinerary, clothing suggestions, luggage tags and other pertinent information. We recommend overnight mailing service for any reservation that is made within 30 days of the tour departure date to ensure timely delivery. The additional expense will be added to your tour cost.
Tauck's Guest Protection
Guests booking a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing cancellation protection from Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Travel Protection Plan is available to all travelers, with the exception of residents of Puerto Rico.
Under Tauck's all-inclusive Guest Protection, you can cancel your tour for any covered reason up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment. The following conditions apply:
Section I Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck: Should you have to cancel your journey for any reason, Tauck's Cancellation Waiver reduces the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your journey departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).
Section II – Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by Transamerica Casualty Insurance Company. Should you have to cancel your trip due to illness, injury, death or other covered reason, any cancellation or airline penalties not refunded by Tauck under Section I's Cancellation Waiver would be reimbursable under Section II. This Protection also provides 24-hour emergency assistance services as well as:
The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is $555.00 per person.
This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.
Travel insurance is underwritten by: Transamerica Casualty Insurance Company, Columbus, OH; NAIC #10952, (all states except as otherwise noted) under Policy/Certificate Form series TAHC5000. In CA, HI, NE, NH, PA, TN and TX Policy/Certificate Form series TAHC5100 and TAHC5200. In IL, IN, KS, LA, OH, OR, VT, WA and WY Policy Form #'s TAHC5100IPS and TAHC5200IPS. Certain coverages are under series TAHC6000 and TAHC7000. 26325543
The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.
This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Cost is not refundable under any circumstances. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.
*Extreme Circumstances: In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.
If You Have to Cancel
Cancellations Fees – Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. Therefore, the following fees apply.
Guests choosing to purchase Tauck's Guest Protection will incur cancellation penalties of $555.00 per person regardless of cancellation date prior to tour departure date.
Guests choosing not to purchase Tauck's Guest Protection will incur cancellation penalties per person as follows:
Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Norwalk, CT office.
In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.
Tour Interruption Fees – If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund of land tour costs if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less $40 per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.
Partial Room Cancellation – A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.
Click here to download our complete Description of Coverage.
Airfare may be purchased through us for travel originating in the United States. By using our air services, you agree that we, in purchasing, selling or otherwise arranging air transportation, are acting only as your agent and are not liable or responsible for any accident, death, personal injury, illness, property damage, delay or other loss or expense of any nature whatsoever arising directly or indirectly out of any act of God, or any actions or omissions (including any failure to provide services) or default of, any carrier. All carriers are independent contractors and are not owned, managed, controlled or operated by us. Your airline ticket constitutes a contract between yourself and the airline only, even if purchased through us. We are not liable for, and do not assume responsibility or accept claims with regard to seat assignments, schedule changes, flight changes, cancellations, claims for a refund or reimbursement of airline ticket fees, or any other loss incurred by you for any reason whatsoever (including, without limitation to, bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar relief from creditors). We must handle ticketing for our special fares, which are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed until reserved. Our air services can only be purchased in conjunction with a one of our tours. Tickets or e-ticket numbers will be mailed with final documents. If you cancel or change your air booking before or after departure, all airline cancellation and change fees will apply.
Note: This cruise may operate aboard multiple boats; click on the ships below for corresponding deck plans.
Our 4-night Westbound cruise (upstream) aboard Yangzi Explorer takes you through the scenic heart of the Yangtze River, the Three Gorges, with included shore excursions – note that the 16-day Eastbound itinerary (downstream) features a 3-night cruise. The 5-star Yangzi Explorer carries no more than 124 guests with a crew of 130, and boasts the highest ship staff-to-guest ratio on the river.
Overall Rating:
A very active, informative and fun trip ! We learned more about China than we ever dreamed. Our Tour Director was the absolute best. Every detail was covered and every possible stressful situation resolved. The very best accommodations and food were provided. It is a real journey with 5 flights inside China. Take this trip !
Everything we wanted to see was seen.
Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely
Wonderful trip, everything we expected and more. Only negatives was the weather was warmer and rainier than we anticipated. Also two of the in-country flights were significantly delayed which impacted planned sight seeing. The tour guide did an excellent job of adjusting the schedule to compensate. Surprised only 9 on the tour.
The great wall of China, terra cotta warriors and the city of Shanghai. Excellent hotels, local guides and good variety of food. Tauck tour guide was excellent. Wish we had more time to tour Shanghai on our own.
Fantastic trip! Ended up with only 9 guests which made it almost a private tour. The Tauck Director did an outstanding job. Local guides were great. Hotels were top of the line and in the best locations. Can't beat the Waldorf in Shanghai. We highly recommend this tour. You can do China for less money, but you get what you pay for.
Great Wall and Terra Cotta Warriors
thank you so much for taking the time to write a Trip Review. At Tauck we believe in always providing our guests with the best possible value, and we are glad you feel that you got that value! We look forward to hosting you on another Tauck journey.
-The Tauck Guest Relations Team
Allan Watson
It was a great trip and we are glad that we did it. Accommodations were outstanding. Dinning arrangements were excellent. Pace is brutal with many very early risings due to timing of luggage pick up in your room. Needed more time in Shanghai (bad weather, cancelled flight) and Hong Kong. Yangtze Explorer needs to be replaced.
The Terra Cotta soldiers in Xi'an were worth the trip.
Thank you for sharing your comments. I have shared them with our Operations team who is always striving to improve and enhance our tours. Thank you for travelling with Tauck, and we hope you will travel with us again.
Overall the trip was very enjoyable. The Tour Director was superb and is a real asset to Tauck. She handled unexpected changes calmly and professionally. This is our first Tauck tour and indeed only our second organized tour of any kind.We felt it was as well done as could be expected although missed individual travel experiences.
The Great Wall and the Terra Cotta Warriors. Almost surreal when first seeing both. Right behind these is the visit to an artist home in Beijing as part of the hutong venture.
Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Maybe
The trip exceeded our expectations. The itinerary hit the highlights such as the Great Wall, Terra Cotta warriors, Guilin, Forbidden City, and also included memorable visits to a tea plantation, the museum outside the airport in Xian, the kindergarten and more. Loved it all. Excellent tour guides, great hotels (Waldorf Astoria the favorite).
Too many to list--loved first sighting of the Great Wall. Visited Mutianyu on our own, and it was great to compare it with Badaling. Amazing Terra Cotta warriors. Really loved Li river cruise, and nighttime cruise when we watched cormorants fishing. Inspired by retirees who gather regularly at the park to sing, practice Tai Chi and have fun.
The China, the Yangtze River & Hong Kong – Eastbound tour was an eye-opening experience. Each local guide gave her personal interpretation of the history and culture of her region. The lodging and dining were topnotch. Our tour director brought it all together. Another GOLD in Goldilocks Tauck tour – not too much, not too little, just right.
Too numerous to mention. The Great Wall, the relocated village tour, and the Shanghai acrobats stood out.
Trip Talk-Jim
Our trip to China (China, Yangtze & Hong Kong-East)was a truly fascinating
experience. It gave us an inside basic understanding of China and its
cultural, social, political, and economic character.
The excursion to five cities, and our cruise on the
Yantgze with our excellent tour director and well informed local guides
was amazing.
Walking on the Great Wall was the most memorable moment.
The Great Wall is an incredible example of human accomplishment.
Tauck did a fantastic jog with this trip. It was led by the incomparable tour director, who was knowledgeable, energetic, witty and willing to do anything to please the group. The city guides were also great. There were five flights in China and Tauck made it easy, especially with the luggage (and don't worry about the 44 lb. limit). What a trip!
Every day was special, but there were some moments that stood out: incredible breakfast buffets; excellent hotels with amazing views in the most desirable areas; Chinese foot massage; Chinese acrobat show with front row seats; the bullet train to Shanghai's airport; the Trishaw ride; Panda Bears at the zoo; Terra Cotta Warriors; and Shanghai views.
Diana Sue
Traveling through China was a most amazing experience both in terms of actually climbing The Great Wall and seeing the Terra Cotta Warriors and as an opportunity to learn about this fast-changing country. We are very glad we went Eastbound, with the crowds, traffic and squat toilets of Beijing & Xi'an moving to the comfort of Shanghai & Hong Kong.
The beauty and calm of the Li River. It was a welcome relief after the hustle and bustle of Beijing, Xi'an and Guilin to hear birds and crickets, and see the "old" rural China that is fast disappearing.
We recently returned from the China,the Yangtze River & Hong Kong Eastbound trip. Our Tour Director, Annie, made everything seamless, and made sure that all we had to think about was our own enjoyment. The small group of 19 bonded beautifully and it was like being on holiday with close friends. Tauck always comes up trumps.
Too many to mention but the Terracotta warriors and the Shanghai acrobats stand out. Not to mention the computerised toilets at the Waldorf Astoria hotels. I miss the warmed seats and automatic flush and dry.
Ken from Vegas
Awesome trip - our 6th. A varied and fascinating experience put into clear perspective by our Tauck director and local guides. The hotels for the 2014 trip are all top drawer. The food was generally excellent, with frequent non-Chinese options. Food on the boat was sometimes just OK. April weather averaged just right.
Terra cotta warriors. Atmospheric boat ride on the Li River. Visiting the major sights (Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terra Cotta Warriors) with 50 or 60 thousand new Chinese friends. Chinese tourists taking photos of us. Humorous local guides.
This trip is an excellent introduction to China. It covers the major attractions including Beijing, Shanghai, the terracotta warriors, the Yangzee River and the Li River. These attractions are balanced by visits to small town public markets, a farmer's mud house, & old traditional neighborhoods. Add 5 star hotels & restaurants to the itinerary.
The opportunity to walk on the Great Wall was truly a memorable moment. The wall is long & accommodates tourists with ease. By far most tourists were Chinese citizens. Walking on the wall was like being part of history. It was a smog free, clear & cool day which made it even more spectacular. Our local Tauck guide was so proud of her history.
Effortless trip! The companions and our tour guide, Tod, were amazing. We loved every moment of our trip. We travel extensively and this is our 2nd Tauck tour. We are now believers and will book only with Tauck!!
Shanghai and the view of the Bund! Being in Tiananmen Square in our Panda Hats taking a group photo. priceless!! The night market in Beijing, doing Tai Chi in the park on Sunday, visiting the hutongs. Of course wallking on the Great Wall snd seeing the Terra Cotta warriors were the highlights, but the unexpected things made the trip!
This was probably the best & most interesting trip we've ever taken, full of varied and unique experiences each day. We learned so much, met a fun group of new friends, stayed in wonderful hotels & ate delicious food. Our guide, Tod Griswold, had the perfect combination to lead us through China - a great personality & good organizational skills.
Each day was the best: walking on the Great Wall & throughout the Forbidden City, seeing the actual Terra Cotta Warriors, talking with the people of China up close & personal, experiencing the magnificent gorges on the Yangtze, watching a panda go through bamboo shoots in just seconds, enjoying the stunning views from our hotels in Shanghai & HK.
Have forwarded this to my wife who is the writer in this family. Her 6th trip with you and my 5th and this WAS THE BEST ever. Tour director, Chuck Olmstead (sp?), was fabulous and the China locals were great. Saw everything that I wanted to and MORE which was a bonus. We will be on other Tauck tours.
Trip was certainly amoung top three trips we have ever taken. Tour leader fantastic and very well organized. Group a little large at 37 and other than Waldorf and Regent, hotels could have been slightly upgraded. Would definately take another Tauck tour.
Visiting the Great Wall of China.
This trip is well worth it! We saw everything that we had heard about in China and Hong Kong, with a great group of new friends and an outstanding tour guide (Annie [Employee Name]). We were not sure if we would ever get back to China, so this trip was perfect since it gave us a wonderful glimpse of the country and its culture.
The day that we went to The Great Wall was fantastic. Everyone hears about this majestic feat, but to stand at the top of one of the towers and realize the expanse of this wonder was fabulous!
Dee Jones
It was fantastic from the first moment we arrived. One of the things that made our trip so great was Annie [Employee Name], our travel director. She is very well organized and has a great sense of humor even with the arrival of typhoon rains!!!!
This is our 2nd Tauck trip and we will surely be taking another.
Each of the local guides were so enjoyable with their wisdom and input about the area they were covering. Two things memorable are the Great Wall, Tai O fishing village and a fresh meat and vegetable open market!..and going through the Three Gorges. I could go on and on!
The trip was very well organized and the Tour Director first rate. They delivered everything that was promised and even a bit more. We will be doing our second trip abroad with Tauck in 2014 (Paradors of Northern Spain). We were in Beijjing in October for the Chinese National Holiday commemorating the revolution and all went smoothly.
There were many such moments including walking a portion of the Great Wall, meeting with the Houtong family, seeing the Terra Cotta army and experiencing the Beijing night market.
The tour was amazing except for a problem with food poisoning on the Yangzi Explorer with three to four of us getting sick. In addition, Tauck's air department failed to enter all the required information into our airline reservations such as birthdates, passport numbers, etc.(all required info). Airline complaint to Tauck never acknowledged.
Seeing Shanghai and Xi'an's Terra Cotta Warriors.
Thanks for taking the time to share your feedback. We are happy that despite your illnes you still had a great experience.
Phil V
All the expected highlights - Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terra Cotta Warriors were great, but it was the unexpected that were most memorable. Going to the Hutong neighborhood in Beijing and talking with a local, meeting a farmer displaced by the 3 Gorges Dam and meeting the artist at the zoo were the types of experiences you only get with Tauck.
There were so many. This was my 32nd tour with Tauck and definitely one of the best. The most memorable was the one that exceeded expectations - the Li River cruise.
It was the most interesting and educational trip we have ever taken. Every day was an adventure.
I was mesmerized by the terra cotta warriors.
My husband and I had a fabulous experience traveling to China with Tauck. Your tour guide Annie [Employee Name] did an outstanding job with a smile and a wonderful attitude. She kept us all informed about China's history and up to date on todays living conditions. She certainly is a credit to Tauck and the high standards of travel you are known for.
It is hard to pinpoint one in particular, each and every day held a special moment. I found going to the park at the Temple of Heaven and seeing the local people with their own groups of friends sharing in various activities very uplifting, but Since childhood I had always wanted to see the Great Wall, so I guess that was my most memorable moment.
Dee Vandercook
China is a land of contrasts - rich in history yet stunningly modern mega-cities. The beauty along the Li River was unexpected and breathtaking. I have never seen lush greenery like this with the possible exception of Ireland. We glided the iconic Karst range on a misty day - making the landscape ready for the artist's brush!
Walking the Great Wall will never be forgotten. How many others have climbed these same steps centuries ago?
What a truly amazing country China is! We are so pleased to hosted you on this journey and that you returned with so many wonderful memories.
Trip was overwhelming with a spectacular itinerary. The weather cooperated most generously. Another day wouldn't hurt to spend in Guilin and you need more than one day in Hong Kong to do it any kind of justice; it has so much to offer first-time visitors. The tour should be at least 20 days.
The Great Wall, the Li River cruise and the Terra Cotta Warriors.
We are thrilled you enjoyed your journey to this magnificent area and returned with many wonderful memories!
Norman D Goldman
You truly have to be fit to walk and walk and walk to see all the beauty and historic sites. We had a wonderful tour manager who just took care of everything with such ease and professional care that if we had Anne with us on all the trips we would be going all over. Tauck truly knows how to treat their guests, including hotels...and places to eat.
Going on a sandpan and seeing the people and culture of the mountains. Having a foot massage was an outstanding joy as well as seeing all the places that we read about in China's history. Having my husband's suit made in Hong Kong and we were able to take it home with us.
Dear Mr. Goldman,
Thank you so much for your feedback. We are very happy you enjoyed your journey and look forward to hosting you on many more.
Edel K.
Terrific trip; only superseded by South Africa. Itinerary was great and flights made the transitions go smoothly.
Shanghai is amazing.
My wife and I we loved the China experience. We think that Tauck did a very good job. Great cities and beautiful places. Excelent hotels and tasteful meals. The combination between the new and the old was perfect! At most we find a good fellows and a friend and competent tour director. Congratulations for the all Tauck team!
We could say we have four memorable moments:
The Great Wall,
The city of Guilin,
The Shennong Stream (Cruising the Three Gorges) and
We are very pleased to learn you enjoyed your overall journey with us and we thank you for taking the time to share your feedback.
My wife and I are seasoned travelers and have been to just about all the important venues in the world. China was on our bucket list and when we reviewed all the comparable itineraries, Tauck's was the best. The trip exceeded our expectations. Tauck and the tour director were great.
All the classic sites; the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Army, Yangzi River were as spectacular as we thought they would be. Shanghai was really fascinating and the progress that has been made there very impressive.
Squalor and Splendor. Amazing, modern cities and mud huts. Warm welcomes and great service. Pollution everywhere.Unexpected and surprising at every turn. A must see, but read "Understanding China", and "Wild Swans", as we did before the trip.
The beauty of the Li river.
Florida Traveler
I traveled solo and the trip was outstanding. The others on the tour were exceptionally friendly and interesting. The destinations were fascinating. The Chinese food was unbeatable. The weather was perfect. The tour guide was funny and very helpful. The accommodations were top notch. I did not want to go home.
Beijing during the National Holiday. We had Southern California (ie perfect) weather the whole time in Beijing and the crowds celebrating the National Holiday were awesome.
We still talk about this trip and how interesting and memorable it was. The negative was the many internal flights-tiring, but a necessary evil. We also suffered from breathing in the pollution. Nevertheless, we will always be glad we did this tour. Finally seeing so many places we had only read about was worth every discomfort.
Can't pick just one-too many to choose from. Had expected it to be seeing the Great Wall, but the fog was so bad we couldn't see much. However, we will never forget seeing the Terra Cotta Warriors, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square.
What a wonderful way to visit an extremely interesting, friendly country! The tour was a complete success - from the informative, personable and very efficient tour guide, to the sites we visited, to the hotel accomodations - this trip will live in our memories for a long time.
Don't even think of another tour company for your visit to China!
Seeing the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an during a Tauck-arranged exclusive, early morning tour with no other tourists around! We even met the site's friendly curator who answered all of our questions about this fascinating treasure.
David NYC
This journey started from Beijing and ended in Hong Kong including a three day cruise in the Yangtze River. This is our first review although we have traveled with Tauck more than 15 times since July 2002.
Excellent tour director. We recommend their trip to any and all persons.
David NYC
It was a pleasant experience traveling thru various cities in China. The weather was excellent and we had only two days of rain. The group consisted of 28 persons coming from around the Globe. We listened to the local guides who shared their experiences with local history, work ethics, housing, economics and certainly current political events.
best ever. Individual guides great especially Jessica in BeJing Fellow guests were great. Makes an enormous difference. Director was very strong. No really weak spot. One more day in awful Chongqing might have been worth it but that is a guess.
Bejing duck by ourselves in Bejing
We are delighted you enjoyed your journey to this facinating country and thank you for your feedback.
Mark L
This was our third Tauck Tour and may have been the best. We started in Beijing, which from what I can tell is the right way to go. That side of the tour is the more grueling days, up early and out late, but well worth it. We arrived a day early which is highly recommended. The facilities and the people were over the top. Charge your batteries & GO
The Terracotta Warriors, The Great Wall, Tianamen Square, Yangtze River, Three Gorges, Shanghai, Maglev High Speed Train, were All equally amazing. The Shanghai Acrobats were right up there as well. Always great entertainment.
Overall wonderful and informative trip. Our tour guide was attentive and made sure all went smoothely. The groups of people we traveled with were intersting,fun and friendly. The local guides were excellent. What I missed most was exposure to music.Music has been a part of other Tauck tours and is an importanrt part of the culture.
The Great Wall.The food.The Chinese people.
Irwin Wechsler
My wife and I were astounded at the number of historic sites,local areas, rivers and cities we were able to tour in such a short time. The trip and guide (Larry) were extremely well organized and the accomodations were exceptinal. If you want to see, explore and understand China, this is the trip!
Climbing the Great Wall
People can tell you they don't want to go on a "guided tour" but we would have miss so much without Tauck Tours. There is no way you could have planned all the sites the wonderful meals without their help.
The visits to private homes and an art collector's private home was just wondeful. To see how ordinary people live and New Englanders think they have antiques, nothing compared to China
Starting in Beijing was a perfect way to start the trip. Seeing the Great Wall & Forbidden City etc right away are the things you have always heard about and I was anxious to see them. The boat cruises let you see things you perhaps have not heard about and a great bonding experience with other travelers. Then Shanghai, we all loved it.
Great Wall, Terra Cotta Soldiers, Shanghai, Shanghai tourist tunnel, The park in Beijing, walking through the town of Chongqing,
panda bears.
Bob Young
A really good trip. I keep telling family and friends of the experience and of all the China information from the many excellent city guides. We be Tauck customers again.
We have so many great memories of our journey through China. We enjoyed walking the streets of Hong Kong in search of the goldfish market, the flower market, and the bird market. The Yangzte river cruise and shore excursions were excellent. I learned to appreciate the paintings of the Gorges and the mountains along the Lee river.
The pandas were a treat. I acquired a taste for dumplings. Shaing Hai is full of eye candy (the lights along the bund). Tierra cotta soldiers!. Do not miss out on Peking Duck in Beijing. Shopping is not for the feint of heart. The Chinese drive a hard bargain. We got really wet on the Great Wall. Oh well into each life some rain must fall.
the trip was very exciting. We arrived a day early and explored Beijing on our own. Navigating the traffic was challenging. Visiting the Great Wall was a highlight. actually the entire trip was one we will never forget. the hotels were first rate. The people were very friendly, we even had a school class of young children sing ABC to us at the zoo
seeing the Terracotta Warriors was a sight we will never forget. We even had one of the professors working on the project talk to us.
My trip started with a bang. When I arrived at Dayton Ohio airport, my flight was just then cancelled due to "no pilot". After much run around and security, I finally got off the ground. Tauck was great once I got to Hong Kong. Yangtze River cruise was relaxing but yet extremely educational. Being a single traveler, the group was wonderful.
The villages on the Yangtze River and being an animal lover, the Panda bears.
We had a good trip with lots of wonderful, friendly enjoyable tour companions. Sorry to say our tour director was lacking when it came to being creative. This trip had none if the "pleasant and wonderful surprises" of our other Tauck tours...The hotels were great! Food good, again not quite up to Tauck's standard.
The Tango lessons, the Iguazu Falls were so amazing, with the beauty and sound that just takes your breath away!! Of course Tauck can't take credit for the beautiful snowfall in the Andes, and all of us getting to play in it. All of our hotel rooms with beautiful views!
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We are so pleased you enjoyed your overall journey but disappointed that some aspects fell below expectations. We will look into your comments immediately and all and any actions needed will be taken. Thank you for traveling with us and we looking forward to hosting in the future.
Since we first landed in Beijing to our departure from Hong Kongthe trip was just out of this world, mainly because of our Tour Director.
All moments were memorable.
From Hong Kong to Bejing this was a first class trip. Our tour guide was well informed and very capable.The hotels were 5 star all the way. The boat on tbe Yanzte river was old but we had fun.
Seeing the Terra Cotta Warriors and a spur of the moment foot massage.
An incredible trip. It lived up to Tauck's reputation. Larry, our tour director was incredible in every way. There was nothing that he would not do. Shanghai was beyond our expectations. We requested a special tour during our free time and Larry had a guide and our bus within 15 minutes. Where else do you get that kind of treatment.
No one thing stands out. We loved the entire trip. This trip if not for someone who wants to relax
This was a trip that only Tauck could orchestrate. Annie [Employee Name] was our tour director and not only kept everything moving but made it fun as well. This was a very educational tour and we are very glad that we did it with Tauck.
The Terra Cota Warriers. This was fabulous. Next was the great wall.
We are delighted you enjoyed your overall journey with us!
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See for yourself what Tauck's vacation to China, the Yangtze River & Hong Kong is all about!
Itinerary Subject To Change
Longitude Books has been recommending reading lists, maps, and travel guides to Tauck guests for many years. Our reading lists are custom-designed to complement specific Tauck destinations.
To view this tour's reading list or to purchase a selection, please click on the following link:
Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – and depending on the destination, what to pack might include footwear, sunglasses, binoculars, hats, etc. We've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Just click the link below and check out all of the great suggestions to make what you pack that much easier!
When my husband and I returned from China, to say that it was the trip of a lifetime would be a gross understatement. I never wanted to return from this one! We felt that we had gained so much knowledge of China and its people, and with it a new appreciation and understanding for a world very different from our own.
Penny & Jim Starin, IN
When my husband and I returned from China, to say that it was the trip of a lifetime would be a gross understatement. I never wanted to return from this one! We felt that we had gained so much knowledge of China and its people, and with it a new appreciation and understanding for a world very different from our own.
Penny & Jim Starin, IN
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This was a cool battle. It was really cool to see Pikachu flip Milotic like that. I saw someone complain about no Torkoal. It's a water gym dude. >_>
Ash winning was uber cool, and so was the battle. I think it would've been better if it was just a Double Battle - Juan's Pokemon would've made awesome combos together.
i'm leaving serebi for now. i don't know when i'll be back
this episode had a cool battle i say 8/10.
Great gym battle.
i was surprised when Grovyle lost, how come?
And the animation was bad.
Wobbuffet and his trainer.(credit: Serebii.net)
Well at least the final gym battle in Hoenn allowed the Gym Leader to showcase 5 Pokemon instead of the normal limit of 3 :/
I liked it. Juan really challenged Ash to the point were either one could have lost. Ash won the battle of course, but I found that I respect Juan as a gym leader after they ditched Wallace.
A good 8/10
This episode was very cool. It was cool to see a Milotic for the 1st time. I'm glad Ash won the Gym Battle. He really earned it in this battle. Pikachu vs Milotic was the best battle of the matchups. It was rough seeing Grovyle get KO'd by Luvdisc in the battle. It was cool that Corphish was the Pokemon to defeat Luvdisc. It was cool to see Swellow able to hang on after being hit with Wishcash's Hyper Beam to defeat it wish Aerial Ace.
Currently writing: The Missing Link!
Okay, this is the right episode this time. Anyway, the battle was pretty satisfactory in my opinion. The end of the battle kind felt like a letdown due to how easily Milotic was taken down but I can over look that for the rest of the battle I suppose. At least I'm done re-watching Ash's Hoenn quest with only the Hoenn League and the rest of May's journey to get through.
Fighting for real American turtles everywhere. Pro-Turtle since 6/30/13
I was surprised that Juan's Luvdisc gave Ash's Grovyle so much trouble, but at least Corphish was able to knock it out afterwards. I screamed when Juan's Whiscash held Ash's Swellow back with its whiskers, and Pikachu vs. Milotic lasted quite a long time. Anyway, James dressed as Juan for his fangirls made me giggle as well; he looked fabulous.
Wow, even though I agree tjat Grovyle got screwed over in this episode, you guys are acting like it's the end of the world.
I personally thought Pikachu vs Milotic was an awesome battle, especially when Pikachu suplexed Milotic into the water, before blasting it with Thunder.
my firered team
my soulsilver team
my alphasapphire team
Sinnoh Team coming soon

subset: commoncrawl


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Joint Announcement from Fairtrade International and Fair Trade USA15 September 2011
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Note: Chris Kreider Learned A Lesson Over The Weekend
Through six games Chris Kreider has one goal and three assists to go along with 16 shots.
While in Hartford, Kreider is getting a chance to play in situations that he would most likely not have the opportunity to with the Rangers.
That includes the penalty kill which saw Kreider be on the ice for nearly an entire two minutes over the weekend.
Kreider told Blueshirts United it's nice to play in all different kinds of situations and use each situation as a learning experience.
He cited the "little things" on the PK and PP and all the other little details that he is learning and called the process "fun."
Ken Gernander has talked about how Kreider is getting his feet wet with the Whale.
Kreider also used an incredible move to set up a Ryan Bourque goal over the weekend.