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China: Big Cities & Iconic Culture
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Length
15 Days
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Quality
This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities. -
Starts in
Beijing (China)
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Ends in
Shanghai (China)
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Available Tour Start Dates
SEP 4, 2026 to DEC 29, 2028
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Style
Fully-Guided
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Guaranteed Date(s)
Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).Yes
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Special Interest(s)
18-to-Thirtysomethings
Fast, fresh, and fun adventures that never slow down, made for young, budget-minded travellers., Small GroupGroup trips average 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16, but some can be smaller or bigger, depending on the trip. Check individual trips for details.
From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$1,499.00
Contact Us for a Special Price!
Overview
Get ready for two weeks of must-see highlights and epic off-the-beaten-path adventures that will make you fall in love with all sides of China. From the bustling cities of Beijing and Shanghai to the breathtaking nature of Yangshuo's riverside mountain town, every moment is unforgettable. But the real gem? A journey back in time to the Hakka tulou houses in Yongding. Stay in this cultural village and discover a side of China you never knew existed. Wrap up your adventure in Shanghai, China's most international city, and let us know which side of China steals your heart.
Visited During Tour
Beijing (China) | Chengdu (China) | Guangzhou (China) | Shanghai (China) | Xi'An (China) | Yangshuo County (China) | Yongding (China)
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
Accommodations
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are China: Big Cities & Iconic Culture tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
There is at least one departure that the vendor is advising is Not Available for the selected year. Click here if you would like such tours to be included below.
Tour Itinerary
G Adventures Tour Code ACBA-9939
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Day
1Beijing
Welcome to China! Arrive at anytime. Then join your CEO and group in the evening for a Welcome Meeting and an Orientation Walk of Beijing. Tonight's your First Night Out so get to know your group under the bright Beijing lights.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Connect With New Friends
Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Orientation Walk
Set out on an orientation walk near the hotel with your CEO to get your bearings. They will show you restaurants, points of interest, supermarkets, ATMs, etc.
Accommodations: Golden Inns (Beijing South Railway Station) -
Day
2Beijing
Hop on local transportation and visit some of Beijing's top tourist spots. Take a CEO led tour of the symbolic centre of Chinese power, Tiananmen Square. See the Forbidden City from a birds eye view at Jingshan Park and wander through the picturesque Hutong alleyways.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Tiananmen Square
Explore one of the world's largest public squares and the symbolic centre of Chinese power. Framed by the Gate of Heavenly Peace with its Mao portrait, Mao's Mausoleum, the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum, and with elaborate flag raising and lowering ceremonies at dawn and dusk, it's a place of pilgrimage for the Chinese tourists who consider it the heart of their nation.
Nanluoguxiang
In the centre of Old Beijing, the narrow alley of Nanluoguxiang offers a unique experience in the city. This kilometer long street is lined with cute cafes, bars and traditional craft stores. Try a local snack or do some souvenir shopping.
Jingshan Park Visit
Only a moat separates you from Jingshan Park. This royal garden offers the perfect birds eye view of the Forbidden City.
Hutong Walk
Take a walking tour through some of Beijing's traditional alleyways and backstreets (known as hutongs) and get a taste of this magnificent metropolis.
Drum and Bell Tower Visit
Visit the striking Drum Tower for some incredible photo ops. Back in the Han Dynasty the towers were used to echo the time to the city with bells in the morning and drums in the evening. Today the 63-ton bell still stands in one tower and drum performances happen daily in the morning and afternoon.
Accommodations: Golden Inns (Beijing South Railway Station)3Optional Activities for Day 2
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Day
3Beijing/Xi'an
This morning, travel to the legendary Great Wall of China. Together we'll hike about 5 kilometers of this 6000 km masterpiece. Opt to ride the cable car, chairlift or even ride the toboggan down. After a full day at the Wall, we'll return to Beijing where we'll board an overnight train to Xi'an.
Lunch will be on your own at the Great Wall. There are options at the foot of the wall, but you can also bring your own lunch if you wish to spend more time on the wall.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your shared bus transportation from Beijing to Mutianyu.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your shared bus transportation from Mutianyu to Beijing.
Basic Overnight Train (beds)
Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.
Mutianyu Great Wall Visit
Climb the rolling hills of Huairou County at Mutianyu, one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall. Enjoy scenic views as the wall winds along mountain ridges, and take brag-worthy photos of the wall from any of the 22 towers. The Great wall is an incredible piece of engineering stretching 6000 km west from the mountain ridges north of Beijing. It was originally constructed to protect Chinese empires from nomadic northern tribes, and even though it failed in this purpose, it's still one of the country's most remarkable achievements and an iconic destination. The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is located about 80km away from the Beijing City Center. The walk is approximately 5 kilometres and will take 2 to 3 hours depending on your level of fitness.
2Optional Activities for Day 3
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Day
4Xi'an
Wake up this morning as you pull into the historical city of Xi'An, the entrance to the Silk Road. After an orientation walk, hop on a public bus with your CEO to take a tour of the mysterious Terracotta Warriors. In the evening, return to the city for an evening stroll through the Muslim Quarter.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Orientation Walk
Enjoy a CEO-led orientation walk close to the Xi'an hotel to help you get the lay of the land. Learn where you can find local services (like ATMs and laundromats) and, perhaps, see some city highlights. Every CEO does something slightly different for their orientation walk to show visitors what they like best about the city.
Muslim Quarter Orientation Walk
Enjoy a walk around Xi'an's Muslim Quarter with our CEO, and be introduced to favourite streets, artists, chefs or food stalls in the quarter. Each CEO offers a unique perspective. Get a better feel for the district and have plenty of time to roam around on your own, shopping and eating along the way.
Local Bus
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride from Xi'an to the Terracotta Warriors Museum.
Local Bus
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride from the Terracotta Warriors Museum back to Xi'an.
Terracotta Warriors Guided Tour
Take a guided tour of the Terracotta Warriors where more than 8,000 clay soldiers and hundreds of replica horses and chariots stand in three pits. Learn why the Emperor Qin Shihuang commissioned the statues to serve as his army in the afterlife and how they were discovered. Spend a half-day exploring this archaeological wonder.
Accommodations: Bancheng Guesthouse -
Day
5Xi'an/Chengdu
This morning, enjoy some free time in the city of Xi'an before heading to our next destination. Opt to visit the ancient City Wall or take a cycling tour on top of it. Then head to train station to take the bullet train to Chengdu. Join your CEO for an orientation walk of the city before heading out for your Big Night Out! Grab a beer or plum juice for yourself and enjoy it under the bright lights of Chengdu alongside your crew.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
Enjoy some free time in Xi'an this morning.
Bullet Train
Catch a high speed train to our next stop.
Orientation Walk
Set out on an orientation walk near the hotel with your CEO to get your bearings. They will show you restaurants, points of interest, supermarkets, ATMs, etc.
Big Night Out
Join your crew for a fun night out! Maybe have a beer or green tea and enjoy being out on the town with your group!
Accommodations: Poshpacker Local Tea Hostel1Optional Activities for Day 5
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Day
6Chengdu
After your Big Night Out, choose to take this morning slow or get ready to see all that Chengdu has to offer. Opt to visit the Giant Panda Breeding Center and learn about this amazing, but endangered, species. In the afternoon, with your group and CEO, visit Chengdu's more popular spots, like Tianfu Square, People's Park and Kuanzhaixiang.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
A free morning in Chengdu? How about a trip to the Panda Breeding Center!
People's Park & Tianfu Square Visit
Built in 1911, the People's Park was the first public park in Chengdu. It's the largest green area in downtown. The park features an artificial lake, gardens, teahouses, and is a popular place for locals to enjoy the outdoors. Walk to Tianfu Square in the centre of the city, surrounded by museums.
Kuan Zhai Xiang Zi
Wander through Kuan Zhai alley, translating to wide (kuan) and narrow (zhai) lanes. Dip into a charming teahouse, walk through the ancient architecture or try some delicious Sichuan food.
Accommodations: Poshpacker Local Tea Hostel1Optional Activities for Day 6
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Day
7Chengdu/Yangshuo
We'll ditch the big city this morning and head to the mountains today. A late morning bullet train brings us to the city of Yangshuo. After we arrive, we'll take an orientation walk of this picturesque, riverside city.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Bullet Train
Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
Orientation Walk
This backpacker town is full of things to do and see. An orientation walk will get you situated and help you make the most of your time in this idyllic location.
Accommodations: Floral Hotel Memorize Scene (Baina Hotel) -
Day
8Yangshuo
Today we'll hop on a bike and explore the countryside of Yangshuo. Ride along the river, travel through a local village and stop for lunch at a local restaurant, all while taking in the incredible mountains surrounding the area. In the afternoon, head back to the city and enjoy a free evening.
- Meals Included:
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Yangshuo Guided Cycle Tour
Follow the guide and cycle over the flat(ish) landscape past rice paddies, local farmers, and water buffalo. Marvel at the limestone karsts and hear the legends of how they came to be. Stop for lunch at the house of a local family for a tasty meal made from freshly grown produce.
Accommodations: Floral Hotel Memorize Scene (Baina Hotel) -
Day
9Yangshuo
Enjoy a free day in Yangshuo! While this city may not be as big as some of China's other top destinations, there is no shortage of things to do here. Opt to visit the Xianggongshan & Tea Farm or go to the Impression Liu Sanjie light show. How about a Tai Chi or Kung Fu class? Even a cooking class!
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
Spend a free day exploring Yangshuo how you'd like.
Accommodations: Floral Hotel Memorize Scene (Baina Hotel)4Optional Activities for Day 9
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Day
10Yangshuo/Guangzhou
We'll arrive to the train station this morning to take a bullet train to one of the most important cities in China, Guangzhou. After arriving and a short rest, we'll hit the town and take a tour to see what Guangzhou has to offer. Visit Chen Clan Academy and the Shamian Island. Then in the evening, opt to take the Pearl River boat cruise under the Guangzhou city lights.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Bullet Train
Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
Guangzhou City Tour
Go on a tour of the city of Guangzhou led by your CEO. Visit Chen Clan Academy and Shamian Island.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodations: Five Rams City Hotel -
Day
11Guangzhou/Yongding
The next two nights are a special opportunity to stay in the extremely unique homes of the Hakka People. We'll stay in Hakka Tulou, ancient fortified buildings. Some can be 5 stories tall and some can be dated back to the 12th century. Travel back to the past as we explore this super off the beaten path part of China.
Today's travel brings you quite a distance so charge up those devices and get your playlists ready to roll.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Bullet Train
Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
Hakka Tulou
Spend two nights in an authentic Hakka tulou for a once-in-a-lifetime cultural immersion experience. These rural Chinese dwellings, also known as earthen houses, are circular or rectangular fortified structures up to five stories high with an open-air centre. Settle in and make yourself at home.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodations: Yuchenglou Guesthouse -
Day
12Yongding
Wake up in one of the most unique places you'll ever stay. Then join your group and take an orientation walk of the Hakka Cultural Village. This afternoon, you'll have the opportunity to explore this impressive fortress how you'd like. Learn from the locals and hear their stories about how their families have been living in these homes for hundreds of years.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Hakka Cultural Village Orientation Walk
Starting from your Hakka guest house, go an orientation walk of the village and plan how you'll spend your day in this incredible place.
Free Time
Enjoy a free day to continue visiting the village and have local interactions.
Accommodations: Yuchenglou Guesthouse -
Day
13Yongding/Shanghai
Say goodbye to the community at the Hakka Houses before we head off on our journey to Shanghai. This is a long travel day, but the big city beckons! Shanghai is known to be distinct from the rest of China as one of the most internationally influenced cities in the country. It's an awesome spot to end our trip!
Exclusive Inclusions:
Shuttle
Move efficiently from point A to point B aboard this dependable ride.
Bullet Train
Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
Accommodations: HuaYi Eastern Hotel (Shanghai Hongkou North Sichuan Road) -
Day
14Shanghai
Start today with an orientation walk in Shanghai. Then join your CEO to head to some of the cities most popular spots. Start in the historical, waterfront district of the Bund Area and then pay a visit to Shanghai Old Town. This afternoon, tick off whatever is left on your Shanghai to do list with some free time. Opt to visit the Yuyuan Garden, shop and stroll through Nanjing Road or ask your CEO from some local restaurant recs. The options are endless in Shanghai! In the evening, join your crew for a Big Night Out!
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
Enjoy a free afternoon in Shanghai.
Old Town Shanghai Walk
Enjoy a walk in the picturesque Old Town of Shanghai, which lies inside the ancient walled city of Shanghai. There are many wonderful sites to explore here, including the Yuyuan Garden and many temples.
Big Night Out
Join us for a night out on the town in Shanghai!
Orientation Walk
Take a stroll along the Bund, a main road that follows the Huangpu River, with your CEO. This is a great opportunity to get a layout of the city and figure out what you want to explore next.
Accommodations: HuaYi Eastern Hotel (Shanghai Hongkou North Sichuan Road) -
Day
15Shanghai
Depart at any time.
Accommodations
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their China: Big Cities & Iconic Culture tour:
Beijing
Golden Inns (Beijing South Railway Station)
Location
Near Majiapu East Road (No.58A Yongwai Pengzhuang), Dongcheng District
Beijing, China-100069
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Chengdu
Poshpacker Local Tea Hostel
Location
Xinanmen Metro Station Exit D, 5F Wangaoxincheng BD1, No.8 Xinnan Rd.
Chengdu, China-610000
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Guangzhou
Five Rams City Hotel
Location
322 Renmin Middle Road, near Guangzhou Children's hospital, Guangzhou, China
Guangzhou, China
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Hongkeng Village
Yuchenglou Guesthouse
Location
Hongkeng Village, China
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Shanghai
HuaYi Eastern Hotel (Shanghai Hongkou North Sichuan Road)
Location
1885 North Sichuan Road (Sichuan Bei Lu), Hongkou District, Shanghai, China
Shanghai, China
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Xi'an
Bancheng Guesthouse
Location
Xi'an, China
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Yangshuo
Floral Hotel Memorize Scene (Baina Hotel)
Location
No.33 Diecui Road, Yangshuo, Guangxi
Yangshuo, China
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
More Details
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their China: Big Cities & Iconic Culture tour:
Group Size
Max 18, avg 15
What's Included
Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New FriendsYour Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and GroupYour Big Night Out Moment: ChengduYour Discover Moment: YangshuoYour Local Living Moment: Hakka Tulou, Hongkeng VillageYour Big Night Out Moment: Shanghai. Tour of Tiananmen Square. Jingshan Park visit. Orientation walk in Beijing. Included visit to the Great Wall of China. Visit the Terracotta Warriors. Tour the Xi'An Muslim Quarter tour. Orientation walk in Xi'an. Tianfu Square visit. Orientation walk in Chengdu. Overnight stay in a traditional Hakka Village. Cycle tour through Yangshuo city and countryside. Orientation walk in Yangshuo. Chinese lunch in a local Yangshuo community. Guangzhou city tour. CEO-led walk through old town Shanghai. Free time in Shanghai.
Highlights
Travel off the beaten track and stay in the historic, fortified tulou homes of the Hakka people in central China, Shop, eat and stroll through iconic cities like Shanghai and Beijing, Go off the beaten track to see the beautiful mountains in the Guilin country side.
Optional Activities
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Beijing- Lama Temple Visit (25CNY per person)- Temple of Heaven- Forbidden City VisitMutianyu- Cable Car at Great Wall (100-140CNY per person)- Toboggan at Great Wall (100-140CNY per person)Xi'an- Cycling Xi'an City Walls (45-45CNY per person)Chengdu- Giant Panda Breeding Center (58CNY per person)Yangshuo- Impression Liu Sanjie Culture Show (298CNY per person)- Central Chinese Cooking Class - Yangshuo- Xianggongshan & Tea Farm Visit- Tai Chi Class (100CNY per person)
What are the mandatory travel insurance requirements for this trip?
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Accommodation Summary
Hotels (11 nights), overnight sleeper train (1 night), Hakka guesthouse (2 nights).
Meals Included
1 lunch
What are the meals like on this trip?
Eating is a big part of travelling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. Breakfast in China will usually be Asian style consisting of noodles or congee (rice porridge) or bread and eggs. Vegetarians will be able to find a range of different foods, although in some areas the choice maybe limited. While trekking in remote regions food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.
What is the role of the group leader during this trip?
All our G Adventures group trips are accompanied by a G Adventures Chief Experience Officer (CEO) in China. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting – we think it's the best of both worlds.
International Flights
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Transportation
Bullet train, overnight train, metro, public bus, private vehicle, bicycle, walking.
How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?
In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites.
Checklist
Cold weather:o Long-sleeved shirts or sweatero Scarfo Warm gloveso Warm hato Warm layersDocuments:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
What are the packing guidelines and luggage restrictions?
What you need to bring depends on the trip you have chosen and the countries or regions you are planning to visit. We suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as your are expected to carry your own luggage. As a rule we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. Suitcases are not recommended for G Adventures trips! Most travellers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!) as they need to fit under the beds when travelling on sleeper trains. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like ipods and mobile phones.Do not bring any knives or swords into China (gifts or otherwise). If they do make it into the country, they will not be permitted on trains. If you purchase a knife or sword while travelling elsewhere before arriving in China your best option is to post/mail it home before entering the country as no post/mail companies in China will accept it as a parcel.
Service Level
Basic: Simple and clean hotels and hostels; affordable public and private transport; lots of optional activities.
What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?
Traditionally in China tipping is not expected and thus there is no need to tip in restaurants and your general interaction with locals; however, tipping is customary - though not compulsory - in the tourism industry and not only shows an expression of satisfaction it may also be of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or your CEO may offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from 1 to 3 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. A suggestion would be for each group member to contribute anonymously by putting their tip into an envelope. This often works the best and the group as a whole should gather to present the gift to the recipient(s), offering their thanks and showing their appreciation. This method brings the action out into the open, allowing for a friendly and appreciative interaction between the group and the recipient(s). Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $5 USD per person per day can be used.
Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by G Adventures. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by G Adventures (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.