CHINA_2009-flipbook

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2010/11

china

Tibet, Mongolia, Central Asia, Singapore and Hong Kong

The Best Value Tours for Groups & Individuals


Three Pagoda Temple Complex - Dali

Welcome to Wendy Wu Tours latest range of holidays to China The desire to visit China has not diminished throughout 2009, despite the problems that have beset the world. Many people have travelled with Wendy Wu Tours in the past year and discovered for themselves this fascinating country and its wonderful people.

Shanghai from the beginning of May until the end of October. We will be offering the opportunity to extend on most of our group tours so that a visit can be made to the extensive World Expo site. All of our group tours are fully inclusive and offer fantastic value for money and you will know exactly how much your holiday has cost you long before you set foot on the aircraft to leave home. Oh, and don’t forget we also offer you the best of Indochina and India in the same fully inclusive way, so if you have enjoyed the Wendy Wu Tours experience in China you can explore these other countries with us too.

Although China is fast becoming one of the world’s most popular travel destinations, it is still best experienced when in the hands of knowledgeable and competent local people and the Wendy Wu Tours team of experts on the ground in China know every corner of their country. They pride themselves on the level of excellent service they provide and the high level of customer satisfaction they achieve, a fact borne out by the many thousands of comments we receive each year praising our fantastic National Escorts.

Join us in 2010 and let us make it a holiday of a lifetime.

The broad experience of China that we have at Wendy Wu Tours also means that we design innovative and varied itineraries so that whatever your interests may be, you will find a tour to suit them. Every year we introduce new elements into our range of tours, whether it is a change to improve an existing itinerary or a completely new tour. Over the last couple of years we have introduced 2 new tours; Ancient China and Himalayan Adventure, both of these tours are proving very popular. For 2010 we have introduced a new 21 day tour; China Delights (full details can be found on page 24). Also in 2010, there will be a World Expo event occurring in

Tour Grading

Wendy

All tours are graded to assist you in deciding which itinerary best suits your personal liking. The gradings are outlined below with symbols which are also reflected on each tour page:

H Comfortable Paced Tour Whilst you will encounter extensive sightseeing on foot throughout the tour, these programmes are comfortably operated to appeal to most people. Generally these tours are shorter in duration and visit the mainstream tourist attractions.

HH Medium Paced Tour These tours are not strenuous but do include several days where long periods of sightseeing on foot and climbing of stairs will be necessary.

These tours are not recommended for those that are unable to walk for extensive periods without assistance. These tours are generally longer in length and could involve long days of driving.

HHH Active Paced Tour Refers to programmes where personal involvement is necessary, which can travel to remote areas and that may contain areas of high altitude, reaching up to 5000m. These tours may involve some hiking.

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Accommodation on these tours may be in basic hotels or camps in remote areas. These programmes also require a good level of fitness. We at Wendy Wu Tours endeavour to provide our valued customers with an unforgettable holiday experience, one that will leave you wanting to return many times over. It is only then that your special Wendy Wu Tours experience has been completed.


Contents Introduction/Tour Grading Contents A Wendy Wu Tours Experience Customer Comments Map of China Introduction to China Cities of China Get to Know Your Hotels

What‘s included in your Wendy Wu Tours group tour holiday • Return international economy airfares • Australia, China, Central Asia, Vietnam and Nepal departure taxes • Domestic airport and land taxes • All meals (from group's arrival) and accommodation • All transportation, daily tours and entrance fees to scenic attractions • English speaking local guides in most cities and a National Escort accompanying you throughout your tour (based on a minimum number of passengers) • Visa fees for Australian passport holders (China, Tibet, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Vietnam and Nepal) • Current Airline fuel surcharges (see Booking Conditions on page 70) • Tipping (see Booking Conditions on page 70) • A Wendy Wu Tours travel wallet

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Group Tours China Highlights Yangtze River Panorama

Duration Price From* 12 28 Days $4,385 14 28 Days $5,485

Grand Tour of China Classic China Magnificent China Wonders of China China Delights Glories of China Majestic Yangtze A China Experience Himalayan Express China Splendour Ancient China Land of the Panda Silk Road Explorer Tibetan Dreams Dreams of Nature Epic Dreams Himalayan Adventure - Tibet to Nepal Treasures of Vietnam and China Yangtze River 5 Star Luxury Cruising Grand Yangtze

28 Days 22 Days 21 Days 17 Days 21 Days 14 Days 14 Days 10 Days 20 Days 14 Days 19 Days 14 Days 28 Days 24 Days 26 Days 29 Days 22 Days 27 Days

$6,185 $5,668 $5,484 $4,452 $4,768 $3,068 $3,976 $2,858 $5,790 $5,172 $4,456 $3,976 $6,185 $6,504 $6,185 $8,249 $7,020 $6,509

19 Days

$5,968

Independent Touring Yangtze River for the Independent Traveller Hotels and Touring - Beijing Hotels and Touring - Shanghai Hotels and Touring - Xian Hotels and Touring - Guilin Hotels and Touring - Chengdu China & Tibet for the Independent Traveller Hainan Island for the Independent Traveller Hotels and Touring - Singapore Hong Kong and Macau Stopovers Hotels and Touring – Hong Kong

Exclusions • Personal expenditure such as all drinks (including during meal times), laundry service, souvenirs and telephone calls • Taxes, accommodation and meals in country of transit if required • Insurance of any kind • Land only package excludes visa fees and return airport transfers • Arrival/departure transfers if not travelling on group flights • Early/late check in/out not guaranteed, if requested it is at an additional cost Important notice on Booking Conditions Details of important consumer booking conditions and operators responsibilities relating to all holiday and travel packages booked through Wendy Wu Tours are outlined on page 70 of this brochure.

16 18 20 22 24 26 27 28 29 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50

51 52 54 56 58 59 60 62 63 64 65

Mongolia Introduction to Mongolia Mongolia and the Naadam Festival

22 Days

$7,550

66 67

Central Asia Introduction to Central Asia Road to Samarkand

24 Days

$7,745

68 69

Booking Conditions Booking Form

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* Prices may vary depending on date of travel.

Before you make your booking The information contained in this brochure was correct at the time of printing, however changes outside of our control may have occurred since then. Please refer to the Booking Conditions on page 70 of this brochure. Please check with Wendy Wu Tours or your travel agent to determine whether any changes have occurred to your selected tour.

The Wendy Wu Tours Philosophy Our philosophy is to provide popular, comfortable, excellent value tours to remote and exotic destinations. Our aim is to offer fully inclusive tours with the best price, best inclusions and first class personalised service.

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A Wendy Wu Tours Experience Your first time with Wendy Wu Tours is only the beginning - we trust that you will be coming back! Great Tours Specialising in tours within the Asia region and backed with over 35 years experience in the travel industry, we are able to present you with the very best each country has to offer. Our programmes visit everything from major tourist attractions to the hidden treasures in beautiful and fascinating rural areas. When combined, they offer a diverse mix of history, culture, scenery and adventurous experiences.

Your First Contact Our knowledgeable and well-trained staff are more than happy to provide you with detailed information relating to our tour products, advice on which itinerary in our extensive product range is ideal for you or alternatively design a personalised itinerary based on your specific needs.

Before Your Tour We will supply you with a travel guide that will include helpful information on currency, transportation, meals, recommended reading, and pretty much everything you need to know. A detailed day-by-day itinerary and tour dossier arrives with your tickets approximately 2-3 weeks prior to your tour departure date. You will also receive a phrase book to practice your language skills!

accompany your group throughout the duration of your stay in each country for all of your personal needs. Meeting strict qualification standards, they are amongst the finest professionals in tourism and make your Wendy Wu Tours experience all that more memorable. Local guides, who have specialised knowledge of their own areas, will also be with you in certain regions. It is in this way that Wendy Wu Tours representatives are on hand at all times to ensure a smooth and enjoyable tour.

Fully Inclusive Wendy Wu Tours prides itself on ‘no hidden extras’ and therefore all of our tours are inclusive of everything from international economy flights, accommodation, meals, local guides, taxes and charges, entrance fees and visa fees for Australian passport holders. Please refer to the ‘Inclusions’ as outlined on the individual tour pages for more details.

Group Sizes All tour departures are guaranteed at the listed price with a National Escort subject to a minimum of 8-10 passengers travelling together.

Age Requirements

The Chinese Golden week public holiday falls annually between 1-7 May and 1-7 October during which various sites and attractions will be more crowded than usual.

For smooth operations on the ground we do not allow children under the age of 12 years on any of our group tours. We recommend that families with children of any age take advantage of our private tours as this will give you more flexibility whilst on tour.

Our Partners Overseas

Tour Content

Our tours would not be as successful as they are without our solid working relationship with our local partners in Mongolia, Central Asia, Vietnam and Nepal as well as the professionalism of our own office in China. With years of experience behind them in operating tours throughout their respective areas, you can be assured that their local knowledge in operations, touring, guides and transport means our tours operate efficiently and smoothly. In addition they ensure that Wendy Wu Tours has a reliable presence on which you can always depend. Our local partners have an experienced team dedicated to the provision of personal service to all our customers throughout their network of offices.

Order of events and sightseeing may vary according to local conditions.

Chinese Golden Week

Our National Escorts One of the very special features about Wendy Wu Tours is the constant presence of our local National Escorts on all group tours. Upon arrival at your destination your National Escort will be there to welcome you. The National Escort will

Optional Extras If time permits, your National Escort or local guide may suggest optional tours/sightseeing that is in addition to the standard sightseeing and will compliment your time in that city. Such options are at an additional cost and prices range from 70 to 200 Yuan per person and involve experiences such as a rickshaw ride through a Hutong District in Beijing, or a ride on the Maglev train in Shanghai.

Joining Your Tour – Flight Schedules To China we choose to fly with Singapore Airlines, Qantas Airways and Cathay Pacific. On tours incorporating travel with Qantas Airways, passengers from Adelaide, Brisbane and Melbourne will fly domestically into Sydney before travelling onwards to China, whilst passengers from Perth will fly with

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Singapore Airlines. Due to constantly changing airline schedules some departure cities may require an overnight stop or a lengthy transit en route to your destination. Any cost for accommodation or meals incurred will be at your own expense. For our Adelaide passengers due to Singapore Airlines schedules, you may wish to fly into/out of Melbourne at your own additional cost to avoid an overnight stop in Singapore if required. See page 63 for Singapore Hotels and Touring and pages 64-65 for Hong Kong and Macau stopover packages, Hotels and Touring. Normally frequent flyer miles are not accrued on our packaged group fares and is at the discretion of the airline.

Value for Money Wendy Wu Tours has always thrived on its motto of ‘value for money’, which is reflected in our entire product range. We believe that this approach to group travel allows our tour members to receive the very best prices by consolidating all the tour components into one cost effective package and transferring these benefits to our customers.

Meals All meals (excluding drinks) are included in our fully inclusive group tours from the group's arrival until the day of departure. Breakfast is a combination of local and western food, usually served in a buffet style. Lunches and dinners consist of traditional local cuisine, with a wide range of specialties to choose from. Occasionally western style meals will be provided. Our schedule of meals is designed so that you can experience the local dishes, their individual flavours as well as the different ways they are prepared and cooked throughout the country you are travelling in.

Single Travellers Many single travellers prefer to have a private room during their group holiday and a single supplement is charged in those circumstances. At Wendy Wu Tours we understand that many single travellers would happily share a room and avoid paying an additional supplement if they had a partner to share with. If you are a single traveller who is willing to share, Wendy Wu Tours will match you up with another likeminded single traveller of the same gender on your tour and neither of you will pay the single supplement. However, if we are unable to find another single traveller who is willing to share, Wendy Wu Tours will waive the single hotel supplement (rail and Yangtze River Cruise supplements are additional and cannot be waived), thereby saving you the additional cost.


Transportation We have specially planned the travel modes of our tours with variety, comfort and enjoyment in mind. Coach travels, cruises, train, rickshaws and plane trips are employed to make your holiday more enjoyable, enabling you to enrich your ‘authentic’ China experience. All coach travel is in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles, all international flights are based on economy class mainly with Singapore Airlines and Qantas Airways, while all domestic flights within China are with reliable local carriers. All overnight train journeys are first class, soft sleeper compartments where each cabin consists of 4 berths. In some tourist areas taxi buggies have started operating and these are available at an extra cost if you do not wish to walk.

Boats Throughout our tours there are various boat cruises as part of our sightseeing. Depending on the location and what we are seeing at the time, the type and size of the boat used will vary. Single hotel supplements do not cover

single cabins on the Yangtze River cruise as all cabins are ‘twin share’. Single travellers who wish to have a single cabin will need to pay a supplement to have sole use of a twin cabin. However, if you opt to share a cabin, the cabin allocation will be communal based and you may be matched up with a passenger from another group or of the opposite gender.

Your Next Tour with Us Once you have completed your tour, we hope that you will return to travel with us again. As a repeat customer of Wendy Wu Tours, you will enjoy a special VIP discount on your next group tour and early notification of new itineraries and destinations.

Hotel Ratings Star ratings identify the standard of quality for hotels. Not all star systems are created equal. Countries throughout the world adopt various classification systems for hotels in accordance to their chain name and the type of hotel. No international classification system exists.

Typically, a 4 star Chinese rated hotel cannot be compared to a 4 star Australian rated hotel. Attempts at unifying the classification system have been made so that it becomes an internationally recognised and reliable standard. However, differences do exist in the quality of accommodation which plays an integral part in defining which hotel category the specific accommodation fits into. Please be advised that all hotels used by Wendy Wu Tours are regularly inspected by our staff and our operators so that standards do not slip.

Medical Information Forms Clients with a pre-existing condition that affects their fitness to travel or has any medical dietary requirements must complete and return the Medical Information Form in conjunction with the Booking Form. We recommend all clients should visit their doctor for these aforementioned purposes, and/or to confirm that they are physically able to undertake the day-to-day requirements of the tour.

Customer Comments Hanging Monastery - Datong

Nine Villages Valley

Issy Kul - Kyrgyzstan

Many of our happy customers have enjoyed benefits of travelling as part of a comprehensive and fully inclusive group tour and have continually returned with experiences that have far exceeded their expectations, new friendships and irreplaceable memories. We are delighted to have been able to take part in making our customer’s dreams a reality and turning their journey into memories that will last a lifetime. We invite you to view some of our customer's comments and look forward to welcoming you on an unforgettable Wendy Wu Tours experience. We’re floating down the Yangtze with the help of Wendy Wu, our staff and crew are helping us as only they can do, they feed us well and care for us as and show us all the sights, as we all float along. Wendy, Wendy Wu; Wendy, Wendy Wu Wendy, Wendy Wu; Wendy – wall, eye, knee. The wall, the jade, the warriors, calligraphy and silk, Pagodas, temples, mosques, hutongs are seen and photographed, we fly, we cruise, we train, we plane, these wonders to enjoy, our tour guides move us on. Wendy, Wendy Wu; Wendy, Wendy Wu Wendy, Wendy Wu; Wendy – wall, eye, knee. The Chinese food is wonderful, we love the sticky rice! Bottoms up to happy hour, we really like the price, the beer is cold, the cocktails fun – but please avoid the ice. We laugh until we cry. Wendy, Wendy Wu; Wendy, Wendy Wu Wendy, Wendy Wu; Wendy – wall, eye, knee.

We’re nearly halfway thro’ the tour, but never long for home, we like you all, the friends we’ve made, from far and wide we’ve roamed, we’ll keep in touch, e-mail will serve, as we keep wandering on, good luck from us to you! Wendy, Wendy Wu; Wendy, Wendy Wu Wendy, Wendy Wu; Wendy – wall, eye, knee. Mr Mathew & Mrs Frances Maclean, Mrs Cheryll Walters & Mrs Heather Sturman Grand Tour of China - September 2008 Congratulations on a job well done. We had a brilliant National Escort, Joy and wonderful local guides Yuki, Kevin and Sherry. You exceeded all our expectations with the excellent hotels and lovely banquets. We are highly impressed by the professionalism and dedication of your staff and company; we will certainly recommend your tour company to our friends. Mr Jin Teh, Mrs Mean Yee & Family Glories of China - September 2008

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My husband and I travelled on the Majestic Yangtze tour with our 2 children aged 14 and 12. This is the best holiday we have ever had. A good sized group – 20 of us – travelling in buses with plenty of space for everyone, visiting wonderful sights, eating enormous quantities of food and staying in excellent hotels. The most outstanding part of our holiday was our National Escort, Faye, who was so professional, knowledgeable and organised. Thanks to all at Wendy Wu Tours for a fantastic trip. The Stevens Family Majestic Yangtze – April 2009 Without a doubt, this was one of the most enjoyable tours we’ve done. Our guides were excellent; probably the best we’ve encountered in any of our tours. We have to make mention of our National Escort, Eric. Thank you for the holiday of a lifetime. Mr Stanislaw & Mrs Helena Fugiel China Splendour - October 2008


Map of China

Urumqi Kuqa

Turpan

Aksu Kashgar

XINJIANG Kurla

Yecheng

GANSU Dunhuang

Jiayuguan

QINGHAI

Ali County

TIBET

Zanda

Xining

Xiahe

Mt. Kailash Paryang Saga Old Tingri

Shigatse

New Tingri Mt. Everest

Lhasa

Leshan

SICHUAN Deqing

Zhongdian Lijiang Dali Kunming

YUNNAN

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Harbin

HEILONGJIANG

JILIN LIAONING Chengde

INNER MONGOLIA

BEIJING Datong Wutaishan

HEBEI SHANXI

NINGXIA

Taiyuan

SHANDONG

Pingyao Lanzhou

SHAANXI

Nanjing

Luoyang

Suzhou

Mao Country

Nine Villages Valley Chengdu

JIANGSU

HENAN

Xian

ANHU

Mianyang

HUBEI

Dazu

Shanghai

Wuhan

Hangzhou

ZHEJIANG

Mt. Emei

HUNAN Chongqing

JIANGXI

Yichang

Mt. Huang

Zhangjiajie Changsha

GUIZHOU

Shaoshan

Zhengyuan

FUJIAN

Guilin Yangshuo

Guiyang

GUAGDONG Guangzhou

GUANGXI

Hong Kong

Hainan Island Sanya

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Introduction to China China is a land unlike any other country with endless opportunities to discover for enthusiastic travellers. There is such diversity in its cities, people and landscapes, and with a history spanning over 5000 years, it will surely leave a lasting impression. Wendy Wu Tours aims to offer a selection of tour programmes to suit every traveller including various city combinations, offering a range of durations and many included sites. We endeavour to provide access to all aspects of China’s beauty as well as covering popular attractions such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City in Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors in Xian and the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai alongside the stunning natural beauty found in Yunnan Province, on the mighty Yangtze River and along the trading route of the Silk Road. For those with an adventurous spirit we also have a selection of programmes that explore parts of China rarely visited by westerners. These programmes take in China’s many dramatic landscape variations and allow for in-depth cultural experiences with the local people like never before. Join us on a Wendy Wu Tours adventure – the holiday of a lifetime.

Time China is 2hrs behind Australia EST. Language The official national language in China is Mandarin, which has 8 major dialect groups that are region specific. In addition, there are several ethnic minority languages in the western and southern most provinces.

Currency The Chinese currency is known as the Renmimbi (RMB), with its basic unit being the Yuan. A$1 = 5 Yuan (approx) Climate China is a vast, wondrous land with much to offer the avid traveller. It also possesses a great diversity in its climatic regions and for this reason it is highly recommended that you plan your holidays during the most suitable time of year. China generally possesses 4 distinct seasons. Summer is from June to August and is normally hot and humid, with most rainfall occurring during this time. Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) generally offer the best travel periods with comfortable temperatures throughout. Winter falls between December and February and is typically sunny during the daytime with little or no rain, however temperatures are extremely cold. Due to the unpredictable climate changes around the world we strongly recommend you check the current weather at your destination prior to departing in order to pack accordingly.

Entry Requirements Passports must be valid for 6 months beyond the length of stay. Visas are required for Australian travellers, the price of which is already included in the fully inclusive price of all our group tours for Australian passport holders (providing all applications are received by Wendy Wu Tours within the required visa processing time frame). Singing Sand Dunes - Dunhuang

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Cities of China

Ancient City - Lijiang

Beijing

Yangshuo

Beijing, meaning ‘Northern Capital’, is the city of wonders and holds an important position as China’s historical and cultural centre. It is here where the old mixes with the new and in doing so provides a treasure chest of sites and attractions ranging from the Great Wall and the Forbidden City to the beautiful Summer Palace.

Located 65km south of Guilin, bordering one side of the Li River. Yangshuo is a perfect haven for relaxing in peace and quiet whilst enjoying the magnificent views on offer.

Shanghai Shanghai is China's largest and most cosmopolitan centre, as well as being the country’s main financial institution. The city is filled with an abundance of beautiful old buildings and modern day high rise developments that are architectural masterpieces, combining the China of old with that of tomorrow. Shanghai is China's premier shopping haven and has much to offer the visitor, rightly earning it the name ‘Paris of the East’.

Xian Xian, meaning ‘Western Peace’, possesses a history dating back to 1000BC. The city served as the capital of China’s greatest emperor, Emperor Qin Shi Huang and was also the starting point of the world famous trade route – the Silk Road. Xian is home to the magnificent display of Terracotta Warriors as well as an abundance of historic attractions.

Kunming Kunming is the gateway to Yunnan Province, which is home to a mixture of lush rainforests, mountainous snow-capped peaks and over 50% of China’s ethnic minorities. The city is also the gateway to the Stone Forest, a collection of massive limestone columns located 120km to the southeast.

Guilin Guilin is undoubtedly one of China’s greatest areas of natural beauty with stunning karst topography alongside the banks of the Li River.

Kashgar Kashgar has been a historic landmark for the past 2 millennia as the crossroads of the famous Silk Road trading route. Merchants from across the east and the west gathered here for the world famous Sunday Bazaar where the exchange of goods, food, live stock and culture took place.

Xiahe Xiahe is set in a stunning mountain valley and is home to the Labrang Monastery, one of the leading Tibetan monasteries of the Yellow Hat sect, where many Tibetans gather each year on pilgrimage.

Yangtze River One of the largest engineering projects undertaken by man is the damming of the Three Gorges area on the Yangtze River. This area offers some of the most magnificent natural scenery in China.

Lhasa The city of Lhasa is not only the capital of Tibet but also its heart and spiritual home. It is here, on the ‘Roof of the World’, where one will find the Potala Palace, the winter residence of the Dalai Lama and the Jokhang Temple, which holds Tibet’s holiest shrine.

Dazu This small town is home to an amazing array of cliff carvings and scattered statues that rival many others found within China. There are thousands of figures influenced by Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian beliefs.

Chendgu Capital of Sichuan Province and home to a grand selection of natural scenery, including the

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Grand Buddha of Leshan, Mt. Emei and the Nine Villages Valley. In addition, the nearby Panda Research Centre is where you can get up close to some of China’s cuddly pandas.

Zhongdian Zhongdian is often referred to as ‘Little Tibet’ due to its location and traditional Tibetan ethnic residents. The town is set amidst some of China’s most striking scenery with the main draw card being the Songshanlin Monastery.

Dali Dali lies on the edge of Erhai Lake at the base of Cangshan Mountains, a truly beautiful setting. The city is home to the Bai ethnic minority group and its ancient quarter with narrow cobbled streets and traditional stone architecture lies within the original city walls.

Zhangjiajie A natural gallery of botanical gardens and spectacular rock formations, Zhangjiajie was declared a World Heritage listed site by UNESCO in 1990. Its scenery consists of endless waterfalls, caves, rivers and approximately 243 imposing peaks which are surrounded by over 3000 karsts, a beautiful combination unseen elsewhere.

Lijiang At the foothills of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the town of Lijiang is set within a beautiful valley and its old town offers a wonderful array of cobbled streets lined with traditional wooden buildings and meandering canals.

Nine Villages Valley (Jiuzhaigou) Located within the borders of Sichuan Province, the Nine Villages Valley area is a magnificent alpine valley consisting of crystal clear lakes, lush forests and snow capped mountains, the area is World Heritage listed. Its name is derived from the nine Tibetan villages found within the valley.


Get to Know Your Hotels Throughout your stay in China your accommodation will be at hotels which are generally ‘medium range’ and can vary from a business hotel in one city to a family run guesthouse in a smaller town. In more remote areas we use the best hotel available. Below are some of the hotels used by Wendy Wu Tours. Keep in mind that your itinerary will determine which hotel is used in each city. See page 5 for Hotel Ratings.

Hanging Monastery - Wutaishan

Beijing

The Super House International Hotel is a 4 star business hotel combining traditional Chinese culture with modern amenities. Centrally located in Beijing’s CBD, near the Capital Library, Beijing Antique City and the Jing-tang Expressway. The hotel is only 25mins from the Capital International Airport and 15mins from Beijing Railway Station. The hotel features a restaurant, bars, conference facilities, a spa and fitness centre. The 4 star Jiangxi Grand Hotel is located in the Fentai District, just inside the city’s 3rd ring road, with many of Beijing’s attractions and shopping opportunities close by. The hotel provides a comprehensive range of services and facilities for both leisure and business travellers. It also features 322 guest rooms and suites of various styles and functions all with modern amenities.

Shanghai

The Holiday Inn Downtown is a 4 star international hotel located in the heart of Shanghai city, within walking distance to the Shanghai Railway Station and close to several shopping centres. In addition, there is also a wide range of restaurants to choose from as well as a more relaxed coffee shop and lounge. The hotel features include a health and fitness centre, retail shops and an internet café.

The Ramada Shanghai Zhabei Hotel is located just 10mins from Shanghai’s city centre and has excellent transport links to all attractions including the People's Square and Shanghai Museum. The hotel boasts 247 guest rooms all equipped with modern facilities, a cafe, bar, health centre and a bank.

Yangtze River Cruise

Chinese Victoria* and Sunshine China boats Where there is a cruise along the Yangtze River on our group tours, we utilise 4 star cruise vessels from the Chinese Victoria and Sunshine China cruise lines. Each vessel differs in interior décor and cabin layouts. Standard twin cabins are fully equipped with airconditioning, private western facilities, TV and telephone. Onboard facilities include a bar, gift shop, laundry service and a dining room. For Yangtze River Independent 5 star cruising packages see pages 50-51 for details. (*Refers to the 4 star Chinese Victoria Cruises not the 5 star American Victoria Cruises).

Zhongdian

The Guan Guang Hotel is centrally located within the town of Zhongdian. The hotel features 120 rooms all with modern amenities, 2 restaurants serving Chinese and international cuisine, business facilities, a fitness centre and sauna.

Hotels listed are indicative only and based on currently used properties. These hotels are subject to change.

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Yangshuo

The New Century Hotel is a 3 star hotel located in downtown Yangshuo close to the bustling market streets and cafés that line the cobble stoned lanes of this quaint town. The rooms are fully equipped with modern amenities and cater to both the leisure and business traveller. The New Century Hotel also features a swimming pool, healthcare centre, conference facilities, a restaurant and café.

Hangzhou Situated near the picturesque West Lake, the Lily Hotel is just 3km from the city centre and 8km from the railway station. The hotel features 155 guestrooms all well equipped with modern amenities. This 3 star hotels facilities include a restaurant and bar, a gymnasium, swimming pool, sauna and a billiard table.

Chengdu

The Sichuan Hotel is located in the commercial district of Chengdu, 4km from the railway station and 18km from the international airport. The hotel is within walking distance to shopping malls and markets. All guest rooms are fully equipped with modern facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant specialising in local and regional dishes, a business centre, an indoor swimming pool and currency exchange facilities.


Kunming

Lijiang

Xian

The King World Hotel is located in the business and financial district of Kunming, and within a 10min drive to the airport and railway station. The hotel has 321 rooms and facilities include a revolving restaurant, shopping arcade, health centre, a beauty parlour, lobby bar and swimming pool.

Located at the entrance to the ancient town and near the beautiful Jade River, the Grand Lijiang Hotel boasts the features of both the old town and views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. With 126 guest rooms all featuring modern facilities the hotel also has a restaurant, business centre, gymnasium and sauna as well as 24hr room service.

The Hengjia Hotel is located in the centre of Xian city and a 40min drive from Xian International Airport. The Hengjia Hotel has 135 rooms ranging from standard to deluxe all equipped with modern amenities. The hotel also features fitness and business centres, a restaurant, sauna, gift shop and laundry services.

Guilin

Offering comfortable accommodation and located in downtown Lhasa, the Tibet Hotel is close to major attractions such as the Potala Palace and Lhasa Square. With comfortable guestrooms all equipped with modern facilities, a restaurant, laundry service and recreational facilities such as a gymnasium and sauna.

The 4 star Heizee Hotel is located east of the city. Xian city centre is about 5mins away, as is the railway station. Xian International Airport is approximately 25mins drive from the hotel. This 24 floor hotel caters for both business and leisure style travellers and all rooms feature modern amenities. It also has a restaurant, laundry facilities, a bar and coffee shop.

Suzhou

Guilin

The 3 star Osmanthus Hotel is located in the heart of Guilin city, on the banks of the Peach Blossom River. The hotel is 26km from the airport and 1km from the railway station. This 14 storey hotel offers 212 standard and luxurious guest rooms and provides a complete range of facilities and services including a sauna, fitness centre, restaurant, conference rooms and laundry services.

Lhasa

Dali

The 4 star New Century Hotel is located in the lively business area of Suzhou and is close to scenic spots such as Hanshan Temple, the shopping and nightlife areas as well as being near the railway station and approximately 90km from Shanghai's Hongqiao Airport. This 20 storey hotel has 188 guest rooms all with modern facilities, a restaurant, bar and cafĂŠ, as well as conference facilities.

Backed by the snow-capped Cangshan Mountain Range and facing Erhai Lake, the 4 star Asia Star Hotel offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the natural scenery of this area as well as a restaurant, bar, gymnasium and tennis courts. The hotel has 310 rooms all featuring mountain or lake views and modern facilities. Three Pagodas - Dali

Hotels listed are indicative only and based on currently used properties. These hotels are subject to change.

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The 3 star Universal Hotel is located in the city centre, alongside the famous Li River and within walking distance to shopping arcades. Whether for business or leisure the Universal Hotel caters for every type of traveller. With 220 guest rooms that range from standard to business suites, the hotel also features 2 restaurants, a sauna, indoor swimming pool and conference facilities.


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China Highlights

From $4,385 per person twin share - 28 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $3,880, Airline fuel surcharge $400 and Tipping $105 (subject to change)

China is truly an unforgettable destination. It offers a wealth of captivating sites and you will be rewarded by what you see. China’s ancient history will astound you as will its modernity. Every day this wonderful tour will present you with something unique. This China Highlights tour is designed to suit the first time traveller; as the name implies, it covers what we consider to be the ‘highlights’ of China – those amazing places you have heard about and would like to see with your own eyes. Your tour starts in Shanghai, whose energy and vitality is unmatched. It is a city rich in history, as you will find out when you visit its many incredible sites. Suzhou is rather beautiful, regarded by some as the ‘Venice of the East’, it is here you will explore China’s finest oriental gardens. Everyday will present you with something delightful; just being there in China will fascinate you. In the picturesque town of Hangzhou you will have time to leisurely explore this charming town with its ancient pavilions, overhead bridges and intricate system of canals. Fly to Guilin – and be very pleasantly surprised, it is a beautiful city with some spectacular scenery. You will cruise on the Li River – and perhaps understand why it is has been an inspiration to poets and painters for centuries. The grey limestone rock formations of the Stone Forest will astound you too. This is nature at its best! At Dazu you will see some of the world’s finest rock carvings – the Beishan Frescoes and the Baodin Stone Carvings. In Chengdu sample a sumptuous Sichuan Banquet, see the incredible Grand Buddha of Leshan and visit the world renowned Panda Research Centre. You will adore these delightful animals. There are so many wonderful sites to see in Xian. You will encounter the Terracotta Warriors, visit the ancient City Wall (one of the few completely intact walls remaining in all of China), watch a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing and visit the Great Mosque. Experience China’s rail network as you travel overnight to Beijing – perhaps the highlight for many on this tour. Beijing offers a wonderful assortment of sites, from the exquisite Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square, and the treasure filled Forbidden City to the awesome and perhaps most exciting site of all – the Great Wall of China. In 28 days you will certainly feel quite acquainted with this ancient land. With so much on offer you won’t be disappointed!

Days 1-2: Australia to Shanghai

Day 7: Hangzhou to Shanghai

Day 13: Kunming

Fly overnight with Singapore Airlines to Shanghai for a 2 night stay. Our welcoming dinner will be a banquet of traditional Shanghai cuisine.

Enjoy a tour to Wuzhen and explore this charming town at a leisurely walking pace, returning to Shanghai later this afternoon.

Visit the Stone Forest, where vast limestone columns rise in surreal shapes and images.

Day 3: Shanghai

Day 8: Shanghai Today we stroll along the famous Bund and enjoy some shopping along Nanjing Road. Enjoy an evening Huangpu River cruise.

Visit the Western Hills, often called the ‘Sleeping Beauty Hills’ as they resemble a woman’s prone body wrapping around Dianchi Lake. Afterwards we fly to Chongqing.

Day 9: Shanghai to Guilin

Day 15: Chongqing to Dazu

This morning we cross the Nanpu Bridge to explore the Pudong area before flying to Guilin for an overnight stay.

Enjoy a tour of the city taking in Erlin Park, the People’s Hall and the General Stilwell Museum. We continue to Dazu where we visit the Beishan Frescoes.

Visit the Yu Gardens, the antiques and fine arts at Shanghai Museum, the Old Town and explore the Xintiandi area.

Day 4: Shanghai to Suzhou Today we travel to Suzhou and visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden, the Master of the Nets Garden, a traditional Silk Mill and enjoy a cruise on the Grand Canal.

Day 5: Suzhou to Hangzhou

Days 10-11: Guilin to Yangshuo (Li River Cruise) to Guilin

Day 14: Kunming to Chongqing

Day 16: Dazu to Chengdu

Travel by coach to Hangzhou. Visit the local markets and enjoy an oriental tea tasting.

Cruise on the Li River as we travel to Yangshuo for an overnight stay. Tomorrow we return to Guilin, visiting Mt. Diecai en route.

Today we visit the Baodin Stone Carvings, before travelling to Chengdu. This evening enjoy a sumptuous Sichuan Banquet.

Day 6: Hangzhou

Day 12: Guilin to Kunming

Day 17: Chengdu - Leshan

Today we visit the Temple of Inspired Seclusion, the Six Harmonies Pagoda and relax on a cruise along West Lake this afternoon.

Visit the Reed Flute Caves before boarding our flight to Kunming. Sample ‘Across the Bridge Noodles’ this evening, a specialty of the area.

Travel to Leshan where we will see the Grand Buddha, an enormous statue hewn from the side of the Lingyun Mountain.

12


Departures

Baodin Stone Carvings - Dazu

Tour Code

Day 18: Chengdu Visit the Panda Research Centre to see these delightful animals being reared in surroundings reminiscent of their natural habitat, as well as a local bamboo park.

Day 19: Chengdu Enjoy a morning city tour of Chengdu before boarding our overnight sleeper train to Xian.

Days 20-21: Xian Arrive in Xian and visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda. This evening enjoy a traditional Shui Jiao Dumpling Banquet. The following day we visit the Terracotta Warriors, the ancient City Wall and enjoy an evening performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

Day 22: Xian Visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum, walk through the Muslim Quarter, visit the Great Mosque and explore the Islamic food markets. This evening we board our overnight sleeper train to Beijing.

2010 T10170 T10171 T10172 T10174 T10176 T10177 T10178 T10179 T101710 T101711 T101712 T101713 T101714 T101715 T101716 T101717 T101718 T101719 2011 T11810 T11811 T11812 T11813 T11814 T11815 T11816 T11817

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia 27 Feb 20 Mar 03 Apr 17 Apr 08 May 15 May 29 May 12 Jun 26 Jun 17 Jul 07 Aug 21 Aug 04 Sep 25 Sep 09 Oct 23 Oct 30 Oct 13 Nov

26 Mar 16 Apr 30 Apr 14 May 04 Jun 11 Jun 25 Jun 09 Jul 23 Jul 13 Aug 03 Sep 17 Sep 01 Oct 22 Oct 05 Nov 19 Nov 26 Nov 10 Dec

$4,385 $5,485 $5,485 $5,585 $5,485 $5,485 $5,485 $5,485 $5,485 $5,585 $5,485 $5,485 $5,485 $5,585 $5,585 $5,485 $5,485 $4,385

12 Feb 12 Mar 02 Apr 16 Apr 07 May 14 May 28 May 11 Jun

11 Mar 08 Apr 29 Apr 13 May 03 Jun 10 Jun 24 Jun 08 Jul

$4,385 $5,485 $5,485 $5,585 $5,485 $5,485 $5,485 $5,485

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $505 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$90 (A$105) is payable on arrival in China.

28 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share From $4,385 per person – Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Singapore Airlines Single Hotel Supplement - From $765

Summer Palace - Beijing

Land Only - From $3,085 (includes Tipping) HH Medium Paced Tour (see page 2) Make the most of your holiday • Singapore Hotels and Touring (see page 63)

Day 23: Beijing Arrive in Beijing this morning, where we will visit the Forbidden City and stroll along Tiananmen Square past Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum. In the evening we enjoy a sample of the local delicacy ‘Peking Duck’.

Day 24: Beijing Today we take an exciting walk on the Great Wall and tour the unique Temple of Heaven.

BEIJING

CHINA

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Overnight Train (1N)

Visit the Summer Palace and enjoy a Chinese Acrobatic show as our evening entertainment.

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Day 25: Beijing

Day 27: Depart Beijing

AIR

Enjoy the morning at leisure before boarding our overnight flight to Australia.

ROAD

Day 28: Arrive Australia

BOAT

RAIL

Leshan

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Chengdu (3N)

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Overnight Train (1N)

Today we visit the Lama Temple and enjoy some free time to shop at the silk markets.

Suzhou (1N)

Hangzhou (2N) Dazu (1N) Chongqing (1N) Guilin (1N+1N)

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Kunming (2N) Yangshuo (1N)

Arrive home this morning.

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INBOUND (1N)

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Xian (2N)

Day 26: Beijing

SHANGHAI (2N+2N)


Baishui Terrace - Zhongdian

Yangtze River Panorama

From $5,485 per person twin share - 28 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $4,980, Airline fuel surcharge $400 and Tipping $105 (subject to change)

The rewards on this journey are many for it showcases some of China’s most wonderful images. You will discover the ancient sites of Beijing, Chengde and Xian. A visit to Chengdu’s endangered Giant pandas in Sichuan Province will delight everyone. You will cruise on the mighty Yangtze River over four nights, and discover dramatic gorges, majestic peaks and ancient temples that illustrate a life unchanged for centuries. A shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam will hold you in absolute amazement as you gaze at this grand feat of engineering. The highlight for many will be time spent in the amazing province of Yunnan. It has some of the most stunning natural scenery which resulted in its placement onto the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1999. It is also home to many ethnic minorities such as the Naxi people of Lijiang who are descendants of ethnic Tibetan tribes. A wonderfully rich human element awaits you on this tour. Kunming, capital of Yunnan Province is home to the Stone Forest. You will simply love the magical rock formations that you will find here. Lijiang will be as equally captivating with its quaint, cobbled streets and the glistening snow capped Jade Dragon Snow Mountain which soars to a height of 5500m. You will marvel at the fascinating Baisha Frescoes. These spiritual murals come from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Your journey continues to Zhongdian, also known as Shangri La. James Hilton's novel, The Lost Horizon, brought fame to Zhongdian. The novel details the stunning scenery in the area, the beautiful azure skies and the amazing hospitality of the people. This sacred scenic region is blessed with majestic mountains. The Tiger Leaping Gorge at Zhongdian will astound you. It is regarded as one of the most dramatic and deepest gorges in the world. After exploring the Songshanlin Monastery, built by the 5th Dalai Lama over 300 years ago, you will travel to Dali and explore its ancient quarter and visit Xizhou Village. A boat ride on the stunning Erhai Lake and a trip to view the Three Pagodas will conclude your sightseeing in Dali. The Yangtze River Panorama is a visual treat, full of unexpected surprises and many treasures waiting to be discovered. The images of which will stay with you long after you have returned home.

Days 1-2: Australia to Beijing

Days 7-8: Xian

Fly overnight with Singapore Airlines to Beijing via Singapore for 2 nights. Our welcoming banquet tomorrow evening includes a sample of the local delicacy ‘Peking Duck’.

Arrive in Xian this morning. Visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda and enjoy a traditional Shui Jiao Dumpling Banquet this evening. The following day we visit the life-size Terracotta Warriors and the ancient City Wall. Enjoy an evening performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

Day 3: Beijing Enjoy an exciting walk along the Great Wall and visit the 15th Century Temple of Heaven. This evening we will be entertained by a fascinating Chinese Acrobatic show.

Days 4-5: Beijing to Chengde to Beijing Today we travel to Chengde by train. Our visit includes the Imperial Mountain Villas and the exceptional temples built for Tibetan and Mongolian warlords. The following afternoon return to Beijing by train.

Day 6: Beijing to Xian Visit the Forbidden City, stroll along Tiananmen Square past Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum and explore the Summer Palace before boarding our overnight sleeper train to Xian.

Day 9: Xian to Wuhan Visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum, walk through the lively Muslim Quarter to the Great Mosque and explore the Islamic food markets. This evening we board our overnight sleeper train to Wuhan.

Day 10: Wuhan to Yangtze Cruise Arrive in Wuhan this morning. Visit the Yellow Crane Tower and East Lake before driving (approx 4-5hrs) to the boarding point of our Yangtze River cruise for the next 4 nights.

Days 11-13: Yangtze River Cruise Enjoy a tour to the Three Gorges Dam before commencing our cruise on the Yangtze River. We will cruise through some of the most

14

beautiful scenery in the world and take shore excursions to explore the history and tranquil landscapes (subject to change).

Day 14: Chongqing to Chengdu Arrive in Chongqing and drive to Chengdu. Later we visit Mt. Qincheng, found in the dramatic and lush mountain forests of Sichuan Province and the city’s local markets before feasting on a sumptuous Sichuan Banquet.

Day 15: Chengdu Visit the famous Panda Research Centre to see these endearing animals being reared in surroundings reminiscent of their natural habitat.

Day 16: Chengdu to Kunming Today we board our overnight sleeper train to Kunming.

Days 17-18: Kunming Arrive in Kunming this morning and visit the Flower Market before sampling ‘Across the Bridge Noodles’ this evening, a specialty of the area. Tomorrow we enjoy a full day tour to the picturesque Stone Forest.


Departures Tour Code

Day 19: Kunming to Lijiang This morning we fly to Lijiang. Spend the afternoon exploring the cobbled streets of the old quarter.

Day 20: Lijiang Today we catch a chairlift to explore one of the meadows of the impressive Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and enjoy the amazing scenery. We then travel to the Baisha Frescoes. In the evening attend the acclaimed Naxi Ancient music show.

Day 21: Lijiang to Zhongdian Today we travel to Zhongdian en route we visit Tiger Leaping Gorge.

Day 22: Zhongdian

2010 T20150 T20151 T20152 T20153 T20154 T20155 T20156 T20157 T20158 T20159 T201510 T201511 T201512 T201513 2011 T2160 T2161 T2162 T2163 T2164 T2165 T2166

Inclusions

16 Mar 06 Apr 13 Apr 04 May 11 May 18 May 01 Jun 13 Jul 03 Aug 24 Aug 31 Aug 07 Sep 21 Sep 12 Oct

12 Apr 03 May 10 May 31 May 07 Jun 14 Jun 28 Jun 09 Aug 30 Aug 20 Sep 27 Sep 04 Oct 18 Oct 08 Nov

$5,485 $5,585 $5,585 $5,485 $5,485 $5,485 $5,485 $5,585 $5,485 $5,485 $5,485 $5,485 $5,585 $5,485

15 Mar 05 Apr 12 Apr 03 May 10 May 17 May 31 May

11 Apr 02 May 09 May 30 May 06 Jun 13 Jun 27 Jun

$5,485 $5,585 $5,585 $5,485 $5,485 $5,485 $5,485

International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel Australia and China departure taxes and visa surcharges and Tipping of $505 (correct as at 31 fees for Australian passport holders August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$90 (A$105) is payable on arrival in China.

Price Guide

28 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share From $5,485 per person – Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Singapore Airlines

Stone Forest - Kunming

Single Hotel Supplement - From $750 Single Cruise Cabin Supplement – From $470 Land Only - From $4,185 (includes Tipping)

Visit the Baishui Terrace, where spring water cascades over layers of white limestone pools.

HH Medium Paced Tour (see page 2)

Day 23: Zhongdian

Make the most of your holiday • Singapore Hotels and Touring (see page 63)

Today we visit the Napa Hai Lake and the Songshanlin Monastery.

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia

Day 24: Zhongdian to Dali Continue driving to Dali today (approx 4hrs). Explore the ancient quarter, visit the Xizhou Village, the local market, an ancient courtyard home and see Bai women demonstrate their traditional tie-dying technique in Zhoucheng Village.

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Wuhan Yichang Chongqing Yangtze River Cruise (4N)

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KUNMING (2N+1N)

ROAD RAIL

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Lijiang (2N) Dali (2N)

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Zhongdian

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Day 28: Arrive Australia

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Xian (2N)

Fly back to Kunming today for our final night in China. Enjoy the morning at leisure before boarding our overnight flight to Australia.

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Day 26: Dali to Kunming

Day 27: Depart Kunming

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BEIJING

Today we visit the Three Pagodas and enjoy a cruise on Erhai Lake. In the evening stroll down Foreigner’s Street absorbing the local atmosphere of the market stalls.

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Day 25: Dali

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BOAT

Arrive home this morning.

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OUTBOUND (1N)

INBOUND (1N)


Forbidden City – Beijing

Grand Tour of China

From $6,185 per person twin share - 28 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $5,680, Airline fuel surcharge $400 and Tipping $105 (subject to change)

You are invited to experience the many wonders of China on this ‘grand tour’. This encompassing programme captures not only the historical and cultural aspects of China but it also allows you to live and breathe its many other, lesser known aspects. Commencing your tour in the capital city of Beijing you will visit famous sites such as Tiananmen Square, Summer Palace and the Temple of Heaven. The highlight for many will be ‘walking’ the Great Wall. The wall was once used as a defence fortress, yet today stands tall and proud and amazes everyone who visits this incredible UNESCO World Heritage listed site. In Xian, view the incredible Terracotta Warriors who were hidden underground until they were discovered by a local farmer in 1974. What a find! There will be time to relax on board your Yangtze River cruise. Take in the magnificent scenery, breathtaking gorges and beautiful mountains. Enjoy shore excursions to the Lesser Three Gorges and see the trackers path carved out of the steep rock walls. At Chongqing Zoo you will see the adorable Giant pandas and learn all about the zoo’s successful breeding programmes. Tour the amazing Stone Forest in Kunming. A stay in the enchanting town of Dali will delight you as will a cruise on stunning Erhai Lake. Visit Guilin; one of the most picturesque places in the world and cruise on the wonderful Li River. The cruise will be rather peaceful as you pass by tranquil farming and fishing scenes and marvel at the simplicity of life in this region. In Yangshuo visit the markets and observe locals going about their daily business. See the magical fairyland of stalactites and stalagmites at the Reed Flute Caves. The caves are sometimes known as a ‘huge art palace of nature’ due to the many beautiful formations. Wander through the majestic Yu Gardens in Shanghai; marvel at the superb antiquities and fine arts at the Shanghai Museum. In Suzhou visit a Silk Mill and stroll through some of the finest traditional gardens in China. Sample oriental tea in Hangzhou and visit the Temple of Inspired Seclusion and the Six Harmonies Pagoda. The name ‘Six Harmonies’ comes from the six Buddhist ordinances, meaning ‘harmonies of the Heaven, Earth, East, West, South and North’. At the end of this amazing tour you too will feel in harmony with what you have learned about China, its people, its incredible past and future.

Days 1-2: Australia to Beijing

Day 7: Xian

Fly with Singapore Airlines to Beijing via Singapore for 4 nights. Our welcoming banquet includes the local delicacy, ‘Peking Duck’.

Arrive in Xian this morning and visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda and the Shaanxi Provincial Museum. We will walk through the lively Muslim Quarter to the Great Mosque and explore the Islamic food markets. Tonight we enjoy a Shui Jiao Dumpling Banquet.

Day 3: Beijing Today we stroll through Tiananmen Square, past Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum followed by a visit to the Forbidden City.

Day 4: Beijing Enjoy an exciting walk on the Great Wall and tour the Temple of Heaven.

Day 5: Beijing Enjoy some shopping time at the silk markets and tour the Summer Palace. Our evening entertainment will be a Chinese Acrobatic show.

Day 8: Xian Today we visit the life-size Terracotta Warriors and the ancient City Wall. Enjoy an evening performance of traditional Tang Dynasty dancing this evening.

Day 9: Xian to Wuhan (Yangtze River Cruise)

to explore the fascinating history and tranquil landscapes (subject to change).

Day 13: Chongqing to Kunming We disembark this morning and visit the Panda House at Chongqing Zoo before we fly to Kunming. Sample ‘Across the Bridge Noodles’.

Day 14: Kunming Enjoy a full day tour to the Stone Forest, where massive limestone columns form a vast forest of surreal shapes and images.

Day 15: Kunming to Dali Today we drive to Dali for a 2 night stay.

Day 16: Dali

Fly to Wuhan and transfer by coach (approx 4-5hrs) to board our Yangtze River cruise for the next 4 nights.

Enjoy a cruise on Erhai Lake, participate in a traditional tea tasting, visit the Three Pagodas and explore Dali’s ancient City Wall.

Day 6: Beijing to Xian

Days 10-12: Yangtze River Cruise

Day 17: Dali to Kunming

This morning explore Liulichang’s ancient shop fronts and the calligraphy market before boarding our overnight sleeper train to Xian.

Enjoy a tour to the Three Gorges Dam before cruising on the Yangtze River, passing beautiful scenery along the way. Take shore excursions

We visit Xizhou Village to explore the local market and the Yen Family House, an ancient courtyard home, before returning to Kunming.

16


Departures Tour Code

Day 18: Kunming to Guilin Today we visit the Flower Market before we fly to Guilin.

Day 19: Guilin to Yangshuo (Li River Cruise) Relax on a stunning Li River cruise as we travel to Yangshuo for an overnight stay.

Day 20: Yangshuo to Guilin Visit the local markets before returning to Guilin where we visit Mt. Diecai.

Day 21: Guilin to Shanghai This morning we visit the Reed Flute Caves before flying to Shanghai.

Day 22: Shanghai Today we visit Yu Gardens, the Old Town, the antiques and fine arts at the Shanghai Museum and the famous Bund. Our dinner this evening will be a banquet of delicious Shanghai cuisine.

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

28 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share From $6,185 per person – Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Singapore Airlines Single Hotel Supplement - From $895 Single Cruise Cabin Supplement – From $470 Land Only - From $4,885 (includes Tipping)

HH Medium Paced Tour (see page 2)

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia

2010 T30111 T30112 T30113 T30114 T30116 T30117 T30118 T30119 T301110 T301111 T301112 T301113 T301114 T301115 T301116 T301117 T301118 T301119 T301120 T301121 T301122 T301123 2011 T3120 T3121 T3122 T3123 T3124 T3125 T3126 T3127 T3128 T3129

10 Mar 17 Mar 24 Mar 07 Apr 28 Apr 05 May 12 May 19 May 26 May 09 Jun 30 Jun 14 Jul 18 Aug 01 Sep 08 Sep 15 Sep 22 Sep 06 Oct 13 Oct 27 Oct 03 Nov 10 Nov

06 Apr 13 Apr 20 Apr 04 May 25 May 01 Jun 08 Jun 15 Jun 22 Jun 06 Jul 27 Jul 10 Aug 14 Sep 28 Sep 05 Oct 12 Oct 19 Oct 02 Nov 09 Nov 23 Nov 30 Nov 07 Dec

$6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,285 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,285 $6,285 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,285 $6,285 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185

09 Mar 16 Mar 23 Mar 06 Apr 27 Apr 04 May 11 May 18 May 25 May 08 Jun

05 Apr 12 Apr 19 Apr 03 May 24 May 31 May 07 Jun 14 Jun 21 Jun 05 Jul

$6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,285 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $505 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$90 (A$105) is payable on arrival in China. Chinese candles

Make the most of your holiday • Singapore Hotels and Touring (see page 63)

Day 23: Shanghai to Suzhou Travel to Suzhou. We visit a Silk Mill still in operation today, cruise on a section of the ancient Grand Canal and visit some of the finest oriental gardens in China.

Day 24: Suzhou to Hangzhou Travel to Hangzhou and visit the local markets and experience an oriental tea tasting. INBOUND (1N)

Day 25: Hangzhou

Overnight Train (1N)

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CHINA

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BEIJING

Visit the Temple of Inspired Seclusion, the Six Harmonies Pagoda and relax as we cruise along tranquil West Lake.

Day 27: Depart Shanghai

Suzhou

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Xian (2N)

Return to Shanghai and explore the Xintiandi area. Enjoy an evening Huangpu River cruise as our farewell celebration.

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Day 26: Hangzhou to Shanghai

(1N)

Yangtze River Cruise (4N)

Chongqing AIR

Enjoy the morning at leisure before boarding our overnight flight to Australia.

ROAD

Day 28: Arrive Australia

BOAT

RAIL

Arrive home this morning.

17

Yichang

Hangzhou (2N)

Guilin (1N+1N)

Dali (2N) ||||||||||||||||

SHANGHAI (2N+1N)

Wuhan

Kunming (2N+1N)

Yangshuo (1N)

OUTBOUND (1N)


Classic China

From $5,668 per person twin share - 22 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $5,180, Airline fuel surcharge $400 and Tipping $88 (subject to change)

Visiting China is an exceptional and unique experience; it’s a beautiful country that in some parts has remained unchanged for centuries. On this wonderful tour, you will experience a culture that is still richly intact and permeates every aspect of Chinese life. Begin in the urban metropolis that is Shanghai; a city that fuses a lively mix of eastern and western influences and has so much to offer all visitors. As you wander through the Yu Gardens you will be amazed with its beautiful pavilions, halls, ponds and fragrant flowers. In the Pudong area you will marvel at the growth of modern development and be in awe of the many futuristic skyscrapers and scopes of architecture. You will visit museums, temples and sample glorious foods. In the capital Beijing, you will be enraptured by the historic significance of its buildings as you imagine the emperors and their courtesans in their heyday within the grounds of the Forbidden City. Close your eyes as you stand on the Great Wall and journey back in time to the days when millions of people were involved in the building of this ancient site. Take a walk through Tiananmen Square and picture the masses of people who have trodden it. In the former Imperial Capital of Xian imagine the astonishment on the face of the farmer who unearthed the amazing Terracotta Warriors in 1974. You too will be astounded when you view this incredible army. The Yangtze River will amaze you with its backdrop of misty, rather beautiful mountains. You will visit the Three Gorges and marvel at the world’s largest hydropower project and most spectacular dam. The striking scenery of the tributaries will impress you, as will the sheer enormity of the mighty Yangtze River. See the adorable Giant pandas at Chongqing Zoo. You will adore Guilin – it is simply one of the most beautiful cities in China. There will be time to relax as you cruise along the Li River. See the most breathtaking views of the incredible limestone karst mountains. Your imagination will run wild when you see the magical stalactites and stalagmites at the Reed Flute Caves. Wander the cobbled streets of Lijiang and see an acclaimed Naxi Ancient music show. Relax at the Black Dragon Pool; the calmer the water is the better the reflection will be of the white arched bridge. This tour will capture your imagination, leave you feeling in touch with China’s incredible history and allow you to mingle with its friendly people.

Days 1-2: Australia to Shanghai Fly overnight to Shanghai with Singapore Airlines for 2 nights. Tomorrow visit the Yu Gardens, Old Town and the Bund. Our dinner will be of sumptuous Shanghai cuisine.

Day 3: Shanghai Visit Shanghai Museum, cross the great Nanpu Bridge to tour the Pudong area and explore the Xintiandi area with its 1920s style ‘shikumen’ buildings unique to Shanghai. Enjoy an evening cruise along the Huangpu River.

Day 4: Shanghai to Beijing Depart Shanghai this morning and fly to Beijing where we transfer to our hotel for a 3 night stay. The city is full of wonders and our sightseeing today includes the exquisite Summer Palace and an evening banquet including the local delicacy ‘Peking Duck’.

Day 5: Beijing An often quoted saying in Beijing goes that ‘you have not been to China until you have

climbed the Great Wall’. Begun over 2000 years ago, it stretches all the way from the Shanhaiguan Pass on the east coast to the Gobi Desert in the west, more than 5,000km away. Walk along the Great Wall before visiting the unique Temple of Heaven, built in the 15th Century. Enjoy a fascinating Chinese Acrobatic show as our evening entertainment.

Day 6: Beijing Today we stroll through the famous Tiananmen Square, past Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum followed by a visit to the 15th Century Forbidden City.

Day 7: Beijing to Xian Enjoy some shopping time at the silk markets before boarding our overnight sleeper train to Xian.

Day 8: Xian Arrive in Xian this morning. Visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda, the Shaanxi Provincial Museum, walk through the Muslim Quarter to visit the

18

Great Mosque and explore the Islamic food markets. Enjoy a Shui Jiao Dumpling Banquet this evening.

Day 9: Xian Today we explore the life-size Terracotta Warriors, followed by the ancient City Wall. Enjoy a live performance of traditional Tang Dynasty dancing this evening.

Day 10: Xian to Wuhan (Yangtze Cruise) Fly to Wuhan this morning and transfer by coach (approx 4-5hrs) to board our Yangtze River cruise for the next 4 nights.

Days 11-13: Yangtze River Cruise Enjoy a tour to the Three Gorges Dam before cruising on the mighty Yangtze River. Along the way we will cruise through some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, take shore excursions to explore the fascinating history and tranquil landscapes of the tributaries (subject to change).


Departures

Black Dragon Pool - Lijiang

Tour Code

Day 14: Chongqing to Guilin We disembark from our cruise in Chongqing this morning and visit the Panda House at Chongqing Zoo before boarding our flight to Guilin.

Day 15: Guilin - Li River Cruise Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Li River today as we immerse ourselves in the breathtaking views of this unique landscape.

Day 16: Guilin to Kunming This morning we visit the Reed Flute Caves and Mt. Diecai before boarding our flight to Kunming. At our dinner tonight we enjoy ‘Across the Bridge Noodles’.

Day 17: Kunming Enjoy a full day tour of the picturesque Stone Forest, where massive limestone columns form a vast forest of surreal shapes and images.

Day 18: Kunming to Lijiang

2010 T13091 T13092 T13093 T13094 T13095 T13096 T13097 T13098 T13099 T130910 T130911 T130912 T130913 T130914 T130915 T130916 T130917 T130918 T130919 2011 T13100 T13101 T13102 T13103 T13104 T13105 T13106 T13107 T13108

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

22 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share From $5,668 per person - Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Singapore Airlines Single Hotel Supplement - From $650 Single Cruise Cabin Supplement – From $470

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia 15 Mar 29 Mar 12 Apr 26 Apr 03 May 10 May 17 May 31 May 21 Jun 19 Jul 02 Aug 23 Aug 06 Sep 13 Sep 20 Sep 27 Sep 11 Oct 18 Oct 15 Nov

05 Apr 19 Apr 03 May 17 May 24 May 31 May 07 Jun 21 Jun 12 Jul 09 Aug 23 Aug 13 Sep 27 Sep 04 Oct 11 Oct 18 Oct 01 Nov 08 Nov 06 Dec

$5,668 $5,668 $5,768 $5,668 $5,668 $5,668 $5,668 $5,668 $5,668 $5,768 $5,668 $5,668 $5,668 $5,668 $5,768 $5,768 $5,668 $5,668 $5,768

14 Mar 28 Mar 11 Apr 25 Apr 02 May 09 May 16 May 30 May 20 Jun

04 Apr 18 Apr 02 May 16 May 23 May 30 May 06 Jun 20 Jun 11 Jul

$5,668 $5,668 $5,768 $5,668 $5,668 $5,668 $5,668 $5,668 $5,668

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $488 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$74 (A$88) is payable on arrival in China. The Great Wall - Beijing

Land Only- From $4,368 (includes Tipping) HH Medium Paced Tour (see page 2) Make the most of your holiday • Singapore Hotels and Touring (see page 63)

We fly to Lijiang this morning for a 2 night stay. Upon arrival we wander through the quaint cobbled streets and meandering canals of the old quarter.

Day 19: Lijiang Today we visit one of the most dramatic and deepest gorges in the world, the Tiger Leaping Gorge.

||

|| ||

Day 20: Lijiang to Kunming

| || |

|| || ||

Overnight Train (1N)

||

Lijiang sits near the foot of the impressive Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, which soars to a height of 5500m. This morning we travel by chairlift to explore one of the high meadows and enjoy the amazing scenery. We will also visit Black Dragon Pool before flying back to Kunming.

|| || | || | || ||

||

INBOUND (1N)

||

Xian (2N)

||

Day 21: Depart Kunming

Beijing (3N)

CHINA

SHANGHAI Yangtze River Cruise (4N)

Chongqing

Yichang

Wuhan

Lijiang (2N) AIR

Enjoy the morning at leisure before boarding our overnight flight to Australia.

ROAD

Day 22: Arrive Australia

BOAT

RAIL

Guilin (2N)

KUNMING

||||||||||||||||

(2N+1N)

OUTBOUND (1N)

Arrive home this morning.

19

(2N)


Grand Buddha - Leshan

Magnificent China

From $5,484 per person twin share - 21 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $5,280, Airline fuel surcharge $116 and Tipping $88 (subject to change)

Experience a journey through some of China’s foremost sights and attractions; each offering an opportunity to witness their unique qualities. We have carefully designed this programme at a slower pace, allowing a leisurely exploration of the fascinating sites on offer. China’s capital city, Beijing; meaning ‘Northern Capital’, is renowned for its opulent palaces, temples and traditional architecture; its art treasures have long cemented its place as China’s centre of culture. The city is a highlight and a must for anyone travelling to this region. Experience Tiananmen Square, take a walk on the Great Wall, and discover the amazing Forbidden City and the unique Temple of Heaven. Be amazed as you step back in time and reflect on how the ancient Chinese could build these incredible sites. The historical capital of Chang'an or modern day Xian is one of the country’s oldest cities and was the capital through some of China’s most important dynasties; the Zhou, Han and Tang. Its position as eastern terminus of the Silk Road cements its appeal to travellers and its treasures are reflective of its significance. You will visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum and marvel at one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th Century – the life-size Terracotta Warriors. Relax on a Yangtze River cruise whilst it meanders along the incredible mighty river and experience one of the many shore excursions on offer. At the famous Panda Research Centre near Chengdu you will see these delightful, adorable Giant pandas being reared in surrounds reminiscent of their natural habitat. The Grand Buddha of Leshan will astound you as it is over 71m tall and wide enough for more than 100 people to sit between its feet! Guilin, famous for its scenery has been the inspiration of painters for centuries, will surprise you by its beauty. Be fascinated by the stunning limestone mountain karsts that tower above the river as you cruise along the Li River towards the town of Yangshuo. The vibrant city of Shanghai is a true representation of modern day China; this cosmopolitan centre is a blend of eastern and western cultures and in just 10 short years has transformed itself from a provincial city to an international metropolis. Your time here is spent visiting the superb antiquities and fine arts at the Shanghai Museum, viewing the Yu Gardens and the Old Town. If you wish to savour the many wonderful sites and sounds of China, you will find this tour quite ‘magnificent’!

Day 1: Australia to Beijing

Day 5: Beijing to Xian

Days 8-10: Yangtze River Cruise

Fly to Beijing with Qantas Airways via Hong Kong for a 4 night stay.

We fly to the historic city of Xian this morning for a 2 night stay. Upon arrival we visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum before indulging in a traditional Shui Jiao Dumpling Banquet this evening.

Enjoy a tour to the Three Gorges Dam before cruising on the mighty Yangtze River. Along the way we will cruise through some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, the Three Gorges and take some shore excursions to explore the fascinating history and tranquil landscape of the tributary streams (subject to change).

Day 2: Beijing Today we stroll through famous Tiananmen Square, past Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum, and visit the Forbidden City. Enjoy a rickshaw ride through the traditional Hutong areas. This evening we enjoy a sample of the local delicacy ‘Peking Duck’.

Day 3: Beijing Enjoy an exciting walk along the Great Wall admiring the panoramic views, a highlight of any trip to China. Later this afternoon we visit the unique Temple of Heaven, built in the 15th Century.

Day 4: Beijing Enjoy some shopping time at the silk markets. Later we wander through the landscaped beauty of the Summer Palace. Our evening entertainment will be a fascinating Chinese Acrobatic show.

Day 6: Xian Today we visit one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th Century, the life-size Terracotta Warriors, followed by the ancient City Wall. Stroll through the lively Muslim Quarter to visit the Great Mosque and explore the interesting Islamic food markets. This evening we enjoy a performance of traditional Tang Dynasty dancing.

Day 7: Xian to Wuhan (Yangtze Cruise) This morning we enjoy a visit to the Little Wild Goose Pagoda before flying to Wuhan. Upon arrival we will be transferred by coach (approx 4-5hrs) to board our Yangtze River cruise for the next 4 nights along one of the world's greatest waterways.

20

Day 11: Chongqing to Chengdu Arrive in Chongqing this morning and transfer to Chengdu. This evening enjoy a sumptuous Sichuan Banquet.

Day 12: Chengdu - Leshan This morning we visit the famous Panda Research Centre to see these endearing animals being reared in surroundings reminiscent of their natural habitat. From here we travel to Leshan to view the Grand Buddha. The enormous statue is carved into the side of the Lingyun Mountain and is over 71m tall and wide enough for more than 100 people to sit between its feet.


Departures Tour Code

Day 13: Chengdu to Guilin Today we will be transferred to the airport to board our flight to Guilin, one of China's most beautiful cities for an overnight stay. Upon arrival we visit Mt. Diecai for clear views of the surrounding karst landscape.

Day 14: Guilin to Yangshuo (Li River Cruise) Relax on a Li River Cruise, as we travel to the town of Yangshuo for an overnight stay. Spend the evening walking the cobblestone streets and enjoy the atmosphere of this enchanting town.

Day 15: Yangshuo to Guilin Visit the local markets before returning to Guilin, where we will visit the Reed Flute Caves.

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

21 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share

15 Mar 29 Mar 12 Apr 26 Apr 03 May 10 May 17 May 24 May 01 Jun 07 Jun 05 Jul 09 Aug 23 Aug 06 Sep 13 Sep 20 Sep 27 Sep 04 Oct 18 Oct 01 Nov

04 Apr 18 Apr 02 May 16 May 23 May 30 May 06 Jun 13 Jun 21 Jun 27 Jun 25 Jul 29 Aug 12 Sep 26 Sep 03 Oct 10 Oct 17 Oct 24 Oct 07 Nov 21 Nov

$5,484 $5,604 $5,604 $5,484 $5,484 $5,484 $5,584 $5,584 $5,484 $5,484 $5,604 $5,484 $5,484 $5,484 $5,584 $5,584 $5,604 $5,604 $5,484 $5,484

14 Mar 28 Mar 11 Apr 25 Apr 02 May 09 May 16 May 23 May 30 May 06 Jun

03 Apr 17 Apr 01 May 15 May 22 May 29 May 05 Jun 12 Jun 19 Jun 26 Jun

$5,484 $5,604 $5,604 $5,484 $5,484 $5,484 $5,584 $5,584 $5,484 $5,484

From $5,484 per person – Departing Australia with Qantas Airways (see page 4, Joing Your Tour) Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel

surcharges and Tipping of $204 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$74 (A$88) is payable on arrival in China.

Single Hotel Supplement - From $690 Single Cruise Cabin Supplement – From $470 Land Only - From $4,364 (includes Tipping)

Day 16: Guilin to Suzhou

H Comfortable Paced Tour (see page 2)

Fly to Shanghai and transfer by coach to Suzhou for an overnight stay.

Make the most of your holiday • Hong Kong Hotel and Touring (see pages 64-65)

Day 17: Suzhou to Shanghai

2010 T30040 T30041 T30042 T30044 T30045 T30046 T30047 T30048 T30049 T300410 T300411 T3004110 T300412 T300413 T300414 T300415 T300416 T300417 T300418 T300419 2011 T30050 T30051 T30052 T30053 T30054 T30055 T30056 T30057 T30058 T30059

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia

Bridge - Suzhou

This morning we visit a Silk Mill, still in operation today. Later we cruise on a section of the ancient Grand Canal and see classical oriental gardens. After lunch we return to Shanghai and enjoy an evening banquet of traditional Shanghai cuisine.

Day 18: Shanghai Today we visit the Yu Gardens, the Old Town and take a stroll along the famous Bund.

BEIJING (4N)

CHINA

Day 19: Shanghai Visit the Pudong area and explore the Xintiandi area with its 1920s style ‘shikumen’ buildings unique to Shanghai. This evening enjoy a panoramic cruise on the Huangpu River.

Xian (2N) Chengdu

Yangtze River (2N) Cruise (4N)

Leshan

Day 20: Depart Shanghai Transfer to the airport to board our overnight flight home.

AIR

Day 21: Arrive Australia

BOAT

Suzhou (1N)

Wuhan

SHANGHAI

Yichang Chongqing Guilin (1N+1N) Yangshuo (1N)

ROAD

Arrive home this morning.

21

OUTBOUND (1N) (3N)


Li River - Guilin

Wonders of China

From $4,452 per person twin share - 17 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $3,980, Airline fuel surcharge $400 and Tipping $72 (subject to change)

China is an immense country and one could spend months travelling through its landscapes and still only touch the surface. The scenic wonders of China is there for all to see; from impressive archaeological sites, stunning dramatic scenery to the friendly charm of its people. This ‘Wonders of China’ tour has been designed to showcase some of China’s most amazing sites, yet at the same time allow you a glimpse of the real China; that of its people, its rural backdrops and its ever emerging, cosmopolitan way of life. This country has been a motivation for photographers and artists alike for centuries. Discover bustling Beijing; no tour to China would be complete without visiting this historically rich capital. Its remarkable attractions are many from the Great Wall, to the treasure filled Forbidden City, the Summer Palace to the Temple of Heaven. Sample ‘Peking Duck’ and be dazzled by a fascinating Chinese Acrobatic show. Explore Xian and learn about its major claim to fame - the UNESCO World Heritage listed ‘Terracotta Warriors’. Discovered in 1974 by a local farmer – this fascinating army will simply amaze all who visit. There will be time to relax as you cruise on the mighty Yangtze River, the world’s third longest river. Enjoy spectacular days sailing along the ‘lifeblood’ of China. Marvel at stunning views of misty mountains, incredible gorges and delightful villages. Shore excursions include a visit to the Three Gorges Dam, described as the world’s largest construction project. This grand feat of engineering has to be seen to be believed. Fall in love with the Giant pandas at Chongqing Zoo – a delight for anyone who is visiting this region. Be enchanted with Guilin’s limestone landscape as you cruise on the Li River. A stroll through the charming streets of picturesque Yangshuo will reveal age old traditions. Your journey culminates in the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai. This dynamic blend of the old and new is what typifies Shanghai. Absorb the energy of this fantastic city - regarded as China’s largest economic centre. Discover its major attractions that include the tranquil Yu Garden, the Old Town, the Bund and the superb Shanghai Museum. Along the way, discover bustling markets, sample traditional Chinese cuisine, and gather an understanding of the workings of this fascinating land. This tour is planned to maximise your experience in China without hassle. There will of course be time to unwind, relax and maybe do a little shopping. If you have a limited time frame, capture the true ‘Wonders of China’. It will leave you longing to return.

Days 1-2: Australia to Beijing Fly overnight to Beijing with Singapore Airlines via Singapore for 3 nights.

Day 3: Beijing This morning we stroll through Tiananmen Square, past Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum, before walking through the Forbidden City. This afternoon we visit the Temple of Heaven, built in the 15th Century and enjoy a rickshaw ride through the traditional hutongs. Tonight our welcoming banquet includes a sample of the local delicacy, ‘Peking Duck’.

Day 4: Beijing An often quoted saying in Beijing goes ‘you have not been to China until you have climbed the Great Wall’. Begun over 2000 years ago, it stretches all the way from the Shanhaiguan Pass on the east coast to the Gobi Desert in the west, more than 5,000km away. Walk along the wall admiring the panoramic views and reflect on the enormity of the material

and labour required for its construction. It is estimated that a million people were used at different stages during the construction periods and that thousands died building it. This afternoon we will also wander through the landscaped beauty of the Summer Palace and enjoy a fascinating Chinese Acrobatic show in the evening.

Day 5: Beijing to Xian We fly to Xian this morning. Upon arrival we visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum before enjoying a traditional Shui Jiao Dumpling Banquet this evening.

Day 6: Xian Visit one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th Century, the life-size Terracotta Warriors, followed by the ancient City Wall. We stroll through the Muslim Quarter to visit the Great Mosque and explore the Islamic food markets. This evening enjoy a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

22

Day 7: Xian to Wuhan (Yangtze Cruise) Fly to Wuhan and transfer by coach (approx 4-5hrs) to board our Yangtze River cruise, one of the world's greatest waterways, for the next 4 nights.

Day 8: Yangtze River Cruise Enjoy a tour to the Three Gorges Dam before cruising on the Yangtze River.

Days 9-10: Yangtze River Cruise Along the way we will cruise through some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and take shore excursions to explore the fascinating history and tranquil landscape of the tributary streams (subject to change).

Day 11: Chongqing to Guilin We disembark from our cruise in Chongqing this morning and visit the Panda House at Chongqing Zoo, home to some of the most adored animals in China, who are now also the cute and memorable mascot for the


Departures Tour Code

Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF). Transfer to the airport and fly to the beautiful city of Guilin, one of China's greener and more picturesque cities where we will stay overnight.

Day 12: Guilin (Li River Cruise) to Yangshuo Today we enjoy a cruise along the Li River as we travel to the town of Yangshuo for an overnight stay. Our boat journey takes us past tranquil farming and fishing scenes and picturesque villages. Spend the evening walking the cobblestone streets or relax in a street side cafe and enjoy the colourful atmosphere of this enchanting town.

Day 13: Yangshuo to Guilin Enjoy a morning visit to the colourful local markets and wander through the charming town before returning to Guilin. Upon arrival this afternoon we will visit the stunning Reed Flute Caves.

Day 14: Guilin to Shanghai This morning we fly to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai. Upon arrival we visit the superb antiques and fine arts at the Shanghai Museum and wander the surrounds of the neighbouring People’s Square.

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

17 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share From $4,452 per person – Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Singapore Airlines Single Hotel Supplement - From $525 Single Cruise Cabin Supplement – From $470 Land Only - From $3,152 (includes Tipping)

H Comfortable Paced Tour (see page 2) Make the most of your holiday • Singapore Hotels and Touring (see page 63) This tour can be taken as an Independent Departure, for prices and details please contact reservations.

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia

2010 T22050 T22051 T22052 T22053 T22054 T22055 T22058 T22059 T220510 T220511 T220512 T220513 T220514 T220515 T220516 T200517 T220518 T220519 T220520 T220521 T220522 T220523 T220524 T220525 T220526 T220527 T220528 T220529 T220530 T220531 T220532 T220533 T220534 T220535 T220536 T220537 2011 T22060 T22061 T22062 T22063 T22064 T22065 T22066 T22067 T22068 T22069 T220610

07 Mar 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 Mar 04 Apr 11 Apr 25 Apr 05 May 09 May 16 May 19 May 23 May 26 May 06 Jun 13 Jun 27 Jun 07 Jul 11 Jul 18 Jul 25 Jul 08 Aug 15 Aug 29 Aug 05 Sep 08 Sep 12 Sep 19 Sep 22 Sep 26 Sep 06 Oct 10 Oct 17 Oct 24 Oct 31 Oct 07 Nov 14 Nov

23 Mar 30 Mar 06 Apr 13 Apr 20 Apr 27 Apr 11 May 21 May 25 May 01 Jun 04 Jun 08 Jun 11 Jun 22 Jun 29 Jun 13 Jul 23 Jul 27 Jul 03 Aug 10 Aug 24 Aug 31 Aug 14 Sep 21 Sep 24 Sep 28 Sep 05 Oct 08 Oct 12 Oct 22 Oct 26 Oct 02 Nov 09 Nov 16 Nov 23 Nov 30 Nov

$4,452 $4,452 $4,952 $4,952 $5,052 $5,052 $4,952 $4,952 $4,952 $5,152 $5,152 $4,952 $4,952 $4,952 $4,952 $5,052 $5,052 $5,052 $5,052 $4,952 $4,952 $4,952 $4,952 $4,952 $4,952 $4,952 $5,252 $5,252 $5,052 $5,052 $4,952 $4,952 $4,952 $4,952 $4,452 $4,552

06 Mar 13 Mar 20 Mar 27 Mar 03 Apr 10 Apr 24 Apr 04 May 08 May 15 May 18 May

22 Mar 29 Mar 05 Apr 12 Apr 19 Apr 26 Apr 10 May 20 May 24 May 31 May 03 Jun

$4,452 $4,452 $4,952 $4,952 $4,952 $5,052 $5,052 $4,952 $4,952 $5,152 $5,152

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $472 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$60 (A$72) is payable on arrival in China.

Day 15: Shanghai

BEIJING

Further explore this exciting city with visits to the Yu Gardens and the Old Town. Enjoy a stroll along the famous Bund and its collection of 1920s neo classical buildings, the Pudong area and the Xintiandi area with its unique style of 'shikumen' buildings. As our farewell celebration we cruise on the stunning Huangpu River.

(3N)

CHINA

INBOUND (1N)

SHANGHAI

Xian (2N)

(2N)

Wuhan

Yangtze River Cruise (4N)

Day 16: Depart Shanghai Enjoy the morning at leisure before boarding our overnight flight to Australia.

AIR

Day 17: Arrive Australia

BOAT

Chongqing

ROAD

Yichang

Guilin (1N+1N) Yangshuo (1N)

Arrive home this morning.

23

OUTBOUND (1N)


Ancient City Wall - Xian

Name of Image

Name of Image

China Delights

From $4,768 per person twin share - 21 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $4,280, Airline fuel surcharge $400 and Tipping $88 (subject to change)

China offers travellers an abundance of exciting destinations to explore. With so many jewels to discover, it is no wonder that people return time and time again to this fascinating land. It is a rather beautiful country full of contrasts in both landscape and historical sites. It has some of the world’s most ancient traditions, yet, in its cities you will find futuristic buildings and a rather frantic pace of life. Peaceful rice fields, tranquil river cruises and memorable sites such as Beijing’s Great Wall, Xian’s fascinating Terracotta Warriors, Suzhou’s Humble Administrator’s Garden and Shanghai’s Yu Gardens are some of the must-sees of this fascinating land that never fails to seduce. Be amazed at Hangzhou’s magnificent Temple of Inspired Seclusion regarded as one of the biggest and most famous ancient Buddhist temples in China or Beijing’s Temple of Heaven, the place where Emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties worshipped. The mysterious karst landscape of Mt. Diecai with its unforgettable scenery will bring a welcome change from city life. Meander the delightful streets of Guilin in search of souvenirs, be tempted by the local markets in Hangzhou, or just simply soak up the atmosphere and watch the world go by in a side street cafe in Yangshuo. A highlight for some will be visiting the delightful Panda Reserve in Chengdu to view China’s most gorgeous animals at play in their simulated habitat. Your senses will be tantalized with traditional distinctive regional cuisines such as ‘Peking Duck’, Sichuan delicacies and delicious ‘Shui Jian Dumplings’. Enjoy Tang Dynasty dancing and view a Chinese Acrobatic show that will most definitely take your breath away. This new tour promises to be a journey of a lifetime – a careful selection of what we consider to be the ‘delights’ of China. In just 21 days you will experience the very heart of this amazing country. The combination of the places visited makes a fascinating fusion of China’s past, present and future. A magical tour of memorable images and amazing experiences! Just some of the reasons why this tour is so special!

Days 1-2: Australia to Shanghai Fly overnight to Shanghai via Singapore with Singapore Airlines for a 2 night stay. Enjoy a traditional banquet of Shanghai cuisine as our welcome celebration.

Day 3: Shanghai Today we explore the Yu Gardens, the famous Bund, the antiques and fine arts at the Shanghai Museum, the fascinating Old Town and the unique 1920s style 'shikumen' buildings in the Xintiandi area.

Day 4: Suzhou We travel to Suzhou today where we will visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden and the Garden of the Master of the Nets. We will cruise on the Grand Canal and visit a local Silk Mill, still in operation today.

Day 5: Suzhou to Hangzhou Travel to Hangzhou where we will visit the local markets and enjoy an oriental tea-tasting.

Day 6: Hangzhou Today we visit the Temple of Inspired Seclusion and the Six Harmonies Pagoda and relax on a cruise along West Lake this afternoon.

Day 7: Hangzhou to Shanghai via Wuzhen Travel by coach to Wuzhen and enjoy a walking tour of the intricate system of canals, ancient pavilions and overhead bridges. Continue to Shanghai this afternoon where we enjoy a stunning cruise on the Huangpu River this evening.

Day 8: Shanghai to Guilin Today we cross the great Nanpu Bridge to tour the Pudong area. This afternoon we fly to Guilin.

Day 9: Guilin to Yangshuo (Li River Cruise) Relax on a cruise along the Li River, as we travel to Yangshuo for an overnight stay. Spend the evening walking the cobblestone streets or relax in a side street cafe and enjoy the colourful atmosphere of Yangshuo.

Day 10: Yangshuo to Guilin This morning we enjoy a visit to the local markets before returning to Guilin by road. Upon arrival in Guilin later this afternoon we visit Mt. Diecai for clear views of the surrounding karst landscape.

24

Day 11: Guilin to Chengdu Today we visit the Reed Flute Caves before transferring to the airport to board our flight to Chengdu. At our dinner this evening we enjoy a sumptuous Sichuan Banquet.

Day 12: Chengdu - Leshan Today we travel to Leshan to explore the Grand Buddha, an enormous statue hewn from the side of the Lingyun Mountain. The Buddha is over 71m tall and is wide enough for more than 100 people to sit between its feet. We take a short boat trip to view the statue from the river and also admire the Buddha’s head from the cliff top. We return to Chengdu this afternoon.

Day 13: Chengdu to Xian Visit the famous Panda Research Centre to see these adorable animals being reared in surroundings reminiscent of their natural habitat; we also enjoy a city tour of Chengdu. This evening we will be transferred to the railway station to board our overnight sleeper train to the historical city of Xian for a 2 night stay.


Departures Tour Code

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia

2010 T5011 T5012 T5013 T5014 T5015 T5016 T5017 T5018 2011 T5020 T5021 T5022 T5023

Day 14: Xian Arrive in the former Imperial Capital city of Xian this morning. Visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda, followed by a traditional Shui Jiao Dumpling Banquet this evening.

Day 15: Xian This morning we explore one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th Century, the life-size Terracotta Warriors, followed by the ancient City Wall. End this magical day with a live performance of traditional Tang Dynasty dancing.

Day 16: Xian to Beijing Today we visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum and the lively Muslim Quarter where we explore the Great Mosque and the Islamic food markets before boarding our overnight sleeper train to Beijing.

26 Apr 10 May 24 May 09 Aug 06 Sep 20 Sep 11 Oct 15 Nov

16 May 30 May 13 Jun 29 Aug 26 Sep 10 Oct 31 Oct 05 Dec

$5,268 $5,268 $5,268 $5,268 $5,268 $5,368 $5,368 $4,768

21 Mar 25 Apr 09 May 23 May

10 Apr 15 May 29 May 12 Jun

$5,268 $5,368 $5,268 $5,268

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $488 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$74 (A$88) is payable on arrival in China.

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Lovers Locks - The Great Wall

Price Guide

21 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share From $4,768 per person – Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Singapore Airlines Single Hotel Supplement - From $710 Land Only - From $3,468 (includes Tipping)

HH Medium Paced Tour (see page 2) Make the most of your holiday • Singapore Hotels and Touring (see page 63)

Ancient City Wall - Xian

Day 17: Beijing Arrive in Beijing this morning and visit the 17th Century Temple of Heaven. In the evening enjoy a sample of the local delicacy ‘Peking Duck’.

Day 18: Beijing Today we enjoy an exciting walk along the Great Wall, a highlight to any visit to China. Our evening entertainment will be a fascinating Chinese Acrobatic show.

BEIJING

CHINA

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||

(3N)

||

||

Day 19: Beijing

OUTBOUND (1N)

Day 20: Beijing to Australia This morning enjoy some shopping time at the silk markets before transferring to the airport for our flight home to Australia.

AIR

Day 21: Arrive Australia

BOAT

||||||||||||||||

|| ||

|| ||

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Guilin

(1N+1N)

Yangshuo (1N)

Arrive home this morning.

25

INBOUND (1N)

||| |||

Leshan

ROAD RAIL

Hangzhou (2N)

|||

Chengdu (2N)

|||

Overnight Train (1N)

Suzhou (1N)

|||

Xian (2N)

||

||

||

||

||

||

||

||

||

Overnight Train (1N)

||

||

||

Our sightseeing today involves a stroll through famous Tiananmen Square, past Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum followed by a visit to the Forbidden City and the exquisite Summer Palace.

SHANGHAI (2N+1N)


Inclusions

Temple of Heaven - Beijing

International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

14 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share From $3,068 per person - Departing Australia with Qantas Airways (see page 4, Joing Your Tour) Single Hotel Supplement - From $340 Land Only - From $1,952 (includes Tipping)

H Comfortable Paced Tour (see page 2) Make the most of your holiday • Hong Kong Hotels and Touring (see pages 64-65) This tour can be taken as an Independent Departure, for prices and details please contact reservations.

Departures Tour Code 2010 T1001101 T100111 T100112 T100113 T100114 T100115 T100116 T100117 T100119 T100120 T100121 T100122 T100123 T1001231 T100124 T100125 T100126 T100127 T100128 T100129 T100130 T100131 T100132 2011 T10120 T10122 T10123 T10124 T10125 T10126 T10127 T10128 T10129 T101210

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia 28 Feb 14 Mar 28 Mar 04 Apr 18 Apr 09 May 16 May 30 May 06 Jun 13 Jun 18 Jul 01 Aug 22 Aug 05 Sep 12 Sep 19 Sep 26 Sep 03 Oct 17 Oct 24 Oct 31 Oct 14 Nov 21 Nov

13 Mar 27 Mar 10 Apr 17 Apr 01 May 22 May 29 May 12 Jun 19 Jun 26 Jun 31 Jul 14 Aug 04 Sep 18 Sep 25 Sep 02 Oct 09 Oct 16 Oct 30 Oct 06 Nov 13 Nov 27 Nov 04 Dec

$3,068 $3,868 $4,088 $4,088 $4,088 $3,968 $3,968 $3,968 $3,968 $3,968 $4,088 $3,968 $3,968 $3,968 $3,968 $3,968 $4,088 $4,088 $3,968 $3,968 $3,968 $3,068 $3,188

27 Feb 13 Mar 27 Mar 03 Apr 17 Apr 08 May 15 May 29 May 05 Jun 12 Jun

12 Mar 26 Mar 09 Apr 16 Apr 30 Apr 21 May 28 May 11 Jun 18 Jun 25 Jun

$3,068 $3,968 $4,088 $4,088 $4,088 $3,968 $3,968 $3,968 $3,968 $3,968

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $188 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$60 (A$72) is payable on arrival in China.

Glories of China

From $3,068 per person twin share - 14 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $2,880, Airline fuel surcharge $116 and Tipping $72 (subject to change)

China offers an inexhaustible supply of attractions. Discover these delights for yourself in one compact and complete programme. Wander the streets of picturesque Yangshuo, marvel at the mighty Terracotta Warriors in Xian and be astounded at ancient sites in Shanghai and Beijing. Many of your fondest memories may be of the simple things: taking a cruise on the Li River, discovering karst mountains or simply seeing the beauty of Guilin that has been an inspiration to painters for many years. You will experience a walk along the Great Wall, one of the world’s most amazing wonders. Stroll through Tiananmen Square; discover the exquisite Summer Palace and be introduced to Shanghai’s beautiful Yu Gardens, sampling traditional cuisine along the way. The ‘Glories of China’ will truly captivate you - be enthralled with the culture, history and beauty of this immense land.

Day 1: Australia to Shanghai

Day 7: Guilin to Xian

Fly to Shanghai via Hong Kong with Qantas Airways for 3 nights.

Visit Mt. Diecai before flying to Xian. This evening enjoy a traditional Shui Jiao Dumpling Banquet.

Days 2-3: Shanghai Over the next 2 days we explore the Shanghai Museum, the Bund, Yu Gardens, the Old Town, Pudong District and the Xintiandi area. We also enjoy a banquet of Shanghai cuisine and a cruise along the Huangpu River.

Day 8: Xian

Day 4: Shanghai to Guilin

Day 9: Xian to Beijing

Today we fly to the city of Guilin.

Days 5-6: Guilin to Yangshuo (Li River Cruise) to Guilin Relax on a cruise along the Li River as we travel to Yangshuo. The following morning enjoy a visit to the local markets before returning to Guilin where we visit the Seven Star Caves.

OUTBOUND (1N)

SHANGHAI (3N)

CHINA

Visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda, the Shaanxi Provincial Museum and stroll through the lively Muslim Quarter to visit the Great Mosque and explore the Islamic food markets. Afterwards fly to Beijing for a 4 night stay. This evening enjoy the delicious local specialty, ‘Peking Duck’.

Days 10-12: Beijing

BEIJING (4N)

Xian (2N)

Today we visit the life-size Terracotta Warriors after which we stop at the ancient City Wall. This evening we enjoy performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

Today we visit Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Tomorrow we take an exciting walk along the Great Wall and tour the 15th Century Temple of Heaven. The following day enjoy a rickshaw tour through traditional Hutong areas and visit the Summer Palace. Our evening entertainment will be a Chinese Acrobatic show.

Day 13: Depart Beijing

Guilin (1N+1N)

Yangshuo (1N)

AIR ROAD BOAT

26

Enjoy a shopping spree at the silk markets before boarding our overnight flight to Australia.

Day 14: Arrive Australia Arrive home this morning.


Shennong Stream - Yangtze River

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

From $3,976 per person – Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Cathay Pacific

Majestic Yangtze

Single Hotel Supplement - From $340

From $3,976 per person twin share - 14 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $3,780, Airline fuel surcharge $124 and Tipping $72 (subject to change)

China offers a profusion of exciting, fresh and long standing wonders. As the name suggests this tour is designed for the first time visitor to experience the magnificent Yangtze River. Discover for yourself the incredible gorges, mountain villages and breathtaking scenery. Be fascinated by the Three Gorges Dam project, this amazing feat of engineering needs to be seen to be believed. You will gain an insight into historical Xian, tantalizing Shanghai and China’s capital Beijing. With a history going back thousands of years, you are going to love all you see. Sample the delicacy of ‘Peking Duck’, capture the loveliness of China’s Giant pandas, witness Tang Dynasty dancing and be amazed at the skills of performers during Beijing’s Chinese Acrobatic show. From the quiet waters of the Yangtze to bustling city life, discover these delightful gems of China for yourself.

Day 1: Australia to Shanghai

Day 10: Xian to Beijing

Fly to Shanghai via Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific for 2 nights.

Visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda, the Shaanxi Provincial Museum, stroll through the Muslim Quarter to the Great Mosque and explore the Islamic food markets. Later fly to Beijing and enjoy a sample of ‘Peking Duck’.

Day 2: Shanghai Visit the Yu Gardens, the Old Town, Shanghai Museum, the Bund and the Xintiandi area. Enjoy an evening cruise on the Huangpu River before enjoying a sumptuous banquet of traditional Shanghai cuisine.

Day 3: Shanghai to Yichang (Yangtze Cruise) This morning we visit the Pudong area before flying to Yichang. Upon arrival we drive to our Yangtze River cruise for the next 4 nights.

Days 4-6: Yangtze River Cruise Enjoy a tour of the Three Gorges Dam before commencing our cruise on the Yangtze River, passing through the spectacular dramatic Shennong Stream or the Lesser Three Gorges (subject to change).

Day 7: Chongqing to Chengdu Disembark in Chongqing this morning and drive to Chengdu.

Day 8: Chengdu to Xian Visit the Panda Research Centre, before flying to Xian. This evening feast on a traditional Shui Jiao Dumpling Banquet.

Days 11-12: Beijing Today we visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the exquisite Summer Palace. The next day visit the Temple of Heaven, the Great Wall and enjoy an evening Acrobatic show.

Day 13: Depart Beijing Transfer to the airport for our overnight flight to Australia.

Day 14: Arrive Australia Arrive home this morning.

BEIJING (3N)

CHINA

OUTBOUND (1N)

SHANGHAI

Xian (2N) Chengdu (1N)

(2N)

Yangtze River Cruise (4N)

Yichang

Chongqing

Day 9: Xian Today we visit the Terracotta Warriors, followed by the ancient City Wall. This evening enjoy a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

14 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share

AIR ROAD BOAT

27

Single Cruise Cabin Supplement – From $470 Land Only - From $2,952 (includes Tipping) H Comfortable Paced Tour (see page 2) Make the most of your holiday • Hong Kong Hotels and Touring (see pages 64-65) This tour can be taken as an Independent Departure, for prices and details please contact reservations.

Departures Tour Code 2010 T110100 T110101 T110102 T110103 T110104 T110105 T110106 T110107 T110108 T110109 T1101010 T1101011 T1101012 T1101013 T1101014 T1101015 T1101016 T1101017 T1101018 T1101019 2011 T11110 T11111 T11112 T11113 T11114 T11115 T11116 T11117 T11118 T11119

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia 16 Mar 06 Apr 20 Apr 27 Apr 04 May 11 May 18 May 25 May 01 Jun 08 Jun 03 Aug 24 Aug 07 Sep 14 Sep 21 Sep 28 Sep 05 Oct 12 Oct 19 Oct 02 Nov

29 Mar 19 Apr 03 May 10 May 17 May 24 May 31 May 07 Jun 14 Jun 21 Jun 16 Aug 06 Sep 20 Sep 27 Sep 04 Oct 11 Oct 18 Oct 25 Oct 01 Nov 15 Nov

$3,976 $3,976 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186 $4,386 $4,386 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186

15 Mar 05 Apr 19 Apr 26 Apr 03 May 10 May 17 May 24 May 31 May 07 Jun

28 Mar 18 Apr 02 May 09 May 16 May 23 May 30 May 06 Jun 13 Jun 20 Jun

$3,976 $3,976 $4,386 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186 $4,186

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $196 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$60 (A$72) is payable on arrival in China.


Inclusions

The Great Wall - Beijing

International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

10 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share

From $2,858 per person – Departing Australia with Qantas Airways (see page 4, Joing Your Tour) Single Hotel Supplement - From $285 Land Only - From $1,742 (includes Tipping)

A China Experience

H Comfortable Paced Tour (see page 2)

From $2,858 per person twin share - 10 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia

Make the most of your holiday • Hong Kong Hotels and Touring (see pages 64-65)

From price includes: Tour Cost $2,680, Airline fuel surcharge $116 and Tipping $62 (subject to change)

This tour can be taken as an Independent Departure, for prices and details please contact reservations.

Departures Tour Code 2010 T19071 T19072 T19073 T19074 T19075 T19076 T19077 T19078 T19079 T190710 T190711 T190712 T190713 T190714 T190715 T190716 T190717 T190718 T190719 T190720 T190721 T190722 T190723 2011 T19080 T19081 T19082 T19083 T19084 T19085 T19086 T19087 T19088 T19089 T190810 T190811

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia 24 Jan 14 Feb 07 Mar 21 Mar 04 Apr 18 Apr 02 May 09 May 23 May 30 May 06 Jun 13 Jun 18 Jul 08 Aug 22 Aug 05 Sep 12 Sep 19 Sep 03 Oct 10 Oct 17 Oct 31 Oct 14 Nov

02 Feb 23 Feb 16 Mar 30 Mar 13 Apr 27 Apr 11 May 18 May 01 Jun 08 Jun 15 Jun 22 Jun 27 Jul 17 Aug 31 Aug 14 Sep 21 Sep 28 Sep 12 Oct 19 Oct 26 Oct 09 Nov 23 Nov

$2,858 $2,858 $3,158 $3,158 $3,278 $3,278 $3,158 $3,158 $3,158 $3,158 $3,158 $3,158 $3,278 $3,158 $3,158 $3,158 $3,158 $3,158 $3,278 $3,278 $3,158 $3,158 $2,858

23 Jan 13 Feb 06 Mar 20 Mar 03 Apr 17 Apr 01 May 08 May 22 May 29 May 05 Jun 12 Jun

01 Feb 22 Feb 15 Mar 29 Mar 12 Apr 26 Apr 10 May 17 May 31 May 07 Jun 14 Jun 21 Jun

$2,858 $2,858 $2,858 $3,158 $3,278 $3,278 $3,158 $3,158 $3,158 $3,158 $3,158 $3,158

From the fascinating Terracotta Warriors in Xian to the charms of Wuzhen, from China’s capital city Beijing to the futuristic city of Shanghai, this introductory tour of China covers the essentials in one concise and memorable programme. You will experience the grandeur of Shanghai, taking in its major attractions and hidden treasures. Discover Wuzhen’s ancient residential houses, workshops and stores still standing on the banks of the canals. Climb the Great Wall in Beijing, stroll through the world famous Tiananmen Square, explore courtyards, temples and residences of the Forbidden City and learn about life during the Qing Dynasty. Capture China at its best, visiting museums, sampling traditional foods such as ‘Peking Duck’. Be captivated by China’s highly acclaimed Acrobatic show and admire a live performance of Tang Dynasty dancing. The combination of these destinations are sure to delight all who visit.

Day 1: Australia to Shanghai

Day 5: Xian

Fly with Qantas Airways via Hong Kong to Shanghai for 3 nights. Enjoy a welcome dinner of traditional Shanghai cuisine.

Visit the life-size Terracotta Warriors and Xian’s ancient City Wall. End this magical day with a live performance of Tang Dynasty dancing this evening.

Day 2: Shanghai – Wuzhen Today we travel to the picturesque canal town of Wuzhen. Discover its many wonders before returning to Shanghai this afternoon.

Day 6: Xian to Beijing

Visit the Yu Gardens, the Old Town, Shanghai Museum, the famous Bund, the Xintiandi area and indulge in some shopping along Nanjing Road. Enjoy a panoramic cruise on the Huangpu River.

Visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda and Shaanxi Provincial Museum before strolling through the Muslim Quarter to the Great Mosque and explore the Islamic food markets. We then fly to Beijing and visit the 15th Century Temple of Heaven. Tonight we enjoy a sample of the local delicacy ‘Peking Duck’.

Day 4: Shanghai to Xian

Day 7: Beijing

Day 3: Shanghai

Today we fly to Xian. Dinner this evening will be a sumptuous Shui Jiao Dumpling Banquet.

BEIJING (3N)

OUTBOUND (1N)

CHINA Xian (2N)

SHANGHAI

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $178 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$52 (A$62) is payable on arrival in China.

(3N)

Our sightseeing today includes a stroll through the famous Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. This evening enjoy a fascinating Chinese Acrobatic show.

Day 8: Beijing This morning we enjoy an exciting walk along the Great Wall, a highlight of any trip to China. Later this afternoon we wander through the landscaped beauty of the Summer Palace.

Day 9: Depart Beijing Enjoy shopping time at the silk markets this morning before we transfer to the airport for our overnight flight home.

Day 10: Arrive Australia

AIR

Arrive home this morning.

28


Inclusions

Gyantse Kumbum - Gyantse

International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees and Tibet Permit for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

From $5,790 per person – Departing Australia with Qantas Airways (see page 4, Joing Your Tour)

Himalayan Express

From $5,790 per person twin share - 20 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $5,580, Airline fuel surcharge $122 and Tipping $88 (subject to change)

Day 1: Australia to Chengdu

Day 15: Xian to Beijing

Fly with Qantas Airways to Chengdu via Hong Kong for a 2 night stay.

Visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum and walk through the Muslim Quarter to the Great Mosque before boarding our overnight train to Beijing.

Arrive home this morning. OUTBOUND (1N)

Day 12: Xining to Xian Visit an ethnic village before we transfer to the railway station for our overnight sleeper train to Xian.

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CHINA

Overnight Train (1N)

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Board our overnight train to Xining arriving tomorrow. The following day we visit the Ta’er Temple.

BEIJING (3N) Xining (2N)

Overnight Train (1N)

Shigatse (1N)

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Overnight Train (1N)

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Xian (2N)

Lhasa (3N+1N) CHENGDU Gyantse (1N) (2N)

Days 13-14: Xian Arrive in Xian and visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda. Enjoy a Shui Jiao Dumpling Banquet. Tomorrow visit the Terracotta Warriors and the ancient City Wall.

||

Days 9-11: Lhasa to Xining

||

Today we return to Lhasa via Yandrok Lake.

Departures Tour Code 2010 T29040 T29041 T29042 T29043 T29044 2011 T29050 T29051 T29052

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia 06 May 13 May 03 Jun 09 Sep 23 Sep

25 May 01 Jun 22 Jun 28 Sep 12 Oct

$5,790 $5,790 $5,790 $5,790 $5,910

05 May 12 May 02 Jun

24 May 31 May 21 Jun

$5,790 $5,790 $5,790

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $210 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$74 (A$88) is payable on arrival in China.

Yamdrok Lake - Friendship Highway, Lhasa

Day 20: Arrive Australia

||

Day 8: Shigatse to Lhasa

Transfer to the airport for our flight to Australia.

||

Continue to Shigatse where we visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery.

Make the most of your holiday • Hong Kong Hotels and Touring (see pages 64-65)

Day 19: Depart Beijing

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Day 7: Gyantse to Shigatse

||

Travel to Gyantse and visit the Gyantse Kumbum.

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Day 6: Lhasa to Gyantse

||

Fly to Lhasa. Over the next 3 days we visit Barkhor Square, the Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery, the Potala Palace and Norbulingka.

Arrive in Beijing this morning and visit the Summer Palace. This evening enjoy a sample of the local delicacy, ‘Peking Duck’. Tomorrow we visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven. The next day walk on the Great Wall and enjoy a Chinese Acrobatic show in the evening.

||

Days 3-5: Chengdu to Lhasa

Days 16-18: Beijing

||

Visit the famous Panda Research Centre. This evening enjoy a sumptuous Sichuan Banquet.

Single Hotel Supplement - From $875 Land Only - From $4,668 (includes Tipping) HHH Active Paced Tour (see page 2)

For those of you who love adventure and travelling paths less explored, this is the ideal trip for you. With the opening of the world’s highest railway, the Qinghai-Tibet Railway in 2006, never before has the Tibet Autonomous Region become so accessible. Soaring at 5072m along the Tanggula, the train journey offers unimaginable scenery as you pass the never ending spectacle of the Tibetan Plateau vistas. Commencing in Chengdu see China’s adorable Giant pandas. Embark upon the mystical lands of Tibet and explore its ambient temples and monasteries. On the return journey along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway encounter dramatic scenery, stopping in Xining before proceeding to the former Imperial Capital of Xian. Continue onwards to Beijing, which offers a fascinating array of regal and historical sites. If you welcome a challenge, love the adventure of train travel, you owe it to yourself to participate in this wonderful tour!

Day 2: Chengdu

20 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share

AIR ROAD RAIL

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29


Nine Villages Valley

China Splendour

From $5,172 per person twin share - 14 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $4,980, Airline fuel surcharge $116 and Tipping $76 (subject to change)

One of the wonderful areas that this amazing tour visits is the incredible UNESCO World Heritage listed site of the ‘Nine Villages Valley’ (Jiuzhaigou) in Sichuan Province. Our very own Ms Wendy Wu describes this area as the most beautiful she has ever travelled to. Our clients return equally as enthralled. Imagine a world where crystal turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls punctuate the skyline. Picture a stunning landscape of natural wonders with thick forests, springs, streams and rivers. Visualise a variety of plants and rare animals such as the Giant panda, Lesser panda, Golden monkey, and 140 bird species. The scenery here is quite splendid! The China Splendour itinerary takes you on a discovery of this magnificent area and much more. In contrast you will have the opportunity to visit the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai to capture not only the old, but the new wonders of this alluring city. Shanghai buzzes with character and is known for its frenetic energy. Its attractions include the beautiful Yu Gardens, the treasure filled Shanghai Museum and the famous Bund. Chengdu will charm you as it is home to the Giant pandas. See these cuddly animals in surroundings akin to their natural habitat. Be intrigued by a visit to the Dujiangyan Irrigation Project. It is regarded as the oldest and only surviving no-dam irrigation system in the world and quite a wonder in the development of Chinese science. At Leshan you will visit the massive Grand Buddha which was constructed to calm the waters that plagued ships travelling down the river. View the amazing ancient Terracotta Warriors in Xian first founded by a local farmer in 1974. As China’s oldest city, Xian played a key role in much of the country’s history and as a result is rich in historic sites. One cannot travel to China without visiting the Great Wall. Marvel at the enormity of this wonderful site which stretches over 6,400km. Tour Beijing’s UNESCO World Heritage listed Summer Palace, regarded as 'a masterpiece of Chinese garden design', stroll along Tiananmen Square and the remarkable Temple of Heaven. This balance of touring provides ample opportunity to cover the diversity of this great country. Seize this opportunity to experience all the timeless images of China. There will be time to relax; sample delicious local fare, indulge in the many souvenirs on offer and enjoy performances of Tang Dynasty dancing and an Acrobatic show. With so many delights on offer, how could you not be tempted to travel on this unforgettable and truly delightful Chinese experience?

Day 1: Australia to Shanghai Fly with Qantas Airways via Hong Kong to Shanghai for 2 nights. Our welcome dinner this evening will be a sumptuous banquet of traditional Shanghai cuisine.

Day 2: Shanghai Experience this exciting city by visiting the beautiful Yu Gardens, the Old Town, the superb antiques and fine arts at the Shanghai Museum. This afternoon we take a stroll along the famous Bund before we enjoy a breathtaking cruise on the Huangpu River this evening.

Day 3: Shanghai to Chengdu This morning we will be transferred to the airport to board our flight to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province for an overnight stay. Chengdu is renowned for its natural beauty as well as its popular and distinct cuisine.

Days 4-5: Chengdu to Nine Villages Valley Today we fly to the breathtaking Nine Villages Valley (Jiuzhaigou), a botanical gallery that is heavily forested and home to many protected species. Entering the valley is like being transported into a different world, where crystal clear lakes gather at the foot of every waterfall and rich coloured forests are dotted with flowers. We stay in the valley for the next 2 nights to further explore its beauty.

Day 6: Nine Villages Valley to Chengdu Today we travel to Huanglong where we will walk or take an optional cable car ride to the temple at the head of the valley. Huanglong is renowned for its hundreds of sparkling mineral pools where beautiful colours intertwine and the water cascades down the mountainside. This afternoon we continue to the airport and fly back to Chengdu.

30

Day 7: Chengdu - Leshan Today we travel to Leshan where we will marvel at the Grand Buddha, an enormous statue carved into the side of the Lingyun Mountain. The Buddha is over 71 metres tall and is wide enough for more than 100 people to sit between its feet. A local saying is, 'the Mountain is a Buddha, the Buddha is a Mountain'.

Day 8: Chengdu to Xian This morning we visit the famous Panda Research Centre to see these endearing animals being reared in surroundings reminiscent of their natural habitat. We then transfer to the airport for our flight to the former Imperial Capital, Xian. Enjoy a sumptuous Shui Jiao Dumpling Banquet this evening.

Day 9: Xian Today we visit one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th


Departures Tour Code 2010 T31042 T31043 T31044 T31045 T31046 T31047 T31048 2011 T31050 T31051 T31052

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia 15 Apr 13 May 03 Jun 26 Aug 23 Sep 07 Oct 04 Nov

28 Apr 26 May 16 Jun 08 Sep 06 Oct 20 Oct 17 Nov

$5,292 $5,172 $5,172 $5,172 $5,292 $5,292 $5,172

14 Apr 12 May 02 Jun

27 Apr 25 May 15 Jun

$5,292 $5,172 $5,172

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $192 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$64 (A$76) is payable on arrival in China.

Century, the life-size Terracotta Warriors followed by the ancient City Wall and enjoy a stroll through the lively Muslim Quarter. This evening we witness a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

Day 10: Xian to Beijing Enjoy a morning visit to the Little Wild Goose Pagoda and the renowned Shaanxi Provincial Museum before flying to the capital of China, Beijing for a 3 night stay. For dinner this evening we sample the local delicacy ‘Peking Duck’.

Day 11: Beijing Beijing is a city full of wonders. During our sightseeing today we enjoy a stroll through famous Tiananmen Square and pass Chairman Mao's Mausoleum. Later this afternoon we visit the 15th Century treasure filled Forbidden City. Our evening entertainment will be a fascinating performance of traditional Chinese Acrobats.

Grand Buddha - Leshan

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

14 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share From $5,172 per person – Departing Australia with Qantas Airways (see page 4, Joing Your Tour) Single Hotel Supplement - From $620 Land Only - From $4,056 (includes Tipping)

HH Medium Paced Tour (see page 2)

Summer Palace – Beijing

Make the most of your holiday • Hong Kong Hotels and Touring (see pages 64-65)

Day 12: Beijing An often quoted saying in Beijing goes ‘you have not been to China until you have climbed the Great Wall’. Begun over 2000 years ago, it stretches all the way from the Shanhaiguan Pass on the east coast to the Gobi Desert in the west, more than 5,000km away. Walk along the wall admiring the panoramic views and reflect on the enormity of the material and labour required for its construction. It is estimated that a million people were used at different stages during the construction periods and that thousands died building it. This afternoon we will also wander through the landscaped beauty of the Summer Palace.

BEIJING (3N)

CHINA Xian (2N)

Day 14: Arrive Australia

SHANGHAI

Nine Villages Valley Chengdu

Day 13: Beijing to Australia Transfer to the airport for our overnight flight to Australia.

OUTBOUND (1N)

(1N+2N)

Leshan

AIR ROAD

Arrive home this morning.

31

(2N)

(2N)


Yungang Caves - Datong

Ancient China

From $4,456 per person twin share - 19 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $3,980, Airline fuel surcharge $400 and Tipping $76 (subject to change)

If you yearn to learn more about your world’s incredible past we trust this tour will stimulate the historian in you. Whilst touring China’s most ancient cities you will trace the roots of one of Asia's most fascinating races. You may be interested to know that in 221BC Qin Shi Huang declared himself the first emperor of China and established his capital near the present day Xian at the Yellow River basin. Over the next 2,000 years, as many empires rose and fell, each new dynasty would move their capital city to a different place. The position of the capital not only meant rebuilding the palace – the site of the ancient capitals, it also affected the fortunes of the royal courtesans, advisors and even the common citizens and traders in that area. A capital near the Grand Canal might help merchants on the coastprosper, whilst a capital in the north might bring fortune and influence to the military who now needed to protect the emperor and his city from the constant threat of the ‘barbarians’. A nearby village with a unique product or handicraft may find their destiny changed forever and become an affluent and strategic trading town. This ‘Ancient China’ tour will take you from the great western capitals in the legendary cities of Xian and Luoyang, to the present capital of Beijing. You will tour the most significant sites of the imperial age. Climb the Great Wall; explore the courtyards, temples and residences of the Forbidden City to learn about life during the fascinating Qing Dynasty. You will visit the UNESCO World Heritage listed Yungang Caves and the Longman Grottoes and the unforgettable Hanging Monastery. This truly has to be seen to be believed. The caves behind contain many religious statues. One cave has statues of Buddha, Confucius and Laotsu contentedly sitting side by side. This is quite significant as simultaneously advocating Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism was most uncommon in ancient China. In Taiyuan, discover the 1,000 year old Jin Ci Temple of the goddess. Wander the delightful streets of the World Heritage listed town Pingyao that is still surrounded by a city wall built during the Ming Dynasty. Xian will delight you with its many wonders, from its ancient City Wall, erected in the Zhou Dynasty (827-728BC) to the Rishengchang Financial House Museum. See the incredible Terracotta Warriors – you will be truly fascinated. At the remarkable ancient Shaolin Temple in the Songshan Mountains you will witness a Kung Fu demonstration by Shaolin monks. Your journey ends in the dynamic city of Shanghai where you will soak up its many delights and perhaps take time to reflect on your amazing journey.

Days 1-2: Australia to Beijing Fly overnight to Beijing via Singapore with Singapore Airlines for 4 nights.

Day 3: Beijing Our sightseeing involves a stroll through the famous Tiananmen Square, past Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum, followed by a visit to the Forbidden City. Take a rickshaw ride through the traditional Hutong areas. Tonight we will sample the local delicacy of ‘Peking Duck’ and enjoy an evening at the opera.

panoramic views and reflect on the enormity of the material and labour required for its construction. It is estimated that a million people were used at different stages during the construction. This afternoon we visit the Temple of Heaven, built in the 15th Century.

Days 5-6: Beijing to Datong Enjoy some shopping at the silk markets, before visiting the Summer Palace. The following day we depart on a train journey to Datong, for an overnight stay.

Day 4: Beijing

Day 7: Datong to Wutaishan

An often quoted saying in Beijing goes that, ‘you have not been to China until you have climbed the Great Wall’. Built over 2000 years ago, it stretches all the way from the Shanhaiguan Pass on the east coast to the Gobi Desert in the west, more than 5,000km away. Walk along the wall admiring the

Travel to the Yungang Caves, carved into the north cliff face of the Wuzhou Mountain. The caves here consist of over 50,000 Buddhist statues and frescoes. We also visit the 1400 year old Hanging Monastery, so named because it hangs on the western cliff face of Jinxia Gorge more than 50m above ground.

32

Day 8: Wutaishan to Taiyuan Discover the magnificent beauty of Wutaishan (Five Terraced Mountain). Ensconced within the alpine valley is the monastic village often referred to as the ‘Holy Land of Chinese Buddhism’, wherein lies traditional temples, architecture and sculptures. Afterwards we continue to Taiyuan where we visit the Ming Dynasty’s Twin Pagoda Temple, the Provincial Museum and the Jinci Temple, offering a wonderful combination of historical relics and beautiful landscapes.

Day 9: Taiyuan to Pingyao Drive to Pingyao, a remarkably preserved World Heritage listed town.

Day 10: Pingyao to Xian Today we visit the ancient City Wall, the Rishengchang Financial House Museum, the Zhengguo, the Shuang Lin Temple and the


Departures Tour Code

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia

2010 T27040 T27041 T27042 T27043 T27044 T27045 T27046 T27047 T27048 2011 T27050 T27051 T27052 T27053

Yamen, a former government building of the Qing Dynasty. We later board our overnight train to Xian.

Day 11: Xian Arrive in Xian this morning. The day is at leisure before we enjoy our evening entertainment, a performance of traditional Tang Dynasty dancing.

Day 12: Xian Enjoy a tour to the life-size Terracotta Warriors. We also visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda, the Shaanxi Provincial Museum and the ancient City Wall, one of the best preserved in all of China.

Day 13: Xian to Luoyang Today we board our train to Luoyang, an imperial capital for more than 13 dynasties.

05 Apr 03 May 17 May 31 May 05 Jul 06 Sep 20 Sep 11 Oct 01 Nov

23 Apr 21 May 04 Jun 18 Jun 23 Jul 24 Sep 08 Oct 29 Oct 19 Nov

$4,556 $4,456 $4,456 $4,456 $4,556 $4,456 $4,556 $4,456 $4,456

04 Apr 02 May 16 May 30 May

22 Apr 20 May 03 Jun 17 Jun

$4,556 $4,456 $4,456 $4,456

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $476 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$64 (A$76) is payable on arrival in China.

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Twin Pagoda Temple - Taiyuan

Price Guide

19 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share From $4,456 per person – Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Singapore Airlines Single Hotel Supplement - From $895 Land Only - From $3,156 (includes Tipping)

HH Medium Paced Tour (see page 2) Make the most of your holiday • Singapore Hotels and Touring (see page 63)

Day 14: Luoyang to Dengfeng Visit the UNESCO listed Longman Grottoes and the Shaolin Temple located in the Songshan Mountains before continuing to Dengfeng for an overnight stay.

Day 15: Dengfeng to Shanghai This morning we enjoy a hovercraft ride along the Yellow River before we visit the Yellow River Museum in Zhengzhou. Later this evening we board our flight to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai for a 3 night stay.

CHINA

Days 16-17: Shanghai Today we visit Shanghai Museum, the Yu Gardens, the Old Town and the famous Bund. This evening enjoy a Chinese Acrobatic show. The following day we explore the Xintiandi area. Our farewell celebration will be a stunning Huangpu River cruise.

INBOUND (1N)

BEIJING (4N)

Datong (1N)

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Wutaishan (1N) Taiyuan (1N)

Pingyao (1N)

Day 18: Depart Shanghai

Xian (2N)

Enjoy the morning at leisure before boarding our flight to Australia.

AIR

Day 19: Arrive Australia

RAIL

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Overnight Train (1N)

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OUTBOUND (1N) |||

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Luoyang (1N)

ROAD

Dengfeng (1N)

SHANGHAI (3N)

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Arrive home this morning.

33


Pandas - Chengdu

Name of Image

Name of Image

Land of the Panda

From $3,976 per person twin share - 14 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $3,780, Airline fuel surcharge $124 and Tipping $72 (subject to change)

China remains a nation of diverse landscapes and cultures, amazing both the world and the traveller. We invite you to join us on this incredible tour through the province of Sichuan; Land of the Panda. The scenery you will encounter along the way will surprise you. Located in southwest China, Sichuan is bordered by the Tibetan Plateau in the west, the Three Gorges and the Yangtze River in the east and Yunnan Province to the south. The Nine Villages Valley (Jiuzhaigou) is a favoured destination of our very own Ms Wendy Wu, who describes the stunning beauty of this region as simply ‘breathtaking’. Sichuan is known as the ‘Land of Abundance’ and has three places on the World Cultural and National Heritage lists; Jiuzhaigou (Nine Villages Valley), Huang Long Valley and Mt. Emei. The name Jiuzhaigou refers to the nine Tibetan villages that are situated within the valley. Huang Long Valley has some of the most stunning scenery in the world. Mt. Emei is regarded as one of Buddhism’s most sacred and China’s most remarkable mountains. Known for its awe inspiring landscape and legendary Buddhist sites, this gracious mountain kingdom will certainly delight all who visit. Mingle with the many pilgrims that pay homage to this holy site. Most of the monasteries and temples on Mt. Emei were built during the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220AD). Your journey will take you to fascinating sites such as the Grand Buddha of Leshan, an enormous statue carved into the side of the Lingyun Mountain, the Baodin Stone Carvings dating from the Tang Dynasty (9th Century) and the equally fascinating Huanglong Temple. Visit the Sanxindui Museum, home to many significant relics unique to the Chengdu area. At the Dujiangyan Irrigation Project, learn how in the 3rd Century BC the project succeeded in capturing flood waters for use during the drought periods, linking this inaccessible region with the Grand Canal and the far corners of the kingdom. This was quite an incredible feat in China’s history! In some ways, it is unfair to suggest what the highlights of this tour may be. For some, it may be visiting the famous Panda Research Centre to see these gorgeous animals being reared in surroundings reminiscent of their natural habitat. For others it could be devouring the wonderful Sichuan food on offer. Yet, for many it most certainly will be the incredible scenery that is on offer in this special part of China. Previously known as the ‘Sichuan Explorer’, this tour will definitely leave an impression!

Days 1-2: Australia to Chengdu Fly overnight with Cathay Pacific to Chengdu for an overnight stay. Our welcome dinner will be a sumptuous Sichuan Banquet.

Day 3: Chengdu to Dazu Travel to the small town of Dazu for an overnight stay. This afternoon we view some of the most remarkable frescoes in the world at Beishan.

Day 4: Dazu to Chengdu Today we view the Baodin Stone Carvings dating from the Tang Dynasty (9th Century) to the Song Dynasty (13th Century). This afternoon we return to Chengdu for an overnight stay.

Day 5: Chengdu to Mt. Emei via Leshan Travel by coach to Mt. Emei, one of Buddhism’s most sacred and China’s most impressive mountains. En route we will explore Leshan’s Grand Buddha, an enormous statue carved

into the side of the Lingyun Mountain. The Buddha is over 71 metres tall and is wide enough for more than 100 people to sit between its feet. From here we continue on to Mt. Emei. Upon arrival this evening we transfer to our hotel for a 2 night stay.

Day 6: Mt. Emei Local legend has it that the mountain derived its name from two peaks that face each other and resemble eyebrows. The undulating peaks, covered with lush forests and green bamboo occupy an area of more than 300 square kilometres. Most of the monasteries and temples on Mt. Emei were built during the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220AD), while others were added later. As a well-known Buddhist sanctuary, Mt. Emei once had more than 100 monasteries. The mountain is known for its steep cliffs, lofty peaks, roaring waterfalls, gurgling springs, towering trees and fragrant flowers. Today we explore the magnificent

34

mountain and mingle with the locals and the many pilgrims that pay homage to this holy site.

Day 7: Mt. Emei to Chengdu We depart Mt. Emei this morning and travel back to Chengdu by coach for an overnight stay.

Day 8: Chengdu to Mianyang Visit the famous Panda Research Centre to see these delightful animals being reared in surroundings reminiscent of their native habitat, as well as a local bamboo park. We will also visit the Sanxindui Museum before we contine our journey to Mianyang, a town within Sichuan Province for an overnight stay.

Days 9-10: Mianyang to Nine Villages Valley Travel to the breathtaking Nine Villages Valley (Jiuzhaigou), a botanical gallery that is heavily forested and home to many protected


Departures Tour Code

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia

2010 T26040 T26041 T26042 T26043 T26044 2011 T26050 T26051 T26052

25 Apr 02 May 16 May 05 Sep 03 Oct

08 May 15 May 29 May 18 Sep 16 Oct

$3,976 $3,976 $3,976 $3,976 $4,176

24 Apr 01 May 15 May

07 May 14 May 28 May

$3,976 $3,976 $3,976

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $196 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$60 (A$72) is payable on arrival in China. Huanglong

species. Entering the valley is like being transported into a different world, where crystal clear lakes gather at the foot of every waterfall and rich coloured forests are dotted with flowers. It is as if one of the world’s most beautiful silk scroll paintings unfolds along this scenic valley. We stay in the valley for 2 nights to further explore its beauty.

Day 11: Nine Villages Valley to Mao County Today we journey by coach to Mao County. En route we visit the Huanglong Temple at the peak of the mountain. Huanglong, also called the ‘Five-Coloured Pools’, has some of the most amazing ponds located behind the temple. From its hundreds of sparkling ponds, beautiful colours intertwine making it a rainbow splendour. Upon arrival in Mao County we transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay.

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

14 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share From $3,976 per person – Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Cathay Pacific Prayer wheel - Nine Villages Valley

Single Hotel Supplement - From $800 Land Only - From $2,952 (includes Tipping) HHH Active Paced Tour (see page 2) Make the most of your holiday • Hong Kong Hotels and Touring (see pages 64-65)

Day 12: Mao County to Chengdu Today we leave Mao County and return to Chengdu visiting the Dujiangyan Irrigation Project along the way. In the 3rd Century BC the project succeeded in capturing flood waters for use during the drought periods, linking this inaccessible region with the Grand Canal and the far corners of the kingdom. This was an incredible feat in China’s history, altering trade between the coast and western regions over the following centuries. Upon arrival in Chengdu we transfer to our hotel and check in for our final night in China.

CHINA Nine Villages Valley (2N) Mao County (1N)

CHENGDU

(1N+1N+1N+1N)

Dazu (1N)

Day 13: Depart Chengdu Enjoy the morning at leisure before transferring to the airport to board our overnight flight to Australia.

Day 14: Arrive Australia

Mt. Emei (2N) AIR

Mianyang (1N)

INBOUND (1N) Leshan OUTBOUND (1N)

ROAD

Arrive home this morning.

35


Abakh Hoja Tomb - Kashgar

Silk Road Explorer

From $6,185 per person twin share - 28 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $5,680, Airline fuel surcharge $400 and Tipping $105 (subject to change)

WENDY WU TOURS WERE THE FIRST COMPANY IN AUSTRALIA TO VENTURE ALONG THE ORIGINAL SILK ROAD, OVERLAND BETWEEN TURPAN AND KASHGAR IN 1996. The Silk Road trading route was the world’s first superhighway; a 4500km series of desert and mountainous crossings. Almost two thousand years before being named, this great east/west trade route was first travelled by emissaries of the Han Dynasty. As the centuries passed many caravans set out from the ancient capital of Chang’an (Xian) and ventured westward along a route that took them to Kashgar and then over the Pamir Mountains to Central Asia and finally to Rome. One extremely important trade item was silk, manufactured in China and treasured in Rome. The trading route allowed links between China and the west to flourish and encouraged an exchange of art, ideas, culture and trade. The name ‘Silk Road’ has become synonymous with the many amazing images, cultures and diverse people that you will encounter along these regions. Many of our clients who have travelled on this tour congratulate us for an outstanding journey as the historic significance, the beauty of the desert landscapes and the allure of the people leave a long lasting impression. Your tour begins in Beijing where you will view famous iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, and the exquisite Summer Palace. Xian, the former Imperial Capital is situated at the eastern end of the traditional trading route. The ancient City Wall, Little Wild Goose Pagoda, Shaanxi Provincial Museum and the amazing Terracotta Warriors will reveal the city’s abundant history. Your journey continues by train to Lanzhou. You will take a trip on Lioujiaxia Lake to visit the renowned Bingling Caves. Here you will find stunning Buddhist artworks carved into the cliff face by travellers who journeyed along the Silk Road. In Xiahe visit the mystical Labrang Tibetan Monastery, one of China’s six great monasteries of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect. You will not only find peace and serenity here but a wealth of traditional Tibetan architecture too. You will visit the Jiayu Fortress, and take a walk along the western end of the Great Wall. The highlight for some will be a visit to the world acclaimed Buddhist murals and sculptures of the Magao Grottoes. Your sightseeing continues with a visit to the spectacular ‘Singing Sand Dunes’ where you will witness some of the most dramatic scenes found along the Silk Road. As you travel along the original trade route to the fabled city of Kashgar, you will be following in the footsteps of explorers like Marco Polo, Genghis Khan and Kublai Khan. The Sunday Bazaar and animal market will certainly evoke the atmosphere of centuries past. Kashgar’s old town is said to bear a close resemblance to Casablanca and will perhaps be one of the highlights of your tour. In Urumqi you will take an excursion to the beautiful Tian Chi (Heavenly Lake). The water is crystal clear and this fantastic lake is surrounded by hills. This peaceful paradise will surprise you. This is a remarkable journey – one that seamlessly joins modern paced adventure with ancient culture.

Days 1-2: Australia to Beijing

Day 6: Xian

Days 10-11: Lanzhou to Xiahe

Fly overnight to Beijing via Singapore with Singapore Airlines. Our welcome dinner this evening will be a delicious banquet including the local delicacy ‘Peking Duck’.

Today we visit the life-size Terracotta Warriors and the ancient City Wall. This evening enjoy a live performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

Days 3-4: Beijing

Day 7: Xian to Lanzhou

Enjoy a walk along the Great Wall and visit the Temple of Heaven. This evening we witness a Chinese Acrobatic show. The following day we visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace. Afterwards we board our overnight train to Xian.

Visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum, stroll through the Muslim Quarter to the Great Mosque and Islamic food market. Later we board our overnight train to Lanzhou.

We travel through the scenic Jishi Mountain Pass to Xiahe, set in a beautiful mountain valley, renowned as ‘Little Tibet’. Tomorrow we visit the Labrang Monastery and tour the Sangke Grasslands, rolling pastures where wildflowers flourish.

Day 5: Xian We arrive in the ancient city of Xian, where we visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda. Tonight we enjoy a Shui Jiao Dumpling Banquet.

Days 8-9: Lanzhou Arrive in Lanzhou where we visit the Baita (White) Temple. In the evening enjoy a sample of the local ‘Hand Stretched Noodles’. The following day we travel by speedboat on Lioujiaxia Lake to visit the Bingling Caves.

36

Days 12-13: Xiahe to Jiayuguan via Lanzhou Return to Lanzhou where we board our overnight train to Jiayuguan. The following day we visit Jiayu Fortress and take a walk along the western end of the Great Wall.

Day 14: Jiayuguan to Dunhuang Today we travel by road to the city of Dunhuang for 2 nights.


Departures Tour Code

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia

2010 T40141 T401410 T40142 T40143 T40144 T40145 2011 T4150 T4151 T4152 T4153

30 Apr 07 May 14 May 03 Sep 17 Sep 24 Sep

27 May 03 Jun 10 Jun 30 Sep 14 Oct 21 Oct

$6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,285

29 Apr 13 May 02 Sep 16 Sep

26 May 09 Jun 29 Sep 13 Oct

$6,285 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $505 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$90 (A$105) is payable on arrival in China.

Days 15-16: Dunhuang to Turpan Today we visit the Magao Grottoes. Tomorrow tour the Crescent Moon Spring and the Singing Sand Dunes, before we board our overnight train to Turpan.

Days 17-18: Turpan Arrive in Turpan and visit the ancient ruined city of Jiaohe and see the Flaming Mountains. Tomorrow we see the Emin Minaret, visit local homes at Grape Valley and learn about the 2000 year old Kerez Irrigation Canals.

Days 19-22: Turpan to Kurla to Kuqa to Aksu to Kashgar Over the next 4 days our adventure will take us along the original Silk Road through the Xinjiang Region. Travel to Kurla and visit the ruins of the Iron Fortress. The next day we tour the ruins of Subashi, arriving in Kuqa where we visit the remains of the old City Wall. Tomorrow we visit the Kyzil Thousand Buddha Caves and travel onwards to Aksu. The following day arrive in Kashgar, one of the highlights of our tour.

Heavenly Lake - Urumqi

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

28 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share From $6,185 per person – Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Singapore Airlines Single Hotel Supplement - From $1,050 Land Only - From $4,885 (includes Tipping)

HH Medium Paced Tour (see page 2) Make the most of your holiday • Singapore Hotels and Touring (see page 63)

Days 23-24: Kashgar Over the next 2 days we visit the Abakh Hoja Tomb, Id Kah Mosque and the Sunday Bazaar.

Day 25: Kashgar to Urumqi

Local - Kashgar

Fly to Tian Chi (Heavenly Lake), enjoy breathtaking views of a crystal clear lake at the top of a mountain range. Tonight we sample a traditional meal of Uyghur lamb skewers.

Urumqi (1N)

Turpan (2N)

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(1N)

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Lanzhou (2N)

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Overnight Train (1N)

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Xiahe (2N)

Day 27: Depart Beijing

Overnight Train (1N)

Xian (2N)

CHINA

Enjoy the morning at leisure before transferring to the airport to board our overnight flight to Australia.

AIR

Day 28: Arrive Australia

RAIL

ROAD ||||||||||||||||

Arrive home this morning.

37

OUTBOUND (1N)

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Jiayuguan (1N)

Visit the Xinjiang Autonomous Region Museum, where some 1000 year old mummies are housed, before boarding our flight to Beijing for our final night in China.

(2N+1N)

Dunhuang (2N)

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Day 26: Urumqi to Beijing

Kurla

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(3N)

BEIJING

Overnight Train (1N)

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Kashgar Aksu (1N)

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Kuqa (1N)

INBOUND (1N)


Meili Pass - Deqing

Tibetan Dreams

From $6,504 per person twin share - 24 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $5,980, Airline fuel surcharge $400 and Tipping $124 (subject to change)

WENDY WU TOURS PROUDLY TOOK THE FIRST GROUP TOUR IN THE WORLD TO REACH LHASA BY THIS MOST SCENIC OVERLAND ROUTE, INCLUDING THE TEA HORSE ROAD IN 2000. For thousands of years an ancient pathway crisscrossing the Chinese hinterland and the Tibetan Plateau was followed by people on horseback. Along this unpaved and often rugged road, commodities like tea, salt and sugar came into Tibet while horses, cows, furs, musk and other local products made their way to the outside world. This ancient commercial passage was dubbed the ‘Tea Horse Road’ and stretched for more than 4000km. It first appeared during the Tang Dynasty and lasted until the 1960s when construction began on the Tibetan highways. Like the well known Silk Road, the Tea Horse Road promoted exchanges in culture and religion and encouraged ethnic migration. This tour will take you on a rare and unique experience through these great lands; a world largely untouched by modern civilisation, yet has so much variation it will continually amaze and inspire you. Commencing in Kunming you will visit the Stone Forest with its incredible masterpieces. From here travel to the beautifully preserved town of Dali where you will view the Three Pagodas that are nestled between Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. In Lijiang admire the colourful costumes of the Naxi people, who have a stronghold in this charming ancient town. A visit to the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain which soars to 5500 metres will delight you. From a distance it looks like a dragon flying among the clouds, hence its name. View the Baisha Frescoes and marvel at these beautiful murals drawn in the early Ming Dynasty period. A visit to the spectacular Tiger Leaping Gorge, believed to be the worlds deepest gorge will astound you. From Deqing your journey becomes very exciting as you travel by 4WD through deep and lush river gorges, tracing the ancient Tea Horse Road. You will ascend some of the highest passes in the world to embrace the mountains. This stretch of the Yunnan-Tibet Highway must rate as among the most spectacular in the world. Finally you reach Lhasa where you will explore the imposing Potala Palace, a truly remarkable architectural wonder, and view the Jokhang Temple, the most ancient and holy site in Tibetan Buddhism. In Shigatse you will visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery and Pelkor Monastery, here you may also find a sense of peace. Your tour ends with a visit to the famous Panda Reserve in Chengdu; the best place to see these adorable animals. This tour will leave you with images others can only dream of!

Days 1-2: Australia to Kunming

Day 6: Dali to Lijiang

Day 10: Zhongdian

Fly overnight to Kunming via Singapore with Singapore Airlines for a 2 night stay. Enjoy a sample of the delicious local specialty ‘Across the Bridge Noodles’ for our welcome dinner this evening.

We travel to Lijiang today and visit the Black Dragon Pool before wandering through Lijiang’s ancient quarter admiring the colourful costumes of the Naxi people.

Enjoy a visit to Napa Hai Lake and the Songshanlin Monastery.

Day 3: Kunming

Our explorations take us to the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. We catch a chairlift to explore one of the high meadows and enjoy the amazing scenery. This afternoon we visit the Baisha Frescoes. As our evening entertainment enjoy the acclaimed Naxi Ancient music show.

Today we enjoy a tour of the picturesque Stone Forest, where massive limestone columns form a vast forest of surreal shapes and images.

Day 4: Kunming to Dali Enjoy a visit to the Western Hills which wrap around Dianchi Lake. Later we will be transferred to the airport to board our flight to Dali for a 2 night stay.

Day 5: Dali Today we visit the picturesque Three Pagodas, explore the fascinating wonders of Dali’s ancient quarter and enjoy an afternoon cruise on the stunning Erhai Lake.

Day 7: Lijiang

Day 8: Lijiang to Zhongdian Drive to Zhongdian, which is known as little Tibet for a 3 night stay. This afternoon enjoy a visit to the Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world.

Day 9: Zhongdian Visit the Baishui Terrace, where spring water cascades from layered pools of white stone.

38

Day 11: Zhongdian to Deqing Today we travel to Deqing, ascending into the Hengduan Mountains and the mighty Himalaya.

Day 12: Deqing to Mangkang Today we start our ascent to the Tibetan Plateau following the ancient Tea Horse Road. From here to Lhasa we will travel by 4WD vehicles and accommodation will be in simple, local guesthouses.

Days 13-15: Mangkang to Basu to Zhammu to Linzhi Over the next 3 days our overland adventure will take us through a region of unrivalled landscapes, crossing rivers and following deep gorges to ascend some of the highest roads in the world. Upon arrival in Linzhi, we visit a Tibetan carpet factory.


Departures Tour Code

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia

2010 T80201 T80202 T80203 T80204 2011 T8120 T8121 T8122 T8123

24 Apr 15 May 18 Sep 09 Oct

17 May 07 Jun 11 Oct 01 Nov

$6,604 $6,504 $6,504 $6,604

23 Apr 14 May 17 Sep 08 Oct

16 May 06 Jun 10 Oct 31 Oct

$6,604 $6,504 $6,504 $6,604

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $524 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$104 (A$124) is payable on arrival in China. Songshanlin Monastery - Zhongdian

Day 16: Linzhi to Lhasa On our drive to Lhasa today we visit Pasum Tso Lake, with jade green water surrounding Tsodzong Island near the southern shore.

Day 17: Lhasa Visit the Jokhang Temple and wander amongst pilgrims at the colourful, mediaeval Barkhor Markets.

Day 18: Lhasa Today we explore Potala Palace, an architectural wonder that towers over an entire city and visit Norbulingka, the former Summer Palace of the Dalai Lama. We visit a local Tibetan Primary School (if time permits). Enjoy an evening performance of traditional Tibetan dance.

Day 19: Lhasa to Shigatse Travel by coach to Shigatse, the 2nd largest city in Tibet and visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery.

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes, visa fees and Tibet Permit for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

24 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share From $6,504 per person – Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Singapore Airlines

Three Pagoda Temple Complex - Dali

Single Hotel Supplement - From $850 Land Only - From $5,204 (includes Tipping) HHH Active Paced Tour (see page 2) Make the most of your holiday • Singapore Hotels and Touring (see page 63)

Day 20: Shigatse to Gyantse Today we will travel to Gyantse where we visit the unique Pelkor Monastery, the famous Gyantse Kumbum and the Old Fort.

Day 21: Gyantse to Lhasa Today we return to Lhasa for our final night in Tibet.

CHINA

Day 22: Lhasa to Chengdu We fly to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province and visit the famous Panda Research Centre to see these delightful animals being reared in surroundings reminiscent of their natural habitat. As our farewell dinner celebration enjoy a Sichuan Banquet.

Lhasa

Shigatse

(3N+1N)

Zhammu (1N) Basu (1N)

CHENGDU (1N)

(1N)

Deqing (1N) Zhongdian (3N)

Gyantse (1N) Linzhi (1N) Mangkang (1N)

Day 23: Depart Chengdu

Dali (2N)

The morning is at leisure before transferring to the airport to board our overnight flight to Australia.

AIR

Day 24: Arrive Australia

4WD

Arrive home this morning.

39

(1N)

Lijiang (2N)

KUNMING (2N)

INBOUND (1N)

ROAD

OUTBOUND


Five-Coloured Pools - Huanglong

Dreams of Nature

From $6,185 per person twin share - 26 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $5,680, Airline fuel surcharge $400 and Tipping $105 (subject to change)

China is famed for its stunning natural beauty! Its landscape possess a diverse range of topography from the lush, deep forests of the south to the open plains of Tibet and desert scenery of the north. This tour grants you the opportunity to explore some of China’s most treasured natural wonders, allowing you access into a world that few people have the opportunity to experience. Commence this wonderful tour in the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai. Its architecture and ambience represents a staggering mix of contemporary skyscrapers and exquisite ancient buildings. Imposing peaks, spectacular rocks, 1000 year old pines and a sea of colour will greet you at the summit of Mt. Huang – revered as China’s most beautiful mountain. Locals often refer to the area as ‘an ink scroll painting come to life’. At Mawangdui you will tour the renowned West Han Dynasty Tombs, these incredible tombs are over 2000 years old! From here you will embark on a photographers dream journey to Zhangjiajie; you will be greeted by breathtaking scenery as a wonderful mix of subtropical rainforests, waterfalls and majestic valleys unfolds before you. The limestone formations, mountain ranges and incredible scenery that you will encounter are often described as a ‘goddess dancing on a heavenly stage’. A scenic train ride will take you to Zhengyuan. From here you will explore the amazing Green Dragon Cave, the pinnacle of Taoist Temples, visit the Ancient Well and the residence of the famous Fu Family. Appreciate the beauty surrounding Guilin as you wander its cobblestone streets and view life in this charming city. Your tour now takes you to a part of China that is unknown to many westerners. Ms Wendy Wu has described the Nine Villages Valley as one of the most beautiful places she has ever been to. Once visited, she said that it lures you back for more! The scenery here is stunning; the distant past has shaped the landscape into what it is today – a dramatic land of natural beauty that will astound you. The Tibetans have lived in this region for generations and nature has certainly worked its magic on them. This delightful World Heritage listed wonderland will most definitely captivate you. Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan Province and is renowned for its natural beauty and its distinct cuisine; samples of which you will enjoy! Here you will learn about China’s adorable Giant pandas and the programme that hopes to increase their population. This is a true paradise for photographers and artists!

Days 1-2: Australia to Shanghai

Day 8: Changsha to Zhangjiajie

Day 14: Zhengyuan

Fly overnight to Shanghai via Singapore with Singapore Airlines for 2 nights.

Tour the West Han Dynasty Tombs at Mawangdui, before travelling by coach to Zhangjiajie.

Today we explore the scenic Tiexi area and stroll along the ancient walk way, visit the Ancient Well and the 300 year old residence of the Fu Family.

Day 3: Shanghai Visit the Yu Gardens, Shanghai Museum, the Old Town, Pudong area and take a stroll along the famous Bund. This evening we enjoy a cruise on the Huangpu River.

Days 4-6: Shanghai to Mt. Huang Today we explore the restored area of Xintiandi before being transferred to the railway station to board our overnight sleeper train to Mt. Huang. Upon arrival the following morning we take a cable car to the summit. We stay for 2 nights, one of which will be at the summit of Mt. Huang and the other in Tunxi, at the foot of the mountain.

Days 9-10: Zhangjiajie During the next 2 days, we embark on a photographer’s dream journey. One of the most extraordinary features in Zhangjiajie is the spectacular limestone formations scattered throughout this 16km long route.

Day 15: Zhengyuan to Guiyang

Day 11: Zhangjiajie to Changsha

Tour the Huangguoshu Waterfall, before we board our flight to Guilin.

Return to Changsha by coach for an overnight stay.

Day 12: Changsha to Guiyang

Enjoy a cruise on the Wuyang River before returning to Guiyang by train for an overnight stay.

Day 16: Guiyang to Guilin

Day 17: Li River Cruise to Yangshuo

Fly to Guiyang, home to many colourful ethnic minority groups. This afternoon enjoy a city tour.

Relax and enjoy the spectacular views on the Li River as we cruise to the small town of Yangshuo for an overnight stay.

Day 7: Mt. Huang to Changsha

Day 13: Guiyang to Zhengyuan

Day 18: Yangshuo to Guilin

This morning we drive to the town of Hangzhou where we will board our flight to Changsha for an overnight stay.

Take a scenic train ride to the town of Zhengyuan. Enjoy a tour to the Green Dragon Cave, the pinnacle of Taoist temples.

Today we enjoy a visit to the local markets and wander through residential areas, before returning to Guilin.

40


Departures Tour Code 2010 T9093 T9094 T9095 T9096 2011 T9100 T9101 T9102 T9103

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia 02 May 16 May 05 Sep 19 Sep

27 May 10 Jun 30 Sep 14 Oct

$6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185

01 May 15 May 04 Sep 18 Sep

26 May 09 Jun 29 Sep 13 Oct

$6,185 $6,185 $6,185 $6,185

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $505 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$90 (A$105) is payable on arrival in China. Mountains - Mt. Huang

Day 19: Guilin to Chengdu Visit the Reed Flute Caves and Mt. Diecai before boarding our flight to Chengdu.

Days 20-21: Chengdu to Nine Villages Valley Fly to the breathtaking Nine Villages Valley (Jiuzhaigou), a botanical gallery that is heavily forested and home to many protected species. Entering the valley is like being transported into a different world, where crystal clear lakes gather at the foot of every waterfall and rich coloured forests are dotted with flowers.

Day 22: Nine Villages Valley to Chengdu via Huanglong Today we journey to visit Huanglong Temple at the peak of the mountain. Huanglong, also called ‘Five-Coloured Pools’, has some of the most amazing ponds located behind the temple. From here we drive to the airport for our flight back to Chengdu.

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

26 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share From $6,185 per person – Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Singapore Airlines Single Hotel Supplement - From $795 Land Only - From $4,885 (includes Tipping)

HHH Active Paced Tour (see page 2) Make the most of your holiday • Singapore Hotels and Touring (see page 63)

Tibetan Village - Nine Villages Valley

Day 23: Chengdu Visit the famous Panda Research Centre to see these delightful animals being reared in surroundings reminiscent of their natural habitat as well as the Sanxingdui Museum.

Day 24: Chengdu

CHINA SHANGHAI

Nine Villages Valley (2N)

(2N)

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Mt. Huang (1N)

(1N+3N)

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CHENGDU

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Overnight Train (1N)

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Today we visit the Dujiangyan Irrigation Project. In the 3rd Century BC the project succeeded in capturing flood waters for use during the drought periods, linking the inaccessible region with the Grand Canal and the far corners of the kingdom. For dinner this evening we enjoy a renowned Sichuan Banquet.

INBOUND (1N) Hangzhou

Tunxi (1N) Zhangjiajie (3N)

Day 25: Depart Chengdu

Zhengyuan (2N) |

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BOAT

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Guiyang (1N+1N)

ROAD RAIL

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Day 26: Arrive Australia

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Enjoy the morning at leisure before transferring to the airport to board our overnight flight to Australia.

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Arrive home this morning.

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OUTBOUND (1N) Changsha (1N+1N) Guilin (1N+1N) Yangshuo (1N)


Door to the World - Tsaparang

Epic Dreams

From $8,249 per person twin share - 29 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $7,980, Airline fuel surcharge $145 and Tipping $124 (subject to change)

WENDY WU TOURS IS PROUD TO HAVE ESCORTED THE FIRST GROUP IN THE WORLD, TO VENTURE INTO THESE REMOTEST OF REGIONS IN 2002. Be prepared to embark on a journey of a lifetime through parts of China that are rarely visited by tourists and yet offer an unimaginable outlook of China’s diverse landscapes and the mixed cultures of its people. This programme encompasses China’s southwest region, across terrain that is not only spectacular to view but is also largely untouched by modern infrastructure and home to groups of charming ethnic minorities. You will find this tour quite fascinating and the rewards immeasurable. Your exploration will take you from the dusty town of Yicheng on the rim of the Taklimakan Desert, south to the very edge of China and across the Aksai Chin Plateau; a largely uninhabited and unmapped area bordering Tibet. You will encounter sites such as Tholing and Tsaparang, the ruined former capitals of the Guge Kingdom (900AD). Can you imagine visiting places that are so incredibly old? The holy mountain of Kailash, Tibet’s ‘Jewel of theSnow’ and Lake Manasarovar will astound you with their beauty. Pilgrims travel far and wide to visit these wonderful holy sites. As you descend along the highest vehicular road in the world, you will encounter amazing views of distant mountains, old villages and yak herders’ camps. The highlight for some will be arriving at Mt. Everest Base Camp, where you can view the stunning north face of the world's most majestic mountain. Marvel at the vastness of this incredible mountain and be thrilled to mingle with those making an attempt to the summit. As you move into the Tibet Autonomous Region you will see New Tingri and traditional Tibetan homes and maybe also gather a sense of meaning to life in this remote part of the world. On the way to Lhasa you will pass through Shigatse and Gyantse. You will have the opportunity to explore Pelkor Monastery and the famous Gyantse Kumbum, a unique shrine. Another highlight for some will be exploring the incredible Potala Palace. This architectural wonder towers over the entire city and will amaze you with all its steeped history and wonderful treasures. Your journey concludes with a visit to the famous Panda Research Centre. You will simply adore these gorgeous animals. Your last evening in Chengdu will be spent saying goodbye to your fellow travel companions at a traditional Sichuan Banquet. What a wonderful end to what can only be described as a journey of a lifetime!

Day 1: Sydney to Guangzhou

Days 8-10: Xinjiang - Tibet Highway

Fly to Guangzhou with China Southern Airlines for an overnight stay.

Spend the next 3 days travelling to Ali County by 4WD, as we begin our ascent of the Xinjiang-Tibet Highway, the highest road in the world. About 270km from Yecheng, K2 is visible across the Pakistan border.

Day 2: Guangzhou to Urumqi Today we fly to Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang Autonomous Region for an overnight stay.

Days 3-6: Kashgar Fly to Kashgar and enjoy an excursion to Lake Karakul. Over the next 3 days we visit the Abakh Hoja Tomb, Id Kah Mosque, the Sunday Bazaar and the animal market.

Day 7: Kashgar to Yecheng We continue our journey to Yecheng passing through the towns of Yengisar, where the traditional Uyghur dagger is made and Yarkand, a name that still resonates with Silk Road romance. We arrive at Yecheng where we visit the markets around the Jama Mosque, which dates back to the 15th Century.

Accommodation for the next 10 days (until New Tingri) ranges mostly from truck stop lodgings to simple hostels.

Day 11: Ali County The town of Shiquanhe emerges like a bizarre mirage and brings us back to civilization. Stay overnight for a rest and the opportunity to restock our supplies.

Days 12-13: Zanda We leave Ali for Zanda, where we will spend the next 2 nights. Explore Tholing and Tsaparang, the ruined former capitals of the Guge Kingdom (900AD).

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Days 14-15: Zanda to Taqing (Mt. Kailash) From Zanda we travel along a broad river valley and after climbing over a gentle rise, scattered with prayer flags left by pilgrims, we get our first view of the holy mountain of Kailash. We explore the majestic mountain and Lake Manasarovar, 2 of the most remote and holiest destinations in the world, for travellers and pilgrims alike. Upon arrival we explore the area of Taqing over the next 2 days.

Days 16-17: Taqing to Saga via Paryang Today we drive from Taqing to Paryang, where panoramic views can be seen of distant mountains and yak herders’ camps. The next morning we leave Paryang and travel to Saga passing through the old village of Zhongba along the way.


Departures Tour Code 2010 T16080 T16081 2011 T16090 T16091

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia 04 May 24 Aug

01 Jun 21 Sep

$8,249 $8,249

03 May 23 Aug

31 May 20 Sep

$8,249 $8,249

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $269 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$104 (A$124) is payable on arrival in China. Karakoram Highway - Kashgar

Days 18-19: Saga to Mt. Everest via Old Tingri We rise early and drive to Old Tingri. The following day we arrive at Mt. Everest, where we visit the base camp and gaze at the stunning north face of the world’s tallest peak, Mt. Everest (8848m).

Day 20: Mt. Everest to New Tingri Return to the Base Camp and explore this magical area. There will be plenty of opportunities for photographs, weather permitting. Later we continue to New Tingri for an overnight stay.

Day 21: New Tingri to Shigatse Travel to Shigatse and explore the busy cobbled lanes.

Day 22: Shigatse We visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama.

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes, visa fees and Tibet Permit for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

29 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share

Tsoling Stupa

From $8,249 per person – Departing Sydney with China Southern Airlines Travellers from other states must make their own way to Sydney to join the tour Single Hotel Supplement - From $750 Land Only (Urumqi to Chengdu) - From $7,104 (includes Tipping) HHH Active Paced Tour (see page 2)

Day 23: Shigatse to Gyantse Today we travel to Gyantse to visit the unique Pelkor Monastery, Gyantse Kumbum and the ruins of the Old Fort.

Days 24-26: Lhasa We continue our journey to Lhasa. During our time here we visit the Potala Palace, an architectural wonder which towers over an entire city, with thousands of rooms filled with intricate shrines and frescoes. We also visit Barkhor Square, Jokhang Temple, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery and Norbulingka, the former Summer Palace of the Dalai Lama.

Urumqi (1N) Kashgar (4N)

Yecheng (1N)

CHINA

Overland (2N)

Day 27: Lhasa to Chengdu

Ali County (1N) Taqing (Mt. Kailash) (2N) Zanda (2N) Saga (1N) Shigatse (2N) Paryang (1N) Old Tingri (1N) Lhasa (3N) New Gyantse Mt. Everest Tingri (1N)

Fly to Chengdu where we visit the Panda Research Centre. Enjoy a Sichuan Banquet as our farewell dinner.

Day 28: Depart Chengdu

(1N)

We board our flight to Guangzhou, where we will connect with our international flight back to Australia.

AIR

Day 29: Arrive Sydney

4WD

Chengdu (1N)

(1N)

GUANGZHOU

ROAD

(1N)

OUTBOUND (1N)

Arrive home this morning.

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Bodhnath Stupa - Kathmandu

Name of Image

Name of Image

Himalayan Adventure - Tibet to Nepal From $7,020 per person twin share - 22 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia

From price includes: Tour Cost $6,460, Airline fuel surcharge $400 and Tipping $160 (subject to change)

This incredible tour is designed to excite you and to bring out the adventurer in you. It will inspire you and at the end of it we want you to look back and whisper to yourself ‘wow, I did it’! It will be challenging but the rewards will be worth the effort. Start in Chengdu, China where you will visit the world renowned Panda Reserve and see these adorable animals in their natural habitat. A visit to the Grand Buddha of Leshan will astound you as you witness Chinese history at its best. You will see mystical Tibetan temples in Lhasa and maybe gather a sense of peace and deeper meaning to your journey. Your adventure takes you to Gyantse, and then to Shigatse, the seat of the Panchen Lamas and the location of the all-embracing Tashilhunpo Monastery. Your journey becomes more daring as you travel to the Everest Base Camp. Here you can mingle with those attempting to climb to the summit. The scenery in this area is quite breathtaking. As you continue your journey the scenery changes from the stark dry lands of Tibet to the fertile lands of Nepal. Kathmandu is quite fascinating. This entire city is an open-air museum, with mediaeval temples, palaces, shrines and statues dotted around the narrow streets. Walking through the city is an intoxicating experience; you will encounter rickshaws, cows and motorcycles, and the markets are piled high with colourful silks, incense and spices. A visit to the Chitwan National Park, one of the last refuges to the one horned rhino will fascinate you as you observe these beautiful animals. If you are lucky you may get a glimpse of the mysterious Bengal tiger. As your tour draws to a close you stay at lovely Daman. Here you can view the breathtaking grandeur of the world’s highest peaks and witness this spectacular sight at sunrise and sunset. Pure isolation! To see so much variation will surely delight you and your travel companions.

Days 1-2: Australia to Chengdu

Day 7: Lhasa to Shigatse

Day 11: Old Tingri to Kathmandu

Fly overnight with Singapore Airlines to Chengdu for 2 nights.

Leave Lhasa for Shigatse, the 2nd largest city in Tibet. Stop at Gyantse along the way to visit the famous Gyantse Kumbum, a unique shrine.

Another early morning today, as we continue our drive to Kathmandu via Nyalam and Zhangmu. From Nyalam, the last truly Tibetan village, the transition from the high, dry and wild Tibetan plateau to Nepal’s green hills is breathtaking as the road twists through steep and narrow gorges that are punctuated by waterfalls.

Day 3: Chengdu This morning visit the famous Panda Reserve to see these animals being reared in surroundings reminiscent of their native habitat. This afternoon we take an excursion to Leshan to view the Grand Buddha, hewn from the side of Lingyun Mountain.

Day 4: Chengdu to Lhasa Today we fly to Lhasa, the capital and the spiritual home of Tibet. This afternoon is at leisure to help acclimatise to the altitude.

Day 5: Lhasa Visit the Jokhang Temple, the most sacred and spiritual in Tibet and wander amongst the pilgrims at the colourful, mediaeval Barkhor Markets.

Day 6: Lhasa Today we explore the Potala Palace, the ‘Crown Jewel of Tibet’. With thousands of rooms filled with intricate shrines and frescoes it is the official winter residence of the Dalai Lama.

Day 8: Shigatse Today we visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lamas. Built in 1447 by Tsongjhapa’s nephew, the monastery once housed over 4000 monks with only 600 remaining.

Day 9: Shigatse to Shegar We continue our journey to Shegar, passing small Tibetan villages and ruins of ancient dzongs along the way. Shegar was once the capital of the Tingri region.

Day 10: Shegar to Old Tingri Rise early and drive to Old Tingri. Crossing the Gue La and its panoramic views of the eastern Himalaya, we continue our drive to Pasum. Visit the monastic village of Rangbuk and enjoy an excursion to the Everest Base Camp. There will be plenty of opportunities for photographs, weather permitting.

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Day 12: Kathmandu – Patan Today we visit the 2nd largest city in Nepal, Patan, located on the southern bank of the Bagmati River just a few kilometres from Kathmandu. Whilst here, we visit the World Heritage listed former Royal Palace and Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa and Bodhnath Stupa.

Day 13: Kathmandu – Bhaktapur After breakfast we visit the 9th Century built town of Bhaktapur, a store house of mediaeval art and architecture including the Golden Gate at the Palace of 55 Windows. We also visit the temple of Changu Narayan, the oldest temple in the valley dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Pashupatinath Temple, famous for its shrine of Shiva.


Departures Tour Code 2010 T60020 T60021 2011 T6030

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia 29 Apr 26 Aug

20 May 16 Sep

$7,020 $7,120

28 Apr

19 May

$7,340

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $560 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$135 (A$160) is payable on arrival in China.

Day 14: Kathmandu to Pokhara Depart Kathmandu this morning and drive to Pokhara. Upon arrival enjoy a tour around this small town and the scenery of the Himalaya region. Enjoy the view of the mountain peaks of Machhapuchhre or ‘Fish Tail’, the Annapurna and Phewa Lake the 2nd largest lake in Nepal.

Day 15: Pokhara to Chitwan National Park This morning we drive to Chitwan National Park, long regarded as the 3rd biggest attraction in Nepal and one of the last refuges to the one horned rhinos. This afternoon enjoy a briefing on the national park and the activities on offer.

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in China, Tibet and Nepal, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and Nepal departure taxes, visa fees and Tibet Permit for Australian passport holders

Holy men (Sadhus) - Kathmandu

Price Guide

Jokhang Temple - Lhasa

22 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share From $7,020 per person - Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Singapore Airlines Single Hotel Supplement - From $1,040 Land Only - From $5,620 (includes Tipping)

Days 16-17: Chitwan National Park

HHH Active Paced Tour (see page 2)

Over the next 2 days we enjoy the lodge’s comprehensive programme of activities, including elephant bathing and safaris, jungle walks and bird watching.

Make the most of your holiday • Scenic flight excursion (1hr) to view the Himalayas at sunrise is available from $290 per person, based on min 2 passengers (weather conditions permitting)

Day 18: Chitwan National Park to Daman

• Singapore Hotels and Touring (see page 65)

Today we leave Chitwan National Park and drive to Daman. Upon arrival we check in to our hotel for an overnight stay in the wonderful hill country.

TIBET NEPAL

Day 19: Daman to Kathmandu Today we leave Daman and return to Kathmandu. Upon arrival the remainder of the day is at leisure.

Old Tingri Pokhara (1N)

Day 20: Kathmandu - Dhulikhel Enjoy the morning at leisure. After lunch we drive to Dhulikhel, visiting the small village of Thimi en route. In Dhulikhel we visit Newari houses and a local market.

(1N)

INDIA

Transfer to the airport for our flight to Australia.

AIR

Day 22: Arrive Australia

ROAD

Arrive home this morning.

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Shigatse (2N) Lhasa (3N) Gyantse

Shegar (1N)

Mt. Everest KATHMANDU (3N+2N)

Chitwan National Daman Park (3N) (1N)

Day 21: Depart Kathmandu

CHINA

OUTBOUND (1N)

INBOUND (1N)

CHENGDU

(2N)


Thien Mu Pagoda - Hue

Treasures of Vietnam and China From $6,509 per person twin share - 27 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia

From price includes: Tour Cost $5,980, Airline fuel surcharge $380 and Tipping $149 (subject to change)

Discover the ‘Treasures’ for yourself on this fascinating tour of Vietnam and China. Commencing in the dynamic city of Saigon where you will visit the War Remnants Museum and learn about Vietnam’s turbulent history. Be prepared to be moved by what you will see here. Explore the Mekong Delta by boat. The people living in this area make their living as farmers and fishermen. Often, they live right on the edge of the rivers in various structures built from whatever materials they can find. The Cu Chi Tunnels will astound you. This incredible tunnel system was home to many during the war. If brave enough, you may even want to crawl through one of the tunnels! A wonderful welcome awaits you in the UNESCO listed town of Hoi An. The old centre will charm you as you wander along its cobbled streets. Here you can visit the tailors and maybe have something special made, or even bargain hunt in Hoi An’s markets. If shopping does not appeal, you may be happy just soaking up the atmosphere. Along the Hoi Van Pass to Hue you will discover some breathtaking scenery. Hue is home to the Imperial Citadel, which was modelled on the Forbidden City in Beijing, China. City lovers will simply adore Hanoi – regarded as the ‘Paris of the Orient’. It is filled with beautiful tree lined boulevards, French villas and natural lakes. Your history lesson will deepen as you learn about Ho Chi Minh, visit the Ethnology Museum and explore the wonderful Tran Quoc Pagoda. Halong Bay will be very special. This great natural wonder will delight you. The karst islands rising out of the sea are truly quite spectacular. China will be equally as captivating as Vietnam. Its attractions range from breathtaking scenery to energetic cities. Starting at the Stone Forest in Kunming you will see incredible rock formations and view nature at its best. The city of Guilin will be a real treat as it is quite beautiful and is an excellent base for your day trips to the Seven Star Caves, Mt. Diecai and the ancient town of Daxu. Your journey will take you to Xian. It is here that you will see the amazing Terracotta Warriors, one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th Century. Xian was also the starting point of the ancient Silk Road. History will come to life in Beijing as you visit iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall and Tiananmen Square. Your camera will be working overtime as you discover these wonderful treasure troves. The glittering metropolis of Shanghai will be your final destination on this amazing tour. Take a stroll through the Yu Gardens and relax on a cruise along the Huangpu River. Prepare yourself to be dazzled by what you will see as you discover the real Vietnam and China. You won’t be disappointed!

Day 1: Australia to Saigon

Days 5-7: Saigon to Hoi An

Days 10-11: Hanoi

Fly with Singapore Airlines via Singapore to Saigon for 2 nights.

Fly to Danang and transfer to Hoi An stopping at the Cham Museum, Marble Mountains and China Beach en route. Tomorrow we take a walking tour of Hoi An, visiting an old merchant’s home, the Japanese Bridge, Hoi An Market and a local Chinese pagoda. The afternoon and the following day are free to visit the tailors and soak up the atmosphere at one of the many riverside cafes.

Today we travel to Halong Bay and enjoy a cruise through the spectacular scenery. Our city tour tomorrow includes visits to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (closed Sep-Dec), Stilt House and Museum, Temple of Literature and a walking tour of the Old Quarter and its markets. We will also see Hoan Kiem Lake, Tran Quoc Pagoda, the Ethnology Museum and One Pillar Pagoda.

Day 8: Hoi An to Hue

Days 12-13: Hanoi to Kunming

Drive over Hai Van Pass to Hue. Visit the Imperial Citadel and Tu Duc Tomb. Tonight we enjoy a cooking lesson.

Bid farewell to Vietnam to embark on our China adventure. Fly to Kunming for a 2 night stay. This evening we sample ‘Across the Bridge Noodles’. The following day visit the picturesque Stone Forest.

Day 2: Saigon Visit the former Presidential Palace, War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, Cholon, Binh Tay Wholesale Market and Thien Hau Pagoda. Afterwards stop at Ben Thanh Market for some shopping.

Days 3-4: Saigon Today we explore the Mekong Delta, the heart of South Vietnam. We take various boat trips amongst the smaller tributaries to visit the local floating markets, villages, home industries and plantations. The following day we explore the famous Cu Chi Tunnels and Tay Ninh, where we experience the midday service at the head temple of the unique Cai Dai religion.

Day 9: Hue to Hanoi Enjoy a cruise on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda before visiting Khai Dinh Tomb. Fly to Hanoi and enjoy an evening performance of a Water Puppets show.

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Day 14: Kunming to Guilin Fly to Guilin this morning. Later we visit the Seven Star Caves and Mt. Diecai.


Departures Tour Code

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia

2010 T18071 T18073 T18074 T18076 T18077 T18078 T18079 2011 T18081 T18082 T18083 T18084 T18085

Days 15-16: Guilin to Yangshuo (Li River Cruise) to Guilin Relax on a Li River cruise to Yangshuo. Tomorrow visit the local markets before we return to Guilin and visit the town of Daxu.

Day 17: Guilin to Xian Fly to Xian and feast on a Shui Jiao Dumpling Banquet this evening.

Day 18: Xian

13 Apr 11 May 01 Jun 22 Jun 21 Sep 09 Nov 23 Nov

$6,509 $6,609 $6,509 $6,509 $6,509 $6,509 $6,509

17 Mar 24 Mar 14 Apr 05 May 19 May

12 Apr 19 Apr 10 May 31 May 14 Jun

$6,509 $6,509 $6,609 $6,509 $6,509

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $529 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$125 (A$149) is payable on arrival in Vietnam.

Inclusions International airfares, all transportation in Vietnam and China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia, Vietnam and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Junk boat - Halong Bay

Price Guide

27 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share

Visit the ancient City Wall and the Terracotta Warriors. Enjoy an evening performance of traditional Tang Dynasty dancing.

From $6,509 per person – Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Singapore Airlines

Days 19-20: Xian to Beijing

Single Hotel Supplement - From $1,000

Visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum, walk through the Muslim Quarter to the Great Mosque and visit the Islamic food markets. Later we board our overnight train to Beijing. We arrive the following morning and visit the Summer Palace and sample ‘Peking Duck’.

18 Mar 15 Apr 06 May 27 May 26 Aug 14 Oct 28 Oct

Land Only - From $5,429 (includes Tipping) HH Medium Paced Tour (see page 2) Make the most of your holiday • Singapore Hotels and Touring (see page 45)

Day 21: Beijing Enjoy a visit to the famous Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.

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OUTBOUND (1N)

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Xian (2N)

SHANGHAI

Days 23-24: Beijing to Shanghai

(3N)

CHINA

Fly to Shanghai today. Tomorrow visit the Yu Gardens, Shanghai Museum, the Old Town and the famous Bund.

Guilin (1N+1N) Yangshuo (1N)

Kunming (2N)

Day 25: Shanghai

Hanoi (3N)

Today we visit the Pudong area and the Xintiandi area. This evening enjoy a cruise along the Huangpu River.

Hue (1N)

Halong Bay

VIETNAM

Day 26: Depart Shanghai

Danang Hoi An (3N)

The morning is at leisure before transferring to the airport for our overnight flight home. Arrive home this morning.

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Take a walk along the Great Wall and tour the Temple of Heaven. Enjoy an evening Chinese Acrobatic show.

Day 27: Arrive Australia

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Overnight Train (1N)

Day 22: Beijing

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Beijing (3N)

SAIGON (4N)

My Tho

Little Wild Goose Pagoda - Xian

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AIR ROAD RAIL BOAT

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Victoria Prince

Name of Image

Name of Image

Yangtze River 5 Star Luxury Cruising The shores of China’s Yangtze River present an ever changing mix of ancient and modern cultures as your cruise ship glides along one of the world's largest inland waterways. From the style and flair of Shanghai, a city quite different from any other Chinese city, to the extraordinary natural landscapes of the Three Gorges, onwards to the ancient ‘Ghost City’ of Fengdu, just 176km downstream from Chongqing. The mixture of history, culture, engineering feats and spectacular scenery that presents itself along this main artery of China will enthral and amaze even the most jaded of travellers. Join Wendy Wu Tours on a journey of discovery onboard Victoria Cruises along the Yangtze River. See pages 50-51 for Yangtze River Independent cruising package details.

VICTORIA CRUISES For over a decade, Victoria Cruises has been the leader in Yangtze River cruising. With the largest 5 star fleet on the river, outstanding service and innovative itineraries, Victoria is well placed to deliver an unrivalled Chinese river cruising experience. An American owned company, Victoria Cruises welcomes guests from across the globe. All of the premier ships in the Victoria fleet are either new or newly rebuilt, with each cabin featuring a private balcony for viewing the magnificent Yangtze River scenery, internet access and satellite TV. Victoria's vessels feature cabins in 4 categories – standard, junior suites, deluxe suites and Shangri-La suites. All vessels are completely air-conditioned and excellent cuisine (Chinese with Western specialties) is served during a single seating, with American style breakfasts, buffet lunches and banquet style dinners.

Victoria Prince The Victoria Prince (as featured in our Grand Yangtze programme) is the flagship of Victoria's upgraded 5 star fleet and has been recently redesigned with private balconies for all cabins to allow private viewings of the Yangtze River scenery. With accommodation of just 130 cabins and an area of over 1,200sq ft on the upper deck, passengers will feel comfortable and at home on board this floating hotel.

YANGTZE RIVER PLACES OF INTEREST Nanjing The southern capital is located on the banks in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River and was originally a walled town built in the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220AD), also referred to as the ‘Stone City’. Eight dynasties established their capitals in the city between the 3rd and 14th Centuries. In the 16th Century the Sui Dynasty established its capital at Xian and ordered the destruction of all earlier dynastic buildings in Nanjing. The city flourished again during the Tang Dynasty and the founder of the Ming Dynasty, Zhu Yuan

Zhang, set up his capital here and built palaces, temples and pagodas enlarging the city wall to make it the longest city wall in the world.

Wuhan Set on the west Jianghan Plain, Wuhan is the biggest city in central China and the capital of Hubei Province. Located at the confluence of the Yangtze River and the Han River, Wuhan is largely composed of 3 separate cities: Wuchang, Hankou and Hanyang. The city site was first settled in the 1st Century during the ‘Three Kingdom’ era as part of the Wu Kingdom. Wuhan has played an important role

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in the modern Chinese history, when late in the 19th Century a far sighted official of the Qing Dynasty orchestrated the establishment of factories and an arsenal to begin the industrialising movement of China.

The Three Gorges One of nature’s most extraordinary sculptures carved along the Yangtze River from Fengjie in the east, the San Xia (Three Gorges) – Qutang Xia, Wu Xia and Xiling Xia. Qutang Xia is the shortest at just 8km long but also the narrowest and most dramatic. Below Wushan is the 40km long Wu Xia (often referred to as


Deck Plan - Victoria Prince

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the Witches Gorge), with cliffs so sheer that the sun barely penetrates to the river below. Xiling Xia is the longest and deepest gorge with cliff walls rising to 1,219m. It is actually comprised of 7 smaller gorges with colourful names such as Horse Lungs and Lantern Shadow.

The Three Gorges Dam The largest water conservancy project ever undertaken by man is the dam at Sandouping, located right in the middle of the Xiling Gorge. The aim of the dam project is to achieve flood control, hydroelectric generation and improved navigation. It is now approximately 2,335m long, 186m high, 18m wide at the top and 130m wide at the base. The higher waters will allow vessels the opportunity to access previously unreachable parts of the river system, offering undiscovered sightseeing opportunities.

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Yichang The construction of the Gezhouba (Gezhou Dam) at Sandouping changed this sleepy town into a thriving metropolis. Situated at the entrance to the Xiling Gorge, it is the economic and cultural centre of the western Hubei Province. Located a few kilometres to the north of the city is the awe inspiring Three Travellers Cave. Here both the Tang Dynasty and the Song Dynasty poets inscribed their works on the cave's walls.

Chongqing The largest commercial centre of southwest China, Chongqing was built against a mountain, which is where the nickname ‘Mountain City’ comes from, and is surrounded by the river at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers. The city’s origins date back to over 3,000 years and it is known to have served as the capital of the Ba Kingdom prior to 316BC.

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More recently the city served as the wartime capital and headquarters of Chiang-Kai Shek’s Nationalist Government during World War II. Chongqing is the ideal starting point for the downstream cruises on the Yangtze River.

Fengdu Located on the northern bank of the Yangtze River, 176km downstream from the city of Chongqing, Fengdu is known as the ‘Ghost City’. With its many temples containing sculptures of demons and devils, it is a popular shore excursion for travellers along the river. The town gained its reputation as the ‘Ghost City’ in the Eastern Han Dynasty when 2 officials from the imperial court came to the region to practice Taoist teachings. Their surnames Yin and Wang, when combined sound very much like ‘King of Hell’ in Chinese hence the local people started calling it the ‘Ghost City’.


Inclusions

Ghost City - Fengdu

International airfares, all transportation in China, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

19 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share From $5,968 per person – Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Singapore Airlines Single Hotel Supplement - From $760 Single Cruise Cabin Supplement – From $1,250 Low season From $1,490 High season*

From $5,968 per person twin share - 19 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia

Land Only - From $4,668 (includes Tipping) H Comfortable Paced Tour (see page 2) Make the most of your holiday • Singapore Hotels and Touring (see page 63)

Departures Tour Code 2010 T25043* T25044* T25046 T250410 T250411 T250412* T250413* T250414* T250416* T100120

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia 29 Apr 13 May 10 Jun 05 Aug 19 Aug 02 Sep 16 Sep 30 Sep 28 Oct 13 Jun

17 May 31 May 28 Jun 23 Aug 06 Sep 20 Sep 04 Oct 18 Oct 15 Nov 01 Jul

Grand Yangtze

$6,468 $6,368 $5,968 $5,968 $5,968 $6,368 $6,368 $6,468 $6,368 $5,968

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $488 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$74 (A$88) is payable on arrival in China.

From price includes: Tour Cost $5,480, Airline fuel surcharge $400 and Tipping $88 (subject to change)

The Yangtze River is immense and is the lifeblood of China. Over 6000km long, it is the largest and longest river in China. This amazing river forms the backbone to this most wonderful tour. Over eight nights you will cruise down this magnificent river on board the 5 star MV Victoria Prince, the flagship of the Victoria Cruise boats – and the leader in Yangtze cruising. The highlight for many will be viewing the stunning river landscapes; dramatic gorges, majestic peaks and ancient temples from your own private balcony. Shore excursions will take you to sites such as Nanjing, Mt. Huang (Yellow Mountain) and Wuhan. This special journey goes beyond the Yangtze River. You will visit the ancient sites of Xian, see the adorable Giant pandas in Chengdu and be captivated by the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai. Your tour concludes in Beijing with an opportunity to enjoy its wonders and maybe reflect on your unforgettable and truly diverse Chinese experience.

Days 1-2: Australia to Shanghai

Days 8-9: Yangtze River Cruise

Fly overnight via Singapore with Singapore Airlines to Shanghai for 2 nights.

Continue cruising towards Yichang. Upon arrival tomorrow visit the Three Gorges Dam Project site and sail through the Gezhou Dam.

Days 3-4: Shanghai - Embark Yangtze River Cruise

Days 10-11: Daning River Small Gorges to Fengdu

Visit the Shanghai Museum, Yu Gardens, the Old Town, the Bund and the Xintiandi area before we cruise on the Huangpu River. Tomorrow we transfer to the Victoria Prince cruise ship, sailing to Chongqing over the next 8 nights.

Sail through the Wu Gorge and enjoy an excursion to the Daning River Small Gorges. Tomorrow we visit the ‘Ghost City’ of Fengdu.

Day 12: Chongqing to Chengdu

Day 5: Nanjing Enjoy a full day tour of Nanjing before continuing our cruise upstream.

Disembark in Chongqing and transfer to Chengdu. Our dinner tonight will be a sumptuous Sichuan Banquet.

Days 6-7: Mt Huang to Wuhan

Days 13-14: Chengdu to Xian Visit the Panda Research Centre, before flying to Xian and enjoy a Shui Jiao Dumpling Banquet. Tomorrow we visit the Terracotta Warriors and the ancient City Wall and enjoy a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

Today we visit Mt. Huang (Yellow Mountain). Tomorrow we cruise to Wuhan and visit the Hubei Provincial Museum.

BEIJING (3N)

CHINA

(1N)

Day 15: Xian to Beijing

)

Xian (2N) Chengdu

ND (1N)

OUTBOU

(1N UND INBO

Nanjing Yangtze River Cruise (8N)

Chongqing

Wuhan

Yichang

Mt. Huang AIR ROAD BOAT

Shennong Stream - Yangtze River

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SHANGHAI (2N)

Fly to Beijing and visit the Temple of Heaven and at our dinner tonight we sample the local delicacy ‘Peking Duck’.

Days 16-17: Beijing Stroll through Tiananmen Square, past Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum and visit the Forbidden City. Enjoy an evening Chinese Acrobatic show. Tomorrow walk on the Great Wall and visit the Summer Palace.

Days 18-19: Beijing to Australia Transfer to the airport for our flight to Australia. Arrive home the following morning.


Yangtze River for the Independent Traveller Shennong Stream - Yangtze River

Victoria Yangtze River Cruise (10D/9N) Day 1: Arrive Shanghai

Day 6: Yangtze River Cruise

Day 9: Fengdu

Upon arrival in Shanghai you will be transferred to the Sofitel Hyland Hotel before enjoying a tour of Shanghai including the Pudong area, the Yu Gardens and the Old Town. (L)

Spend the day onboard your cruise ship as you continue cruising toward Yichang. (B,L,D)

Arrive at Fengdu early this morning and enjoy an excursion to the ‘Ghost City’. Continue cruising this afternoon. (B,L,D)

Day 2: Embark Shanghai - Yangtze River Cruise After breakfast, transfer to the cruise terminal and board the Victoria Prince cruise (embarkation is at 10am). (B,L,D)

Day 3: Nanjing Enjoy a shore excursion to Nanjing including the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and a Qing Dynasty style bazaar surrounding a Confucian Temple. (B,L,D)

Day 7: Yichang Arrive at Yichang early this morning and sail through the Gezhou Dam. Later this afternoon you will visit the Three Gorges Dam Project site before passing through the ship lock. (B,L,D)

Day 8: Yangtze River Cruise Today we sail through the Wu Gorge and enjoy an excursion to the Daning River Small Gorges. (B,L,D)

Day 10: Disembark Chongqing Arrive at Chongqing this morning where you will disembark from the cruise. Enjoy a sightseeing tour through the city of Chongqing including the Panda House at Chongqing Zoo, Arhat Temple, Ciqikou ancient town and the Stilwell Museum. From here you will be transferred to the airport where your arrangements end. (B,L)

Victoria Yangtze River Cruise (10D/9N) - Prices are from per person, based on low season Departure Day

Twin Share

Single Person

Day 4: Mt. Huang

Sat (Upstream)

$1,900

$3,260

Enjoy a shore excursion to Mt. Huang (Yellow Mountain). If weather or road conditions do not permit a visit to Mt. Huang or Jiuhuashan, ‘Mountain of the Nine Lotuses’ may be a substitute. (B,L,D)

Sun (Downstream)*

$1,840

$3,160

Day 5: Wuhan Cruise to Wuhan and enjoy a shore excursion to the Hubei Provincial Museum. (B,L,D)

Includes:

#

1 night accommodation including breakfast at the Sofitel Hyland Hotel in a standard twin room, private transfers, 8 nights accommodation in a twin cabin, shore excursions with a local English speaking guide including entrance fees and meals as listed

The itinerary is subject to change due to the water level of the Yangtze River according to the time of year and rainfall. A daily programme for the following day will be placed in your cabin every evening. #Shoulder and high season surcharges may apply * Downstream itinerary 8D/7N (Chongqing to Shanghai)

Yangtze River Upstream Cruise (5D/4N) Day 1: Embark Yichang - Yangtze River Cruise Meet at Yichang wharf where you will board your 4 night Victoria Cruise. Five decks high, the cruise vessel’s facilities include air-conditioning, western en-suites and outside windows.

Days 2-4: Yangtze River Cruise Enjoy a shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Project before cruising on the mighty Yangtze River. Enjoy a side trip to tranquil Shennong Stream. (B,L,D)

Day 5: Disembark Chongqing Your arrangements end after disembarking the cruise ship at Chongqing wharf this morning. (B)

Yangtze River Upstream Cruise (5D/4N) - Prices are from per person, based on low season # Departure Day

Twin Share

Single Person

Mon, Thu & Sat

$685

$1,195

Tue*

$510

$890

Wed, Fri & Sun

$740

$1,300

Includes:

4 nights accommodation in a twin cabin, shore excursions with a local English speaking guide including entrance fees and meals as listed

The itinerary is subject to change due to the water level of the Yangtze River according to the time of year and rainfall. A daily programme for the following day will be placed in your cabin every evening. Depending on the date of travel there are a range of different 5 star Victoria cruise vessels that you may travel on. For more information on the range of cruise ships please contact reservations. #Shoulder and high season surcharges may apply *Victoria Rose 4 star cruise ship Downstream itinerary 4D/3N (Chongqing to Yichang) also available.

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Hotels and Touring - Beijing Hotels The Great Wall - Beijing

Beijing hotel prices are based on per person, per night in a standard room, in low season (seasonality surcharges may apply) and include daily breakfast. Minimum 3 nights accommodation is required for hotel only bookings. For a more extensive range of hotels please contact reservations (availability based on request). Beijing city is located approximately 1hrs drive from the Beijing Capital International Airport. A one way private car transfer, from $45 per person (based on minimum of 2 passengers). Forbidden City - Beijing

Jiangxi Grand Hotel

HHH

Super House International

HHH

Beijing International

HHH

Address: 8 Heng Yi Tiao, Fengtai District, Beijing Location: In the Fengtai District, in close proximity to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. From $70 per person twin share

Address: 102 Dongsanhuan South Road, Chao Yang District, Beijing Location: Centrally located in Beijing’s CBD. Nearby the Jing-tang Expressway and 15mins to Beijing Railway Station. From $70 per person twin share

Address: 9 Jiannei Dajie, East District, Beijing Location: In the central business area and conveniently located near the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. From $142 per person twin share

Capital Hotel

The Peninsula Beijing

Crowne Plaza Hotel

HHHH

HHHH

HHHH

Address: 3 Qian Men East Street, Dong Cheng, Qianmen, Beijing Location: In the heart of Wangfujing shopping area and close to historical sites such as the Temple of Heaven. From $107 per person twin share

Address: 8 Goldfish Lane, Wangfujing, Beijing Location: Centrally located in the heart of Beijing's business district, within walking distance to the Forbidden City and Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum. From $250 per person twin share

Address: 48 Wangfujing Ave, Dong Cheng District, Beijing Location: Set in the vibrant shopping and industrial business districts and within a 10min walk to Tiananmen Square. From $155 per person twin share

Novotel Peace Hotel

JW Marriott

Intercontinental Beijing

HHHH

Address: 3 Jinyu Hutong, Wangfujing Dajie, Beijing Location: In the city centre near the Dong Hua Men Night Market and within walking distance to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. From $112 per person twin share

HHHHH

Address: 83 Jianguo Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing Location: In Beijing’s central business district and close to major attractions such as the Temple of Heaven and shopping areas. From $205 per person twin share

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HHHHH

Address: 11 Financial Street, Xi Cheng, Beijing Location: In the heart of Beijing's business district and close to Beijing Zoo, Forbidden City and the Olympic Park. From $130 per person twin share


Touring Temple of Heaven - Beijing

Tours depart daily, with a minimum of 2 passengers based on a private car and a local English speaking guide. Tour durations including travelling times are indicative only and subject to local conditions. Tours can only be booked in conjunction with a minimum of 3 nights accommodation. Meals are indicated as follows; (L)=Lunch. Acrobatics Show - Beijing

Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven

Great Wall & Summer Palace

Tai Chi Lesson

Enjoy a visit to Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square and stroll through the treasure filled Forbidden City. Later this afternoon visit the 15th Century Temple of Heaven. (L) Duration: 7hrs From $120 per person

Enjoy a walk along China’s most famous attraction – the Great Wall, stretching 5000km from the Shanhaiguan Pass to the Gobi Desert. From here visit the exquisite Summer Palace. (L) Duration: 8hrs From $130 per person

You will learn the art of Tai Chi as you take part in a Tai Chi lesson. Your teacher will explain some important points of this traditional martial art form practiced for health and longevity. Duration: 4hrs From $170 per person

Hutongs by Rickshaw

Beijing Acrobatics Show

Cooking Tour

Enjoy a rickshaw ride through the old hutongs and learn about the influence of Feng Shui and the sense of community found in this kind of housing. Duration: 1.5hrs From $70 per person

Witness an evening Chinese Acrobatics show. Enjoy gravity-defying contortionism, juggling, uni-cycling, chair-stacking, plate spinning acts and more. Duration: 3.5hrs From $70 per person

Learn about the history of Chinese food and cooking before you create your very own Chinese authentic meal during your 2hr cooking lesson. Duration: 4hrs From $160 per person

Beijing Short Stay 4D/3N also available from $500 per person twin share based on a 4 star hotel, 5 star hotel option also available. For further details please contact reservations.

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Hotels and Touring - Shanghai Hotels Pudong District - Shanghai

Shanghai hotel prices are based on per person, per night in a standard room, in low season (seasonality surcharges may apply) and include daily breakfast. Minimum 3 nights accommodation is required for hotel only bookings. For a more extensive range of hotels please contact reservations (availability based on request). Shanghai city is located approximately 1hrs drive from the Shanghai Pudong International Airport. One way private car transfer, from $45 per person (based on minimum of 2 passengers).

Yu Gardens - Shanghai

The Bund Hotel

HHH

Ramada Shanghai Zhabei

HHHH

Holiday Inn Downtown

HHHH

Address: 525 Guangdong Road, Shanghai Location: In the central area of Shanghai near Nanjing Road and 5mins from the famous Bund. From $85 per person twin share

Address: 666 Gong He Xin Road, Shanghai Location: In Shanghai’s city centre, close to Shanghai Railway Station and within 10mins to the People's Square. From $73 per person twin share

Address: 585 Heng Feng Road, Shanghai Location: In the city centre, close to Shanghai Railway Station and 15mins to Nanjing Road and the People's Square. From $70 per person twin share

Crowne Plaza Hotel

Sofitel Shanghai Hyland

Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel HHHH

HHHH

HHHH

Address: 400 Pan Yu Road (N), Shanghai Location: Next to Shanghai Arts and Film Centre and the Xu Jia Hui Shopping District. From $122 per person twin share

Address: 505 Nanjing Road, Shanghai Location: On famous Nanjing Road, centrally located to the city’s commercial centre. From $140 per person twin share

Address: 595 Jiujiang Road, Shanghai Location: Central to the business district and a short distance to Nanjing Road and the Bund. From $122 per person twin share

Ramada Plaza Nanjing

Grand Hyatt

Four Seasons Hotel

HHHH

Address: 719 Nanjing Road, Shanghai Location: On the famous shopping street of Nanjing Road and close to the Bund. From $115 per person twin share

HHHHH

Address: 88 Century Boulevard, Shanghai Location: In the financial district of Pudong close to Shanghai International Convention Centre. From $285 per person twin share

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HHHHH

Address: 500 Weihai Road, Shanghai Location: In downtown Shanghai only a short distance from the Pudong District. From $380 per person twin share


Touring Nanjing Road - Shanghai

Tours depart daily (unless otherwise stated) with a minimum of 2 passengers based on a private car and a local English speaking guide. Tour durations including travelling times are indicative only and subject to local conditions. Tours can only be booked in conjunction with a minimum of 3 nights accommodation. Meals are indicated as follows; (L)=Lunch.

Humble Administrator's Garden - Suzhou

Cultural Experience Experience life around Shanghai, visit the markets to see where the locals buy their food, a family home where you will have a traditional lunch as well as a school to see children in their learning environment. (L) Duration: 7hrs From $110 per person

Acrobatics Show Enjoy an evening Chinese Acrobatics show and witness some of the most fascinating acrobatic stunts you will ever see. Duration: 3hrs From $70 per person

Shanghai Day Tour

Suzhou City Tour

Visit Shanghai’s Old Town and the Yu Gardens; a traditional style Chinese garden. Later enjoy a walk along the Bund before visiting the Shanghai Museum. (L) Duration: 8hrs From $90 per person

Drive approximately 1.5hrs to Suzhou. Visit the Masters of Nets and Humble Administrator's Gardens. Enjoy a cruise along the Grand Canal before returning to Shanghai. (L) Duration: 8hrs From $170 per person

Huangpu River Evening Cruise

Cooking Tour

Enjoy a stunning evening cruise along the Huangpu River and view Shanghai’s spectacular buildings by night. Duration: 2hrs From $70 per person

Master the art of Chinese cooking during your cooking lesson. Once you have created the 3 dishes, enjoy your creations. (L) Duration: 4hrs From $160 per person Departs: Sat and Sun

Shanghai Short Stay 3D/2N also available from $490 per person twin share based on a 4 star hotel, 5 star hotel option also available. For further details please contact reservations.

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Hotels and Touring - Xian Hotels Ancient City Wall - Xian

Xian hotel prices are based on per person, per night in a standard room, in low season (seasonality surcharges may apply) and include daily breakfast. Minimum 3 nights accommodation is required for hotel only bookings. For a more extensive range of hotels please contact reservations (availability based on request). Xian city is located approximately 50mins drive from the Xian International Airport. One way private car transfer, from $50 per person (based on minimum of 2 passengers). Terracotta Warriors - Xian

Heizee Hotel

HHH

Hengjia Hotel

HHHH

Sofitel Xian Renmin Square

HHHH

Address: 219 Xing Qing North Road, Xian Location: At the eastern end of Xian and approximately 5mins drive from the city centre. From $45 per person twin share

Address: 108 LianHu Road, Xian Location: In the centre of Xian city and a 40min drive from Xian International Airport. From $39 per person twin share

Address: 319 Dongxin Street, Xian Location: On Renmin Square in close proximity to the Bell Tower, Drum Tower Square and the ancient City Wall. From $100 per person twin share

Sheraton Xian Hotel

Grand Mercure Renmin Square HHHHH

Hyatt Regency Hotel

Address: 319 Dongxin Street, Shaanxi Province, Xian Location: On Renmin Square in the heart of Xian. From $60 per person twin share

Address: 158 Dongda Street, Xian Location: A short distance from the ancient City Wall and the Bell Tower in the city centre. From $100 per person twin share

HHHH

Address: 262 Feng Hao East Road, Xian Location: Near the ancient City Wall, in the business district with the city centre a few minutes away. From $100 per person twin share

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HHHHH


Touring Bell Tower - Xian

Tours depart daily, with a minimum of 2 passengers based on a private car and a local English speaking guide. Tour durations including travelling times are indicative only and subject to local conditions. Tours can only be booked in conjunction with a minimum of 3 nights accommodation. Meals are indicated as follows; (L)=Lunch, (D)=Dinner.

Dumplings

Warriors Day Tour Enjoy a visit to Xian's famous UNESCO World Heritage listed Terracotta Warriors and Horses. The life-size warriors are one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th Century. (L) Duration: 6hrs From $100 per person

Cycle the ancient City Wall Enjoy a bike ride along the ancient City Wall, stopping to take in the bustling city life of Xian below and the scenery that surrounds the wall. Duration: 2hrs From $100 per person

Xian City Tour

Tang Dynasty Dancing Show

Visit the ancient City Wall, one of the few completely intact walls remaining in all of China. Take a stroll through the lively Muslim Quarter to visit the Great Mosque and explore the Islamic food markets. (L) Duration: 6hrs From $110 per person

Dumpling Cooking Tour Buy the ingredients at a local market before continuing to one of the local family homes where the host will teach you how to make the local specialty – dumplings! (L) Duration: 3hrs From $100 per person

Enjoy a Dumpling Banquet and a live performance of music and dance recreated in accordance with various historical records, ancient art and relics which originated from the Tang Dynasty. (D) Duration: 2.5hrs From $95 per person

Mt. Huashan Excursion Drive approximately 2.5hrs to Mt. Huashan. Once you arrive in Huashan, take a cable car to the top of the mountain to view the beautiful natural scenery surrounding you. (L) Duration: 10hrs From $280 per person

Xian Short Stay 3D/2N also available from $300 per person twin share based on a 4 star hotel, 5 star hotel option also available. For further details please contact reservations.

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Hotels and Touring - Guilin Hotels Li River - Guilin

Guilin hotel prices are based on per person, per night in a standard room, in low season (seasonality surcharges may apply) and include daily breakfast. Minimum 3 nights accommodation is required for hotel only bookings. For a more extensive range of hotels please contact reservations (availability based on request). Guilin city is located approximately 50mins drive from the Guilin International Airport. One way private car transfer, from $40 per person (based on minimum of 2 passengers).

Osmanthus Hotel

HHH

Address: 451 Zhongshan South Road, Guilin Location: In the city centre on the scenic riverside of Guilin close to the shopping centre. From $49 per person twin share

Guilin Bravo Hotel

HHHH

Address: 14 South Ronghu Road, Guilin Location: On the border of scenic Banyan Lake, the city centre and close to the night market area and shopping centre. From $60 per person twin share

Sheraton Guilin Hotel

HHHHH

Address: Bin Jiang Nan Road, Guilin Location: Along the riverside in close proximity to Elephant Trunk Hill and the Seven Star Park. From $125 per person twin share

Touring Local Farmer - Yangshuo

Tours depart daily, with a minimum of 2 passengers based on a private car and a local English speaking guide. Tour durations including travelling times are indicative only and subject to local conditions. Tours can only be booked in conjunction with a minimum of 3 nights accommodation. Meals are indicated as follows; (L)=Lunch.

Li River Cruise Enjoy the tranquility of the Li River as you cruise to Yangshuo. Upon arrival wander the market stalls before driving back to Guilin. (L) Duration: 8hrs From $190 per person

Yangshuo Cycle Tour

Guilin Day Tour

Longsheng Rice Terraces

Visit the Reed Flute Caves, the biggest caves in Guilin and climb Fubo Hill. Finish the day with a visit to Elephant Trunk Hill. (L) Duration: 8hrs From $120 per person

Visit Longsheng, dating back to the Yuan Dynasty with over 500 years of history and local architecture. (L) Duration: 8hrs From $225 per person

Rice Terraces - Longshen

You will be transferred to Yangshuo where you will commence a cycling tour through the natural scenery, passing local farming villages and homes. Duration: 4hrs From $90 per person Guilin and Yangshuo Short Stay 4D/3N also available from $605 per person twin share based on a 4 star hotel, 5 star hotel option also available. For further details please contact reservations.

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Hotels and Touring - Chengdu Hotels Panda - Chengdu

Chengdu hotel prices are based on per person, per night in a standard room, in low season (seasonality surcharges may apply) and include daily breakfast. Minimum 3 nights accommodation is required for hotel only bookings. For a more extensive range of hotels please contact reservations (availability based on request). Chengdu city is located approximately 1hrs drive from the Chengdu International Airport. One way private car transfer, from $40 per person (based on minimum of 2 passengers).

Sichuan Hotel

HHH

Address: 31 Zongfu Street, Chengdu Location: In the commercial district of Chengdu, 4km to the railway station, 18km to the international airport and within walking distance to markets and shopping malls. From $65 per person twin share

Yinhe Dynasty Hotel

HHHH

Address: 88 Shuncheng Street, Chengdu Location: In the heart of the business and entertainment districts, close to tourist attractions such as the temple of Marquis Wu and the Dujiangyan Ancient Water Project. From $65 per person twin share

Crowne Plaza Hotel

HHHH

Address: 31 Zongfu Street, Chengdu Location: Approximately 18km from the international airport in the centre of the city near the Sichuan Museum of Science and Technology. From $115 per person twin share

Touring Grand Buddha - Leshan

Tours depart daily, with a minimum of 2 passengers based on a private car and a local English speaking guide. Tour durations including travelling times are indicative only and subject to local conditions. Tours can only be booked in conjunction with a minimum of 3 nights accommodation. Meals are indicated as follows; (L)=Lunch.

Panda Research Centre Visit the famous Panda Research Centre. Explore the grounds to see some of the cute and cuddly Giant pandas up close. (L) Duration: 4hrs From $130 per person

Cooking Experience Get a hands on experience of the art of Chinese cooking – or at least attempt to! Your teacher will help you cook local dishes, before trying your creations. (L) Duration: 8hrs From $155 per person

Panda's & Dujiangyan Irrigation Visit the Panda Research Centre where you will see cute and cuddly Giant pandas before visiting the Dujiangyan Irrigation Project. (L) Duration: 8hrs From $260 per person

Night Markets Tour Visit Chengdu’s night markets. Try some local food and choose from a variety of local produce and tastes. Enjoy shopping time in the market purchasing souvenirs to bring home! Duration: 3hrs From $70 per person

Countryside Bike Ride Ride through the San Sheng countryside visiting local villages, farms and enjoy the peaceful everyday life of the locals. Duration: 4hrs From $120 per person

Leshan - Grand Buddha See the largest stone Buddha statue in the world. Cruise along the river to view the Buddha in all its glory, before climbing Buddha Mountain for a close up view! (L) Duration: 8hrs From $220 per person

Chengdu Short Stay 4D/3N also available From $795 per person twin share based on a 4 star hotel, 5 star hotel option also available. For further details please contact reservations.

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China & Tibet for the Independent Traveller If you are the type of traveller who enjoys the comfort of having arrangements made for you yet still wish to maintain your independence and travel at your own pace, then the packages listed below are just what you need. They are designed to be used either as individual components which you can join together to make your own itinerary or simply as add-ons to your group arrangements either at the start or the conclusion of your tour. Each component has a choice of hotel categories ranging from standard, superior and deluxe, where typically a standard hotel is equivalent to a 3 star, a superior 4 star and a deluxe 5 star property, (all based on standard rooms) for you to select from. For additional night's accommodation, transfers or for a more extensive range of independent packages please refer to our website or contact reservations. Meals are indicated as follows; (B)=Breakfast, (L)= Lunch and (D)=Dinner. Shanghai World Expo Let your urban dreams come alive! From 01 May to 31 October 2010 Shanghai City will host the World Expo. Showcasing pavilions and displays from all around the world, the ‘Expo 2010 Shanghai’ endeavours to attract 200 nations and international organisations with visitors from China and abroad. This grand international gathering aims to explore the full potential of urban life in the 21st Century, focusing on the theme ‘Better City, Better Life’. Located along both sides of Huangpu River, covering an area with 5.28sq km, Expo 2010 promises to provide a wonderful educational and entertaining display for all visitors.

World Expo Short Stay (3D/2N) Day 1: Arrive Shanghai Upon arrival in Shanghai check in to your hotel.

World Expo Short Stay (3D/2N) - Prices are from per person, based on low season # Travel between May to October

Day 2: Shanghai – World Expo

Category

Visit the Shanghai World Expo site. (B)

Superior

Day 3: Depart Shanghai

Includes:

Twin Share

Single Person

$470

$750

2 nights accommodation, private car transfer and transfers to/from the Expo site with a local English speaking guide including entrance fees and meals as listed

Arrangements end upon check out from your # Shoulder and high season surcharges apply hotel. (B) Shanghai World Expo Short Stay 4D/3N also available, from $630 per person twin share based on a 4 star hotel, 5 star hotel option also available. For details please contact reservations.

World Expo and Hong Kong Short Stay (5D/4N) Day 1: Arrive Shanghai

Morning exercise - Shanghai

Upon arrival in Shanghai check in to your hotel.

Day 2: Shanghai – World Expo Visit the Shanghai World Expo site. (B)

Day 3: Shanghai to Hong Kong Today you will fly to Hong Kong and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. (B)

World Expo and Hong Kong Short Stay (5D/4N) - Prices are from per person, based on low season #

Day 4: Hong Kong

Travel between May to October

Enjoy a Hong Kong Island tour visiting Stanley Market, Victoria Peak and Aberdeen Fishing Village. (B)

Category

Twin Share

Single Person

Superior

$1,350

$2,750

Day 5: Depart Hong Kong Transfer to the airport this morning where your arrangements end. (B)

Includes:

4 nights accommodation, private car departure transfer to Shanghai Airport and to/ from the Expo site, one way economy flight from Shanghai to Hong Kong, seat in coach transfers and touring in Hong Kong, entrance fees and meals as listed

# Shoulder and high season surcharges apply

Suzhou and Hangzhou Short Stay (5D/4N) Day 1: Shanghai to Suzhou

Day 4: Hangzhou

Day 5: Hangzhou to Shanghai

This morning you will be picked up from your Shanghai hotel and transferred to Suzhou.

Visit the Temple of Inspired Seclusion, the Six Harmonies Pagoda and cruise West Lake. (B,L)

Return to Shanghai where your arrangements end upon arrival at your hotel. (B)

Day 2: Suzhou Visit the Master of the Nets and Humble Administrator's Garden before enjoying a cruise on the Grand Canal. (B,L)

Suzhou and Hangzhou Short Stay (5D/4N) - Prices are from per person, based on low season # Category Superior

Twin Share

Single Person

$1,085

$1,575

Day 3: Suzhou to Hangzhou

Includes:

Travel to Hangzhou and visit local markets and experience an oriental tea tasting. (B,L)

# Shoulder and high season, Christmas and New Years Eve surcharges apply

4 nights accommodation, transfers and private touring as specified with a local English speaking guide including entrance fees and meals as listed

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Nine Villages Valley (6D/5N) Day 1: Arrive Chengdu Transfer from the airport and check in to your hotel.

Long Lake - Nine Villages Valley

Day 2: Chengdu to Huanglong Fly to the Nine Villages Valley (Jiuzhaigou). Upon arrival you will visit Huanglong Temple at the summit of Huanglong Mountain, where hundreds of sparkling ponds with beautiful colours intertwine. (B)

Day 3: Nine Villages Valley Visit the 10-mile long Nine Villages Valley with deep mountain valleys and coloured lakes. (B)

Day 4: Nine Villages Valley to Chengdu Transfer to the airport for your flight to Chengdu. (B)

Day 5: Chengdu Enjoy a visit to the famous Panda Research Centre and the Grand Buddha of Leshan, hewn from the side of the Lingyun Mountain. (B)

Day 6: Depart Chengdu After check out from your hotel this morning you will be transferred to Chengdu Airport where your arrangements end. (B)

Nine Villages Valley (6D/5N) - Prices are from per person, based on low season # Travel between May to October

Category

Twin Share

Single Person

Superior

$2,340

$3,140

Includes:

5 nights accommodation, transfers and private touring as specified with a local English speaking guide including entrance fees and meals as listed

# Shoulder and high season surcharges apply

Potala Palace - Lhasa

Tibetan Short Stay (6D/5N) Day 1: Arrive Lhasa

Day 4: Gyantse to Shigatse

Day 5: Shigatse to Lhasa

Transfer from the airport and check in to your hotel. This afternoon start your exploration of the ‘Roof of the World'.

Depart Gyantse today and travel to Shigatse. Upon arrival visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery, where the 11th Panchen Lama, who ranks close to the Dalai Lama, has his official residence. (B,L)

Depart Shigatse today and travel back to Lhasa. (B)

Day 2: Lhasa Enjoy a visit to the Potala Palace, an architectural wonder towering over an entire mountain. You will also visit Jokhang Temple and the Barkhor Circuit. (B,L)

Day 6: Depart Lhasa Transfer to the airport this morning where your arrangements end. (B)

Tibetan Short Stay (6D/5N) - Prices are from per person, based on low season # Category Standard

Twin Share

Single Person

$1,460

$2,535

Day 3: Lhasa to Gyantse

Includes:

Travel to Gyantse and visit the Pelkor Monastery and the ruins of the Old Fort. (B,L)

# Shoulder and high season, Christmas and New Years Eve surcharges apply

5 nights accommodation, transfers and private touring as specified with a local English speaking guide including entrance fees and meals as listed

61


Hainan Island for the Independent Traveller Yalong Bay

Hainan is a beautiful island off the southern coast of China and lies at a similar latitude to Hawaii. The main port and resort area of Hainan Island is Sanya on the southern tip, while Yalong Bay to the east stretches along a 7km coastline dotted with thatched umbrellas. With clear blue waters and pristine white sandy beaches, as well as lush green mountains, Sanya is truly a tropical paradise. A major attraction of this island is the local seafood. Here you can try delicious specialties such as spotted crab, white prawn, scallops, oysters and lobster. Delicious and mouth watering! This beautiful island paradise also possesses a wonderful diverse natural landscape and is home to many traditional ethnic villages. For a range of Hainan Island day tours please contact reservations. Hainan Island enjoys a year-round tropical climate with the average temperature between 22-26ºC. The dry season (December-March) and rainy season (April–November) are very distinct and there may be tropical storms in the warmer months (June-July). Whatever your choice, Hainan Island offers many unique experiences. Crowne Plaza - Yalong Bay

Pullman Hotel - Yalong Bay

Hainan Island and Hong Kong (8D/7N) Day 1: Australia to Sanya

Day 6: Hong Kong Island Tour

Days 7-8: Hong Kong to Australia

Fly to Sanya, Hainan Island with Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your Yalong Bay hotel.

Enjoy a half day tour of Hong Kong including a visit to Stanley Market, Victoria Peak and Aberdeen Fishing Village. (B)

Make your own way to Hong Kong Airport for your overnight flight back to Australia. (B) Arrive home the following morning.

Days 2-4: Yalong Bay

Hainan Island and Hong Kong (8D/7N) - Prices are from per person, based on low season #

Spend the next 3 days at leisure. Relax by the pool or the beach and enjoy the sunshine or try out some optional tours. (B)

Day 5: Sanya to Hong Kong Upon check out from your hotel this morning you will be transferred to Sanya Airport to board your flight to Hong Kong. Upon arrival in Hong Kong make your own way to the Harbour Grand Kowloon hotel for 2 nights. (B)

Twin Share

Single Person

Crowne Plaza Hotel

Yalong Bay Hotel

$3,060

$3,900

Pullman Hotel

$3,140

$4,020

Includes:

Return international economy airfares with Cathay Pacific, 4 nights accommodation at Yalong Bay (Hainan Island), 2 nights accommodation at the Harbour Grand Kowloon (Hong Kong), return private car transfers in Sanya, seat in coach Hong Kong Island tour, local English speaking guides and meals as listed

#Shoulder and high season, Christmas and New Years Eve surcharges apply Note: Chinese visa is not included in the package price

Hainan Holiday (8D/7N) also available, from $1,820 per person twin share staying at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and from $1,970 per person twin share staying at the Pullman Hotel. Both hotel options include return international economy airfares with China Southern from Sydney or Melbourne, 6 nights accommodation at Yalong Bay including breakfast and return private car transfers with a local English speaking guide.

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Hotels and Touring - Singapore Some of our group tour packages to China use Singapore Airlines and with Singapore being a main transit point, why not enjoy a stopover on the way over or back, to experience the city for yourself. Below are some hotels and day tours you may wish to take advantage of, to explore this famous city. Singapore departure tax (approx $30 per person) will need to be added to the cost of your international ticket.

Clark Quay - Singapore

Hotels Singapore hotel prices are based on per person, per night in a standard room, in low season (seasonality surcharges may apply) and includes daily breakfast. Minimum 3 nights accommodation is required for hotel only bookings. For a more extensive range of hotels please contact reservations (availability based on request).

Peninsula Excelsior

HHH

Changi Village Hotel

HHHH

York Hotel

HHHH

Address: 5 Coleman Street, Singapore Location: Within walking distance to China Town, near retail outlets such as Raffles City, Marina Square and restaurants on Boat Quay. From $109 per person twin share

Address: 1 Netheravon Road, Singapore Location: Within close proximity to Singapore Changi Airport, this is a great hotel for an overnight stop. From $116 per person twin share

Address: 21 Mount Elizabeth, Singapore Location: In the heart of the city, a 5min stroll to the famous Orchard and Scotts Roads. From $189 per person twin share

Orchard Hotel

Novotel Clark Quay

Raffles Hotel

HHHH

Address: 333 Orchard Road, Singapore Location: On famous Orchard Road, Singapore’s main shopping and entertainment district. From $129 per person twin share

HHHH

Address: 177A River Valley Road, Singapore Location: On the banks of Singapore River in the heart of Clark Quay with its amazing array of restaurants and antique shops. From $196 per person twin share

HHHHH

Address: 1 Beach Road, Singapore Location: Famous for its Singapore Sling and located in the heart of the business district, a 2min trip from Orchard Road on the train. From $582 per person twin share

Singapore is located approximately 1hrs drive from Changi International Airport. One way seat in coach transfer, from $24 per person (based on minimum of 2 passengers).

Touring Tours operate with a minimum of 2 passengers, based on seat in coach with a local English speaking guide. Tour durations including travelling times are indicative only and subject to local conditions. Tours can only be booked in conjunction with a minimum 3 nights accommodation. Meals are indicated as follows; (L)=Lunch, (AT)=Afternoon Tea, (FT)=Food Tasting.

Night Safari

Peranakan Trail

Round Island Tour

Explore the jungle by tram and walk along trails that will allow you to view the animals up close, this is the world’s first Night Safari. Duration: 4hrs From $57 per person Departs: Nightly

Learn about the history and lifestyle of the Peranakan people. Walk through a spice garden and houses dating back to the 1920s. (FT) Duration: 3.5hrs From $61 per person Departs: Tues - Sat (except Public Holidays)

Gain insight into Chinese mythology legends at Haw Par Villa, visit Kranji War Memorial, Bright Hill Temple, Changi Chapel and Museum. (L) Duration: 7hrs From $90 per person Departs: Tues, Thurs, Fri and Sun

Footsteps of Raffles

East Coast and Changi

Singapore City Tour

Visit the landing site of Sir Stamford Raffles, enjoy afternoon tea at the Raffles Hotel and cruise Singapore River in a Bumboat. (AT) Duration: 4.5hrs From $94 per person Departs: Mon - Sat (except Public Holidays)

Visit a Malay Ethnic Area, Changi Chapel and Museum, drive through the laid-back Changi Village and visit Tampines New Town. Duration: 3.5hrs From $37 per person Departs: Daily

Visit Merlion Park, the Buddhist-Taoist Temple of Thian Hock Keng, a local handicraft centre, Singapore Botanic Gardens and Little India. Duration: 3.5hrs From $29 per person Departs: Daily

63


Hong Kong and Macau Stopovers With Hong Kong so close to China, why not enjoy a stopover to experience the city for yourself. Extend your stay in Hong Kong with a visit to Macau, this ex-Portuguese colony demonstrates a unique blend of the Chinese and Portuguese cultures. Below are some stopover packages you may wish to take advantage of on your way to China or on your return. Additional nights can be added to these packages at an extra cost. Packages do not include the Hong Kong departure tax (approx $25 per person) which will need to be added to the cost of your international ticket.

Taste of Macau (3D/2N) Day 1: Hong Kong to Macau

Macau Bridge - Macau

Transfer from your Hong Kong hotel to the Macau ferry terminal this morning. Upon arrival in Macau commence on a half day tour including a visit to the World Heritage listed Na Tcha Temple, the Old City Wall, Mount Fortress, Temple of A-Ma, the most famous temple in Macau and the Macau Tower and Casino. (L)

Taste of Macau (3D/2N) - Prices are from per person, based on low season #

Day 2: Macau

Macau Hotel*

Today is at leisure for you to further explore Macau. (B)

Day 3: Macau to Hong Kong After check out from your hotel make your way to the Macau ferry terminal, take the ferry back to Hong Kong and transfer to your hotel. Arrangements end upon arrival at your Hong Kong hotel. (B)

Twin Share

Single Person

Taipa Hotel

$370

$482

Royal Hotel

$410

$590

Includes:

2 nights accommodation, daily breakfast, seat in coach transfers in Hong Kong (hotel to/from wharf), return economy ferry ticket Hong Kong/Macau, hotel shuttle bus transfers in Macau, half day seat in coach Macau city tour (start/end at Macau wharf) with a local English speaking guide including lunch and entrance fees

* Friday and Saturday night surcharges apply # Shoulder and high season, Christmas and New Year's Eve surcharges apply

Hong Kong Glimpses (3D/2N) Day 1: Arrive Hong Kong Transfer from the airport to your hotel.

Day 2: Hong Kong Island Tour Half day tour visiting Stanley Market, Victoria Peak and Aberdeen Fishing Village. (B)

Hong Kong Glimpses (3D/2N) - Prices are from per person, based on low season # Hong Kong Hotel

Twin Share

Single Person

Eaton Hotel

$312

$494

Harbour Grand Kowloon

$422

$652

Day 3: Depart Hong Kong

Includes:

Transfer to the airport where your arrangements end. (B)

# Shoulder and high season, Christmas and New Year’s Eve surcharges apply

2 nights accommodation, daily breakfast, transfers and touring as listed on seat in coach basis, with a local English speaking guide and entrance fees

Hong Kong in Focus (4D/3N) Day 1: Arrive Hong Kong Transfer from the airport to your hotel.

Day 2: Hong Kong City Tour Today you will enjoy a half day tour of Hong Kong Island including a visit to Victoria Peak with its spectacular views of Hong Kong Harbour, Stanley Market for some local shopping before continuing to Aberdeen Fishing Village. (B)

Victoria Peak - Hong Kong

Day 3: Hong Kong - Land Between

Hong Kong in Focus (4D/3N) - Prices are from per person, based on low season #

Visit the ‘Land Between', including the ‘Yuen Yuen Institute’ Monastery, enjoy the view from Tai Mo Shan and visit a rural market at Tai Po. (B)

Day 4: Depart Hong Kong

Includes:

Transfer to the airport where your arrangements end. (B)

# Shoulder and high season, Christmas and New Year’s Eve surcharges apply

Hong Kong Hotel

Twin Share

Single Person

Eaton Hotel

$488

$761

Harbour Grand Kowloon

$653

$998

3 nights accommodation, daily breakfast, transfers and touring as listed on seat in coach basis, with a local English speaking guide and entrance fees

64


Hotels and Touring – Hong Kong Giant Buddha - Lantau Island

Hong Kong hotel prices are based on per person, per night in a standard room, in low season (seasonality surcharges may apply) and include daily breakfast. Minimum 3 nights accommodation is required for hotel only bookings. For a more extensive range of hotels please contact reservations (availability based on request). Kowloon is located approximately 40mins from Hong Kong International Airport. A one way seat in coach transfer, from $46 per person (based on minimum of 2 passengers).

Hotels Novotel Citygate

HHHH

Eaton Hotel

HHHH

Harbour Grand Kowloon

HHHH

Address: 51 Man Tung Road, Lantau Island Location: On Lantau Island, just 15mins from Hong Kong International Airport and 2 stops on the MTR from Hong Kong Disneyland. From $164 per person twin share

Address: 380 Nathan Road, Kowloon Location: In the heart of downtown Kowloon on the famous shopping street of Nathan Road. From $91 per person twin share

Address: 20 Tak Fung Street, Hung Hom Location: On the Kowloon side of Victoria Harbour, just a ferry ride away from Central and North Point on Hong Kong Island. From $146 per person twin share

Novotel Century Hong Kong

Royal Plaza Hotel

JW Marriott Hotel

HHHH

Address: 238 Jaffe Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong Island Location: In the heart of the lively shopping and entertainment district of Wanchai on Hong Kong Island. From $164 per person twin share

HHHHH

Address: 193 Prince Edward Road, Mongkok Location: Only minutes from the Ladies’ Market and connected to one of the largest shopping centres in Hong Kong. From $101 per person twin share

HHHHH

Address: 1 Pacific Place, 88 Queens Way, Hong Kong Island Location: Connected to the Pacific Place Mall and within walking distance to the Star Ferry Terminal. From $354 per person twin share

Touring Tours depart daily, with a minimum of 2 passengers, based on seat in coach and a local English speaking guide. Tour durations including travelling times are indicative only and subject to local conditions. Tours can only be booked in conjunction with a minimum of 3 nights accommodation. Meals are indicated as follows; (VL)=Vegetarian Lunch, (D)=Dinner. Hong Kong Disneyland

Lantau Island and Monastery

Seafood Dinner and Sunset Cruise

Hong Kong Disneyland

Enjoy a ferry ride to Lantau Island. Take a coach to Tai O Fishing Village. Visit the Giant Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. Later visit Ngong Ping Village and take a cable car ride to Tung Chung. (VL) Duration: 8.5hrs From: $152 per person

Experience the wonderful views of Hong Kong whilst cruising on the beautiful Victoria Harbour. After dinner at Lei Yue Mun Fishing Village end the night with some bargaining at the Temple Street Night Market. (D) Duration: 4-5hrs From: $128 per person

Have the time of your life at Hong Kong Disneyland! In classic Disney style you get to enjoy all the rides, live entertainment, unique restaurants and shops as well as meeting some of your favourite Disney characters. Duration: 11hrs From: $142 per person

65


Introduction to Mongolia Khongoryn Els

Mongolia conjures up images of the legends of Genghis Khan; horses galloping through the expansive open plains, and camels crossing the Gobi Desert. The warm hearted locals will inspire you as they go about their lives with a gentle peace and humility, and most of all, they will reward you with an experience of a lifetime.

Time Mongolia is 2hrs behind Australia EST. Language The official national language is Mongolian. Kalmyk, Kazakh, Buriat and Mandarin are also widely spoken. Currency The Mongolian currency is known as the Tugrog (MNT), A$1 = 1,200 MNT (approx) Ulaanbaatar Kharkhorin Gobi Desert Khovsgol

Ulaanbaatar is the capital of Mongolia and is located on the Tuul River with a backdrop of the Khairkhan Mountains. This town is steadily developing into a modernised city, whilst still maintaining its old world traditional hospitality. Kharkhorin is Mongolia’s former capital and attracts many visitors for its intriguing history dating back to the 13th Century. The Gobi Desert is home to many of Mongolia’s renowned landscapes and consists of the largest sand dunes within Mongolia at Khongoryn Els. See the scenery at Eagle Valley, which is covered in metre thick ice for the greater part of the year. Khovsgol is a scenic area and is known for its wild mountains and alpine lakes. Lake Khovsgol is the deepest lake in Mongolia, encircled by 2000m high mountains and is named after the Turkish word meaning ‘lake of the blue waters’.

Accommodation Due to the remoteness of some of the areas that we visit throughout Mongolia, the hotel standards are not the level you may expect; accommodation includes 6 nights in standard hotels and 13 nights in Ger camps (each Ger can sleep up to 4 people). Each property is clean, comfortable and has western facilities.

Climate

Mongolia is one of the most landlocked countries in the world, as well as being one of the highest. Due to this, its climate can be described as ‘extreme continental’, with warm summers and long sub-arctic winters. The summer season begins at the end of May until early October, with the average temperature of 16ºC. The most popular time to travel is mid July, which is also when the world famous Naadam Festival is held in Ulaanbaatar. Winters are long and cold with temperatures often falling well below –18ºC. Despite the temperatures, the blue winter sky can make the day time temperature feel warmer.

Due to the unpredictable climate changes around the world we strongly recommend you check the current weather at your destination prior to departing in order to pack accordingly.

Entry Requirements Passports must be valid for 6 months beyond the length of stay. Visas are required for Australian travellers, the price of which is already included in the fully inclusive price of all our group tours for Australian passport holders (providing all applications are received by Wendy Wu Tours within the required visa processing time frame).

Khovsgol Môron

MONGOLIA

Amarbayasgalant

Khorgo Mt Great White Lake

Ongii

Kharkhorin

On

gii

Bayan Gobi

Riv er

Tsetserleg

ULAANBAATAR Mt. Khongo Khan Middle Gobi Bag Gazriin Chuluu Mt

Dalanzadgad

Khongoryn Els

Yolym Am

66


Inclusions

Camels

International airfares, all transportation in Mongolia, accommodation, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, Australia and China departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

Mongolia and the Naadam Festival From $7,550 per person twin share - 22 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $6,980, Airline fuel surcharge $487 and Tipping $83 (subject to change)

The great Khans of Mongolia created the largest land empire the world has ever known. The most legendary of all was the famous Genghis Khan, the relentless warrior who forever placed his birthplace on the map. Remote and stunning, Mongolia is still relatively unexplored by modern day travellers and its charm firmly lies in that fact; endless plains with beautiful backdrops, warm hearted people with simplistic views on the world and an abundant and fascinating history. One of the special features you will encounter on this tour is experiencing first hand the annual Naadam Festival; a local celebration of the people and culture of this great land. The festivals origins can be traced to the Mongol Army with racing, wrestling and archery competitors favored by the locals and visitors alike.

Days 1-2: Australia to Ulaanbaatar Fly to Ulaanbaatar with Sinagpore Airlines via Singapore and Beijing for a 2 night stay.

Day 3: Ulaanbaatar Visit Sukhbaatar Square, the Mongolian and Natural History museums, the Khar Zakh local market and the Gandan Monastery.

Days 4-5: Ulaanbaatar to Yolym Am Fly to Dalanzadgad and begin our 4WD journey. We explore the Gurvansaikhan National Park and marvel at the scenery of Yolym Am.

Days 14-15: Jargal Jiguur to Lake Khovsgol Travel to Lake Khovsgol. Our time here is at leisure to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Travel to Môron. Tomorrow we fly to Ulaanbaatar for 4 nights and enjoy a traditional performance of ‘throat singing’ in the evening.

Day 7: Khongoryn Els to Bayanzag

Days 21-22: Ulaanbaatar to Australia

Drive to Bayanzag and visit the Flaming Cliffs, the Gobi Dinosaurs cemetery and trace the trail of Paleontologist Roy Chapman Andrews.

Transfer to the airport for our flight to Beijing, where we will board our flight to Australia. Arrive home the following day.

Day 8: Bayanzag to Ongii

Lake Khovsgol (2N)

Day 9: Ongii River to Mt. Khongo Khan Reach Mt. Khongo Khan and the remains of the Uvgun Hiid.

Day 10: Mt. Khogno Khan to Kharkhorin

MONGOLIA

Jargal Môron (1N) ULAANBAATAR Jiguur (1N) (2N+4N) OUTBOUND (1N) Great White Lake (2N) Mt. Khongo Tsenkher Khan (1N) Jiguur Hot INBOUND (1N) Spring (1N) Kharkhorin (1N)

Situated on the Orkhon River, we visit the Erdene Zuu Monastery.

Day 11: Tsenkher Jiguur Hot Springs Travel to Tsenkher Jiguur Hot Springs.

Days 12-13: Great White Lake to Jargal Jiguur Travel to the Great White Lake, visit Khorgo Volcano before we continue to Jargal Jiguur.

Single Hotel/Ger Supplement - From $900 Land Only (Ulaanbaatar to Ulaanbaatar) From $6,163 (includes Tipping) HHH Active Paced Tour (see page 2) Make the most of your holiday • Singapore Hotels and Touring (see page 63)

Departures Tour Code 2010 M17071 2011 M17081

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia 24 Jun

15 Jul

$7,550

24 Jun

15 Jul

$7,550

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $570 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$70 (A$83) is payable on arrival in Mongolia.

Naadam Festival - Ulaanbaatar

Days 18-20: Ulaanbaatar Over the next 3 days join the Naadam Festival and witness events such as wrestling, horseracing and archery.

Travel to Ongii, viewing Ongiin Khiid.

From $7,550 per person – Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Singapore Airlines

Days 16-17: Lake Khovsgol to Môron to Ulaanbaatar

Drive to Khongoryn Els, the location of Mongolia’s largest sand dunes.

Day 6: Yolym Am to Khongoryn Els

22 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share

Bayanzag (1N) Khongoryn Els (1N)

Ongii (1N)

Ongii River

Dalanzadgad Yolym Am (2N)

AIR 4WD ROAD

67

Ger Camp - Ulaanbaatar


Introduction to Central Asia The most renowned overland trading route of ancient civilizations was the Silk Road, which spanned from China’s former Imperial Capital of Xian, westward through to the faraway lands of Europe. The route crosses rugged, mountainous and desert areas where tales were told of mystical cities, lively open air bazaars and a seemingly endless hive of activity.

Introduction and Cities of Kyrgyzstan Time Language Currency Bishkek

Kyrgyzstan is 4hrs behind Australia EST. Kyrgy is the national language, however English and Russian are widely spoken. Som (SOM) US$1 = 40 SOM (approx) Located at the foot of the Alatau Mountains, and part of the Tian Shan Range. Bishkek was originally established by Silk Road traders. Upon independence in 1991 it became the capital of Kyrgyzstan.

Issy Kul The landscape north of Issy Kul is easier to navigate and explore. The south possesses better scenery. Here it is possible to see trails of the ancient civilizations and caravanserais established along the Silk Road route dating back to the 5th Century when the route passed between China’s Xinjiang Province and Bishkek.

Introduction and Cities of Uzbekistan Time Language Currency Bukhara Tashkent

Uzbekistan is 5hrs behind Australia EST. Uzbek is the national language, however English and Russian are widely spoken. Sum (SUM) US$1 = 1470 SUM (approx) Central Asia’s holiest city with a history of over 1000 years. It is considered to be the cultural centre with the old town referred to as an architectural wonder, offering a glimpse of pre-Russian tradition with its many fortresses and madrassahs. Tashkent is the capital of Uzbekistan, and dates back to the 3rd Century. The city’s Silk Road heritage is retained in the Chorsu Bazaar and museums, whilst the modern city has interesting Soviet relics, statues and architecture.

Samarkand The city of Samarkand is one of Central Asia’s oldest settlements and a significant Silk Road city. Made famous by James Flecker’s poem, ‘The Golden Road to Samarkand’, no other city is more reminiscent of Silk Road history.

Climate

Central Asia is a vast landlocked region of Asia and as it is not boarded by any large body of water, temperature fluctuations are more severe. There are 4 climatic seasons; summer lasts from mid June to early September and is normally hot, with temperatures reaching as high as 40ºC. Spring lasts from April to early June and autumn is from mid September to late October. These 3 seasons offer the overall best seasons to travel. Winter is from November to March and temperatures are extremely cold. Snow starts to fall over the mountain passes in November and has been known to last up until May.

Due to the unpredictable climate changes around the world we strongly recommend you check the current weather at your destination prior to departing in order to pack accordingly.

Accommodation Due to the remoteness of some of the areas that we visit throughout Central Asia, the hotel standards are not the level as you may expect; accommodation includes standard hotels, guest houses and a traditional home stay with a local family. Each property is clean and comfortable however, not all accommodation will have western facilities.

Entry Requirements Passports must be valid for 6 months beyond the length of stay. Visas are required for Australian travellers, the price of which is already included in the fully inclusive price of all our group tours for Australian passport holders (providing all applications are received by Wendy Wu Tours within the required visa processing time frame). As there are no Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan consulates in Australia we are required to send all passports to the UK in order to have the visas issued. We require all passports to be in our Sydney office 3 months prior to departure.

KYRGYZSTAN

Cholpon -Ata

Bishkek (2N) Naryn (1N)

Karakol (2N) Issy Kul

Bokonbayevo Village Kochkor Village (1N)

Torugart Pass Tash Rabat Kashgar (2N)

Urgench Khiva

(2N)

(1N+1N))

Samarkand Bukhara (3N)

INBOUND (1N)

TASHKENT

UZBEKISTAN

(2N)

BEIJING (1N)

(3N)

OUTBOUND (1N)

CHINA

AIR ROAD

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Inclusions

Bukhara Chor Minor Madrassah - Uzbekistan

International airfares, all transportation, accommodation in China, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, all meals, entrance fees, guides and daily tours, taxes and charges, China and Central Asia departure taxes and visa fees for Australian passport holders

Price Guide

From $7,745 per person - Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth with Malaysia Airlines

Road to Samarkand

From $7,745 per person twin share - 24 Days - Fully Inclusive From Australia From price includes: Tour Cost $7,280, Airline fuel surcharge $335 and Tipping $130 (subject to change)

With so much to see and experience this journey will take you from the Silk Road, Kashgar in China to some of the most amazing cities such as Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand, one of Central Asia’s oldest settlements. The Silk Road conjures up images of historic mystical cities, lively bazaars, glorious treasures, deserts and snowcapped mountain peaks. Historically, the Silk Road was a remote and arduous path and one can only imagine the kind of difficulties our ancestors had to overcome travelling this renowned road. It spanned from China’s former Imperial Capital Xian, westward through to Europe. Along the way you will discover breathtaking ancient sites, view beautiful Islamic architecture and see some of the most amazing scenery you will ever encounter.

Days 1-2: Australia to Beijing

Day 13: Bishkek to Tashkent

Fly overnight to Beijing with Malaysia Airlines. Enjoy a rickshaw tour, visit the 2008 Olympic Games site and the silk markets.

Fly to Tashkent and visit the 1966 earthquake memorial and Khast Imom Complex including the Moyie Mubarek Library Museum and the Mausoleum of Abu Bakr Kaffal Shoshi.

Days 3-4: Beijing to Kashgar via Urumqi Fly to Kashgar. The following day we visit Old Kashgar, the Abakh Hoja Tomb and the Id Kah Mosque.

Day 5: Kashgar to Naryn via Tash Rabat Drive to the Chinese border at Torugart Pass before continuing to Tash Rabat. From this fortified Silk Road caravanserai, we continue onto Naryn.

Day 6: Naryn to Kochkor Village

Fly to Urgench and drive to Khiva. Tour the Kuhna Ark Fortress and the many madrassahs, mosques and minarets within the walls.

Drive to Bishkek, climb the Burana Tower en route. Tomorrow we visit Ala Archa National Park and explore Bishkek, including Ala Too Square and the Historical Museum.

Tour Code 2010 TCA4001 TCA4002 2011 TCA1051

Depart Arrive Twin Share Price Australia Australia 02 May 03 Oct

25 May 26 Oct

$7,745 $7,745

01 May

24 May

$7,745

Important note: Above prices include Airline fuel surcharges and Tipping of $465 (correct as at 31 August 2009 and subject to change). Please note the Tipping amount of US$110 (A$130) is payable on arrival in China.

Local Family - Bokonbayevo Village

Days 17-18: Bukhara

Days 19-21: Bukhara to Samarkand

Days 11-12: Cholpon-Ata to Bishkek

Departures

Visit Elliq-Qala, a series of forts dating from the 4th Century BC. Tomorrow we drive to Bukhara.

Days 7-8: Kochkor Village to Karakol

Visit the Przhevalskii Museum and drive to Cholpon-Ata. Tomorrow visit the petroglyhph’s of Ibex and enjoy a cruise on Issy Kul.

HHH Active Paced Tour (see page 2)

Days 15-16: Khiva to Bukhara

Over the next 2 days explore the Ark Fortress, Chor Minor, Kalon Minaret, the Labi-Hauz Plaza and the summer residence of Emir.

Days 9-10: Karakol to Cholpon-Ata

Single Hotel Supplement - From $960 Land Only - From $6,080 (includes Tipping)

Day 14: Tashkent to Khiva via Urgench

Today we travel to Kochkor Village and enjoy a traditional lunch in a ger before partaking in a ‘shyrdak’ show (making of Kyrgy wool carpets). Drive to Bokonbayevo Village and enjoy a demonstration of eagle hunting. Later we continue to Karakol and enjoy an easy hike in Jety-Orguz and the Valley of Flowers. Tomorrow we visit the Sunday animal market, Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral and the Chinese Mosque.

24 Days, Fully Inclusive Twin Share

Drive to Samarkand. Over the next 2 days visit Timur’s Guri Amir Mausoleum, the Registan, Sher Dor Medressa, the BibiKhanym Mosque, Shah-I-Zinda and the Ulug Beg Observatory.

Day 22: Samarkand to Tashkent Continue to Tashkent passing through Tamerlane Gates en route.

Day 23: Depart Tashkent Wander through Independence Square and visit the Crying Mother Monument, Chorsu Bazaar, the Amir Timur Maydoni and Broadway Entertainment Street. Transfer to the airport for our flight to Australia.

Day 24: Arrive Australia Arrive home this morning.

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Khiva


Booking Conditions

It is important that you read and understand the following conditions before making your booking.

RESERVATION AND DEPOSIT - Please complete and forward the Booking Form accompanied by a deposit of $300 per person to Wendy Wu Tours or your travel agent to arrive within 7 days of receiving confirmation we are holding space for you. Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to correct any errors in rates quoted or calculated, or any omissions made at any time during your booking. Any verbal quote given is an indication only of the final price and is subject to confirmation in writing. RECEIPT OF DEPOSIT - Receipt of a deposit will be taken as an understanding by Wendy Wu Tours that the customer has read and agrees to be bound by the terms and conditions set forth in this brochure. BALANCE OF PAYMENT - The final balance of the travel arrangements is due at Wendy Wu Tours no later than 60 days prior to the chosen tour departure date as detailed in the brochure. Failure to pay in full by the due date may result in a late payment fee of $30 per booking or cancellation. Bookings made within 60 days of departure will automatically incur late payment fees if payment is not received by Wendy Wu Tours within 3 days of booking. Payments by credit cards will incur a fee. FEES AND CHARGES - All fully inclusive prices indicated in the brochure are based on group travel and any deviation from the set itinerary will incur additional airline ticket costs (Breakaway Fee) of up to $100 per person. Arrangements such as transfers, accommodation etc outside the set group arrangements/dates are at an additional cost and are not covered by the Breakaway Fee. AIRLINE FUEL LEVY SURCHARGE - Since 2004 all airlines to Asia have been charging a fuel levy surcharge, on top of the normal airline ticket price, in order to cover the increased cost of aviation fuel. As fuel prices have fluctuated, so too has the amount the airlines charge for this levy. This amount is detailed against every tour featured in this brochure and will also be advised to you at the time of your booking and is subject to change until your airline ticket is issued. AMENDMENT FEES - The following fees will apply: Amendments to confirmed and deposited itineraries outside of 30 days where the value of the booking is decreased - $25 per change Amendments within 30 days of departure - $50 per change Transferring between tours (outside 60 days) - $100 per person Transfer fees must be paid at the time of change. Customers will then have 7 working days to decide which tour they wish to be transferred to; otherwise an instant cancellation will occur. Transferring between tours (within 60 days) – See ‘Cancellation by Customer for applicable fees and details. Reissue of airline tickets - $100 per person (other fees may apply) Bookings of only 3 nights accommodation or less - $30 per booking Rail tickets and passes only - $50 per booking Once a booking is confirmed no name transfers are permitted as this will be regarded as a cancellation. CANCELLATION BY CUSTOMER - All cancellations must be made in writing to Wendy Wu Tours and will be subject to the following cancellation charges from the date the written cancellation is received: 1. More than 60 days prior to departure; loss of deposit plus any administration fees. 2. Between 59-50 days prior to departure; 25% of total tour cost 3. Between 49-40 days prior to departure; 50% of total tour cost 4. 39 days or less prior to departure; 100% of total tour cost In the event of a cancellation any refunds will be less administration fees including visa, transfer fees, airline cancellation fees and any applicable amendment fees. Regrettably cancellation charges and fees cannot be waived. There can be no exceptions. No refund will be made for any unused portions of the holiday after the departure date. Please note that employees of any overseas company or staff of Wendy Wu Tours outside Australia are not authorised to give any guarantees or agreements to customers in respect of refunds or any other matters. LATE BOOKINGS - Bookings made less than 60 days prior to departure will incur a late booking fee of $30 per booking and must be paid in full within 3 days of booking. These bookings may also incur additional fees including any applicable urgent visa processing fees. Bookings

made less than 30 days prior to departure will incur a late booking fee of $50 per booking and must be paid in full immediately. These bookings are subject to additional fees. Unfortunately visas cannot be processed by Wendy Wu Tours within 30 days prior to departure. CANCELLATION BY WENDY WU TOURS - Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to cancel or vary a tour prior to departure due to insufficient numbers. In such an event alternative guaranteed travel dates will be offered. Should these options not be acceptable Wendy Wu Tours will refund the full price paid, less visa cost. If a tour is cancelled due to unforeseeable circumstances such as, but not restricted to, severe weather conditions or force majeure, Wendy Wu Tours will refund all monies except visa cost and any cancellation fees levied by airlines and other third parties. Unforeseeable circumstances such as force majeure, adverse weather, flight rescheduling, hotel overbooking and faults with transportation or road conditions may also have an effect on the tour itinerary after the commencement date. Any decision made in respect of tour services by independent operators to re-route or amend the itinerary due to any of the above or similar circumstances is at the discretion of the tour service provider and Wendy Wu Tours shall not be liable for any claim whatsoever arising from such events. REFUSAL OF CARRIAGE - Wendy Wu Tours retains the right to remove customers from our group tours for reasons that impact on the enjoyment or safety of other tour members, such as, but not limited to, the physical, medical or mental inability of passengers to undertake the arrangements of the tour, unsocial or unruly behaviour, or the carriage of prohibited substances and materials. HOTEL DESCRIPTIONS MAPS & PICTURES - Hotel descriptions featured in this brochure are based on current hotel guides provided by suppliers and contractual agreements. Any facilities described are subject to change at any time. Maps and photographs are included for general information only and may not necessarily reflect actual routings, location or services. Hotel room photographs may not be specific to the actual room occupied. Wendy Wu Tours has made reasonable enquiries to verify that the descriptions and details are accurate but does not warrant that they are. TRAVEL INSURANCE - Wendy Wu Tours strongly recommends that customers joining any group tour are adequately insured for the full duration of their travel arrangements including cover for illness, injury, death, loss of bagg age and personal items, cancellation and curtailment. Wendy Wu Tours can not be made liable for any cost incurred by the customer on any tours if not adequately insured. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS - All customers are required to familiarise themselves with any health requirements specific to the countries being visited. All customers are given a Medical Information Form with their deposit or quote documents. Customers who are aged 70 years or more, or with a pre-existing condition that affects their fitness to travel, or any medical/dietary requirements must complete and return this document with their booking form. All customers should visit their doctor for these aforementioned purposes and/or to confirm that they are physically able to undertake the day-to-day requirements of the tour. Should any ailments either exist at the time of booking, or arise before their departure from Australia, the customer must inform Wendy Wu Tours of these by completing a Medical Information Form. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS - A passport with a minimum of 6 months validity is required for customers travelling to all countries in our programme. Visa fees are included for Australian passport holders in all fully inclusive packages. Non Australian passport holders will incur additional fees. If passports are not received by Wendy Wu Tours 60 days prior to departure at the specified time the customer will be required to pay an urgent visa processing fee. Unless otherwise requested your passport will be returned with final documentation approximately 2 weeks prior to your departure date. If the customer requests the passports to be returned prior to this, there will be an additional fee incurred. Responsibility for documentation accuracy, passport validity and dispatch of documents rests with the customer. Wendy Wu Tours accepts no responsibility for any failure in this respect. Wendy Wu Tours does not issue foreign visas. We only submit passports and application forms for visas to be issued by the relevant authorities. Wendy Wu Tours cannot guarantee that any visa will be issued by the relevant authority and accepts no responsibility if a visa application is refused. Any cancellation fees or other expenses incurred by the customer due to the refusal of a visa will be entirely the customer’s liability. CONSULAR ADVICE - We recommend that you review

70

information provided by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade prior to making your booking by calling 1300 555 135 or by visiting their website www. dfat.gov.au for the latest information. We strongly recommend that you familiarise yourself with the latest Government Consular advice and information. TIPPING - Tipping is a firm and expected element in the tourism industry today and China is no exception. The nominated tip amount is to be given to your National Escort at the beginning of your group tour and they will do all the necessary tipping on your behalf. The amount payable for each tour is shown in the tour price and Wendy Wu Tours will advise the exact amount required per person as it is dependent on the length of the group tour undertaken. Tipping amounts will range from US$60 to US$170 per person based on the tour itinerary and length and are subject to change at any time. SHOPPING - Shopping can be fun and entertaining, especially in local markets, where many copies of international brand names can be purchased for next to nothing. However, Wendy Wu Tours, its staff and employees are not qualified nor permitted to ensure or guarantee the quality or value of any goods purchased or the suitability of any retail outlets visited and the security of using a credit card to purchase such goods. In all cases the purchasing of goods and the use of a credit card for those transactions is entirely at the customers own risk and at all times the customer must use their own discretion. RESPONSIBILITY - Wendy Wu Tours (herewith called the Company) acts as a co-ordinator for all persons taking these tours in the making of all arrangements for transportation sightseeing and hotel accommodation. The Company does not own, manage, control or operate any transportation vehicle, any hotel or restaurant or any other supplier of services. All coupons, receipts and tickets are issued subject to the terms and conditions specified by the supplier and all services are subject to the laws of the country where the services are provided. The Company acts only as an agent for the owners, contractors and suppliers of transportation and/or other related travel services provided and assumes no responsibility for the loss or damage to baggage or property or for any injury, illness or death or for any damages or claims whatsoever caused arising directly or indirectly from accidents loss or damage to person or property, delays, transport failure, strikes, wars and uprisings or acts of God etc over which the Company has no control. PROCEDURES FOR LODGING COMPLAINTS OR CLAIMS - Should the customer not be satisfied with any aspect of their arrangements they must immediately inform the National Escort or guide who will endeavour to resolve the issue at the time. If this is not possible and you wish to lodge a complaint or claim this must be done in writing to Wendy Wu Tours in Sydney within 30 days of the date of the completion of your Wendy Wu Tours arrangements. Relevant receipts and substantiating evidence must be attached to the letter of claim. AIRLINES - Airlines featured in this brochure do not by virtue of their endorsement represent themselves either as contracting with any purchaser of a holiday from Wendy Wu Tours or as having any legal relationship with such a purchaser. Frequent flyer miles are not accrued on packaged fares using Singapore Airlines. EMAIL ADDRESSES - By providing an email address on the Booking Form you have agreed to receive emails from Wendy Wu Tours which may contain marketing, specials and promotional material. BROCHURE VALIDITY - Tour itineraries and prices in this brochure are accurate at the time of printing and prices are based on exchange rates as at 31 August 2009. Once a customer has paid in full, the price of the tour is guaranteed, subject to any tax changes or levies imposed by any government or their agencies or any airline. The prices for tours after 01 January 2011 are subject to change without notice. The departure dates of tours after 31 March 2011 are subject to change due to future airline schedules. Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to make alterations to itineraries, departure dates and prices due to circumstances beyond their control. AGENT RESPONSIBILITIES - It is the travel agent’s responsibility to ensure that all invoice and itinerary details and documentation issued by Wendy Wu Tours are correct and that the customer is aware of amendment and cancellation conditions and other clauses in these Booking Conditions. LAW OF CONTRACT - This contract is governed by the laws of the state of New South Wales and any legal action arising therefrom shall be litigated only in the appropriate court in that state having jurisdiction in that claim.


BOOKING FORM: No documents can be processed until the completed booking form and full payment is received by Wendy Wu Tours. Tour Name

Booking No

Tour Code

Departure Date

/

Room Type:

/

Twin

Single

Single and willing to share

Travel Agent Information Agency

Consultant

Agency Licence No

Postal Address

Postcode

Phone

Fax

Agent Email

Names that appear on this booking form are used for ticketing purposes and therefore MUST appear exactly as per passports. Any errors in names will incur ticket reissue fees which are at passengers’ own expense.

Passenger 1 (AS PER PASSPORT) Title

Surname (CAPITALS)

First Name (CAPITALS)

Preferred Name on Tour Badge Nationality

Occupation Birth Date

/

/

Passport No

Expiry Date

/

/

Passenger Requirements Medical/Special Requirements # Dietary Requirements Preference Allergy # Please attach relevant medical certificate and read declaration below.

Rooming Requests

Non Smoking

Postal Address

Postcode

Home Phone

Mobile

Past Passenger

Smoking

Yes

Email When

No If Yes, where travelled to

Emergency Contact Details Name

Phone

Relationship to Passenger

Would you like to receive a copy of our Chinese Whispers newsletter and be contacted about upcoming specials?

Yes

No

If Yes, by

Mail

Email

Travel Insurance is strongly recommended when travelling with Wendy Wu Tours and should be purchased no later than when final balance is paid. Travel Insurance provider

Policy number

Passenger 2 (AS PER PASSPORT) Title

Surname (CAPITALS)

First Name (CAPITALS)

Preferred Name on Tour Badge Nationality

Occupation Birth Date

/

/

Passport No

Expiry Date

/

/

Passenger Requirements Medical/Special Requirements # Dietary Requirements Preference Allergy # Please attach relevant medical certificate and read declaration below.

Rooming Requests

Non Smoking

Postal Address

Postcode

Home Phone

Mobile

Past Passenger

Smoking

Yes

Email When

No If Yes, where travelled to

Emergency Contact Details Name

Phone

Relationship to Passenger

Would you like to receive a copy of our Chinese Whispers newsletter and be contacted about upcoming specials?

Yes

No

If Yes, by

Mail

Email

Travel Insurance is strongly recommended when travelling with Wendy Wu Tours and should be purchased no later than when final balance is paid. Travel Insurance provider

Policy number

DECLARATION:

• If signed by one party only, I confirm that I am authorised to sign on behalf of all passengers listed on this booking form • All parties have read, understood and agree to abide by the terms, conditions and responsibilities as outlined on page 70 of this brochure • All persons named on this form are fit and physically able to partake in tours unaided and travel throughout the destinations described

Passenger 1: Name

Signature

Date

/

/

Passenger 2: Name

Signature

Date

/

/

By providing an email address on the Booking Form you have agreed to receive emails from Wendy Wu Tours which may contain marketing, specials and promotional material.

If you are faxing this form, please fax it to: (02) 9993 0443

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Ask about our other best value India and Vietnam tours.

Travel Agent Licence No 2TA4792 ABN 87 082 688 202 Member of IATA, AFTA & CATO Level 9, 275 George Street Sydney NSW 2000 Telephone: (02) 9224 8888 Reservations: 1300 727 998 Documentation & Ticketing: (02) 9224 8899 General Fax: (02) 9993 0444 Booking and Medical Forms Fax: (02) 9993 0443 Email: info@wendywutours.com.au

www.wendywutours.com.au Š Wendy Wu Tours 2009

YOUR TRAVEL AGENT

We would like to thank all our past clients, operators, friends and staff who generously donated photographs for this brochure.


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