QUINTESSENTIAL TRAVEL

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THE “QUINTESSENTIAL” INTRODUCTION TO CHINA

In our commitment to show you the best of China we are always seeking new and unusual destinations as well as fresh ways at looking at more familiar places such as Beijing and Shanghai etc.

We would like to introduce our clients to places that reflect the heritage, culture and beauty of China.

China or the “middle kingdom” was, for centuries, the world’s richest and most advanced civilization and in the last few years again on it’s was to regaining that title.

The land of 1.3 billion people with a myriad of ancient wonders plus a modern society stretched across an area larger than Europe. Here the modern world coexists with rural rice paddies and ancient sacred mountains.

China’s hinterland of the south and south western regions is the home to numerous minority nationalities which add colours to our itinerary. China is a land of contrasts bursting with energy and eastern magic.

One hidden gem is the small town of Xitang, a canal town, unknown to most visitors, until recently when Tom Cruise used it as a location for “ MISSION IMPOSSIBLE 3” It is now popular with more and more tours but still retaining it’s ancient charm.

Beijing, the capital has great historic monuments that date back hundreds of years but we are also keen to show you the domestic life of the city beyond the walls of the Forbidden City. We will visit the ancient lanes or Hutongs, courtyard houses and travel by rickshaw to experience the atmosphere of old Beijing. We can enjoy the traditional Chinese architecture and gain an insight with an experienced local guide plus enjoy a short stroll in the area.

The commercial capital of Shanghai has dazzling modern architecture contrasting with traditional local residences. Along the Bund wonderful European buildings blend in with the vibrant life of the waterfront. The new development area of Pudong is best seen at night when most buildings are illuminated, creating a stunning panorama of the city.

Our intimate “quintessential” knowledge of China and our very high standards means that we only include the very best in our tours.

Please do not be surprised if some of the sights featured in our competitors brochures are not featured by us.

T Please do not be surprised if some of the sights featured in our competitors brochures are not featured by us.

These are mainly standard arrangements suggested by the Chinese Government Tourist agency and adopted by many who don’t bother to seek out the very best of China.

We have omitted some meals from our tours to allow maximum choice and freedom. By doing this we can also offer more time for touring and visiting.

For transportation we use suitable vehicles depending on the group size.

Please note that China is a vast country, three times the size of Europe. Itineraries may be subject to change for various reasons and day to day arrangements may be adjusted to comply with local conditions, traffic, weather, water levels and crowds etc.

As long as you travel to China with an open mind and a willingness to be adaptable and flexible you will have an enjoyable time..

In remote areas some hotels can be basic and professional guides with good English are rare so be prepared to accept lower standards in return for spectacular scenery and a unique experience.

All tours are within the capability of a reasonably active person and no age limit is imposed. We will endeavor to take reasonable measures to accommodate travelers with special needs. However, due to the regions that we operate, we will be unable to guarantee requests for special assistance.

Embarking and disembarking from cruise ships, trains and exploring sites on foot plus many steps may be a strain for some travelers.

Except, when specified otherwise, our maximum group size is limited to 25 people. Larger groups can, of course, produce lower prices but this is offset by the impersonal nature of such groups.

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES FEATURED IN OUR TOURS:

Forbidden City, Beijing

Terracotta Warriors, Xian

Mogao Caves, Dunhaung

The Great Wall

Potala Palace, Lhasa

Leshan Giant Budda, Leshan

Old Town of Lijiang

Summer Palace, Beijing

Temple of Heaven, Beijing

Longmen Grottoes, Laoyang

Wolong Nature Reserve.

ACCOMMODATION

When traveling in China where you stay is very much part of the experience.

In some areas international style hotels are the best options available but we use 4 or star hotels in the main cities such as Shanghai ,Xian & Beijing etc.

We always keep a careful check on the properties used to offer you a unique and enjoyable experience.

Capital Total Area:	Beijing 9.6 million sq km, the third largest country in the world
Population:	1.3 billion
Official Language:	Putonghua (Mandarin).
Time Zone:	GMT +8 with no summer time (daylight saving time); the whole country is in a single time zone.
Voltage:	220 Volts, 50 cyles AC