DAYS 1 – 4

Upon arrival on Day 2 you are transferred to your luxury hotel. The next day, begin exploring the city that was once the capital of Kublai Khan’s empire. Stroll across Tiananmen Square, one of the largest city squares in the world and the spiritual heart of China. Explore fascinating historic sites such as the Forbidden City, a 250-acre complex that was home to 24 emperors, and is the world’s largest palace complex. More than 200,000 laborers worked to build it, but only the royal family and their households were allowed inside. We, however, will enjoy special VIP access to the Chong Hua Palace where the elite once entertained with poetry and tea. Witness the finest expression of an art form at the Summer Palace gardens, the best-preserved imperial garden in China. Stroll atop the Great Wall. Learn the mythology and symbolism behind the paired mythical beasts lining the Sacred Way of the Ming Tombs, and the ultra-modern architecture built for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Ride a rickshaw through old winding hutongs and meet with a local family delighted to have you as their guest.

St. Regis Hotel, Beijing

DAYS 5 & 6

Xi’an was once the eastern end of the Silk Road and the most important city in Asia, vying with Rome and later Constantinople for the title of greatest city in the world. With more than 3,100 years of history, we will find it everywhere here, including underfoot. At the Han Yangling Museum, we may have the opportunity to watch archeologists working to uncover artifacts from a royal mausoleum right below you through a glass floor. Also visit the Shaanxi Historical Museum to view the Tang Dynasty Murals, its collection of ancient Chinese artifacts, and most famously, the Army of Terra Cotta Warriors. More than 7,000 life-sized terra cotta soldiers, chariots, and horses have been excavated so far at the tomb of emperor Qin Shi Huang.

Shangri-La Hotel, Xi’an

DAYS 7 – 10

Board the luxurious M/V Victoria Jenna, one of the newest ships on the Yangtze, for a three-night cruise. The Yangtze is the third longest river in the world after the Nile and the Amazon. History and culture thrive along its banks and we encounter spectacular landscapes and fascinating folklore around every bend. Admire the incredible Three Gorges and Little Gorges scenery. Depending on the river’s water level, explore oddities like Shibaozhai’s 12-story wooden pagoda built entirely without nails, or Fengdu, the “city of ghosts” where it seems spirits and demons outnumber the town’s residents. Onshore, examine Gezhou Dam, the largest public works project in China since the Great Wall, before we board our flight to Shanghai.

M/V Victoria Jenna; Pudong Shangri-La, Shanghai

DAYS 11 & 12

On one side of the Huangpo River lies the Bund, the colonial past of Shanghai. On the Pudong side lie the skyscrapers of Shanghai’s future. Explore both during our time here. Find serenity and watercolor vistas in Yu Yuan Garden, a classical masterpiece from 1577 located in Shanghai’s Old Town. Enjoy an evening performance of Chinese acrobats, renowned for their limber gymnastics and amazing stunts. Admire the two exquisitely carved white jade Buddhas at the Temple of the Jade Buddha, still a sanctuary for Zen Buddhist study and meditation. Examine extraordinary Chinese art and artifacts from bronze ware to calligraphy at the contemporary Shanghai Museum in People’s Square.

Pudong Shangri-La Hotel, Shanghai

DAYS 13 & 14

Guilin, with its limestone karsts shaped (and named) like mythical creatures, has often been hailed as the most beautiful place in China, and for good reason. Along with fanciful karsts, the area undulates with rolling hills, caves decorated with lavish stalactites and stalagmites, and traditional milieu of farmers working rice paddies. Go ashore on the west bank of the Li River to explore the wonders of Elephant Trunk Hill, its pachyderm profile resembling an elephant drinking with its trunk from the river.

Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin

DAYS 15 & 16

This morning get a sense of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) as you walk the blue flagstone street lining the river through Daxu Ancient Town. Notice the old wooden residences, shops, and stalls adorned with colorfully decorated eaves, with carved doors and window frames looking much as they did back in the days of the last emperors. Later in the day, fly to Lijiang to reveal more of this amazing country’s secrets. Built alongside the delta of the Jade River more than 2,000 years ago, Lijiang is dramatically set among green fields backed by the 13 snow-covered peaks of the Jade Dragon Snow massif. Weather permitting, ride a chair lift to the top of one of these peaks, Yak Meadow, for outstanding views. Head down to the old Baisha Village below to find fresco-covered temples, and to Yufeng Monastery. In the Naxi village of Yuhu, step inside a traditional “monkey head” house, now a museum, to learn about Naxi language and culture. Explore the twisted lanes of Old Town Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, whose homes are an amalgamation of styles from various regional tribes. View yet more historical buildings and temples brought from all over the region in Jade Spring Park.

Crown Plaza, Lijiang

DAYS 17 & 18

Once a gateway to the celebrated Silk Road, Kunming is now a thriving metropolis known for its year-round blossoms, 26 ethnic groups, and startling geography. The striking limestone pillars, lakes, and waterfalls that make up the legendary Stone Forest are often called “the most fantastic scenery under heaven.” Back in the Paleozoic era 270 million years ago, this entire region was covered by sea. As those seas receded, the limestone pinnacles were revealed. Some are ornamented by vines or living trees, and others resemble animals, plants, and human figures. Some even extend underground into subterranean caves. This region is also home to the Sani Tribe, renowned for their dancing, and an evening folkloric show will show off their talents and beautiful native costumes.

Grand Park Hotel or Green Lake Hotel, Kunming

DAYS 19 – 21

This modern city of 14 million weaves an intricate web of old and new. Quiet parks host elderly citizens performing their daily tai chi, and families living on sampans still sell fruit and fish to ships in the harbor, while overhead in skyscrapers, stockbrokers weigh in on the latest international developments. Aberdeen Harbor is a hive of activity from Star Line ferries and commercial barges to junks with battened sails cupped like clamshells to catch the wind. Enjoy the most strategic view of it all as we take a cable car to the top of Victoria Peak. Then it’s back down to sea level to board a sampan to witness life on Aberdeen Harbor, and later, explore Stanley Market. Spend the next-to-last night in China at leisure savoring the sights, strolling tiny shopping streets, or watching the “Symphony of the Stars,” a spectacular 20-minute soundand- light show. Our last day offers more choices— in the afternoon, take one of the Star Line ferries, browse a museum dedicated to tea, or find yourself back in Stanley Market purchasing that necklace or silk purse you decided you can’t live without. On your last night, toast your legendary journey to China with a cocktail and dinner party with your fellow travelers and Travcoa Travel Director. On Day 21 you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight.

Island Shangri-La Hotel, Hong Kong

Package price is per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement applies. Intra-tour air pricing is subject to change. International airfare is additional. Other restrictions may apply. Contact us for complete journey details.

St. Regis Hotel Beijing
Beijing, China

Located just a few minutes’ walk from the ride away from the Silk Market, and a short taxi ride to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, the hotel was named to Condé Nast Traveler's 2002 Gold List. The hotel is the hallmark of luxurious accommodations in China, with a rich tradition of exceptional service and hospitality. It is a five-star deluxe hotel and all guests have Executive Floor benefits and 24-hour butler service - including complimentary light pressing of garments on arrival, coffee and tea facilities in your room, complimentary evening cocktail in the Executive lounge, fresh fruit daily, unlimited bottled water and complimentary local telephone calls. Other hotel services include a full service spa, swimming pool, bowling alley, and business center. There are several dining venues and lounge areas. All guestrooms are beautifully furnished with a warm and inviting color scheme, and have wonderful beds with big inviting duvets. Rooms are equipped with large TV screen, hi-speed internet access, mini-bar, private in-room safe, and individually controlled air-conditioning.

A Condé Nast Traveler "Best in the World" hotel for 2012

Shangri-La Hotel, Xi’an
Xi’an, China

This new 397-room hotel is located in Xi’an’s prestigious Gao Xin hi-tech development zone, on the doorstep to the city’s finest shopping and entertainment. The hotel’s facilities include a business center and fully-equipped health club with indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam, and sauna rooms. Services include laundry service, beauty salon, gift & retail shops, and complimentary shoe shine. There are a tempting array of dining options, including a lobby lounge and specialty and Chinese restaurants. In-room dining is also available around the clock. The Shangri-La’s spacious guest rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views of the city or the gardens, along with internet access, 24-hour room service, coffee/tea facilities, a mini bar and electronic safe. Travcoa’s Horizon Club rooms offer an enhanced level of service and amenities including the services of a personal concierge and use of the Horizon Club lounge with soft beverage available throughout the day.

M/V Victoria Jenna
Yangtze River cruise

Your home for three lovely nights, the M/V Victoria Jenna had her inaugural sailing September 2009 following her sister ship, the M/V Victoria Anna, in setting a new standard of cruise ship design for Yangtze River cruising. This luxury vessel is constructed with a blend of both modern and elegant architecture. Victoria Cruises is the only American-managed cruise line on the Yangtze River. It has international multi-lingual cruise directors and offers an array of shipboard amenities including a lounge, panoramic observation deck, outdoor Jacuzzi, fitness center, and beauty salon. The Victoria Jenna takes luxury cruising on the Yangtze to a whole new level with its generous cabin space, floor-to-ceiling windows, and private balconies opening up to breathtaking views, allowing you to absorb the natural beauty of the Three Gorges from the comfort of your cabin. She also boasts elegant atriums with sparkling chandeliers and gleaming woods, with an overall décor of American and European influences with Asian accents. All cruises feature excellent cuisine, with both Western and Chinese specialties; interesting lectures on Chinese history and culture; live entertainment featuring traditional performing arts; Tai Qi, acupuncture and Chinese medicine lectures; introductory Mandarin lessons; international TV programming including HBO and BBC; in-house daily movies; internet access and online services; and on-board health and therapeutic services.

Pudong Shangri-La Hotel Shanghai
Shanghai, China

Prominently situated along the famous Huangpu River, the Pudong Shangri-La Hotel has breathtaking views of Shanghai's legendary riverfront – the Bund – and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. Its 606 rooms are the most spacious in the city and are complemented by three restaurants, an entertainment center, and lobby lounge. The hotel is well equipped with recreational facilities including an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, tennis court, gym, massage, Jacuzzi, sauna, and steam bath. The rooms have an IDD telephone and computer/fax line, mini bar, refrigerator, work desk, electronic safe, and remote-controlled TV/radio.

A Condé Nast Traveler "Best in the World" hotel and a Travel + Leisure "World's Best" hotel for 2012

Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin
Guilin, China

Overlooking the picturesque banks of the legendary Li River, this classic Chinese-style hotel sits on an impressive 12-acre site, from which Guilin’s leading tourist attractions - including Diecai Mountain and the city's charming pedestrian tourist area - are easily accessible. The hotel's 449 guest rooms and suites are the most spacious in the city, and guests are offered a diverse selection of recreational facilities and an interesting variety of dining opportunities during their stay. With exceptional levels of service and comfort, Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin is the premier choice for discerning visitors to this remarkable city.

Crowne Plaza Lijiang Ancient Town
Lijiang, China

Set amidst a sprawling 12 acres of lush greenery, the hotel is located inside the Dayan Ancient Town area. The architecture and interiors reflect strong influences from the unique Naxi/Dongba culture, with touches of contemporary styling woven in. It is a leisurely 5-minute walk to the Market Square, the hub of Ancient Town. This beautiful resort’s services include a fitness center, indoor pool, beauty salon, gift shops, business center, and laundry and dry cleaning services. There are two restaurants offering a choice of cuisine, as well as a cocktail lounge. The elegant guest rooms with Naxi/Dongba ethnic charm are spacious and have amenities including a mini bar, stereo, in-room safe, satellite TV, coffee/tea maker, internet access, and a luxurious bathroom with a hair dryer and bathrobes.

Grand Park Kunming Hotel
Kunming, China

The Grand Park Hotel is situated alongside Green Lake Park, one of the most popular attractions in Kunming, providing tranquil, scenic views of willows along the bank, and lotus flowers on the lake. Not far from Kunming's central commercial area, the Grand Park enjoys both the beautiful natural scenery of the area and convenient shopping facilities. The Grand Park's fully equipped business center provides an extensive range of business-related services including secretarial services, telecommunications, equipment rental, and more. There is also a fitness center, an outdoor swimming pool, and a beauty salon. All 321 rooms are decorated in elegant style, enjoy lake or city views, are air conditioned, and have a range of amenities including internet access, satellite TV, mini bar, hairdryer, and in-room safe.

Green Lake Hotel
Kunming, China

Green Lake Hotel, a five-star business class hotel in Kunming, has been voted by Forbes as China’s Best Business Hotel 2007 & 2008. Finely decorated by international designers, the Green Lake Hotel has a continental style and cultural Chinese atmosphere. Enjoy modern, sophisticated design with custom-made, comfortable furnishings and accessories.

Green Lake Hotel has a wonderful natural environment and has also been called, “A heaven of peace in the metropolis. A peaceful land in the noise.” We are also the first hotel to offer 24-Hour Butler Service in western China. The hotel combines the personality and style of an intimate hotel with the functionality, reliability and attentive service of a major business and leisure hotel. The property provides the kind of environment today’s savvy traveler needs and holds the highest standards of service and hospitality.

Island Shangri-La Hotel
Hong Kong, China

Consistently voted one of the finest hotels in the world, the Island Shangri-La Hotel is centrally located in the heart of Hong Kong. Towering 56 floors above Victoria Harbor, it has direct access to Pacific Place – the island’s most prestigious shopping and entertainment complex. Its eight award-winning restaurants bring an exquisite dining experience for the epicurean. The hotel also features the world's largest Chinese silk painting, "The Great Motherland of China," in its Atrium. The 565 rooms and suites of this luxurious hotel are among the largest in Hong Kong, and each offers breathtaking views of the city and harbor from wide bay windows. Amenities include broadband internet access, voice mail, satellite/cable television, DVD player, LCD TV in bathroom, international direct dial telephone, electronic safe, mini bar, coffee/tea making facilities, and full-size executive writing desk. The hotel’s recreation and fitness facilities include a 24-hour fitness center, massage, aromatherapy, reflexology, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, sauna and steam room, solariums, and an outdoor swimming pool.

A Condé Nast Traveler "Best in the World" hotel and a Travel + Leisure "World's Best" hotel for 2012