China is a true traveler?s paradise. Its 5,000 years of recorded history provide a wealth of culture while its modern economy makes it a fast-rising star on the world stage.?Friendly Planet Travel?s?newly upgraded?China Delight?tour,starting at $2,799 with airfare, goes far beyond introducing travelers to the iconic, contemporary, and must-see cities of Beijing and Shanghai. This fascinating tour also includes extensive visits to ancient?Hangzhou, whose stunning West Lake and magnificent scenery alone are worth a visit, and?Chengdu, home to the Giant Panda Research Center, each providing greater insight into China?s ancient traditions and modern lifestyle than ever before.
?This new itinerary gives a true glimpse into life in China, its ancient history, unmatched beauty, and unique views into everyday life most Western visitors never see?
?We upgraded the itinerary and extended the length of our China Delight tour to give travelers a more comprehensive view of China?s incredible culture, and to show them how the country?s ancient traditions continue to impact modern life,? says Peggy Goldman, President of Friendly Planet Travel. ?In addition to the fascinating new sites on our itinerary, we?ve also added lodging at top-rated hotels throughout the country. The best part is that all of these enhancements have been accomplished while keeping our prices attractive and affordable, which is always our goal for every single vacation package we create.?
The?12-day China Delight tour?begins in Beijing, the historical and cultural capital of China with a visit to Tiananmen Square, the largest open square in the world; the?Temple of Heaven, containing the world?s leading collection of preserved ancient wooden structures; and the?Forbidden City, an ?outstanding expression of the creative art of Chinese landscape garden design,” according to UNESCO, ?incorporating the works of humankind and nature in a harmonious whole.?
During a visit to the?Great Wall of China, travelers take a step further back in time as they make their way up the ancient stone steps and hear the stories of the legions of soldiers on horseback as they raced across the ramparts that protected the city within. A visit to the Sacred Way, a massive stone archway and ancient road leading through the burial site of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty completes the day.
Following four days in Beijing, travelers fly to?Shanghai, China?s most modern city. Here, they visit?Yu Garden, an example of a beautiful, classical Chinese garden and one of the city?s oldest attractions, followed by a visit to one of Shanghai?s newest sites, the?Oriental Pearl TV Tower, one of the largest radio and TV towers in the world. The vistas from the top of the tower are expansive, thrilling, and offer the visitor a panoramic view of the gleaming city below. Travelers enjoy two days to explore Shanghai on their own or on optional excursions, then board the?bullet train, an experience in and of itself, to Hangzhou, often called the ?Venice of China.?
Hangzhou is known for its green tea production and the unmatched natural beauty of one of its most famous scenic sights,?West Lake. The lake is surrounded by lush gardens, beautiful temples, and picturesque pagodas. In town, Hefang Street, a commercial center for centuries, offers a taste of traditional Chinese culture and commerce, including an ancient pharmacy that specializes in Chinese medicine while also offering modern medications. In a presentation, an experienced pharmacist explains the Chinese practice of traditional medicine, herbal remedies, and much more. A visit to a popular tea plantation offers an opportunity to learn about how this delicate and in-demand product is cultivated, followed by lunch at a tea farmer?s home.
The next stop is Chengdu, where travelers enjoy a highlight of the tour: a visit to the internationally renowned Giant Panda Research Center, China’s leading organization in the conservation of the endangered panda, to learn about the protection of this universally loved animal. Visitors stroll through the expansive, beautiful grounds where pandas are pampered, lovingly looked after, and bred.
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