Highlights |
Escorted Package Includes
- Flights LAX-Shanghai, Beijing-LAX
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices
- Airline fuel surcharges
- Intra-flights
- 15 nights First Class accommodations
- All transfers
- 30 meals: 15 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 6 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of an English-speaking tour manager
- Entrance fees per itinerary
Special Features
- Li River Cruise
- Terracotta Army
- Forbidden City
- Great Wall of China
Also Available
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Itinerary |
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DAY 1, Thursday - Depart the USA
Depart the USA to China. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment for your journey
DAY 2, Friday - Arrive in Shanghai
Arrive in Shanghai and transfer to your hotel. Balance of the day at leisure
Overnight: Shanghai
DAY 3, Saturday - Shanghai City Tour
This morning, tour the major attractions of Shanghai. Wander the classical Yuyuan Garden, built during the Ming Dynasty by the high-ranking government official Pan Yunduan. The Gardens' total area occupies approximately five acres, and features pavilions, ponds, rockeries, cloisters, and streams all within six scenic zones, including the Sansui Hall and Wanhua Chamber. In existence for 400 years, the Gardens were specifically constructed for Pan's aging parents as a sanctuary in which to live out their lives. Next, experience the old world charm of the Bund, the former "Wall Street" of the foreign powers. Walk along its park-like waterfront promenade between the Wusong River and Old Town. Later today, enjoy a stop at a local Pearl Factory. Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure
Optional: Acrobatic Show with Dinner
Overnight: Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, Sunday- Full Day in Shanghai
Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore Shanghai on your own
Optional: Full Day Suzhou with Lunch by bus with a cruise on the Grand Canal
Overnight: Shanghai
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5, Monday - Flight to Yichang; Embark cruise
Morning at leisure. This afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Yichang. Upon arrival, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, then transfer to board your ship on the Yangtze River
Overnight: Yangtze River
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 6, Tuesday - Xiling Gorge
This morning, you will have the option to visit the Three Gorges Dam near the Sandouping Village. This dam is the largest hydroelectric dam in the world, nearly six times the size of the Hoover Dam. Following your visit, cruise upstream to Xiling Gorge. The longest section of the Three Gorges system, it comprises the rapids of Xietan, Qintan and Kongling, collectively known as the Three Rapids of Xiling
Optional Shore Excursion: Three Gorges Dam
Overnight: Yangtze River
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7, Wednesday - Yangtze River Cruising
This morning, enjoy an optional to visit the Small Three Gorges along the Daning River. Enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountain passes as you sail through the 25-mile long Wuxia (Witches) Gorge, famous for its fabled Twelve Peaks. According to legend, the peaks are believed to be the spirits of 12 fairies, the most famous of them being the Shennu Feng (Goddess) Peak, which is topped by a huge rock resembling a kneeling maiden. Continue through the Qutang Gorge, the smallest of the three Yangtze gorges, and admire its bluffed banks and lush terraced hillsides
Optional Shore Excursion: Lesser Three Gorges
Overnight: Yangtze River
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8, Thursday - Cruise to Fengdu
Cruise to Fengdu, the "Ghost City," to where you will have the option to visit the fantastic Snow Jade Cave. Alternatively, the cruise may visit Wanxian or Shibaozhai depending on local conditions
Optional Shore Excursion: Fengdu
Overnight: Yangtze River
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9, Friday - Disembark Cruise; Fly to Guilin
This morning disembark in Chongqing and transfer to airport for your flight to Guilin. Upon arrival in Guilin, transfer to your hotel and have lunch at a local restaurant. Later today visit a tea garden. Here you will learn how Chinese tea is grown and you will take part in a tea making demonstration. This evening enjoy a unique tea dinner at local restaurant. All menu items are inspired by, cooked with or immersed in tea
Overnight: Guilin
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 10, Saturday - Li River Cruise
Cruise the crystal clear Li River and view the many vertical rock formations, stone pinnacles, bamboo groves and villagers reaping rice along the river banks. The high forested peaks that dominate the banks and terraced hillsides are why the Li River is one of China's top sightseeing destinations. Many of the peaks are associated with legendary stories of mystical spirits and love. Later this afternoon, lunch will be served on board. En route back to the hotel, stop to a visit a local art gallery to witness the a demonstration of Chinese calligraphy and painting
Overnight: Guilin
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 11, Sunday - Flight to Xian
This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Xian. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel to freshen up. Later in the afternoon a visit to the Muslim district of Xian to witness local cooking and way of life of Chinese Muslims. On your return back to your hotel, stop for a picture opportunity, of the enormous Bell Tower and Drum Tower
Optional: Dumpling Dinner
Overnight: Xian
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 12, Monday - Xian Antiquities Tour with Terracotta Army
This morning enjoy a tour of Xian's antiquities. Your tour includes the archaeological site at the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang (259-210 B.C.), where more than 8,000 finely sculpted, life-size terracotta soldiers and horses were discovered by local farmers in 1974. The archaeological excavation of the three pits where the Terracotta Army was found continues today, more than thirty years since the time of its unearthing. This afternoon, enjoy a visit to a local Lacquer Furniture Shop before returning to your hotel
Optional: Tang Dynasty Dinner with Entertainment
Overnight:Xian
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 13 - Tuesday - Flight to Beijing
This morning, trace the beginnings of Chinese civilization at the Shaanxi Provincial History Museum. Opened to the public in 1991, the museum is in southern Xian, and is home to a wealth of historical artifacts and treasures from the Han and Tang dynasties. Later this afternoon enjoy lunch at local restaurant, then transfer to the airport for your flight to Beijing. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The balance of the day is at leisure. Dinner at local restaurant
Overnight: Beijing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 14, Wednesday - Full Day Tour of Forbidden City, Summer Palace and Beijing Zoo
Begin at Tiananmen Square, the largest public plaza in the world. Erected in 1417 at the height of the Ming Dynasty, the square was renovated and renamed two centuries later at the outset of the Great Qing Dynasty. View several impressive monuments outlining the Square's perimeter, including the Great Hall of the People, the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong and the Square's famed ceremonial gateway. From here, venture north for a visit to the Forbidden City (Imperial Palace), a construction comparable in scope to the Pyramids in Egypt. Known today as the Palace Museum, the entire site is comprised of 800 buildings with more than 9,000 rooms. Enjoy lunch at an authentic Chinese Restaurant close to the Forbidden City before a visit to the Summer Palace and Panda Visit in the Beijing Zoo.On way back to your hotel visit the Local Silk Carpet Factory
Optional: Peking Duck Dinner
Overnight: Beijing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 15, Thursday - Great Wall of China and the Ming Tombs
Enjoy a full-day excursion to the Great Wall of China, the longest man-made structure on Earth, spanning nearly 4,000 miles of China's northern frontier. Walk along the promenades and enjoy the unrivaled scenic views of beautiful mountain passes, plateaus and grasslands from this 7th-century defensive fortification. Afterwards, depart for lunch at a local Chinese restaurant. Following lunch, continue for a tour of the Ming Tombs and a visit to a local jade factory before returning to Beijing
Overnight: Beijing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 16, Friday - Lama Temple
This morning enjoy a morning tour to the Lama Temple. Also known as the Palace of Peace or Yonghegong Lamasery. It is an active temple and monastery of the Geluk School of Tibetan Buddhism, whose most influential figure is the Dalai Lama. It is one of the largest and most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the world. It features five large halls and five courtyards with beautifully decorative archways, upturned eaves and carved details. It houses a treasury of Buddhist art, including sculptured images of gods, demons and Buddhas, as well as Tibetan-style murals. It was converted into a lamasery and became a residence for large numbers of monks from Mongolia and Tibet
Optional: Hutong Tour with Lunch
Overnight: Beijing
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 17, Saturday - Depart for the USA
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
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Optionals |
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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| Acrobatic Show with Dinner |
Day #3 |
01 Jan 2010 - 31 Dec 2011 $35
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Having undergone thousands of years of evolution, the Shanghai acrobatic arts has now blossomed into a unique style. The Shanghai Circus death-deifiers will amaze and astound you with their high-flying versatility, fearlessness, and flexibility. This evening, enjoy a world-class performance that includes dance, magic, acrobatics and beautiful music after dinner at local restaurant.
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| Full Day Suzhou with lunch |
Day #4 |
01 Jan 2010 - 31 Dec 2011 $69
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This morning, depart your hotel for a 2.5 hour drive from Shanghai to Suzhou. Located in Jiangsu Province, this ancient city enjoys the name of "Paradise on the earth" or Venice of the East. Your day begins on the famous Grand Canal, the longest man made Canal in the world. Travel leisurely down the narrow waterways and under the elegant bridges. From your boat you will see the sites of this ancient city and the daily life of the people who inhabit the banks of the canal. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant, visit the local Silk Factory, which Suzhou is famous for. After lunch, visit the Garden of the Master of the Nets. This privately owned garden is one of the most beautiful and most perfectly proportioned in Suzhou.The garden demonstrates Chinese garden designers' adept skills for synthesizing art, nature, and architecture to create unique metaphysical masterpieces. Return to Shanghai later this evening.
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| Yangtze River Optional Shore Excursion Package |
Day #5 |
01 Mar 2010 - 31 Dec 2010 $80
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DAY 6 - Visit Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest electricity-generating plant
DAY 7 - Visit the natural scenic wonders of the Lesser Three Gorges, the separate valleys on the Daning River "Dragon Gate Gorge", "Misty Gorge" and "Emerald Gorge"
DAY 8 - Visit Fengdu, with a stop at the Snow Jade Cave. Named the Snow Jade because of the abundant white stalactites of this recently discovered cave
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| Dumpling Dinner |
Day #11 |
01 Jan 2010 - 31 Mar 2011 $15
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This evening, enjoy a delicious dumpling banquet featuring nearly 20 varieties of jiaozi, or dumplings, stuffed with an assortment of vegetables, meats, and seafood. The traditional banquet also includes rice wine and bronze hot pot soup.
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| Tang Dynasty Dinner & Show |
Day #12 |
01 Jan 2010 - 31 Mar 2011 $65
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Dine on Imperial set menu of 6 hot courses. All while you enjoy the beat of Chang' an music. After dinner, enjoy the celebrated Tang Dynasty show, a one-thousand-year-old dance performed by the passionate Tang Dynasty Troupe. This historical performance is a national art, reflective of the glory and richness of China's Tang Dynasty.
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| Peking Duck Dinner |
Day #14 |
01 Jan 2010 - 31 Mar 2011 $49
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The Peking Duck Dinner has the reputation of being the most culturally famous meal in China. It is a must to experience during your visit to the country. Enjoy the culinary presentation as the chef roasts the duck directly over the fire and then slices the meat tableside. The duck is served with very thin pancakes, Chinese onions and special sauce. Transfers to and from your hotel included.
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| Half Day Hutong Tour with lunch |
Day #16 |
01 Jan 2010 - 31 Mar 2011 $25
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In Old China, Hutongs (lanes no wider than 9 meters) are formed by lines of siheyuan (compounds comprising of rooms around a courtyard) that connect the ancient city surrounding the Forbidden City. As is tradition, the houses of Old Beijing were constructed in this form on the basis of Fengshui: the ancient Chinese practice of design and spatial arranging. On this tour, travel by rickshaw through Beijing's unique Hutong area to absorb the culture and traditions of Old China, including a visit with a local family. Here you will have the opportunity to interact and discover the similarities and differences of the Hutong people. Further to this discovery, you will learn to prepare Jiao Zi (Chinese dumpling) which you will dine on for lunch with your new found friends.
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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Rates & Hotels |
Step 1: Select Your Choice of Cabin & Hotel Plans Step 2: Click a Date to Book Online
OR: Click here to create your own flexible vacation
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| Dates & Prices |
Land/Cruise Only |
Air & Land/Cruise |
| Dates & Prices |
Land/Cruise Only |
| Dates & Prices |
Air & Land/Cruise |
| 2010 |
Mar 18 (Sold Out) | $1799 | $2599* |
Apr 15 (Sold Out) | $1879 | $2739* |
| May 6 | $1959 | $2839* |
| May 27 (Sold Out) | $1929 | $2849* |
| Jun 10 | $1869 | $3069* |
| Jul 15 | $1849 | $2789* |
| Aug 12 (Sold Out) | $1849 | $2799* |
Sep 16; Oct 7 (Sold Out) | $1999 | $2559* |
Oct 28 (Sold Out) | $1859 | $2619* |
| Nov 18 | $1809 | $2569* |
| Create Your Own Flexible Vacation |
*Not Included:
Airport taxes & fees, optional tours, and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers, but does include flights Shanghai - Yichang, Chongqing - Guilin, Guilin - Xian and Xian - Beijing.
Cruise Itineraries are subject to change. River conditions may not always permit the cruise to see all three of the Small Gorges due to water levels and darkness.
Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
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| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. | |
| Passports and Visas | It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.
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Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
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| Trip Preparation | A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas) are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock.
| | Health Information | Check with your personal physician for the latest overseas travel health information, or contact the Center for Disease Control’s travelers’ hotline at 404-332-4559, web site www.cdc.gov.
| | Climate & Clothing | China - China is a huge country with varied climates. In general, the north is cold and dry in winter. In the south, summer is hot and humid, with a rainy season from July through September.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
China Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/asia-pacific/default.aspx#china-weather
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| E-Tickets & Check-In Procedures |
Please review the flight itinerary included in these documents. Print and carry a copy of the air itinerary which contains the record locator (airline reservation number) and e-ticket number(s). At check-in, be prepared to provide your government issued identification (valid passport) and your e-ticket itinerary/ ticket numbers to the agent in order to receive your boarding pass.
An e-ticket (electronic ticket) represents the purchase of an airline seat. This form of ticket has replaced almost all formerly provided paper tickets. The e-ticket exists only as a digital record in the airlines computers. In most cases your reservation will be confirmed solely on the basis of your government-issued identification. However it may still be necessary to present the e-ticket itinerary which contains your specific reservation code and ticket number(s). Once confirmed, your luggage will be checked-in and a boarding pass provided.
Advance online check-in is available on some airlines. If available, you may enter your airline confirmation number at the airline's website, and print the boarding pass on your home printer within twenty-four hours of departure. Airlines without advance online check-in require you to present your identification and e-ticket numbers at the airport self-service kiosk or check-in counter.
When e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive paper tickets.
If your tour program includes foreign domestic flights, and those tickets are not included together with the e-ticket itinerary in these documents, a separate voucher(s) confirming those services will be included. You will receive those tickets at your destination from a Gate 1 representative.
| | Airline Flights | Please check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time to allow for security steps. Passengers connecting from another point within the USA may check their luggage through to their final destination, and although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, you must ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, you must have the airlines responsible make alternate arrangements on your behalf as Gate 1 has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed for you.
Flight schedule changes are common and may occur anytime until departure. Therefore it is the responsibility of each passenger to reconfirm their flights 72 hours prior to departure for all flights.
| | Airline Luggage Restrictions | Most international airlines are consistent with regard to the number and weight of the pieces you may check and bring onboard. Domestic carriers however, typically on small aircraft, differ. Therefore, we suggest that you check in advance if you are concerned about size or weight restrictions. Many airlines have begun to apply charges for checked bags. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline's checked baggage policies. Airline policies vary and may change at any time. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for any excess luggage/ weight charges levied by an airline.
| | Airline Seats | Airline seats are confirmed whenever possible. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only. Even when seats are pre-assigned however, we recommend that you contact the carrier one to two weeks prior to departure to reconfirm your seats. In many cases there are equipment changes after your initial booking which can cause airplane seating reconfiguration.
| | Airline Tickets | Most airline tickets are issued using special fares which cannot be changed or canceled without incurring additional cost. Should you lose or misplace your tickets while traveling, you should immediately notify the airline. In most cases they will have you complete a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and for a fee, issue replacement tickets.
| | Code-share Flights | Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Delta), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Alitalia). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or Gate 1 Travel for clarification.
| | Luggage | All Gate 1 tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Additional baggage will be subject to airline handling charges of up to $100 per piece. As Gate 1 will not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings, you MUST report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your insurance provider. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form MUST be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. See www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx for Important Baggage Information for U.S. Travelers.
| China - Intra-China flights have a weight restriction for luggage of 44 lbs. per person. A lock is recommended for checked luggage while traveling within China.
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| Arrival Procedures | Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher.
| | What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed | Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, overseas or in the USA, the better we can respond. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon your return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services.
| | Departure Procedures | If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally.
| | Transfers | Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date.
Escorted tour programs include transfers, providing you have purchased airfare from Gate 1 to arrive and depart on the scheduled tour dates. If you are traveling independently, you may purchase the transfers from Gate 1 or contract your own method of transportation to the hotel or cruise ship. The cost of a transfer will generally be more expensive than hiring a taxi as the pre-arranged transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or a 'dead-leg'. Additionally the driver may have to wait at the collection point for up to an hour.
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| Hotels | Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard rooms with two single beds and private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. Room selection is strictly at the discretion of the hotel management. We reserve the right to make hotel substitutions with those of equal standard.
| | Hotel Check-in/ Check-out | Check-in time is usually 4pm or later. Check-out time is 12 noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later.
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| Eco & Sustainable Tourism | We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel to and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs.
| | Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) | Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for checkin. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents.
| | Shopping | Shopping in a foreign country can be a wonderful experience. We do include a few stops at recommended popular shops on every escorted tour, intended to enhance your cultural experience. As you explore the country independently, you may find fantastic, one-of-a-kind merchandise. You may get terrific bargains. However, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
| China - In recent years, the availability of consumer goods has greatly increased. In addition to traditional items such as lacquered objects, silken embroidery, porcelain, and carvings, a wide range of luxury goods and consumer electronics can be found in the major cities.
| | Currency | We suggest getting a small amount of currency for the first country you're visiting before you leave the U.S. It is a good idea to carry a chart with you to help you convert U.S. dollars to the local currency. It's also a good idea not to carry too much money. Many countries have ATM machines that accept most U.S. ATM cards, but be sure you know your ATM password in numbers-the keypads on foreign ATMs don't always have letters. ATM machines will only dispense cash in local currency. Check with respective consulates to learn current currency allowances and requirements. Use your credit card whenever possible. Should you decide to carry cash or travelers checks, exchange them at banks where the rate is more favorable than at hotels or exchange bureaus. Please note that many banks and most vendors will not accept or exchange $100 bills. We suggest to carry $20 bills or smaller.
| China - The Chinese Yuan is the currency of China. The currency may be abbreviated CNY or RMB.
It is recommended to carry cash in small denominations in local currency or in US $1 bills to make tipping and minor expenses easier.
| | Purchasing Tours Locally | On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. http://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional
| China - Payment can ONLY be made by cash or traveler's checks.
| | Credit Cards | While credit cards are accepted in most destinations, it is advisable to carry local currency. Inform your credit card company that you are traveling to avoid your card being blocked for security reasons.
| | Gratuities | This is a matter of personal discretion. You may use the following as a guideline:
- Tour escort (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide):
$6 or $7 per person per day
- Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage):
$3 per person per day
- Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program):
$2 per person per half day of sightseeing (2-3 hours)
- River Cruises:
$6 or $7 per person per day as indicated by each cruise line (see details regarding European River Cruises)
- Hotel Porter:
$1 per bag per person
- Wait staff:
$1.50 per person (lunch or dinner)
Tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour escort or phone our local office. Numbers have been provided in your documents for your convenience.
| China - Gratuities are appreciated in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists.
| | Your Safety is Very Important | Every effort has been taken by Gate 1 Travel to ensure your safety. However, it is important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while you're on your trip. Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place. (In case that one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place.) Don't leave valuables laying loose in your room-use the hotel safe. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe. If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities.
| | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | China
- Ambulance: 999
- Fire: 119
- Police: 110
| | Languages | China - Mandarin Chinese is the official language. Other dialects may be spoken regionally. English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| | Electricity | Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances.
| China - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| | Code of Conduct | China - With one of the oldest civilizations in the world, the people of China are very proud of their history and traditions. Chinese courtesy is based on reserved politeness. It is advisable to avoid the topics of religion and politics in conversation. Refrain from patting people on the back or other physical forms of friendliness aside from shaking hands.
| | Holidays - China |
| Holidays 2010 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's Day |
| Feb 13 - 19 |
Chinese New Year* |
Apr 3 |
Qingming Festival |
May 1 |
Labor Day |
Jun 14-16 |
Dragon Boat Festival |
Oct 1 - 7 |
National Day / Mid-Autumn Festival |
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*Please note that prior to 2008 the official public holidays were organized differently. 2008 is the first year of new official holiday observances. Chinese New Year celebrations begin the Spring Festival Golden Week. National Day begins the National Day Golden Week. During Golden Weeks, businesses may be closed or operate for shorter hours.
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| Food and Meals | As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure to info@gate1travel.com.
| China - While it is generally safe to eat fully cooked meats and vegetables, care should be taken to avoid undercooked meat and uncooked fruits and vegetables. Because tap water is not potable, visitors should only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled and filtered. Avoid ice, as it is usually made from tap water.
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