15 Day Amazing China
From
$2899
Land Only
$4609*
Air & Land
Hotels/Plans Available for Departure Dates
| Cabin C | ||
|---|---|---|
| Novotel Beijing Peace | Beijing | |
| Novotel Xian SCPG | Xian | |
| Howard Johnson Hi-Tech Plaza Chengdu | Chengdu | |
| Century Victory Cruise | Chongqing | |
| Hengshan Garden Hotel | Shanghai | |
| Cabin B | ||
|---|---|---|
| Novotel Beijing Peace | Beijing | |
| Novotel Xian SCPG | Xian | |
| Howard Johnson Hi-Tech Plaza Chengdu | Chengdu | |
| Century Victory Cruise | Chongqing | |
| Hengshan Garden Hotel | Shanghai | |
| Cabin A | ||
|---|---|---|
| Novotel Beijing Peace | Beijing | |
| Novotel Xian SCPG | Xian | |
| Howard Johnson Hi-Tech Plaza Chengdu | Chengdu | |
| Century Victory Cruise | Chongqing | |
| Hengshan Garden Hotel | Shanghai | |
Click a Date to Book Online
Click a Date to Book Online
Book By Dec 14, 2023 & Save!
| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $800 | ||||||||
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Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only prices do not include arrival/departure transfers, but do include flights Beijing-Xian.
High Speed trains in China - Due to limited storage space on High Speed trains in China, only one small piece of luggage (44 lbs) per passenger is permitted onboard for your personal belongings.
Passport information must be submitted to Gate 1 Travel at least 40 days prior to departure.
Cruise itineraries are subject to change. Alternative sites may be visited depending upon water levels and hours of daylight.
While sailing with Century Cruises, passengers are subject to the cruise line’s Terms & Conditions which can be viewed at: Century Cruises Passage Contract
Accommodation Details:
Triple rooms cannot be accommodated on this program.
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Is This Trip Right for You?
Package Includes
- Small groups of maximum 22 travelers guaranteed
- Flights San Francisco-Beijing, Shanghai-San Francisco
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- Intra-flights: Beijing-Xian
- 13 nights First Class accommodations
- 3 nights Beijing
- 2 nights Xian
- 2 nights Chengdu
- 3 nights cruise downstream on Century Victory, Yangtze River
- 3 nights Shanghai
- Hotel & cruise porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
- High-Speed Bullet Train Xian-Chengdu
- Train from Yichang to Shanghai
- 31 meals: 13 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 8 dinners with beer
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned vehicles
- Services of local English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Comprehensive, guided sightseeing and entrance fees per itinerary
- Active itinerary with unique cultural features
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
Tour Highlights
Thanks to our small group size, we can get to the heart of our destination, visit places that other tours miss, and get to know the locals.
- Exploration of Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world, and the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Have lunch with a local family in Beijing's Hutong community
- Travel to the extraordinary 2000-year-old Great Wall of China, one of the most spectacular structures ever built by man
- Join the residents of Xian in Xingqing Park in their morning exercise
- Visit the unforgettable archaeological site of the magnificent Terracotta Warriors entombed with China's first Emperor Qin Shi Huang
- Meet the famous Giant Panda bears at the Chengdu Panda Research Center
- Embark on a 3-night Yangtze River Cruise that journeys through some of the greatest scenery in the world
- Explore Yu Yuan Gardens in the Old Quarter of Shanghai, built during the Ming Dynasty
- Discover Fengjing Ancient Town, one of Shanghai's most charming water towns
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
Is This Trip Right for You?
This is an active trip. Our small group covers a lot of ground each day, Expect to spend four to five hours on your feet during tours. The pace is fast. You will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes. The Great Wall requires a climb of approximately 300 steps, some of which have an incline. It is recommended to wear sturdy shoes, and people who have knee problems may want to carry a walking stick. Air pollution is a problem in many of China's major cities. Please see the CDC website and/or consult with your healthcare provider for specific recommendations. The usage of a bandanna or, light scarf might help screen out some of the pollutants in the air. This is a Small Group program. For more information, click here.
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DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for China
DAY 2, Wednesday - Arrive in Beijing
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Discovery Tours itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.
- Tours purchased while travelling may cost an extra 10% or more
- Tours often sell out. Avoid disappointment
- Save your cash. Credit card processing may not be possible locally
- Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure
- Book Online or call to book these tours up to 1 week before your departure
- The day the optionals operate varies by the day of the week
Dine on Imperial set menu of 6 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. Transfers to and from your hotel included.
Pickup details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #6 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $51.00 |
Be swept away and mesmerized by a colorful Sichuan Opera as performers take the stage in elaborate costumes to enact various performances. Traditional performances include theatrical dance pieces, opera solos, a :"rolling oil lamp" sequence, hand-shadow play, stick puppets, and the famous Bian Lian (face changing performance) where actors can imperceptibly swap vividly colored masks in the quick swipe of a fan. Transfers to and from your hotel are included.
Pickup details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 2 hours.
| Day #8 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $36.00 |
| Know Before You Go | |
| 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. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel 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. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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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, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| China Internet Censorship - The Chinese Government restricts user access to various websites, mainly those which allow free interaction between people like many social media sites or news outlets that discuss topics the government finds harmful. This means that while travelling to mainland China (Hong Kong excluded) you will find that you cannot access sites like Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, Wall Street Journal, New York Times and BBC among others. In addition, many common email domains have been blocked from access such as GMail, Hotmail and Yahoo! mail. While there are some ways to access these sites, it is best to assume that you will not be able to access any of these sites while travelling and make alternate arrangements as necessary |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
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| 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 or short skirts, knees must be covered by long pants or a long skirt. No sleeveless tops, shoulders must be covered and a shawl or scarf is frequently not accepted as a cover. Air pollution is a problem in many of China’s major cities. Because of the potential for respiratory infection, we suggest all travelers be immunized against influenza, and those susceptible to take additional measures. Please see the CDC website and/or consult with your healthcare provider for specific recommendations. Some passengers find that using a bandanna or light scarf screens out some of the pollutants in the air. China Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/asia-pacific/default.aspx#china-weather |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or “drone” technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| CHINA: Books River Town by Peter Hessler From Emperor to Citizen by Pu Yi Wild Swans by Jung Chang Life and Death in Shanghai by Nien Cheng China: Fragile Superpower by Susan L. Shirk |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| China - Intra-China flights have a weight restriction for luggage of 44 lbs. per piece of luggage with a limit of one piece of checked luggage per person, and 11 lbs. per piece of luggage with a limit of one piece of carry-on luggage per person. This differs from international flight luggage limits and should be taken into account when preparing for your trip. A lock is recommended for checked luggage while traveling within China. According to the Civil Aviation Administration of China, passengers may take no more than two portable chargers with a capacity less than 100 watt hours (Wh) on board, and must check with airlines for carrying chargers that have 100-160 Wh capacity. Any electronic devices and lithium or alkaline batteries should be packed in carry-on baggage. |
| High Speed trains in China - Due to limited storage space on High Speed trains in China, only one piece of luggage (44 lbs) per passenger is permitted onboard for your personal belongings. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary 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 collecting your luggage or 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. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| 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, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. 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 you 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. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| Taxis in China - Please be careful if approached at airport exits by people offering taxi rides. These are sometimes illegal taxi drivers and should be avoided. They often advise of a short cut to skip the line or pretend that they have been in contact with our local office staff and request prepayment for the cab ride. If you need to contact our local office, please make the call yourself to the number listed in your documents. To find a registered taxi from the airport, visit the information desk for directions to the exact location of the official taxi pick up. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to 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. |
| At Your Destination |
| 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 and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that 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 manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: China, Mongolia, Japan & South Korea |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $2 per person per day, US $1 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $3 per person per day of sightseeing, US $2 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| China - Gratuities are appreciated in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| China |
| Public restrooms may not be kept to the standards of the US. Please be advised that bathroom facilities at comfort stops or restaurants do not always provide toilet paper. We recommend keeping extra tissues or toilet paper with you throughout the tour. Western style bathroom facilities are not always available. |
| 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 check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| 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. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| 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. Please bring only new or like new US banknotes with you. Banknotes that are older, torn, or in poor condition will not be accepted locally. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, 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! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| 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. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
|
Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
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. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
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| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
China
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| 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. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's buffet or set menu. Beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although special diets like Vegetarian and Vegan are relatively commonplace in the USA, much of the world's menu options are more provincial. Please do not expect to find the variety of food selection outside of the local norm. Every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests selected no later than 5 days prior to departure in the passenger details section of your reservation. In addition, we recommend that you make preferences known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. Special requests are subject to local conditions and availability and cannot be guaranteed. |
| 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. The primary staples of Chinese cuisine are rice, noodles, chicken, pork and vegetables using a variety of sauces and seasonings which may be spicy. Most meals served on tour are Chinese cuisine. Restaurants don't always have a large selection and menu choices can be limited, but there will always be another option for vegetarians. The majority of meals are served family style and all pre-selected menu options are to share among the table. Unfortunately it may not be possible to entertain any significant dietary demands including but not limited to gluten-free, Kosher, Vegan, Muslim. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - China |
Holidays 2022 Jan 1: New Year Jan 31- Feb 6: Chinese New Year/Spring Festival Mar 8: Women's Day Apr 5: Qingming Festival, Tomb Sweeping Festival May 1: Labor Day Jun 3: Dragon Boat & Dumpling Festivals Sep 10: Mid-Autumn/Moon Cake Festival Oct 1-7: National Day *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 and tourists sites may experience increased crowds. |
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I had a wonderful time in Mongolia because we had wonderful tour director who is known as " TS". TS has a vast knowledge about his country. He is intelligent and very caring and concern of the needs of everyone on the tour. TS is an excellent Tour Director! It was indeed a beautiful tour, especially visiting the Nomadic community and the trip to the Gobi Desert. I will definitely recommend this Gate 1 tour to Mongolia. Thanks for a very nice tour!
Taajeshwari D.
I just wanted to add that our guide in Mongolia - Mars - was outstanding. I've been on many guided tours through various tour groups and Mars really stands out. He is very proud and knowledgeable about his country, his English is excellent, he is exceedingly patient and very flexible. He was very responsive to our group of fourteen - no easy task. We were all very impressed with him.
Penelope L.
We recently completed the tour of Mongolia. I am writing to share feedback that our tour guide Erke was one of the best tour guides I have ever encountered. She had a wonderful attitude and amazing customer service. She quickly resolved every issue that arose. She overcame every challenge with ease and always reassured the guests. I highly recommend your company continuing to utilize her as a guide. Thank you.
Vladimir V.
We had a fantastic trip to Mongolia. Our tour manager, Mars, was wonderful. He was available to everyone 24/7. He was extremely knowledgeable. We had a great time and look forward to booking more Discovery Tours with Gate 1. Thank you once again.
Audrey E.
Our Trip to Mongolia was excellent. Gate 1 Travel did an excellent job creating itinerary & Tour Guide TS is very good. Mongolia is a great destination. Very Unique, untouched & everyone is very friendly. Ulaanbaatar City is like Modern City & we did not see any hostility or Bad people. This was our first trip with Gate1 & we will do more trips with Gate 1 for sure. We will highly recommend Gate 1. I would like to thank Gate 1 Team, who has arranged a Land Package with selected Hotels, Site seeing places, Local flights, Local Hotels & Local Gers with Bathroom & Hot water, also local SUVs, Food, Drinks Just all was arranged High class & smooth. In such remote Places, providing daily comfort for bathroom & travel is just impossible for anyone to do alone with Google searches!!!! If you can Provide " Business class Upgrade option" on Such a long Flight with discounted rate, if Possible can be very helpful. Arranging local tribe people's home, meeting them, meeting Reindeer tribe -Just amazing experience. Gate 1 Travel is a very good company who has arranged such a Tough Trip & made it so easy working with local Tourism & local vendors prior to our trip. Just an amazing job. Bravo. You guys had arranged Vegetarian Food days for us...which we thought was very difficult BUT you did it. TS out tour guide is a very good English speaking person, he knows about Mongolia and he knows the local language. There is nothing I can see to recommend to make our trip better. I cannot stop writing about all the good things we experienced. Also, in 10 days we met new people & got the feeling of a new Family. Selection of Destination & Itinerary is #1. This is not our usual tour....
Haresh M.
The trip was so amazing, and our tour guide was very knowledgeable and took the outmost care of us all!! Those two things made for a lovely memorable discovery trip ever! I will for sure look forward to another trip with Gate 1, Discovery Tours.
Yolanda L. Long Beach, CA
Our Discovery tour of China with Tibet is one of the best, if not the best of the sixteen Gate 1 tours (and fifth Discovery tour) that we have taken. All the arrangements were perfect, especially the checking-in of our luggage and getting boarding passes before we even get to the airports for our domestic flights (service that we have never experienced in any other country)! Our tour guide Frank is the best guide in all respects that we have had on any tour. He is obviously very experienced, concerning, caring, always there when we needed him, full of knowledge about the locations and history. One of the most admirable qualities of Frank was that he never seems flustered, always prepared and concerned about our safety, warned us ahead of time what to expect and how to prepare ourselves for good parts and possible difficulties that we may encounter on the next stop, such as the high altitude of Tibet and the difficult hike of the Great Wall. He is always very concerned about some of our group who had special needs, however inconvenient, such as special diet needs, or travel difficulties. And there were some very demanding people in the group. Frank also worked very well with all the local guides and the drivers. This small Discovery group travel is wonderful, especially since we only had sixteen in the group. We had a vey nice group that traveled well together. This has been a wonderful tour of THE highlights of China – Great Wall, Forbidden City, Ming Tomb, Terracotta Warriors, panda bears, Tibet Potala Palace, Yangtze River cruise through the Three Gorges, Shanghai sights especially the Bund night scene. What our group talked about was that Gate 1 should also have a “follow-up reunion” Discovery tour of some lesser well known but could be equally spectacular sights of China such as Jiuzhaigou, Zhangjiajie, Huangsan, Guilin, etc. The group talked a lot about traveling together again in the future, but a true “reunion” in China with Frank as our guide would be very attractive. We have traveled to China a lot in the past, but this trip has truly been very special, different and memorable. All the details of the trip, some however small, were handled beautifully by our guide Frank and everything about the trip went smoothly and comfortably.
John & Lynda H. Lincoln, NH
This was my 5th trip with Gate 1, the first for my younger brother Stephen who traveled with me. We were both overwhelmed with the scope of learning and understanding gained, as well as the precision and attention to detail ...the details that make a trip smooth and enjoyable for the group. I believe a key to this success in in "managing expectations," a feat our guide did with finesse and kindness. This China/Tibet trip is mind expanding and comprehensive in scope, personal, yet international in focus. Every time I try to decide what was the very best part of the trip, I think of 15 different times, places, interactions, guides, meals, all worthy of the descriptor "best." True of this trip--as it has been in the other trips I have taken with Gate 1--was your selection of a singularly professional, knowledgeable and personable Guide. Tom truly made this difficult and comprehensive trip feel as if he was leading his "friends" to enjoy and understand his country. For me these trips are about international interactions--with guides, artisans, chefs, historians, scholars, and also, with each other--disparate travelers who come together for experiences and friendships, and spread the excitement and understanding with friends and family at home. Details--the Chendu pandas were only outdone by the ladies and gentlemen in the park who helped us learn mahjong. And the ladies and gentlemen in the park in Xian who danced and sang and "hake-sacked" with us--Wow! The lectures in Tibet and Shanghai sated our curiosity, as did the Hutong and Shanghai lunches sated our appetite. And, when we got on the cruise, we practiced our newly learned mahjong skills, and taught other cruisers. Who goes on a trip, eats three meals a day (love the lazy susans!), and comes home 4 pounds lighter! Someone who climbs The Great Wall, the steps of the Potala Palace, the 9 floors of the Red Pagoda, and the steps to the White Emperor Pagoda...and dances with the ladies in the parks!
Kathryn L. Boca Raton, FL
Our trip was great! The pace was active and we liked that. We covered a lot of territory in a relatively short time. We also loved that our group only had 15 people in it. Our guide, Jessica, was phenomenal. She was calm under pressure and took so much care to check in with all of us individually to make sure we were all happy and felt well.
Michelle F. Irvine, CA
It was wonderful! I've seldom enjoyed a trip more. Our tour manager Sam was superlative, so organized and on top of everything as well as helpful and friendly. Our local guides Ivy, Nora, Jack, Michelle and Tom were great, all very knowledgeable. We had a lot of fun and a lot of laughter at their stories and anecdotes. We had no problems anywhere. Our tour mates were a great bunch of people, we bonded really well. China and Tibet are great places, so much history beauty and everything else too. The trip was well organized in its choices of the cities to visit and activities. Hotels were well chosen and the food was superlative. The home hosted lunches were definitely a highlight for me.It was a truly memorable experience to meet the local people in their home Well done Sam, well done Gate 1 ! Looking forward to the Egypt trip in October.
Bandana R. Warren, NJ
The China-Tibet Trip was great and our tour manager Andy was outstanding in managing all aspects of our travel plans and details! Of course the local tour guides were excellent in services and site-seeing knowledge. We will continue to use Gate 1 as our favorite International tour agent.
Henry T. Irvine, CA
Our trip to China and Tibet was excellent. This was our first group tour and we were quite pleasantly surprised by the experience. Our tour manager, Sam, was exceptional! He was accommodating and personable from the very start and his professionalism showed every day with his communication skills and ability to manage every detail for all of us on the tour. We were impressed by the knowledge, communication, and friendliness of every one of our local guides as well. Good job all around Discovery Tours!
Bobby and Becca V. Green Cove Springs, FL
My wife and I had an awesome time on the 17 day China Tour Trip. We saw and learned so much about China and it easily surpassed our high expectations. This was our 3rd Gate 1 Trip and we have come to expect the care for detail and their ability to provide quality lodgings, meals and transportation. However, what made the trip so special for us was our luck in getting Melinda as our guide. She made the the wonderful trip remarkable. Her knowledge, her sense of humor, her organizational skills, her sensitivity to each individual's needs, her efforts to teach us everything -from basic Chinese language to the history of various periods of Chinese history and customs were wonderful and memorable. As you can see, I can't say enough good things about her. She is a treasure.
Dan and Ora M. Los Angeles, CA
My trip to China and Tibet was great. Our tour manager Ivy was exceptionally good and made this trip even more special. Her attention to details was amazing. This was the smallest group I have ever traveled with and I loved it as it allowed us to experience many things that wouldn't have been possible for a large group. Loved all the local guides as well. Loved the country, food and all the accommodations .. Would love to go back and experience more of this amazing country.
Agamani S. Lawrence, KS
It was a fantastic trip. I cannot say enough about our experiences in China and Tibet. The cruise down the Yangtze river was also terrific. Our tour guide, Frank, and the local guides were knowledgeable, and extremely helpful. Looking forward to traveling with Gate 1 again.
Jim T. Newland, NC
Without a doubt, the China/Tibet trip that I participated in was FANTASTIC! ... I am recommending them to family and friends. Having been on larger trips over the years, I must say that accommodating so few travelers afforded us greater mobility, and many chances to interact with each other ... Special, special thanks to Jenny and Frank for answering my neverending questions, offering so many local tidbits and gems, and enduring my versions of the languages. This trip was one that I wanted to experience for years, and it was everything that I expected and more ... Thanks again to everyone for my Chinese/Tibetan memories.
Julianna B. Westerville, OH
I would like to add that EVERYONE on our trip to China was over-the-top crazy about our tour manager, Louise. She could not have been more professional or more caring ... She never seemed to tire of our endless questions! ... Another guide was taking us to the airport for our trip home, but when Louise's flight was cancelled, she made a point to find us in a very busy airport. I can't say enough wonderful things about her. I consider her a friend and tears were shed when we had to say good-bye!
Elizabeth G. McDonough, GA.
Trip was great - our guide Jason was fantastic - loved all of tour - only wish it would have included one more day in shanghai for individual time, shopping etc think everyone in our group felt like they would have liked to stay in shanghai one more day for some free time!! Love it - great accommodations, local guides, travel - very happy with trip - but especially loved our guide - he made trip fantastic!!
Ann B. Edmonds, WA
The trip was excellent. We really got our money's worth. Tibet was a once in a lifetime experience.
Harvey R. San Diego, CA
Fabulous trip from start to finish! Our guide was wonderful and charming. The trip was a once in a lifetime experience for our family. Our son, Nicholas, was born in Beijing in 2003. This was his first time to visit his birthplace since we adopted him in 2005. So the trip was a pilgrimage for him, and he now has a great appreciation for his heritage.
David N. Austin, TX
Superb! our tour guide "Jack" was the most conscientious and affable tour guide to date from any company that i have traveled within the last 30 years! keep your Discovery Tour rates reasonable and accommodation quality high and i will continue to travel with Gate 1 (the idea of value for money was echoed by my other 12 tour mates as well).
Gregory Y. San Gabriel, CA
The 17 day Amazing China with Tibet was great. Ms. Ivy was our tour manager. She was excellent organizing our group of 20 people. Extremely knowledgeable with great personality. She has given us a lot of history of China and the culture. We all have fun, laughing, dancing, singing and joking. Highly recommend the Discovery Tours Gate 1 Travel.
Kar W. Daly City, CA
The tour was fabulous. Maggie was a GREAT tour guide. Her local guides were great. They had the whisper system which was such an asset. My husband and I are so pleased that we are going to be a customer of yours for as long as you have good tours. We LOVE the small number of people on a tour!!!! Keep great tours coming.
Nancy J. Austin, TX
My trip was amazing! I had a great time and enjoyed every minute of it. The Discovery itinerary was exactly what I had hoped for. Our tour manager, Joan, did an outstanding job of organizing our sightseeing, meals, lodging and logistics. My fellow travelers, there were 9 of us, were a lot of fun. It was an outstanding trip.
Maren E. Park City, UT
My trip to China/Tibet was absolutely wonderful....great people, great food, and great country. Jason was an amazing tour manager, as were the local guides and drivers. I learned so many things that I didn't know before. I highly recommend Discovery Tours to China/Tibet.
Marianne M. Snellville, GA
We spent 11 days in Mongolia followed by 17 days in China & Tibet. Like every Gate 1 trip, we totally enjoyed both of our exceptional Tour Guides, Gamban in Mongolia and Jack in China. They made this adventure a wonderful experience. This was a very active trip, we were on the go 7-7 and there was never a dull moment. They kept us informed, educated, and entertained. I believe a great tour guide is the primary factor that can make a tour successful and that is why we choose Gate 1. Also, I want to compliment all of the local guides in each city. They were excellent providing not only the history but also explained today's culture compared to the past and shared personal stories that really made the trip special. The Mongolia highlight was our visits with several nomadic families which gave us the best insight to their daily lives. We consider ourselves Gate 1 family and will continue to plan our future journeys with Gate 1.
Donna S. St. Augustine, FL