Adventure Travel by Big Earth Adventure

Asia

The orient has always been a mysterious place which is loved by all who take the leap to visit. Asia is as diverse as you get, yet each country has a familiar feel to the next. The Thais have cornered the market with their cuisine, Vietnam has its Pagodas, Indonesia the wonderful people, Taiwan for its culture, Philippines for its white sand beaches, Malaysia for it's crazy markets, Hong Kong for its shopping. Every corner is a treat for your eyes.

HIGHLIGHTS OF CHINA

Trip code:

tri-hc

Trip length:

10 days

Group size:

Maximum 15

Transportation:

Private transportation, boat, train

Trip Overview

Beijing - Great Wall - Xian - Shanghai - Zhujiajiao

The ideal China experience if you have limited time. This comfortable journey begins in the historical and cultural heart of Beijing and takes in the incredible sights of the Great Wall and Xian’s Terracotta Warriors before concluding in bustling Shanghai. We also include a side trip to the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao.

These small group journeys for people who share our passion for the total experience of travelling in Asia - the cuisine, the natural beauty, the history, culture and people. Our small group travel is different from the rest ... we don't cut corners. One of the most striking features of the travellers on these trips is their diversity. They span all ages, they come from all over the world and they bring with them a vast and interesting variety of interests and backgrounds. They all share a love of Asia.

Itinerary

Days 1 to 4 - Beijing, Start your journey to China with its most formidable city and capital, Beijing, the historical and cultural heart of the Middle Kingdom. On arrival in Beijing, you will be met and transferred to your hotel to meet your group and tour leader for a welcome drink and tour briefing. We then explore Beijing’s amazing array of historical sights including the world’s largest public square, Tiananmen Square. Wander through the splendid and historic Forbidden City, and explore the classic lanes and hutong in the backstreets of the city. On Day 3 we travel to the amazing Great Wall and marvel at the enormity of this man-made structure. Our final day in Beijing is spent visiting the dramatic Temple of Heaven and the magnificent grounds of the Summer Palace, once favoured by the infamous Empress Dowager Cixi in the late 19th century, before boarding our flight to Xian.

Day 5 & 6 - Xian & Terracotta WarriorsThe Xian area is home to some of the oldest cities in human civilisation and became the focus of international attention when a buried army of Terracotta Warriors was uncovered by peasants in 1974. Xian is also the Chinese starting point of the legendary Silk Road ~ the historic junction of eastern and western civilisations. Here we explore the Muslim Quarter and see the interesting fusion of Middle Eastern and Chinese architectural styles in the Great Mosque. We also visit the ancient city walls and Wild Goose Pagoda before viewing the remarkable Army of Terracotta Warriors where each figure is unique in facial features and expressions. From here we take a flight to our next exciting destination, Shanghai.
Days 7 to 10 - Shanghai & Wuzhen Shanghai, Asia’s most amazing modern city – with its soaring skyline dwarfing the grand colonial structures of old. Shanghai’s energy and momentum is unmatched anywhere. It is also a city rich in history and with a firm place in China’s compelling future. We take a walking tour of the famous Bund riverfront, visit the Yu Garden and Bazaar in the lively Chinese Quarter, and explore the streets of the former French Concession. From Shanghai, we travel out to the ancient canal town of Wuzhen for a wonderful day trip. We stroll the narrow cobblestone streets and absorb the charming old world atmosphere. Back in Shanghai we visit the Shanghai Museum – China’s finest – wander through Peoples Square, and see the Shanghai Urban Planning and Exhibition Centre. On Day 10, your journey concludes with your airport transfer.


See below for 2005 departure dates.

Accommodations

Hotels.

Meals

All breakfasts included.

Departure Dates

20 February - 01 March
13 March - 22 march
03 April - 12 April
17 April - 26 April
08 May - 17 May
29 May - 07 June
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19 June - 28 June
03 July - 12 July
17 July - 26 July
07 August - 16 August
21 August - 30 August
04 September - 13 September
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18 September - 27 September
09 October - 18 October
30 October - 08 November
20 November - 29 November
04 December - 13 December
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Please contact us for a detailed trip dossier, free brochure, availability and prices.