WONDERS OF THE ORIENT
CHINA
OCT. 2-12, 2009
10 days including air, accommodations in 4 and 5 star hotels, all meals & daily guided sightseeing tours
ONLY $2199 + TAX
INCLUDING AIR, 4 AND 5 STAR HOTELS,
ALL TOURS & ALL MEALS !
Join us for an incredible Journey. Visit Beijing, with legendary sites including the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Summer Palace. Visit Shanghai with its inspiring Jade Buddha Temple. Visit Xian and its famed Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses, plus visit Suzhou, called the Venice of the East, for its beautiful waterways and canals, through which we will enjoy a scenic boat ride.
Day 1 – Friday Oct. 2nd
-----
Depart LAX on late night flight to Shanghai
Day 2 – Sat. Oct. 3rd
-----
Cross International Dateline
We will arrive nonstop in Shanghai on the morning of Oct 4th
Day 3 – Sun. Oct. 4th
-----
Upon arrival we are met and transferred by private coach to our hotel. The 4 star Days Hotel Shanghai
The Days Hotel Shanghai Stands Magnificently on Zhongxing Road, at the Intersection with the North/South Highway in the Heart of the Everbright City's Business and Commercial Center of Shanghai City.
Within 10 minutes Drive to Nanjing Road, Pudong and City Center Vicinity. Easy Walking Distance to Shanghai Railway Station, Metro 1, 3, 4 and Long Distance Bus Depot
The hotel is just 9 miles from Hongqiao Domestic Airport.
The Decor of the Hotel Combines Contemporary Architecture with Distinctive Modern Design. Its Elegance and Comfort with its Amenities is Graciously Complemented by Art Pieces and Handcrafted Artifacts, Reflecting Modern Lifestyle and Facility
Well Decorated Guest Rooms with Spacious Beds. Deluxe Buffet Breakfast and Sumptuous Meals. International TV Channels.
Property Amenities
Continental Breakfast, Copy Service, Exercise Gym, Ice Machine, Barber/Beauty Shop, Express Checkout, Wheel Chair Access, Jacuzzi, Conference Facilities, Outdoor Parking, Free Parking, Parking, Security, Safe Deposit Box, Guest Laundromat, Multilingual, Satellite TV, AM/FM Alarm Clock, Coffee Maker in Room, High speed internet access, Ironing Board, Mini Bar, Sofa Bed, Desk with lamp, Audio Visual Equipment, Secretarial Service, Voicemail,
http://www.asiahotels.com/hotelinfo/Days_Hotel_Shanghai/
Late afternoon tour to the Bund including visit to famous Nanking Road followed by a festive welcome dinner. Overnight Shanghai.
Day 4 – Monday Oct. 5th
----
Today, we enjoy a Full day sightseeing of Shanghai - visiting scenic Old Town and the awe inspiring Jade Buddha Temple containing the mesmerizing statues of the sitting Buddha and the Recumbent Buddha. The two precious jade Buddhist statues are not only rare cultural relics but also porcelain artworks. Both the Sitting Buddha and the Recumbent Buddha are carved with whole white jade. The sparkling and crystal-clear white jade gives the Buddha the beauty of sanctity and make them more vivid
Next, we will visit the Yu Gardens. This is a must-see in Shanghai. Located in the Old Town area of the city, the Yu Gardens are a wonderful example of classic Chinese gardens. Inside is an amazingly tranquil beautiful space, filled with a beautiful assortment of flowers and fountains
Gorgeous greenery all over... ponds with fishes chasing around... carvings which scream Ethnic Chinese... Beautiful spots to sit, relax, breath in fresh air.
Free time will also be provided for fabulous shopping along the popular waterfront district nicknamed "The Bund" and the popular shopping district of Nanjing Road.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Overnight Shanghai.
Day 5 - Tuesday October 6th
-----
This morning we are transfer by private coach to the town of Suzhou (only 48 miles or approx. 1 hour away).
Today we will visit the native Wangshi Garden, also called Garden of the Master of the Nets.
Sometimes the smallest package can contain the most magnificent gift. The Garden of the Master of the Nets is a clear example of this. It is the smallest of the Suzhou residential gardens, yet it is the most impressive because of its use of space which creates the illusion of an area that is much greater than its actual size. Even more than the architectural achievement is the mood of tranquility and harmony that this humble garden embodies. 
This exquisite garden was first designed during the Song Dynasty (960 - 1279) as part of a residence that was used until the Taiping Rebellion in the 1860's
Next, we head to Suzhou's scenic Watertown for a memorable boat ride that will sail through its wonderful canals.
At the end of the day we will visit a silk and embroidery factory and for anyone engaged in education we can arrange a visit to a local school to witness their education activities. We will check into our 4 star hotel in Suzhou, The Central Hotel for our 1 night stay.
Location
The Youngor Central Hotel is located in the bustling Guanqian district of Suzhou.
Rooms
The Hotel has 201 guest rooms, each room furnished with basic amenities, viz. a telephone and a personal safe, along with broadband Internet access.
Restaurant
You can dine at the onsite restaurant that serves a wide variety of Chinese and western delicacies.
General
During leisure, guests can work out at the well-equipped gymnasium or play a game of tennis within the premises.
http://www.hotelclub.net/hotel.reservations/Youngor_Central_Hotel_Suzhou.htm
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 5 – Wed. Oct. 7th
-----
This morning, after breakfast, we will check out and return to Shanghai where we will visit a cashmere and silk factory with great shopping chances. We will enjoy an early lunch and then head to the airport for our early afternoon flight to Xian.
- Air China Flight CA 1216 departs Shanghai at 1:05 pm. Arrive Xian at 3:25 pm.
Xi’an or Chang’an in ancient times is one of the birthplaces of Chinese civilization. It was the capital of 12 dynasties including Zhou, Qin, Han and Tang dynasties for more than 1,100 years.
On arrival in Xian, meet coach and escort for a panoramic of this university city followed by an early dinner. After dinner, transfer to our 4 star hotel. Grand New World Hotel
Location. The Grand New World Hotel Xian Chi is located in Xi'an, China, one kilometer from the ancient Xi'an City Wall and two kilometers from the city center. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is five kilometers from the hotel.
Hotel Features. Grand New World Hotel's Xian Chi's lobby includes marble floors with Chinese carpets. Columns decorated in floral motifs extend to the high ceilings. Recreational amenities include a tennis court, a landscaped indoor pool and sun deck, a sauna, a spa tub, a steam room, massage services, billiard tables and a fitness center. Dynasty Restaurant serves Cantonese cuisine during lunch and dinner hours. The Verandah Coffee Shop provides international buffets and à la carte dining and is open from early morning to late night. The hotel includes a business center and conference facilities that seat from 200 to 1,130. High-speed Internet access is available in public areas for a fee. The hotel also includes a hair and beauty salon, a grocery and laundry facilities. Pets are not permitted at this hotel.
Guestrooms. The 15-story hotel's 476 guestrooms are decorated in traditional contemporary style with dark wood-finish furniture and Chinese art and decorations. Amenities include high-speed Internet access for a fee, satellite television, international direct-dial phones, bathroom phones, video cassette players and desks. Rooms also include refrigerators and minibars
Overnight Xian
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 6 – Thursday Oct. 8th
-----
Today, we will enjoy of tour of the legendary Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses. The Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses are the most significant archeological excavations of the 20th century. It is a sight not to be missed by any visitor to China. These artifacts were associated with the Qin Dynasty (211-206 BC) and Qin Shi Huang, later the first Emperor of all China. Life size terracotta figures of warriors and horses arranged in battle formations are the star features. They are replicas of what the imperial guard looked like in those days of pomp and vigor. There are columns of soldiers at the front, followed by war chariots at the back.
Altogether over 7,000 pottery soldiers, horses, chariots, and even weapons have been unearthed from these pits. Most of them have been restored to their former grandeur. 
The Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses is a sensational archeological find of all times. It has put Xian on the map for tourists. It was listed by UNESCO in 1987 as one of the world's best cultural heritage sites.
Next we will visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. As the symbol of the old-line Xian, Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a well-preserved ancient building and a holy place for Buddhists. Originally built in 652 during the reign of Emperor Gaozong of the Tang Dynasty (618-907), it functioned to collect Buddhist materials that were taken from India by the hierarch Xuanzang. 
First built to a height of 60 meters (197 feet) with five stories, it is now 64.5 meters (211.6 feet) high with an additional two stories. It was said that after that addition came the saying-'Saving a life exceeds building a seven-storied pagoda'. Externally it looks like a square cone, simple but grand and it is a masterpiece of Buddhist construction. Built of brick, its structure is very firm. Inside the pagoda, stairs twist up so that visitors can climb and overlook the panorama of Xian City from the arch-shaped doors on four sides of each storey. On the walls are engraved fine statues of Buddha by the renowned artist Yan Liben of the Tang Dynasty. Steles by noted calligraphers also grace the pagoda
We will then visit the Shu Yuanmen Antique and Calligraphy Street for a fascinating look at the art of Calligraphy, before returning to our hotel.
Tonight, we will enjoy a wonderful Chinese Dumpling Dinner.
Xian has a long history in culinary culture and has developed a unique cuisine system. Dumpling banquet, the Tang-style banquet and soaked buns in the soup made of mutton or beef are three wonderful dishes of Xian.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Overnight Xian
Day 7 – Friday October 9th
------
Today we will visit Bell Tower and City Wall Park.
The Bell Tower, is a stately traditional building that marks the geographical center of the ancient capital. From this important landmark extend East, South, West and North Streets, connecting the Tower to the East, South, West and North Gates of the City Wall of the Ming Dynasty.
The wooden tower, which is the largest and best-preserved of its kind in China, is 36 meters (118 feet) high. It stands on a brick base 35.5 meters (116.4 feet) long and 8.6 meters (28.2 feet) high on each side. During the Ming Dynasty, Xian was an important military town in Northwest China, a fact that is reflected in the size and historic significance of its tower 
Another highlight of Xian is the City Wall – beautifully preserved and very ancient. The existing city wall was built during the Ming Dynasty – in the shape of a rectangle – around 7 miles long and 36 feet high with towers on all four corners, as well as watch towers and gates
Later this afternoon we will fly to Beijing.
Air China Flight CA 1204 departs Xian at 4:35 pm. Arrive Beijing at 6:25 pm.
Upon arrival we will be met and transferred to our 5 star hotel - The Beijing Jade Palace Hotel is a new 5 star luxurious hotel located in the Zhongguancun and University area. The hotel was purposely built to offer international standard guest rooms, restaurants, entertainment facilities, shopping centers, apartments, and office buildings under one roof.
Guest facilities include laundry service, indoor pool, 24 hour room service, business center.
Pictures of the exterior and interior of the Jade Palace Hotel
It is The only 5-star hotel in Zhongguancun Hi-Tech area.
http://www.sinohotel.com/hotel/hotel.html?hid=20
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 8 – Saturday October 10th
-----
Today, we will visit the famed Tiananmen Square, sight of the political uprising in 1989 where the Chinese people protesting for freedoms were massacred by the Chinese military.
This famous photo, taken on 5 June 1989 by photographer Jeff Widener, depicts a lone protester who tried to stop four advancing tanks until he was pulled into the crowd by several onlookers. When asked by Barbara Walters in a 1990 interview, Chinese leader Jiang Zemin said that he cannot confirm whether the man was arrested or not, but "the young man was never, killed
The events were a series of demonstrations led by students, intellectuals and labor activists in the People's Republic of China between April 15, 1989 and June 4, 1989. The demonstrations centered on Tiananmen Square in Beijing, but large scale protests also occurred in cities throughout China, including Shanghai, which stayed peaceful throughout the protests.
In Beijing, the resulting crackdown on the protestors by the PRC government left many civilians dead. The toll ranges from 200–300 (PRC government figures), to 2,000–3,000 (Chinese student associations and Chinese Red Cross
Today, a large statue in the square commemorates the tragic events of 1989 and the square is now a peaceful starting point for exploration of various museums and other tourist sites located on or adjacent to the square.
Next, we will visit the Forbidden City and Imperial Summer Palace . Lying at the center of Beijing, the Forbidden City, called Gu Gong, in Chinese, was the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties . Surrounded by a six meter deep moat and a ten meter high wall are 9,999 buildings. The wall has a gate on each side
It is the largest and best preserved Palace in the world – 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties resided and governed from here. It houses several important Halls (such as the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Hall of Heavenly Purity and the Hall of Earthly Tranquility). It houses more than one million pieces of cultural relics including the priceless furniture in the empresses’ state bedchambers
The Summer Palace is home to the largest and best preserved imperial garden in China and one of the most famous classical gardens in the world
After dinner we will enjoy a famous KungFu Show or an Acrobatic Show. Overnight Beijing.. You will be mesmerized by the talents of the Chinese as they perform wondrous acts in the air and on stage.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 9 – Sunday October 11th
------
Today, we will visit a Jade Carving factory.
Next, is another highlight of our trip - a visit to the legendary Great Wall of China
The Great Wall is one of the existing mega structure and the world's longest man-made structure, stretching over 6,352 km (3,948 miles) from Shanhai Pass in the east to Lop Nur in the west, along an arc that roughly delineates the southern edge of Inner Mongolia. "The long wall of 10,000 Li (里)¹") is a series of stone and earthen fortifications in China, built between 5th century BC and the 17th century to protect the northern borders of the Chinese Empire during the rule of successive dynasties
Overlooking the watchtowers on the peaks in the south and north, tourist can enjoy the wonderful scene where the wall wriggles along the mountain ridges. The Wall is about 24 feet high on average and its top is wide enough for 5 horses or 10 people to walk along abreast. The Wall is peppered with peepholes and openings for archers. The watchtowers were built at intervals of about 500 yards for accommodation, storing weapons and observing enemy movements. In 1987 the Badaling Section of the Great Wall was included in the UNESCO list of world cultural heritage sites
Photograph of the Great Wall in 1907
Not far from Badaling lies the Sacred Way of the Ming Tombs – lined with 12 stone, human figures and 24 stone animals this mystical road was once believed to lead to heaven. At the end of the path, visitors take turns rubbing a stone tortoise’s head and tail – for a long and wealthy life
Our visit to the Ming Tombs - the name given to the mausoleums of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644) will conclude our day. The mausoleums have been perfectly preserved. Served by three stone doors, it is divided into three Halls consisting of five high palaces
Tonight, we will enjoy a festive Beijing Roast Duck Dinner.
No one can visit Beijing without sampling the renowned Beijing roast duck. It is a tempting delight synonymous with Beijing’s fine dining. The rich and succulent roast duck is the masterpiece ensemble of dozens of culinary artistries, cloaked in a reddish sheen that unfolds into a moist, tender and rich taste. Roasted to perfection, crispy outside and juicy inside – this is a melt-in-the-mouth surprise!
Until 1949, Beijing was known as “Peking.” This name is still used for the famous Peking duck.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Overnight Beijing.
Day 10 – Monday October 12th
Our first visit of the day takes us to see the Giant Pandas at Beijing Zoo.
No visit to Beijing would be complete without seeing the Giant Pandas – the famous mascot of China that feeds on bamboo and is of course the mascot of the upcoming 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. Outside the Xizhimen Gate, the Beijing Zoo is composed of various hills and halls that house elephants, pandas, hippos, antelope, giraffe, north-east China tigers and other rare animals.
Next we visit the Temple of Heaven. The Temple of Heaven, was established in 1420 during the reign of Ming Emperor Yongle (r. 1403-1424), who also founded the Forbidden City. The temple was originally established as the Temple of Heaven and Earth, but was given its current name during the reign of Ming Emperor Jiajing (r. 1522-1567), who built separate complexes for the earth, sun, and moon.
The Temple of Heaven represents the pinnacle of Ming and Qing architecture and was built to worship heaven and to pray for good harvests every year
The architecture and layout of the temple of Heaven is based on elaborate symbolism and numerology. In accordance with principles dating back to pre-Confucian times, the buildings in the Temple of Heaven are round, like the sky, while the foundations and axes of the complex are rectilinear, like the earth. The symbolism of the temple was necessary since the complex served as the setting in which the Emperor, the Son of Heaven, directly beseeched Heaven to provide good harvests throughout the land. This was important since agriculture was the foundation of China's wealth in the imperial period.
Inside the temple, The Imperial Vault is surrounded by a round wall known as the Echo Wall. A mere whisper at any point close to it will send the sound traveling along the wall so that the echo can be heard clearly at the other end.
We end our day with a most unique Hutong tour by man-powered tricycle. Hutongs (also called Rickshaws) are a unique method of sightseeing, whereby tourists are taken on a three wheeled carriage that is pulled by a large, human powered tricycle through the narrow streets of ancient Chinese villages. Hutongs – ancient alleyways or lanes where the homes are arranged in quads around a central courtyard, were popular between the 13th and 18th century, when emperors designed the city so that hutong neighborhoods closest to the palace housed the aristocrats – with the common people pushed further out. Today, hutongs are home to everyday families and a hutong visit is an ideal way to learn about the daily life of ordinary Beijing citizens.
The tours are designed for the tourists to get a glimpse of life as the locals live it. Sometimes, hutong drivers make a special stop at the home of a local family, where the guests can meet the residents and briefly learn about their culture and customs, while being treated to hot tea..
After our Hutong tour, we will return to our awaiting coach for transfer to the airport and our evening flight home. . En route to the airport enjoy a tea ceremony and tea tasting. At 6:30 pm, check in for your international flight back to LAX.
Arrive LAX same day at 4:15 pm. After Clearing Customs, continue onto your USA domestic city.
TRIP INCLUDES:
* ROUND TRIP AIR ON CHINA AIRLINES SERVICE FROM LOS ANGELES WITH ROUND TRIP AIRPORT TRANSFERS IN CHINA
* DOMESTIC FLIGHTS WITHIN CHINA (SHANGHAI/XIAN AND XIAN/BEIJING WITH ROUND TRIP AIRPORT TRANSFERS IN EACH CITY
* 2 NIGHTS 1ST CLASS 4 STAR ACCOMMODATIONS IN SHANGHAI CHINA
* 1 NIGHT 1ST CLASS 4 STAR HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS IN SUZHOU CHINA
* 2 NIGHTS 1ST CLASS 4 STAR HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS IN XIAN CHINA
* 3 NIGHTS SUPERIOR 1ST CLASS 5 STAR HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS IN BEIJING CHINA
* ALL MEALS EACH DAY
* ALL SIGHTSEEING TOURS VIA PRIVATE COACH AS LISTED IN THE DAILY ITINERARY ABOVE
* FREE ROOMMATE MATCHING (based on age, sex and smoking preference - smok. or non smok.)
* SERVICES OF ALLSINGLESTRAVEL.COM TRIP ESCORT THROUGHOUT THE TRIP
* SERVICES OF LOCAL BI-LINGUAL PROFESSIONAL GUIDES ON ALL DAILY TOURS
ALL FOR ONLY $2199 + TAXES (TAXES ARE CURRENTLY AT $450, BUT SUBJECT TO CHANGE BY THE AIRLINE)
OPTIONAL SINGLE SUPPLEMENT $549
NOT INCLUDED:
China visa fee or Tips and gratuities to drivers and local guides
ALL PASSENGERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO OBTAIN A CHINESE VISA FEE FOR ENTRY INTO CHINA. THIS CAN BE OBTAINED ANYTIME UNTIL 30 DAYS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE. PASSENGERS CAN DO THIS ON THEIR OWN OR WE CAN DO IT FOR YOU APPROX. 60 DAYS PRIOR TO TRAVEL (COST IS APPROX. $90)
NOTE: OUR GROUP FLIGHT DEPARTS LOS ANGELES AT APPROX. 11:45PM ON OCTOBER 2ND. PASSENGERS SHOULD BOOK THEIR OWN FLIGHT INTO LOS ANGELES TO ARRIVE LA BY NO LATER THAN 9PM. OUR RETURN FLIGHT ARRIVES BACK INTO LOS ANGELES - LAX AIRPORT ON OCT. 12TH AT APPROX. 4:30PM (THE SAME DAY IT DEPARTS CHINA, DUE TO CROSSING THE INTERNATIONAL DATE LINE). PASSENGERS SHOULD BOOK THEIR RETURN FLIGHT FROM LAX TO THEIR HOME CITY ON OCT. 12TH ALLOWING 3 HOURS CONNECTING TIME IN LAX.
OPTIONAL YANGTZE CRUISE EXTENSION - 4 NIGHTS/5 DAYS
There's no better way to experience China's stunning landscapes, ancient culture and unique architecture than on a Yangtze River cruise. On a Yangtze River cruise, you'll discover China's unique blend of ancient traditions and modern cities, explore world treasures like the Great Wall and visit palaces where Emperors ruled for centuries
Cruise down the Yangtze River where you’ll see the Three Gorges with their sharp, cloud-enshrouded peaks. Marvel at awe-inspiring landscape as you cruise along the Li River, and visit Guilin’s Reed Flute Cave, a dripstone cave boasting stalactites and stalagmites in dazzling colors
Oct 12 - after breakfast, morning Hutong Rickshaw tour in Beijing.
After lunch, afternoon transfer to airport for flight to Chongqing to board Yangtze River Cruise vessel.
Dinner and overnight on board.
Oct 13 - after breakfast, enjoy Yangtze cruise sailing through Qu Tang Gorge. After lunch, land excursion tour to Feng-Du - the Ghost city. This evening enjoy your captain's welcome dinner.
Oct 14 - after breakfast, enjoy Yangtze river cruise sailing through Wu Gorge. During the day enjoy land excursion tour to Chennong Stream. Also enjoy excursion going through the water gate of the Yangtze River Dam. Overnight on board vessel with dinner.
Children playing on the banks of the Yangtze River
Oct 15 - after breakfast, visit the Museum of the Three Gorges Water Dam. After lunch on board, cruise ends in Yichang. Transfer to airport for late afternoon flight to Beijing.
On arrival in Beijing, enjoy dinner at local restaurant before transfer to 5 star hotel. Overnight Beijing.
Oct 16 - after breakfast, visit the Xiu Shu local fashion market.
Enjoy tea ceremony en route to airport. Connect to international flight back to USA.
Arrive IN LAX same day around 5pm.
Price for the 4 night Yangtzee River extension per person double occupancy including all taxes currently and including domestic air in China - $1099 PER PERSON including free roommate matching.
Optional Single supplement - $480 .
Price does not include any personal expenses, gratuities
A $200 DEPOSIT IS REQUIRED TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE ON OUR WONDERS OF THE ORIENT TOUR. PLEASE INDICATE IF YOU ARE BOOKING WITH OR WITHOUT THE OPTIONAL YANGTZE RIVER EXTENSION.
DEPOSITS ARE REFUNDABLE IF CANCELLED BY JUNE 25TH.
BALANCE PAYMENTS ARE DUE JULY 10TH AND ARE NON REFUNDABLE.
