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Destination China

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Beijing

Beijing ’s 21st century Birdsnest Stadium and National Theatre proclaim modern, stylish China. Traditional Beijing is evident in the magnificent Forbidden City, the Old and New Summer Palaces, and in the hutongs, which are traditional courtyard houses.

Dining out in Beijing is a virtual gourmet tour of China. Diners can indulge in Sichuan, Suzhou, Ningbo and Wuxi cuisines. Anhui, Muslim, Yangzhou and Cantonese delicacies are also to be found, as well, of course, as Beijing’s particular style of food.

Over-indulgence can be countered with a hike along part of China’s Great Wall. No fewer than eight major sections of The Great Wall are close to Beijing.

Traditional Beijing has been the home of imperial power for 500 years. Off limits to all but the Emperor’s court for half a millennium, the Forbidden City, surrounded by protective walls, spreads across 250 acres. The Forbidden Palace borders on Tiananmen, Beijing’s central square, with an imposing Monument to the People’s Heroes.

Beijing Highlights

The Forbidden City, the magnificent imperial palace dating from the 14th century, has 9000 rooms.

Hutongs, built in the 14th century, line Nanluoguxiang Lane. These quaint, intimate courtyard houses have been converted into cafes, bars and handcraft and clothing shops.

Shopping

Silk Market is bargain heaven for souvenirs, watches and apparel and plenty of brand name knock-offs.

Summer Palaces

The imperial Summer Palace is built on the site of the original Summer Palace, which was largely destroyed in 1960. Set in a masterpiece of Chinese landscape gardening, the Summer Palace and surrounds have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Temple of Heaven

Also a UNESCO World Heritage site, this 15th century temple was built during the Ming dynasty.

Ming Tombs

A trip to the Ming Tombs, where 16th and 17th century Ming Dynasty emperors are buried, is recommended. The Sacred Way leading to the tomb is lined with mystical stone guards.

Chinese opera

A performance of Chinese opera in the futuristic National Theatre building is an experience in itself.

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THREE GORGE EXPLORER

HIGHLIGHTS: Chongqing; Mountain City, Shibaozhai, 12 story pagoda – the Pearl of the Yangtze, Sail the Three Gorges, Excursion to Daning River; Small Gorges, Dam ship locks, Three Gorges Dam site, Yichang – cultural centre of western Hubei Province, New Zigui, Shennong Stream, Fengdu – Ghost City or relocation village.

MORE INFO8 Days/7 Nights from ^$2849^*_pp