One of the best trips I have ever done where you literally get away from the crowds (for a few days at least). Wonderful scenary coupled with being part of the local communities. Great fun - and very cheap beer!
Only ever having done one "group" vacation in my life and being put off by the negativity of a number of people in that group, I was reluctant to travel in a group again. The lure of China and walking on the Great Wall was to strong though and I decided to take a chance. I needn't have worried. I guess this type of holiday is bound to attract likeminded people and it was them and the guide that made what was always going to be a good vacation into a great vacation. I wouldn't have changed anything. My only regret is not having opted for the "Xian" extension.
Great walks on the Great Wall It is a myth that you can see the Great Wall of China from space. But close up it is an amazing structure, with a fascinating history. This walk took us to parts of the Wall that other tourists never reach. And with a guide who brought Chinese history and culture to life. It is a strenuous walk, with lots of steep ups and downs - I lost count of the number of times we encountered "the thousand steps" or "the stairway to heaven" - but it is well worth the effort.