Amazing first-time group travel I found this tour to be quite nice. I've never actually been on a group tour such as this before as I typically travel solo, but I thought it might be a good idea to be on a group tour in China. Everything from the very start went well. I was picked up promptly from the airport and brought to the hotel in Beijing, which was a nice hotel to stay in. The sites and activities were interesting as well. A week, along with 2 flights between cities is quite a lot to pack in, but I went in with the expectation that we would always be pressed for time. All three guides were knowledgeable and helpful throughout. The transportation between sites was good, with two bottles of water provided each day. Accommodations in all three cities was very nice. We had a chance to visit many different restaurants and there was some fantastic food. In particular, the first large group meal in Beijing was amazing (though I don't recall the name of it). Overall, I can say I'd book again with the local travel specialist without hesitation.
Imperial China & Yangtze River Cruise If you want to see as much of China as possible in a relatively short period then this trip ticks all the boxes. Get used to early starts, a lot of walking although not to arduous, hectic and overcrowded railway stations, but it is absolutely worth it! You get to see all the major attractions China is well known for but it also exposes you to the rural side of China where things are so different.
IMPERIAL CHINA & YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE It was a great trip and we beleive we have seen much of China and experienced a totally different way of life. China has so many layers and so much to see if you go with an open mind and wide eyes.