China Adventure

Today we join up in the capital city of Beijing and begin rolling in the excitement of having 12-days of Chinese explorations lie ahead of us. Get cozy in our fancy hotel and perhaps do some DIY exploring before we get to know each other - no time like the present to begin getting cultured. (D) Stay: Novotel Sanyuan Hotel (or similar)

With another day filled with historical delights and jaw-dropping sites still here in the heart of Beijing, we will start to understand just how much this vast country has to brag about. A trip to the Great Wall, Ming Tombs & a Cloisonné Factory will fill our day, while local delicacies at the Wangfujing Night Markets will colour our night. (B)

This captivating city will start revealing its depths today as ancient monuments are presented to us up close and personal. We will roam the world’s largest city square, visit the resting place of the founding father of the People's Republic of China, & tour the Forbidden City. The thriving Chinese artistic community of 798 Art Precinct will contrast the historical masterpieces with its modern galleries and trendy vibe. (B/L)

Though we won't be spending another night in the capital, we've still got a few things to tick off our Bejing to-do list, not to mention some free time to do your own last bits of exploring. Roam the 1,700 stalls of the Silk Market (which offers way more than just silks), check out the Summer Palace, venture to the Temple of Heaven or just hang out at one of Beijing's many museum with a rickshaw ride in-between to really do it local. Tonight we kick on to Xi'an. When in China, ride the overnight train - that's our go local motto. Sleep soundly knowing tomorrow a new city will be ours to uncover. (B/L/D) Stay: Overnight Train

With a tasty Tang Dynasty dumpling dinner & show in our sights for this evening, we’ve got an equally incredible day lined up. A visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Terracotta Army & the TangBo Art Museum, anyone? Oh hell yes. Our Local Guide will show us around the site of the Terracotta Army, discovered in 1974 by local farmers. Excavation projects since have unearthed three pits containing over 8,000 soldiers as well as chariots & horses. Our guide will give us an insider’s look at how the site was discovered, its historical significance & the effort that has gone into restoring the warriors. Back in the city, a Free time add-on dinner awaits. Sixteen dumpling variations is more than our foodie dreams could ever imagine. (B/L) Stay: Skytel Hotel (or similar)

Rise, shine, and give your legs a shake out – today we’ll be taking on Xi’an by two wheels, cycling on the Xi'an City Wall will give us panoramic views of the city. Then we’ll head ‘home’ and pack our bags for another incredible destination. After a speedy train journey we’ll land in Chengdu, where we can settle into our hotel before heading out to explore the teahouse dotted city. (B) Stay: Holiday Inn Express Chengdu Hotel (or similar)

Team squeals will fill the air at breakfast this morning, as we prepare for half a day at a Panda Sanctuary. If hanging out with these gorgeous creatures hasn’t completely worn you out, you can sign up for a Sichuan Cooking Class in the evening. (B)

This morning we say goodbye to panda land and get ready to board a flight to Guilin. This city will be the gateway to our time in the countryside – it’s time to get a little bit traditional. After a drive out of Guilin we’ll arrive in Yangshuo, where we’ll sip Tsingtao and shop the late night markets. With the quaint setting of this village & surrounding limestone karsts, we may never want to leave this endlessly scenic region. Drag yourself from staring at your surroundings long enough for your group dinner, it's going to be tasty! (B) Stay: New Century Hotel (or similar)

With all the city time we've had of late,today's the perfect change to soak up some of mother nature's beauty by roaming the nearby hills. And what better way to do that with a Tai Chi Class in the park? Follow it up with some wandering around Yangshuo. (B)

On yet another conveniently included flight we’ll hop from Yangshuo to Shanghai, waving to the charming countryside setting on take off. Our ultimate scene change awaits us in Shanghai, a city bursting with energy and lights. The first night is yours to explore as you please with the chance to see some acrobats in full swing. (B/D) Stay: Merry Rendezvous Hotel (or similar)

Wakey wakey travellers - it's our first full day in Shanghai and it promises to be an epic one. First up we're heading to Chenghuang Miao (City God Temple) where 3 temples, teahouses, shops and restaurants will keep us entertained. Shanghai's Silk Museum and riverside promenade of Bund are also ours to explore before the chance to spend the final night together reminiscing on your trip while overlooking the Shanghai skyline and indulging in beautifully unique Chinese feast. (B)

Okay Chinese revellers, our trip has come to a close. Though we knew this sad day was inevitable, it doesn't make saying goodbye any easier. Hug it out and go back to your corners of the world armed with a wealth of new knowledge, a stack of new pals and endless life-lasting memories. (B)