China is a huge and fascinating country. It rarely fails to exceed expectations and many visitors find themselves wishing they just had more time. Of course, everyone has constraints; the most important thing is to make the best of whatever time is available.
At China Journeys we have more than 10 years experience of the country and its tourism industry. With many trips under our own belts we know the little tricks that reduce the stress of travel and add to the overall experience. We incorporate these when designing a tour package ensuring that your journey is efficient and interesting. For instance, on many of our Journeys we fly from Beijing to Xi'an rather than take the overnight train. We know a proper bed is much appreciated but do not stop there. Since the airport is in the same direction we normally include an excursion to the Great Wall beforehand thereby reducing the overall amount of travel. We also choose to visit the section at Mutianyu which is more interesting and less crowded than the one at Badaling.
For 2012 we have upgraded our standard accommodation level from Tourist Class Hotels (roughly equivalent to 3-Star) to 4-Star Hotels. This move helps distance us from the growing domestic market, ensuring that our travellers receive the attention that they deserve. Prices have had to rise but we feel this is justified in order to keep our overall service standards high. In some locations, 4-Star hotels are not available. In such cases, we select one of the best alternatives knowing that the sites visited nearby are worth the sacrifice.
We strongly believe that Chinese food should be a feature of our trips and therefore arrange meals away from the regular tourist restaurants whenever possible. We also limit the group to a maximum of 10 which means that everyone can sit down at meals together. This also ensures that information passed by the local guides is shared by all, a key point in keeping group dynamics harmonious.
We operate with a minimum group size of just two* meaning that in the case of couples a booking guarantees the departure from the outset. This allows for our customers to carry on with flights and visas safe in the knowledge that expenses incurred will not be wasted. (* For solo travellers we do offer to run a departure on payment of a supplement so that, again, expenses already incurred are not wasted.) Prices are based on two sharing, with a single supplement for those travelling on their own.
Our published itineraries include three styles:
- Journeys are complete packages;
- Reviews are short city breaks; and
- Extensions are add-ons from key cities.
These components are designed to fit together making a more flexible approach to touring in China. For instance, we have several Journeys that end in Chengdu. There is an in-depth Chengdu Review that visits other sites as well as several Extension options including to Tibet and to Jiuzhaigou.
Browse our site for specific itineraries and also for a huge amount of other information on China and travel in China.
