Beijing & Great Wall – Xi’an – Lijiang – Tiger Leaping Gorge – Shangri La – Shaxi – Kunming – Pékin
Hello Shanshan,
The trip comes to an end after some wonderful discoveries and a future return for a combined Yunnan/Tibet tour. Everything ultimately went well, with very positive reviews from the two guides, Marguerite and Lily.
The rest of the reviews sent a few days later:
Regarding the guide in Beijing (Mr. Wang), Pierre is competent in his explanations during the visits to the Hutong district, the Forbidden City and the Great Wall.
The general observation is that it does its job, but nothing more. For example, during the visit to the Summer Palace, it tells us about a zoo with pandas, but doesn’t suggest a detour for a short visit.
For the other guides I have already shared our very good appreciation with you.
Regarding hotels:
- Beijing Novotel: Average for a 4-star hotel, somewhat aging, and the rooms could use a renovation.
- Xi’an Yunhe Yebo 4*: Excellent, meriting a 4-star+ or even a 5-star rating.
- Lijiang Manty House 3*: Average for a 3-star hotel, with limited space and an outdated bathroom.
- Tiger Leaping Gorge Jade Snow Inn 2*: Decent for a 2-star hotel, with a beautiful setting and a family atmosphere.
- Shangri La Yani 3*: Very good.
-
Shaxi Aoding Courtyard 3*: Excellent merit 4*
- Kunming Citigo 4*: nothing special. Noisy due to nearby construction.
- Beijing Ramada 4*: average for a 4* hotel, limited restaurant service, very aging, and rooms could use a renovation.
Regarding the cars and drivers, apart from Beijing and the car being too cramped, the other stages were fine.
Regarding the route, it was perfect, a little exhausting with the number of transfers (trains, planes) but necessary for a global approach to China.
Next time we will target Yunnan + Tibet.
Best regards,
Gilles