Program: Beijing – Great Wall – Xi’an – Guilin – Zhaoxing – Ping’an – Yangshuo – Shanghai
Dear Sir,
Here are our travel impressions:
“A month in China? It’s way too long, you’ll get bored,” many people told us before we left. Well, they were all wrong! The time flew by.
These two linked tours (Yunnan and the Borderlands of China) were a wonderful trip. The fact that you change groups halfway through the trip allows you to avoid the potential fatigue of interacting with people you don’t know at the start. It’s therefore a good option for a long stay.
Let’s talk about the content: busy days, no downtime, a very varied program with visits to monuments, famous or not, visits to splendid natural sites, ancient or very modern cities, strolls in markets, a little free time to shop for souvenirs, and … a lot of walking (230 km in one month!). Not to mention 2 superb shows at the theater and a magnificent sound and light show on the Li River. In short, a daily wonder without any weariness, and, for the most part, in a generally good mood.
This month we had 5 guides: Philippe for 15 days in Yunnan, then 4 guides for the rest of the tour (Lucien in Beijing, Marguerite in Xi’an, Eva in Guillin and Mao in Shanghai). All took great care of their group, ensuring everyone’s well-being, especially when they felt that one of us was weakening. All respected the planned program and found a way to add a visit or a small additional walk, always with the group’s agreement. All of them had a great general knowledge, proud of their country and presented it in the best possible way. All spoke perfect French. In short, real pros, and very friendly!
Accommodation: In Yunnan and Guangxi, many old traditional houses have been converted into so-called charming hotels. And it’s true! Totally disorientated, we feel like we’re in a Pearl Buck novel, it’s magical! Everyone loved these atmospheres. From time to time, in the big cities, in Kunming, Xi’an, Guillin, a large international hotel puts us back in the standard Western style; a little luxury is also good! And a real breakfast like at home!
Transport: in Yunnan, successively 2 small buses of about 20 seats, perfect for 12 people and their luggage, allowing you to feel “integrated” into the landscape. In the second fortnight, large buses of 35 seats, more spacious certainly but less “intimate”, giving more the impression of being “invasive tourists”! As for the drivers, rarely talkative, but always careful and conscientious. Finally, a good mention for the Chinese trains (we took 5), perfectly punctual, comfortable, clean and fast.
In summary and to conclude, an exciting and unforgettable journey.
Sincerely
Pascal and Sophie
