Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/439901
DAYS 1-2: FLY TO BEIJING Fly overnight to Beijing, China's capital city. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by a Wendy Wu representative and transferred to premier accommodations. DAY 3: BEIJING Soak up the harmonious ambiance of the Temple of Heaven, the perfect place for a session of tai chi. Stroll across Tiananmen Square and into the sprawling Forbidden City. In this perfect example of Chinese palatial architecture, find a complex full of imperial riches, particularly in Treasure Hall. Tonight, dine on delicious Peking duck at the word class Quanjude Restaurant and see a Chinese acrobatic show. (B, L, D) DAY 4: BEIJING The Great Wall is China's most awe-inspiring structure. Explore the Huanghuacheng section, which is not only a less-frequently visited part, but provides a picture-perfect viewpoint of the surrounding landscapes for a Champagne toast. Enjoy a rickshaw ride through the narrow streets of the hutongs, stopping for a traditional calligraphy class and ending at Houhai Lake, renowned for its restaurants and nightlife. (B, L) DAY 5: BEIJING TO XIAN Depart Beijing for Xian, the former imperial capital. Stroll along the ancient city wall, the best example of defensive architecture in the country. This evening, join Xian's renowned dumpling makers to learn the art of creating these delicious dough parcels before dining on the results, followed by a colorful Tang Dynasty dance performance. (B, L, D) DAY 6: XIAN One of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20 th century, the Terracotta Army is made up of enigmatic ranks of life-size warriors. Explore with an archaeologist who will help bring the story of the warriors to life. Back in Xian, wander the Muslim Quarter before taking in the fascinating Great Mosque. (B, L) DAY 7: XIAN TO CHENGDU Visit the Hanyangling Mausoleum, the tomb of Han Dynasty emperor Jingdi, before flying to Chengdu. (B, L) DAY 8: CHENGDU Travel out to the lush tea plantations of Mt. Mengding to learn about the entire process of tea making from harvest to brewing on a private tour with a local farmer. Stop at the riverside village of Huanglongxi, where cobbled streets and rickety wooden buildings retain the charms of the Qing Dynasty. (B, L) DAY 9: CHENGDU Visit the pandas at Chengdu's famous reserve. Accompanied by an expert to answer all our panda-related questions, observe these peaceful bears in surroundings reminiscent of their natural habitat. Spend this afternoon wandering the Wuhou Temple and Jinli Street, a vibrant road in the old city lined with antiques shops, bars and restaurants. For dinner this evening, enjoy the quintessential Sichuan hot pot dining experience at Shu Jiu Xiang, before a traditional Sichuan Changing Faces show. (B, L, D) DAY 10: DEPART CHENGDU Transfer to the airport to board your flight to the US. (B) Best of China Premier Tour 31 MEALS INCLUDED: (B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner Consult your travel agent for more details on this and other escorted tours. PREMIER COLLECTION HIGHLIGHTS: LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS Beijing Shangri-La • Xian Shangri-La • Chengdu Ritz Carlton GOURMET DINNERS Legendary Peking duck at Quanjude Restaurant Decadent dumpling dinner & demo at De Fa Chang Quintessential Sichuan hot pot at Shu Jiu Xiang *RATES ARE PER PERSON, BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY AND INCLUDE: Visa services & fees for US and Canadian passport holders only Group airport transfers Domestic airfare and current taxes (within China) Domestic ground transportation (within China) Premier accommodations and taxes • Gourmet meals as indicated Sightseeing and entrance fees with English-speaking guide National Escort throughout with Local Insider Guides at each destination GUARANTEED DEPARTURE DATES & RATES Outbound Return To USA Rates* MAR 14, 2015 MAR 23, 2015 SEP 3, 2015 SEP 12, 2015 OCT 8, 2015 OCT 17, 2015 NOTE: SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT APPLIES. For your convenience, we implement a one time tipping protocol of $72 per person on this tour to be paid locally. $3,890 INSIDER EXPERIENCES • Practice the art of tai chi at the Temple of Heaven • Champagne toast at the top of the Great Wall • A special souvenir from our calligraphy lesson at a local hutong home • Join Xian's best chefs at a dumpling-making class • Tour the Terracotta Warriors with an on-site archaeologist • Learn about the panda bears with a reserve expert