China Vacation Review: Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Guilin, Yangshuo, Yangstze River Cruise, Great Wall, Terracotta Soldiers

We have just returned
from a wonderful three week private tour of China.  It was booked
though this travel company who was recommended to us
by Zicasso.  Our trip was based on the "The Highlights of China
with Mighty Yangtze River Cruise" with some modifications.  Our trip
included the following destinations, Beijing/Xi’an/Guilin/Longsheng/Yangshuo/Chongqing/Yangtze
River/Shanghai/Suzhou/Tongli.  Since this was a private tour we had
different guides and drivers for each of our destinations.  On each
occasion the guides and drivers were always available, on time, knowledgeable
and professional.  We enjoyed each of them for their own perspective and
personality. Each and every pick
up and connection, whether at the airport, train station or hotel was flawless.  The cars were clean and a recent model
year.  Thanks to them all.

The choice of hotels
was my own so the responsibility of enjoying them was on me. I did consult with
our agent.  I am happy to say that each
hotel was different and was wonderful in setting, style and
comfort. There is always going to be some language barriers but they were
always overcome by either our guides or a smile with some patience.

I requested the meals be of the more local
variety.  We wanted to enjoy the cuisine as a local would.  For the
most part that request was upheld.  With so many meals being provided over
three weeks it would be impossible for all of them to be perfect.  We had
some absolutely amazing meals on our journey.  Any meals that disappointed,
there were only a few, were more than made up by the rest.  Thanks again
to our agent and our guides.

We did many of the
expected tourist stops and a few off the beaten path as well.  Again all
of the details were perfectly handled by our guides.  We were not
disappointed at any of our stops.  It is easy to get a bit museumed out, so
to speak, but we were able to adjust as this was a private tour.

I want to add a few
words about our agent.  He and I worked very closely before and
during this trip.  He always made himself available for consultation
before the trip and was in constant contact during the trip.  Our agent and his
whole team made our stay both enjoyable and relaxed.  To my mind I have
made a friend in this agent.  Thank you again.

One final word about the Chinese people we met along the way.  They turned out
to be the most friendly and accommodating people we have ever met.  With
wonderful smiles and absolutely beautiful children they charmed us throughout
our stay.  Some of our fondest memories were captured in the many pictures
taken by and with them all.

An amazing adventure
in China to be sure!