China: Cultural Sites & Epic Cities - 7 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  This tour offers a whirlwind experience through Beijing, Xi'an, and Chengdu. Highlights include exploring China's most famous cities, spending a day at the Great Wall of China, and visiting the mysterious Terracotta Warriors.

• What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation for this tour consists of 5 nights in hotels and 1 night on an overnight sleeper train.

• What is the age range for participants on this tour?

  This tour is designed for travelers aged 18 to 39.

• How many people will be in my tour group?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 18 travelers, with an average of 15 participants.

• What types of transportation will be used on this trip?

  During the tour, we will utilize bullet trains, an overnight sleeper train, the metro, public buses, private vehicles, and walking.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  No meals are generally included in the tour price, allowing you maximum flexibility in choosing where and what to eat. Breakfasts in China typically include Asian-style noodles, congee, bread, or eggs. Vegetarian options are available, though choices may be limited in some areas.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who will provide information, suggest activities and local dining, and introduce you to local culture. Local guides are also used for specific sites to enhance your experience.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include visiting the Lama Temple (approx. 25CNY), Temple of Heaven, taking a cable car or toboggan at the Great Wall (approx. 100-140CNY), cycling the Xi'an City Walls (approx. 45-45CNY), and visiting the Giant Panda Breeding Center in Chengdu (approx. 58CNY). Please note, a visit to the Forbidden City is not included in the tour itinerary and should be arranged before the trip if you wish to see it.

• Will I have internet access during the trip?

  While traveling through mainland China, some popular internet websites like Google, Dropbox, Gmail, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and WhatsApp are restricted. We recommend researching and installing a suitable VPN on your device prior to travel if you wish to access these blocked sites.

• What should I know about currency and payment methods in China?

  The local currency is Chinese Yuan (CNY). Although WeChat Pay and Alipay are the most common payment methods, we strongly recommend carrying some cash as a backup, as credit cards or mobile apps may not always work, especially outside first-tier cities. It's advisable to set up WeChat Pay or Alipay on your device before arriving in China, linking a credit/debit card and ensuring you have a data roaming package for local payments. An additional USD $200 (or equivalent) emergency fund is also recommended.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for all participants. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, is required. We also strongly recommend coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage.

• Are there any special considerations for solo travelers?

  We believe solo travelers should not pay more. Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and single travelers will be paired in twin or multi-share rooms with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. The 'My Own Room' option is available for all night stops except the overnight train.

• What is the recommended dress code for this tour?

  In Asia, a more conservative dress standard is recommended. When packing, opt for loose, lightweight, long clothing suitable for hot and humid climates. When visiting temples, mosques, or other holy sites, please dress respectfully, avoiding very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops.

• Are there any important notices regarding specific travel periods?

  Please be aware that Golden Week, a national holiday from October 1st to 7th each year, is a very busy time for domestic tourists. Expect crowding at major attractions during this period, and we recommend booking these dates well in advance as accommodation and transportation availability may be extremely limited.

• Is tipping customary in China for tour services?

  Traditionally, tipping is not expected in general interactions in China. However, it is customary, though not compulsory, in the tourism industry and is greatly appreciated. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides range from 1 to 3 USD per person per day. Tipping your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) at the end of the trip is also appreciated; a guideline of $5 USD per person per day can be used.

• What health considerations should I be aware of before traveling?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes, and any personal medical requirements. Our leaders are prohibited from administering drugs, and while pharmacies in Asia often stock Western drugs, bring full drug names for prescriptions.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  This trip highlights exploring some of China's most famous cities with your CEO, spending a day at the Great Wall of China, and visiting the mysterious Terracotta Warriors.

• What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation includes 5 nights in hotels and 1 night on an overnight sleeper train.

• What modes of transportation will be used during the tour?

  Transportation methods include bullet train, overnight train, metro, public bus, private vehicle, and walking.

• Will there be a group leader (CEO) on this tour?

  Yes, all group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who will provide information, suggestions for activities and dining, and introduce you to local friends. Local guides are also used for specific knowledge.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 18 travelers, with an average of 15.

• Is there a single supplement for solo travelers?

  No, this tour is designed for shared accommodation and does not have a single supplement. Solo travelers are paired with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, with the exception of the overnight train on Day 3.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  No meals are included in the trip price, allowing maximum flexibility in dining choices. Your CEO can suggest local restaurants. Breakfast in China typically consists of Asian-style noodles or congee (rice porridge) or bread and eggs. Vegetarians will be able to find a range of different foods, although choice may be limited in some areas.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and payment methods in China?

  The official currency is Chinese Yuan (CNY). Although credit cards may work with big vendors in first-tier cities, mobile payment apps such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are the most common payment methods. It's strongly recommended to set up either WeChat Pay or Alipay on your device prior to arriving in China, link a credit/debit card, and set up a data roaming package. Carrying some cash as a backup is also recommended as credit cards or mobile apps may not always work.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside of our control (e.g., a natural disaster) require a change to the planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate in this trip. At a minimum, you must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum coverage of USD 200,000). Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects are strongly recommended.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for China?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. Visa requirements vary by nationality, and it is your own responsibility to check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information. If you require a visa for China, you may also need an official Letter Of Invitation (LOI), which can be obtained through the tour operator's visa support agent after booking. Travellers must have at least two blank passport pages available for each country they visit.

• What should I know about internet access in China during the tour?

  While traveling through mainland China, you will not be able to access some popular internet websites, including Google, Dropbox, Gmail, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and WhatsApp. It may be possible to access some of these websites using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which you should research and install on your device prior to travel if you wish to use these services.

• What is the recommended local dress code?

  Dress standards in Asia are generally more conservative. When packing, choose loose, lightweight, long clothing suitable for hot and humid climates. When visiting temples or holy sites, please dress respectfully, avoiding very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops.

• What is the tipping etiquette in China and for tour staff?

  Traditionally, tipping is not expected in China for restaurants or general interactions. However, it is customary (though not compulsory) in the tourism industry. Recommendations for tipping local guides and drivers range from 1 to 3 USD per person per day. Tipping your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) is also appreciated; a guideline of $5 USD per person per day can be used.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include a Lama Temple Visit in Beijing (25CNY), Cable Car or Toboggan at the Great Wall (100-140CNY), Cycling on Xi'an City Walls (45CNY), and visiting the Giant Panda Breeding Center in Chengdu (58CNY).

• Are there any special considerations for traveling during peak season?

  Golden Week, a semi-annual 7- or 8-day national holiday in China, falls between October 1st and 7th each year. This is a very busy time for domestic tourists, so expect crowding at major attractions. Booking accommodations and transportation well in advance is highly recommended if traveling during these dates.

• What safety and security recommendations should I follow?

  We strongly recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leaving valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes for secure storage. A lock is recommended for your luggage. While cities are generally safe during the day, for night-time excursions or dining, it's recommended to stay in small groups and take taxis. Your CEO has the authority to amend the itinerary due to safety concerns and will accompany all included activities. For optional activities, please use your own judgment regarding safety and operators.

• Are there any specific rules or policies travelers should be aware of?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated. Possessing or using drugs contravenes local laws and puts the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also contrary to our travel philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any group member if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers.