Xi an & Hong Kong with Tel Aviv University Extending your Journey after the Main Event (Small Group Travel)

Transcription

1 Xi an & Hong Kong with Tel Aviv University Extending your Journey after the Main Event (Small Group Travel) Starts: November 17 th, 2015 Ends: November 21 st, 2015

2 Tel Aviv University Travel Itinerary You are one step closer to Experiencing China Differently. In planning your journey, this booklet will provide everything you need to know about China and our program. YOUR JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS... 3 YOUR ITINERARY YOUR ACCOMMODATION BEFORE YOUR TRIP YOUR PRICE QUOTE YOUR BOOKING ABOUT WILDCHINA FOR REGISTRATION AND BOOKING PLEASE VISIT AMAZING CHINA ONLINE 2

3 A GLIMPSE INTO THE FUTURE Your Journey Highlights Destination: Xi an Though Beijing has stolen the thunder as China's new capital, its history and prestige are nothing compared to the old capital of Xi an, where emperors ruled China for thousands of years. Bordering the Qinling Mountains and the banks of the Wei River, Xi an has been the capital of some of the most important dynasties in China. Home of the treasured Terracotta Warriors, created during the Qin Dynasty, ( BC), and the eastern end of the Silk Road, Xi an is a city filled with history. Between their famous jiaozi (dumpling) feasts, and history that stretches longer than the Great Wall, Xi an epitomizes traditional Chinese culture. 3

4 Travel Day, November 17: Kunming to Xian Day 1, November 18: Xian Ancient City Wall Xi an City Wall, the most well preserved ancient rampart in China, encloses the historical heart of the old city. With a circumference of 14 kilometers (8.5 miles) and a height ranging meters (40-50 feet), this massive fortification was built to guard the old town of Xi an. It was built on the ruins of an earlier wall that guarded Changan, Xi an s name when it was the capital of the Tang Dynasty ( AD). Though entirely renovated, the wall s ramparts, sentry towers, corner towers, gates and battlements richly evoke its historic past. A great example of Ming Dynasty ( AD) architecture is Xi an s Bell Tower. Located close to the City Wall, the Bell Tower was built by Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang in 1384AD. Impressive at the time for its 36 meter (118 foot) height, the structure provided a key lookout position over the surrounding countryside. Completing the full wall circuit is a chance to soak up the past and enjoy fine city views and can be done by a leisurely bike ride in minutes. Terracotta Warriors Museum Unearthed in the suburbs of Xi an, the Terracotta Warriors army comprises one of the most remarkable archeological discoveries of all time. Consisting of 8,000 life-size soldiers, 100 chariots and 600 horses, none of which are identical, the army was built to guard the remains of Emperor Qin Shihuang, housed in a massive mausoleum complex. This pivotal and controversial first emperor forged a handful of warring states into a unified China and began construction of the Great Wall. Despite drawing many curious visitors, this UNESCO World Heritage Site exudes a charged silence. One might even expect a command to ring out urging the army to rouse itself from its 2,200-year slumber and march into battle. 4

5 Lower Deck Our trip to visit to see the Terracotta Warriors will include special access to the museum s lower deck, typically only open to China s government officials and premiers. We ll have 20 minutes of uninterrupted private access in this lower area to see the warriors up close and personal. This special access to the actual pit where the warriors are located is usually only available to visiting presidents from foreign nations, and gives you a face-to-face look at the warriors themselves. Colored Terracotta Warriors Exhibition Hall After meeting the Terracotta Warrior army, you will be ushered into a special exhibition hall displaying a bronze chariot tethered to a procession of life-sized cast bronze horses. The bronze chariots were created from thousands of separate bullion plates and replicating these pieces would be a daunting task, even given today s technological advancements. Located deeper inside the exhibition hall is a protection room exhibiting three Terracotta Warriors that have been excavated and preserved using more modern techniques. As a result, these Terracotta Warriors are still coated in their original colors, unlike their barren brothers in the pits. Each and every one of the Terracotta Warriors was originally painted in painstaking detail, but after thousands of years of burial the lacquer beneath the paint will curl and flake off within seconds of exposure to Xi an s harsh air. The resulting peeling and oxidization of the clay has drained the life from the Terracotta Warriors unearthed in past decades, but here in this exhibition hall you will be able to catch a glimpse of the Terracotta Warriors as they were truly meant to be seen. Bell Tower A well-preserved example of Ming Dynasty ( AD) architecture at the historic center of Xi an, the Bell Tower was built by Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang in 1384AD. Impressive at the time for its 118 foot / 36 meter height, the structure provided a key lookout position over the surrounding countryside. A tunnel was created through its brick base to accommodate the passage of carts, horses and people, but under the onslaught of today s vehicle traffic it has been closed to all but pedestrians and the landmark s many visitors. Join our experienced local guide and check out this historically significant structure. Stroll through the Muslim Quarter 5

6 Xi an has one of the world s oldest Muslim communities, founded some 1,300 years ago by traders of Persian and Arab origin who traveled along the Silk Road and settled in the then capital of the Tang Dynasty ( AD). Known as Hui, their descendants are deeply integrated in local life, but preserve separate cultural and culinary practices that fuse Central Asian and Chinese traditions. Their distinct way of life is most easily seen after sunset in the famous Muslim Quarter. We'll take a stroll to check out the fascinating local culture and local flavors. The Great Mosque of Xi an Islam came to Xi an over the Silk Road, brought by Persian and Arab traders who settled in the city and became the ancestors of today s Hui ethnic minority community. Located in the heart of the city s Muslim quarter, the mosque s buildings date from the Ming Dynasty ( AD) and were reportedly commissioned by the famous explorer, admiral and eunuch, Zheng He. The son of a prestigious Muslim family, Zheng led Chinese fleets on expeditions to India, Arabia and East Africa. There is even speculation that he discovered America before Columbus. The mosque is a blend of Chinese architecture and Islamic belief. The architectural style is traditional Chinese with a series of courtyards built on a single axis as well as pavilions and pagodas that have been adapted to suit Muslim practices. Private Shadow Puppet Performance Using intricately crafted shadow puppets, Xi'an's puppeteers tell traditional stories of love and adventure in ancient China. You will enjoy a private performance by a professional shadow puppet troupe. 6

7 Destination: Hong Kong Along with New York, London and Tokyo, Hong Kong is one of the fastest-paced metropolises in the world. Once a cluster of quiet fishing villages scattered across islands, starting in the mid-19 th century Hong Kong transformed into a major trade port and later an international financial center under British rule. A Special Administrative Region of mainland China since 1997, Hong Kong remains a frenetic financial hub with a combination of modern, towering skyscrapers and remnants of its fishing village past. Hong Kong s Central Mid-Levels Escalator is the longest outdoor escalator system in the world, and a major tourist attraction. It passes by many shops and restaurants, and has exits at each street. Trips to Hong Kong are complimented by its incredible array of foods. The most famous Hong Kong style food is Dim Sum. Served in small bamboo steamers, bite-sized portions of dumplings, steamed buns, rice, and much more are a tasty treat for visitors and locals. 7

8 Day 2, November 19: Hong Kong Dim Sum in City Hall Take the Star Ferry to Hong Kong Island then walk to City Hall for a traditional Hong Kong-style dim sum lunch. Longest Escalator in the World and Antique Tour Longest Covered Escalator Head to one of Hong Kong s most interesting claims to fame: the longest covered escalator in the world. This enormous escalator links the Central and Western districts of the city. We ll board the escalator riding past some of the city s best restaurants and shops. Next we ll stop at Hollywood Road for a tour of the city s antique shops. Victoria Peak As the highest point on Hong Kong Island, Victoria Peak commands the most stunning view of central Hong Kong, Victoria Harbor and the neighboring islands. Since the beginning of Hong Kong s rise as a burgeoning commercial hub, prominent families and businessmen riding the surging waves of new wealth have been attracted to the Peak. The draw of Victoria Peak s panoramic views and the temperate climate of the upper altitudes have resulted in its development into Hong Kong s most privileged residential district, and the past two centuries have cemented its status as both a symbol of Hong Kong s success as well as a mark of its continued social stratification. For travelers looking for a noteworthy glimpse of Hong Kong in terms of both picturesque sights and cultural insights, Victoria Peak offers the ultimate view. Peak Walk Escaping from the vibrant business district, we walk along the Hong Kong Island peak trail to enjoy a panorama bird s eye view of Hong Kong. A popular spot for natives, this trail is not frequently visited by tourists. You ll have the opportunity to take a relaxed stroll alongside Hong Kong locals. Our walk will last around 45 minutes. 8

9 Day 3, November 20: Hong Kong Flower Market Home to flowers of all colors, shapes, sizes and smells, the Hong Kong flower market is a beautiful place to spend the afternoon. Stroll through vendor after vendor, people-watching and breathing in the natural floral fragrances. Bird Market Imagine more feathers than you've ever seen, more chirping beaks than you've ever heard, and elaborately carved cages filled with feathery fledglings for as far as you can see. A place like that actually exists in Hong Kong's famous Bird Market, where thousands of birds wait to be bought, sold and fed. Come learn about the local bird selling and stare at the stunning display of old Hong Kong culture. Hong Kong Museum of History gives an excellent overview of Hong Kong's fascinating history. Not the typical potsbehind-glass format of museum you find elsewhere in China, innovative galleries - such as a mock-up of a colonial era street - make history come to life. Tea at the Peninsula One of the last reminders of Hong Kong s colonial past, afternoon tea at the Peninsula hotel is a long-standing tradition. Once enjoyed by government officials and visiting royalty, teatime at the Peninsula is still one of the most luxurious dining experiences offered. Serving earl grey tea and an assortment of scones, finger sandwiches and other sweet treats, this is a must stop for food-lovers. Travel Day, November 21: Travel Home 9

10 DAY-BY-DAY Your Itinerary Meals provided are indicated as Breakfast (B), Lunch (L) and Dinner (D) DAY LOCATION ACTIVITIES Travel Day Tuesday Nov 17 th Xian Legend Hotel (5*) (B, L, D) As some guests return from Kunming to Beijing, guests upon this tour will alternatively transfer on 12:35-13:35pm flight MU5936 to Xian. Snacks provided during the journey (during airport transfer) Guest pickup from Xian Airport, and transfer to the hotel for express check in Explore the area of the Muslim Quarter, Bell Tower and Drum Tower Private shadow puppet performance (held in private room) followed by dinner Day 1 Wednesday Nov 18 th Xian Hong Kong The Peninsula (5*) (B, L, D) Visit the incredible Terra Cotta Warriors (including lower deck access) Time to stroll or cycle Xian s Ancient City Walls Transfer to Xian Airport to take an evening flight to Hong Kong 10

11 Day 2 Thursday Nov 19 th Hong Kong The Peninsula (5*) (B, L, D) Dim Sum in City Hall. Take the Star Ferry to Hong Kong Island then walk to City Hall for a traditional Hong Kong-style dim sum lunch Longest Escalator in the World and Antique Tour. This enormous escalator links the Central and Western districts of the city. We ll board the escalator riding past some of the city s best restaurants and shops, stopping at Hollywood Road for a tour of the city s antique shops. Victoria Peak. As the highest point on Hong Kong Island, Victoria Peak commands the most stunning view of central Hong Kong, Victoria Harbor and the neighboring islands Peak Walk. Walk along the Hong Kong Island peak trail enjoy a bird s eye view of Hong Kong Day 3 Friday Nov 20 th Hong Kong The Peninsula (5*) (B, L, D) Flower Market. Home to flowers of all colors, shapes, sizes and smells, a beautiful place to stroll through vendor after vendor, people watching and breathing in the natural floral fragrances Imagine more feathers than you've ever seen, more chirping beaks than you've ever heard, and elaborately carved cages filled with feathery fledglings for as far as you can see. Come learn about the local bird selling and stare at the stunning display of old Hong Kong culture Hong Kong Museum of History for excellent overview of Hong Kong's fascinating history One of the last reminders of Hong Kong s colonial past, afternoon Tea at the Peninsula is a long-standing tradition. Once enjoyed by government and visiting royalty, teatime at the Peninsula is still one of the most luxurious dining experiences offered and a must for food-lovers Travel Day Saturday Nov 21 st Hong Kong Home (B) Arranged transportation to Hong Kong International Airport for homeward journeys 11

12 WHERE YOU RE STAYING Your Accommodation Sofitel Legend People s Grand Hotel Xi an Ideally situated inside the city walls, a mere ten-minute drive from such key historical sites as the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and Great Mosque, the Sofitel Legend is a modern escape where you can recharge after long days of exploring the ancient capital. This hotel used to have over 400 rooms but recently remodeled and now has 71 spacious rooms and suites, decorated with luxurious art deco flair. Guests can use the hotel s fitness center and indoor pool for free. This 5- star spot has earned a reputation as the city s best hotel. Dine at the on-site restaurant Dolce Vita, which serves authentic Italian food with fresh ingredients. Peninsula Hotel, Hong Kong The Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong provides a luxurious escape from the hustle of city life. Hotel restaurants include French, Swiss, Japanese and Chinese cuisine, to name a few. The top-of-the-line fitness center includes an indoor pool and views of the city while you exercise. The comfortable and beautiful rooms will have you wanting to stay in Hong Kong for a while

13 GETTING PREPARED Before Your Trip We have provided the information below to answer some of the journey-specific questions that are most frequently asked by our clients. Please feel free to contact us with any additional questions. Trip Difficulty Relaxing Adventure Your journey is considered a relaxing adventure. Relaxing adventure includes half/full days outside the hotel, with drives up to 2 hours on wellmaintained, paved roads. We will stay in 5-star or boutique hotels. Your Guides The true face and heroes of WildChina, our guides have been rigorously selected for their combination of client servicing, local knowledge and likeable personalities. Most of our guides are natives of the regions they cover and have worked with WildChina for years, appreciating the difference in our service standards, responsible tourism approach and the exceptional clients we bring. Guide and Tour Leader Your guide and tour leader will work in tandem to arrange the logistics of your trip, including meals, hotel reservations, sites and activities, as well as providing you with information about the local region. Your WildChina guide is specific to each local region but your WildChina tour leader will accompany you throughout your journey, escorting you to all locations. Your WildChina guide and tour leader will be confirmed during booking. 13

14 Meals & Water Meals are included, as listed in your itinerary. We strive to arrange meals that highlight authentic local cuisine in clean, local establishments. It is safe to drink bottled mineral water, but tap water, even in 5-star hotels, is not safe for drinking. WildChina will provide bottled water, tea and snacks throughout your journey. China s major cities, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, boast the best of high-end, critically acclaimed international dining. If you would like to include one or more of these restaurants in your itinerary, please contact your WildChina travel consultant to discuss further. We request guests with severe allergies to consult their physicians prior to traveling and to bring all necessary medicines with them. Guests are highly encouraged to inform WildChina ahead of time of specific allergies, such as to peanuts, fish, etc., or sensitivities to MSG, so that we can do our best to ensure these items are not used in restaurant meals. Vehicles and Road Conditions Vehicle Standards We travel in well-maintained, air-conditioned vehicles, driven by experienced local drivers. All our vehicles are licensed for foreign passenger travel and insured. Vehicle size depends on group size. In more extreme conditions, travel may require 4WD vehicles. Road Conditions In general, road conditions in China are of high standard. However driving customs here may differ greatly from what you are used to: cars, bikes and pedestrians often come within inches of each other and honking is frequent. In large cities it is common to encounter traffic jams, while in small towns and rural areas, road conditions may be compromised, but they are always safe. Your WildChina driver is very capable of assessing the situation and taking necessary precautions. In extreme rural or mountainous areas roads may be unpaved, narrow and winding. Your WildChina driver is very comfortable and experienced on these roads. 14

15 Health & Safety It s recommended that you visit your physician for a pre-trip check-up. If you have a pre-existing condition, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart/lung disease or nervous disorder, it is advisable to check with your physician that it s possible to participate in all activities during your journey. Request your physician to provide you with a letter explaining the details of your condition or disability to bring along while traveling. All travelers should bring a sufficient supply of any necessary prescription medicines, in their original containers and with clear labels; refills can be difficult to obtain, or even unavailable in the areas we visit. Please refer to the Health & Safety section of the Preparing for Your China Trip for more details. In case of emergency In general, China is a very safe country. Most locals will be friendly and excited to meet you, but tourists can be targeted for petty theft. It is advisable to look after personal belongings, especially money, cameras or other valuable possessions in crowded areas. In addition, please keep in mind that laws in China are not the same as those in your home country. Laws regarding protests, demonstrations and drug use are severe. Visas Nearly all foreign-visitors to China will need a tourist L visa. Please get your visa at least 2 months before trip departure to avoid logistical problems. Though WildChina paperwork is not required to obtain your visa, WildChina is happy to provide an itinerary of your trip ahead of time if necessary. You will receive detailed Visa information in the Preparing for Your China Trip document upon confirmation. Climate Average temperatures in the month of November are as follows (with daytime temperatures being at the top of this range): Xian = 3-12 Degrees (C) Hong Kong = Degrees (C) 15

16 JOURNEY PRICING Your Price Quote Your luxury journey starts in Xian (at the end of the Amazing China program) and ends in Hong Kong. Your quote has been prepared for an additional 3 days and 3 nights. CATEGORY ALL INCLUSIVE PRICE PER GUEST Land Cost USD 3,250 (Shared double or twin bed Accommodation) Single Supplement USD 1,000 (Private room Supplement)

17 What s Included: - Hotel accommodations on twin sharing basis unless single supplement selected - Multiple English speaking tour guides and tour leaders - All land transfers indicated in the itinerary - Local Security Services - Admission fees to all places and for all activities mentioned in the itinerary - All meals indicated on the itinerary as B (breakfast), L (lunch) and D (dinner) - All gratuities for drivers, guides and local support staff - All relevant trip taxes, local duties and surcharges - Drinking water and snacks on coaches/cars What s Not Included: - Round trip international airfare - Chinese visa application - Personal telecommunication and laundry charges - Travel insurance 17

18 GETTING ON THE ROAD Your Booking FOR REGISTRATION AND BOOKING PLEASE VISIT AMAZING CHINA ONLINE AT: Alternatively, you may contact a personal travel consultant by ing education@wildchina.com For questions to Tel Aviv University, please contact Anat Halevy (Director, Community Relations and Special Projects, TAU) at anath@tauex.tau.ac.il Booking Steps 1. Reservation: visit Amazing China Online or education@wildchina.com to consult with a WildChina travel consultant. 2. Deposit: A deposit of $750 is required to secure a reservation 3. All other payments: The remaining balance of the payment will be due 30 days prior to departure 4. Payment Methods: You may pay by card or electronic bank transfer. Detailed payment information in located on Amazing China Online In the case of trip cancellation, please refer to the schedule below: - 31 days or more prior to trip departure - Loss of deposit - Between days prior to trip departure - 25% of total tour price will be forfeited - Between days prior to trip departure - 50% of total tour price will be forfeited - Less than 14 days prior to trip departure - no refund The prices listed are based on the costs and exchange rates current at the time of inquiry. WildChina reserves the right to adjust rates without prior notice. Trip payment constitutes your acceptance of WildChina s complete Terms & Conditions. For the detailed Terms & Conditions, please consult with your WildChina travel consultant. 18

19 WHO WE ARE About WildChina Our story began on the slopes of Tibet s Mount Kailash. The company founder and Yunnan native, Mei Zhang, found herself braving high altitudes and a harsh landscape without a guide. After completing the kora (pilgrimage route) and spending the night in an abandoned guesthouse, she awoke to beautiful snowcapped mountains alight with the sunrise. The breathtaking view brought Mei a deep sense of fulfillment yet she stood alone and exhausted from her journey. Disappointed by how little support was available for travelers looking to get off the beaten path in China, Mei was inspired to start her own business dedicated to offering high-end, stress-free and responsible travel to China s most remote and unique destinations. Her prescient insight became the company motto: Experience China Differently