D ISCOVER THE A UTHENTIC C HINA

Transcription

1 D ISCOVER THE A UTHENTIC C HINA EXPLORE THE MYSTERY OF THE FAR EAST BEIJING GUILIN HONG KONG JINGZHOU LESSER 3 GORGES LHASA NANJING SHANGHAI SUZHOU THREE GORGES XIAN VRC201D

2 PROTECT YOUR VACATION INVESTMENT! CHINA DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF THIS ONCE HIDDEN LAND. It calls you from across the world. A land so steeped in mystery and magnificence that words don t even begin to do it justice - a land that is home to the oldest civilization on the planet. So vast, it dominates the Eurasian continent and encompasses the earth s highest mountains, largest desert and third longest river. A land of contrasts, filled with ancient towns, living as they have for centuries, and modern cities. With imperial treasures like the Great Wall and Beijing s Forbidden City, as well as ancient ones along the Yangtze River, this vast and fascinating country is a traveler s wonderland. So heed China s call and discover for yourself the timeless mysteries of this great land with one of our China adventures. passengers traveling together, however this cannot be guaranteed. Flight schedules will be released 90 days prior to departure. Contact your airline directly to confirm seat assignments, request special meals, reconfirm your flights, check in procedures and carry-on limitations. Any changes made to an issued airline ticket will incur a $50.00 per ticket change fee, plus any charge fee incurred by the subject air carrier. Any additional costs including penalties for cancellations/ rebookings will be made at the passenger s expense. All airline tickets issued by Viking River Cruises, Inc. are refundable only to Viking River Cruises, Inc., therefore, all tickets should be returned to: Viking River Cruises, Inc.: Attention Air Refunds. Viking River Cruises, Inc. will determine the amount of any refund due. If the air ticket is lost, the passenger is responsible for the cost of its replacement. Viking River Cruises, Inc. has no responsibility for any travel plans caused by airline delays or for any act, omission or event. EXTENSIONS: The Extension packages as listed in this brochure have been developed in association with various international hotels. Situations may arise, voluntarily or involuntarily, that necessitate changes. Viking River Cruises, Inc. reserves the right to substitute hotels as it is deemed necessary and to provide comparable alternatives. INSURANCE: Travel Insurance is not included in the listed fares. It is offered for purchase through a third-party vendor. Once paid, the insurance premium is not refundable. ITINERARIES, PRICES AND INCREASES: Itineraries are subject to change and may need to be altered or cancelled specifically because of water levels or wind factors. Prices shown in this brochure are subject to change with or without notice. Adjustments for currency valuations may apply. Airfares are subject to change if bookings are not paid in full 90 days prior to departure. Optional shore excursions/tours/concerts, excess baggage charges, drinks, beverages and meals not included in the package are additional costs to the passenger. CALIFORNIA SELLER OF TRAVEL LAW: Viking River Cruises, Inc. is registered in California as a seller of travel. Viking River Cruises, Inc. s seller of travel registration number is Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California. Viking River Cruises, Inc. is a participant in the Travel Consumer Restitution Fund, which provides restitution in certain circumstances to passengers who are residents of California. UNITED STATES TOUR OPERATORS AS- SOCIATION $1 MILLION TRAVELLERS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM: Viking River Cruises, Inc., is an Active Member of United States Tour Operator s Association ( USTOA ) and participates in the USTOA s Travelers Assistance Program. You may make a claim to this program if you are owed a refund. The Plan covers losses for transportation or travel services that were not refunded when required. A passenger may make a claim against the Plan within 90 days after Viking River Cruises, Inc. s bankruptcy, insolvency or cessation of business or failure to fund on account of cancellation or non-performance. USTOA s total liability for all consumer claims from customers of Viking River Cruises, Inc. is limited to $1,000,000. In some cases $1,000,000 may not be sufficient to cover all losses. Complete details of the USTOA Travelers Assistance Program and claim forms may be obtained by writing to USTOA at 275 Madison Avenue, Suite 2014, New York, New York 10016, or by to information@ustoa.com or by visiting their website at VIKING TOURS: Viking River Cruises, Inc. also does business under the name Viking Tours, which is a registered trade name. TRAVEL PROTECTION INSURANCE PLAN Sometimes an emergency at home or sickness may cause you to have to cancel your vacation. We hope this doesn t happen to you, but if it does, what about the financial costs involved? And what about losing your personal belongings or becoming ill while on your trip? Because these unfortunate events occur, a travel protection plan offered and administered by Trip Mate is available with all Viking River Cruises arrangements. This travel protection plan covers your vacation investment, your belongings, and most importantly, you. This plan covers you even if you must cancel or interrupt your trip due to a pre-existing medical condition, if you purchase the plan within seven days of the initial deposit/payment for your trip and are not disabled from travel at the time you pay your premium. And this Travel Protection is available from only $249 per person for your peace of mind. A Travel Insurance Certificate, which provides complete details of the plan, including conditions, exclusions and limitations, will be included with your travel documents and is also available to you, upon request, at any time prior to your purchase of the plan. Schedule of Coverages Maximum Benefit Amount Pre-Departure Trip Cancellation Up To Trip Cost Post-Departure Trip Interruption Up To Trip Cost Accidental Death & Dismemberment (Air Flights) $25,000 Medical Expense/Emergency Assistance $25,000 Travel Delay (maximum of $100 per day) $500 Baggage & Personal Effects $1,000 Baggage Delay $100 Trip Cost Travel Protection Price For Trips Up To $2,000 $249 For Trips $2,001-$3,000 $349 For Trips $3,001-$5,000 $449 For Trips $5,001-$9,000 $549 For Trips $9,001-$10,000 $749 Prices listed above are per person. CONDITIONS & LIMITATIONS: Certain exclusions and limitations apply and are detailed in the Travel Insurance Certificate. For example, coverage does not apply to: any sickness or condition of you, a Traveling Companion or an Immediate Family Member traveling with you that existed during the 60 days prior to the effective date of the coverages (this exclusion is waived if your premium is received within seven days of the initial deposit/payment for your trip and you are not disabled from travel at the time your premium is received), suicide, normal pregnancy, war or any act of war, mental or nervous disorders. Other Covered Events, as defined, include the following events or their consequences: 1) Post-Departure Trip Interruption due to cancellation of arrangements by an airline due to strike, mechanical breakdown of the aircraft on which you are scheduled to travel or bad weather (maximum of $500 total) or 2) cancellation or interruption of your trip due to: a documented traffic accident while en route to departure; jury duty; destruction of your residence by a natural disaster; a documented theft of passports or visas; or a terrorist act which occurs in your departure city or in a city which is a scheduled destination for your trip provided the terrorist act occurs within 30 days of the Scheduled Departure Date and your premium is received within 7 days of the initial deposit/payment for your trip. A Traveling Companion is defined as a person booked to share accommodations in the same cabin with you during your cruise. Sickness or injury must commence while the Travel Protection Plan is in effect for you. This plan does not cover a loss that results from an illness, disease, or other condition (of you, an Immediate Family Member, Traveling Companion or Business Partner), event or circumstance which occurs at a time when this policy is not in effect for you. This plan is underwritten by: Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company, Columbus, OH. All Inquiries & Claims should be reported to the Plan Administrator: Trip Mate,* 9225 Ward Parkway, Suite 200, Kansas City, MO (*In CA, dba Trip Mate Insurance Agency)

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Inside cover Your Viking River Cruises Adventure 2: Explore China by Land and by River 4: The Yangtze River and Three Gorges Cruise 6: A in the Life 8: Gourmet Dining 9: Cultural Highlights Exellent Accomodations 26: Our Deluxe Fleet of Ships Destinations 10: China-Land of Mystery 12: Imperial Jewels of China 16: China s Cultural Delighyts 20: Tibet: Roof of the World T RIP E XTENSIONS 24: Extend Your Stay 30: 5-Star Accommodations 32: Terms and Conditions 1

4 A unique way to see the many faces of China. EXPLORE CHINA BY LAND & BY RIVER While any number of tour companies can take you to the Great Wall, or show you Beijing, few can deliver you right into the heart of China where you ll see local villagers living as they have for centuries. When you travel with Viking River Cruises, you ll visit popular sites like the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and of course the Great Wall, but you ll also experience untouched places along the Yangtze River that other travelers never visit. Viking River Cruises named World Best by Travel & Leisure for Multiple-time winner on Conde Nast Traveler magazine s Gold List. A unique vacation to an ancient land. We combine China s most sought-after destinations with a cruise by riverboat to places off the beaten path that are very different from the typical tourist experience. You ll step out among the locals, taste the regional cuisine and walk through the local markets. In-depth cultural experience. Throughout your journey, your experience is enhanced with Chinese history seminars, traditional performances, language lessons and English-speaking tours all included with your itinerary. The best ships in China. Our spacious ships offer comfortable cabins each with a private balcony. And our gracious English-speaking staff helps create an intimate, friendly atmosphere. TheViking Sun Here s why our award-winning cruise adventures are so desirable. Premium 5-star hotels. We ve partnered with the finest hotels in China to offer you 5-star accommodations on land too. Excellent dining experience. Dine at the best local restaurants so you can savor regional cuisine. Meals onboard the ship include Chinese menus created by celebrity chef Martin Yan, and Western entreés. Viking River Cruises shows you China like no one else. River cruising has become one of the fastest-growing trends in travel, and no one does it quite like us. For both well-traveled and new adventurers alike, you ll experience a level of cultural immersion and deluxe comfort unlike any other type of travel. You ll see China with a special insider s perspective, and before long you feel completely immersed in a different way of life. A selection of cruise package. Choose from a variety of itineraries and cruise lengths according to your interests and desired length of stay. You can always add to your trip with an optional extension to give you even more time in China, staying in Hong Kong and Guilin. 2 VIKING RIVER CRUISES 3

5 See the Yangtze s timeless beauty from Viking River Cruises exclusive lunch stop The heart of your Journey THE YANGTZE RIVER & THREE GORGES CRUISE Glide along the narrow, cliff-bound course of the Yangtze River, a landscape filled with breathtaking sights misty mountains, spectacular gorges, bamboo groves and serene lagoons. Here you ll discover some of China s greatest cultural treasures like ancient tombs, temples and natural wonders. The amazing wonders of this magical region of China are precisely why we made it the heart of all our China adventures. See the engineering marvel that s changing China s landscape. The Three Gorges Dam project, the world s largest engineering undertaking, is scheduled for completion in Once completed, China s new dam promises to yield the equivalent power of 15 nuclear plants and control the centuries-old problem of devastating Yangtze floods. HIGHLIGHTS ALONG YOUR YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE SNOW JADE CAVE: Journey through this mystical underground labyrinth of streams and caverns featuring beautiful stalagtites. SHIBAOZHAI TEMPLE: View this 12-story red wooden Pagoda, the Pearl of the Yangtze hugging a cliff 720 feet above the river. THREE GORGES: Take in the breathtaking beauty of Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge and Xiling Gorge. Glide by limestone peaks and cloud-covered mountains into another world one of dramatic scenery resembling an elegant Chinese painted scroll. THE LESSER THREE GORGES: Ferry through the calm turquoise waters, as you take in the beauty of the Lesser Three Gorges. View historic sites such as the 2,000-year-old hanging coffins of the Ba people and an ancient plank road carved into the side of the cliffs. YANGTZE 5-STAGE LOCKS & DAM: You ll get an up-close look at the Three Gorges Dam, the world s largest dam at 1.3 miles wide and 610 feet high. You ll hear a lecture from a Dam authority, take a tour of the site, and on China s Cultural Delights itineraries, you ll journey through the new 5-stage locks. MT. JIU HUA Gaze upon Mt. Jiu Hua, one of only four sacred Buddhist mountains in China. On China s Cultural Delights, you ll make a stop here to marvel at its tranquil beauty and visit the mountain s sacred Buddhist temple. THREE GORGES DAM: Get an up-close look at the Three Gorges Dam, the world s largest dam at 1.3 miles wide and 610 feet high. Take in a lecture from a Dam authority, and tour the site. On China s Cultural Delights itinerary, you ll also travel through the new 5-stage locks. DAM FACTS HISTORY In the past 2,000 years, the Yangtze River has experienced 215 catastrophic floods The first plan to dam the Yangtze by the father of modern China, Sun Yat-Sen, dates to 1919 CONSTRUCTION The Dam construction project began in 1993 and will span over 17 years 60,000 workers have labored around the clock installing 354,000 tons of reinforcing steel bars and pouring 900 million cubic feet of concrete Phase Two was completed in June 2003; Phase Three is scheduled for completion in 2009 SCALE This is the world s largest dam: 610 feet high by 1.3 miles long The volume of concrete poured has exceeded world records for the past 3 consecutive years The reservoir will be nearly 400 miles long and 3,600 feet wide, holding 36 billion cubic yards of water 4 VIKING RIVER CRUISES 5

6 Discover China s Cultural Delights. A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A VIKING RIVER CRUISES TRAVELER Gorem Ipsum ipslun sd kjkoeintgale. Experience the awe-inspiring wonders of China. It s better than any picture. And words just can t describe your feelings as you journey through this far away land. One moment you re standing atop the Great Wall of China, the next you re on a rickshaw touring the narrow alleys of Old Beijing. You re fascinated as you see a first-hand demonstration of the ancient art of silk carpet making. And in awe as you travel through the beautiful Three Gorges region and rest your eyes on the renowned Three Gorges Dam, an engineering marvel and the largest in the world. This is the land of contrasts a place of fascinating culture and innovation. It s the China you experience firsthand on a Viking River Cruises adventure. Ancient China by land. Once you arrive in Beijing, you re greeted at the airport by one of our English-speaking escorts. They gather your luggage and transport you to your 5-star hotel where you are pre-checked into your room. Once you re settled in, you start thinking about your morning itinerary, then get a good night s sleep. You start your morning with a buffet breakfast before heading out for a full day of sightseeing. After visiting Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and lunching on a wide array of regional specialties, you visit the Summer Palace, the best-preserved and largest imperial gardens in China. It is at this moment you realize you re standing where many Chinese emperors walked hundreds of years ago. And the history and culture of this ancient society comes to life. As the sun sinks below the horizon, you develop a craving for another taste of the tangy local cuisine. Tonight, you try a traditional Chinese meal featuring savory Peking Duck. For your after-dinner enjoyment, Viking River Cruises takes you to a fascinating performance of the renowned Peking Opera. The journey of a lifetime. The next day, you re off to see the Great Wall of China, one of the most astounding wonders of the world. As you walk along this ancient marvel built more than 2,000 years ago, you realize that photographs cannot do justice to the incredible experience you now feel. Continuing on your extraordinary journey through China, you visit Xian a few days later to view the greatest archaeological find of the century: a 6,000- man-army of terra cotta warriors and bronze chariots entombed in vast underground vaults at Emperor Qin s tomb. You are awed by the massive scope of this once hidden man-made treasure. Your adventure by river cruise. You begin the cruise portion of your journey by boarding the ship in Chongqing for an entirely new look at China. After settling in to your cabin, you step out on your private balcony and inhale the fresh air from a country halfway around the world. While slowly meandering the great Yangtze River, you re amazed by the sights from the beautiful ancient temples along the riverbanks to the modern marvels of the Three Gorges Dam the world s largest engineering undertaking. And as you weave your way deep into the heart of China, you begin to get to know its true culture and traditions. Every day brings a magical encounter in this diverse country. And when you return home, you think about the fascinating history, breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural attractions that you enjoyed. And,while you review your photos for the fifth time, you smile and are thankful for this experience of a lifetime. 6 VIKING RIVER CRUISES 7

7 Taste the best China, with regional gourmet cuisine. Experience China through the eyes of a local. GOURMET DINING Trying the local cuisine when traveling overseas is an important part of any adventure. But after indulging in the tastes of a new culture day after day, even the most intrepid traveler can be left with a craving for home. That s why at Viking River Cruises, we ve taken special care to make sure you have a variety of quality menus both on board and ashore. UNIQUE CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS Enjoy the Tang Dynasty Dinner Show East meets West at every meal. As you travel through China, you ll experience a delicious selection of both Eastern and Western cuisine. Our onboard chefs prepare authentic Chinese entrees created by celebrity chef Martin Yan, as well as Western-style cuisine. On shore, you ll enjoy hearty Westernstyle breakfast buffets, tasty lunches and exceptional regional specialty dinners. With a variety of menus at every meal, you can always choose your preference. Gourmet Western cuisine is always available. Bring your journey to life with cultural events, lectures and informative tours. For a truly immersive experience in the regions and cultures of China, we offer our Cultural Highlights program, included with every Viking River Cruises itinerary. You ll have many opportunities throughout your journey to experience cultural events, learn local history and get acquainted with the people and their customs. Also, our exclusive tours led by English-speaking local guides will give you an inside perspective of the places you visit. Our goal is for you to know China intimately and begin feeling like one of the locals. It s just one way we ensure your travels are both enjoyable and personally enriching. And food connoisseurs delight with a sampling of some of Asia s finest dishes. In Beijing, try the local delicacy, savory Peking Duck. Experience dining at a Tang Dynasty banquet in Xian. And sample a variety of famous Chinese dumpling, steamed, fried and baked. The tangy blends of eastern tastes is so incredible, you ll wish they delivered. Experience Chinese culture by attending traditional local events. In most of the cities we visit, you ll have opportunity see some of China s most renowned performances. In Beijing, you ll hear a live performance of the Beijing Opera, combining classical ballet, song and drama. In Shanghai, watch some of the world s best acrobats twist and juggle with mind-boggling dexterity. In Xian, feast your eyes on the ornate costumes of the Tang Dynasty era while watching traditional song and dance. And depend- Celeberty chef Martin Yan personally designed our Chinese menus ing upon your itinerary, you ll participate in a typical Tibetan afternoon tea. There is so much to take in, you may want to extend your visit. Take in a traditional Peking Opera performance 8 VIKING RIVER CRUISES 9

8 CHINA I M P E R I A L J E W E L S O F C H I N A C H I N A S C U L T U R A L D E L I G H T R O O F O F T H E W O R L D SHANGHAI MAOPING THREE GORGES FENGDU CHONGQING XIAN BEIJING JINGZHOU DONGTING LAKE WUHAN MT. JIU HUA CHENGDU LHASA CHONGQING SUZHAI HONG KONG LAND OF MYSTERY, TRADITION AND MAGIC Imagine walking along the Great Wall, exploring the Forbidden City and coming face to face with Xian s 6,000 Terra Cotta Warriors. Then boarding an intimate riverboat to cruise the mighty Yangtze River where you catch glimpses of tiny villages, mysterious pagodas and ancient temples along the way. As you weave your way deep into the heart of this fascinating country, you stroll though charming towns, dine on regional delicacies and stand on mountain peaks where Chinese emperors walked thousands of years ago. Take a moment to browse through the three exciting itineraries on the following pages, for a taste of the China you ll discover with Viking River Cruises. 10 VIKING RIVER CRUISES 12

9 Every day brought pleasant surprises and memorable experiences. Don't pass up a chance to visit China if you want a great time filled with new sights and sounds. - Harold Bud Lockwood Fly to Shanghai. Upon arrival, you ll be met by a Viking River Cruises guide who will escort you throughout your journey.11- / 10-Night Cruise with 12 Guided Tours YOUR ITINERARY Fly to Shanghai. Upon arrival, you re met by a Viking River Cruises guide who will escort you on your journey. SHANGHAI TO BEIJING IMPERIAL JEWELS OF CHINA Imagine walking along the Great Wall, exploring the Forbidden City and coming face to face with Xian s 6,000 Terra Cotta Warriors. Then boarding an intimate riverboat to cruise the mighty Yangtze River where you catch glimpses of tiny villages, mysterious pagodas and ancient temples along the way. As you weave your way deep into the heart of this fascinating country, you stroll though charming towns, dine on regional delicacies and stand on mountain peaks where Chinese emperors walked thousands of years ago. Take a moment to browse through the three exciting itineraries on the following pages, for a taste of the China you ll discover with Viking River Cruises Shanghai: Welcome to Shanghai, China s largest city and one of the world s most important ports. See the modern metropolis of the financial district juxtaposed with the older sections of the city. Hotel check-in & free time Shanghai: This morning, tour Old Shanghai and travel along the Bund, the city s elegant riverfront promenade. After lunch in a local restaurant, tour a silk carpet workshop for demonstrations of this ancient art form. Then visit the Shanghai Museum, featuring displays of ceramics, bronzes and paintings. Enjoy dinner in a local restaurant and a Chinese acrobatic show. (B, L, D) Old Shanghai/Bund tour; Shanghai Museum; Chinese acrobatic performance Shanghai/Yichang: This morning, you have some free time to further explore Shanghai. After lunch in a local restaurant, you fly to Yichang. You ll be transferred from the airport to your ship, Viking Century Sky, which is docked close to the Three Gorges Dam. You ll be 4 5 welcomed aboard by a Western meal, and your ship remains docked overnight. (B, L, D) Shanghai free time; fly to Yichang; board your ship *All itineraries are escorted throughout by a Viking River Cruises guide. Transfers are included if you purchased Viking River Cruises trans-pacific air. Three Gorges Dam: After breakfast, you tour the Three Gorges Dam where you learn about this immense engineering masterpiece and what it means for the Chinese people and the Yangtze. Return to your ship for lunch and scenic cruising through Xiling Gorge, the longest of the Three Gorges. (B, L, D)) Three Gorges Dam tour Three Gorges & Lesser Three Gorges: For the next 150 miles, you ll travel the most scenic stretch of the Yangtze as it forces its way through a spectacular series of limestone ridges known as the Three Gorges. During breakfast, cruise through D E S T I N A T I O N S DAY 1,2 -Shanghai DAY 3- Shanghai/Maoping DAY 4- Three Gorges Dam DAY 5- Three Gorges - Lesser Three Gorges DAY 6- Fengdu DAY 7- Chongqing/Xian DAY 8- Xian/Beijing DAY 9, 10, 11- Beijing 12 VIKING RIVER CRUISES 13

10 YOUR ITINERARY I M P E R I A L J E W E L S O F C H I N A Wu (Witches) Gorge, renowned for its magnificent scenery. Wu Gorge scenic cruising Then, board a smaller boat for an excursion through the Lesser Three Gorges. Sail through these remarkable canyons flanked by towering mountains. Along the way you see ancient sites including the hanging coffins of the Ba people and the ancient plank road carved into the cliffside. Enjoy lunch at a scenic stop overlooking the gorges. After, return to your ship and sail through Qutang Gorge, the shortest, narrowest and most spectacular of the three large gorges. Dinner is served aboard. (B, L, D) Lesser Three Gorges excursion & Qutang Gorge Fengdu: Cruise through breakfast and enjoy the scenic landscape of the mighty Yangtze River. After lunch, you dock in Fengdu and join an excursion to Snow Jade Cave. Here, you ll visit an underground labyrinth of streams and caverns with brilliant stalagmites. Return to your ship for dinner aboard. (B, L, D) Snow Jade Cave Chongqing & Xian: After breakfast, you disembark. Enjoy a short city tour and lunch in a local restaurant. Then fly to Xian, China s key city of the Tang Dynasty. From A.D. this dynasty presided over one of China s most glorious cultural periods, spreading its influence throughout Asia and into Europe and Africa. Tonight, you ll experience the grandeur of the era as you dine surrounded by the historic song and dance of this colorful period. (B, L, D) Disembark; fly to Xian & Tang Dynasty dinner show Xian & Beijing: After breakfast, tour the mausoleum where Emperor Qin Shi Huang was laid to rest over 2,000 years ago. See the more than 6,000 life-sized terra cotta warriors, archers and infantrymen that were buried with him from the walkways that provide a bird s-eye view. Each man and horse is molded with his own distinct features. Terra Cotta Army visit After lunch fly to Beijing, China s former imperial capital whose rich history dates back more than 1,000 years before Christ. Check into your hotel. Then, you have some free time before dinner at the hotel. (B, L, D) Fly to Beijing; hotel check-in Beijing: After breakfast travel to the Badaling Hills, to see one of the most impressive and best-preserved sections of the Great Wall of China. Walk along its winding pathways and marvel at the excellent views. After lunch in a local restaurant, visit the Sacred Way, a tree-lined avenue guarded by massive sculptures of elephants, lions and camels. Tonight, taste some local specialties at dinner. (B, L, D) Great Wall & Sacred Way of the Ming Tombs Beijing: This morning visit the enormous Tiananmen Square, which can accommodate over 1,000,000 people. Then tour Beijing s Forbidden City. Nearly 800 buildings and 9,999 rooms make up this mysterious site. As you walk its grounds, marvel at the elegant palaces, pavilions, courtyards and gardens within its walls. Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City tour After lunch in a local restaurant, you visit The Summer Palace, a 700-acre complex of gardens and elegant buildings. Its Chinese name means Garden of Nurtured Harmony, and it was frequented by the Imperial Court to escape the bustle of Beijing. Walk its landscaped grounds, considered among the finest Chinese architectural gardens. This evening, enjoy a traditional Peking Duck Dinner. Then, you ll be treated to a performance of the Peking Opera, an amazing cultural experience. (B, L, D) Summer Palace tour; Peking Duck Dinner & Peking Opera Beijing: Your Viking River Cruises guide will escort you to the airport. (B) Hotel check-out The following meals are included in your cruisetour fare: B = Brea kfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner Don t miss the complete China experience add 3 nights in the Shopper s Paradise of Hong Kong plus mystic Guilin. See details page 24. Note: Schedules and activities subject to change dependent upon water levels, port accessibility and weather. Passengers must be able to climb ramps for ship embarkation/disembarkation; these have a number of steep steps. Tours include up to 1-2 mile walks over steps and uneven ground. For passenger safety and enjoyment, you should be in good physical condition to participate in all tours. See Travel Information on our website. Ships and destinations in China do not have facilities to accommodate wheelchairs or physically challenged passengers. This itinerary is also available in the reverse direction which includes a 3-night cruise. Port sequence and times may vary, and there may be some variations in the included tours in Beijing & Shanghai. Shanghai to Beijing, 11 s / 10 Nights OR 10 s / 9 Nights VIKING CENTURY SKY for deck plans, see page nights (Shanghai, 4-night cruise Yichang Chongqing, Xian, Beijing) Dates are 2007 Hotel Check-In Dates Jun 10, 17, 24 Apr 22, 29 Jul 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Apr 8, 15 May 6, 13, 20, 27; Jun 3 Category Aug 5, 12, 19, 26 Nov 4 Oct 7, 14, 21, 28 Sep 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Cat F $2,629 $2,779 $2,879 $2,929 Cat E 2,679 2,829 2,929 2,979 Cat D 2,779 2,929 3,029 3,079 Cat C 2,829 2,979 3,079 3,129 Cat B 2,929 3,079 3,179 3,229 Cat A 3,029 3,179 3,279 3,329 Cat A Superior 3,229 3,379 3,479 3,529 Mini-Suite 3,529 3,679 3,779 3,829 Suite 4,029 4,179 4,279 4,329 9 nights (Beijing, Xian, 3-night cruise Chongqing Yichang, Shanghai) Dates are 2007 Hotel Check-In Dates Jun 12, 19, 26 Apr 17, 24; May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Jul 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Jun 5; Sep 4, 11, 18, 25 Category Aug 7, 14, 21, 28 Apr 3, 10 Oct 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Cat F $2,579 $2,729 $2,829 Cat E 2,629 2,779 2,879 Cat D 2,729 2,879 2,979 Cat C 2,779 2,929 3,029 Cat B 2,879 3,029 3,129 Cat A 2,979 3,129 3,229 Cat A Superior 3,179 3,329 3,429 Mini-Suite 3,479 3,629 3,729 Suite 3,979 4,129 4,229 Note: Prices listed above are per person, double occupancy and include port charges of $21 (3-night cruise) or $28 (4-night cruise). Limited singles are available at an additional charge; call for details. Intra-China air taxes/fees of $19 are additional. Cruise fuel surcharges of $15 (3-night cruise) or $20 (4-night cruise) are additional; surcharges are subject to change. Normal cancellation policy applies to all Early Bookings; see Terms and Conditions at the back of this brochure. Early Booking Discount is not combinable with any other offer except Past Passenger Discount. Viking River Cruises reserves the right to correct or revise any pricing or date errors throughout the season. R OUNDTRIP AIRFARE STARTING AT $ Night Cruise with 12 Guided Tours from $ 2,579 EXTEND YOUR ADVENTURE with 4 nights in Hong Kong & Guilin. See pages for details. TO BOOK, SEE YOUR TRAVEL AGENT OR CALL TOLL FREE: VIKING D E S T I N A T I O N S DAY 1,2 -Shanghai DAY 3- Shanghai/Yichang DAY 4- Three Gorges Dam DAY 5- Three Gorges - Lesser Three Gorges DAY 6- Fengdu DAY 7- Chongqing/Xian DAY 8- Xian/Beijing DAY 9, 10, 11- Beijing 14 VIKING RIVER CRUISES 15

11 It was the single best travel experience my wife and I have ever had. The escorts, the excursions, the hotels, the ship, the crew, the service, the food all top notch. - Carl & Victoria Palminteri, Monterey, CA Fly to Shanghai. Upon arrival, you ll be met by a Viking River Cruises guide who will escort you throughout your journey.11- / 10-Night Cruise with 12 Guided Tours YOUR ITINERARY Fly to Beijing. Upon arrival, you ll be met by a Viking River Cruises guide who will escort you on your journey. * BEIJING TO SHANGHAI CHINA S CULTURAL DELIGHTS For those seeking an up-close adventure through China, this 15-night journey takes you deep into the heart of ancient Chinese civilization and culture. After witnessing all the wonders of Beijing, Xian and Shanghai, you ll weave your way along the Yangtze River from Chongqing to Nanjing on a stunning 9-night cruise. You ll have insider access by boat, from Jingdezhen, birthplace of porcelain, to Mt. Jiu Hua s remote Buddhist Temple complex, to Nanjing, former capital of ancient China, and Suzhou with its famed gardens. You ll return home with a newly awakened perspective of Chinese culture Beijing: Welcome to Beijing, China s former imperial capital whose rich history dates back more than 1,000 years B.C. Hotel check-in & free time Beijing: This morning visit Tiananmen Square, built to accommodate over 1,000,000 people. Later, tour Beijing s mysterious Forbidden City. Explore the elegant palaces, pavilions, courtyards and gardens within its walls. Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City tour After a local lunch, tour The Summer Palace, a 700-acre complex. Walk among its elegant buildings and landscaped grounds, considered among the finest Chinese gardens. Tonight s dinner features China s famous Peking Duck followed by a performance of the world-renowned Peking Opera. (B, L, D) Summer Palace tour; Peking Duck Dinner & Peking Opera Beijing: After breakfast, travel to the Badaling Hills to 4 5 walk the fabled Great Wall of China. Lunch in a local restaurant is followed by a stroll along the Sacred Way, a tree-lined avenue with massive animal sculptures guarding the Ming Tombs. Enjoy a dinner of local specialties. (B, L, D) Great Wall & Sacred Way of the Ming Tombs Beijing & Xian: Today tour Old Beijing s narrow alleys, via rickshaw. Discover the sights and sounds of traditional Chinese life. Visit a silk carpet workshop for a demonstration of this ancient art. Hutongs rickshaw ride & Silk Carpet Workshop tour After lunch, fly to Xian, key city of the Tang Dynasty. From A.D. this dynasty presided over one of China s most glorious cultural periods. Tonight, experience its grandeur as you dine surrounded by the historic song and dance of this colorful era. (B, L, D) Fly to Xian & Tang Dynasty dinner show Xian & Chongqing: After breakfast, tour the mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Marvel at his eternal DESTINATIONS DAY 1-3- Beijing DAY 4- Beijing/Xian DAY 5- Xian/Chongqing DAY 6- Fengdu DAY 7- Three Gorges Lesser Three Gorges DAY 8- Three Gorges Dam DAY 9- Jingzhou DAY 10- Dongting Lake DAY 11- Wuhan DAY 12- Jingdezhen 16 VIKING RIVER CRUISES 17

12 YOUR ITINERARY C H I N A S C U L T U R A L D E L I G H T S defenders over 6,000 life-sized terra cotta warriors, archers, infantrymen and horses guarding his tomb. Terra Cotta Army visit After lunch fly to Chongqing, gateway to the Yangtze. Enjoy a Western dinner aboard. (B, L, D) Fly to Chongqing; board your ship Fengdu: Enjoy the scenic landscape of the Yangtze. Dock in Fengdu to tour Snow Jade Cave with its brilliant stalagmites. (B, L, D) Snow Jade Cave *All itineraries are escorted throughout by a Viking River Cruises guide. Transfers are included if you purchased Viking River Cruises trans-pacific air. Lesser Three Gorges: This morning, cruise past spectacular limestone ridges known as the Three Gorges. During your 150-mile journey, encounter Qutang Gorge, the narrowest of the three larger gorges. Qutang Gorge scenic cruising Board smaller boats to the Lesser Three Gorges. Marvel at the hanging coffins of the Ba people. Enjoy a scenic lunch stop, board your ship and cruise through Wu (Witches) Gorge. Dine aboard and sail overnight. (B, L, D) Lesser Three Gorges excursion & Wu Gorge scenic cruising Three Gorges Dam: This morning, tour the Three Gorges Dam. Learn about this immense hydroelectric engineering project up close and personal. Three Gorges Dam visit Enjoy lunch aboard while traversing the five-stage locks of the Dam. Then cruise through Xiling Gorge, the longest of the Three Gorges. Dine onboard. (B, L, D) Three Gorges Dam lock transit Jingzhou: This morning, visit a rural village where Viking River Cruises has sponsored a much-needed elementary school. Arrive to a warm greeting from the children. Return to your ship for afternoon cruising and meals. (B, L, D) Viking River Cruises school visit Dongting Lake: After breakfast, sail Dongting Lake, China s second largest freshwater lake. From here, tour 66-foot-high Yue Yang Tower and its nearby pavillions, originally built during the Qing Dynasty. Cruise overnight. (B, L, D) Yue Yang Tower tour Wuhan: After breakfast, disembark in Wuhan, capital of the Hubei Province. Tour the Hubei Museum with its many historic artifacts including a collection of ancient bells. (B, L, D) Wuhan Museum tour Jingdezhen: After breakfast, tour the Ceramic History Museum. Learn how ceramics were produced in ancient times and their significance to China s dynasties. Dine aboard and sail overnight. (B, L, D) Ceramic History Museum excursion Mt. Jiu Hua: Marvel at the tranquil beauty of Mt. Jiu Hua, one of only four sacred Buddhist mountains. Later, tour a Buddhist temple, then enjoy dinner onboard. (B, L, D) Mt. Jiu Hua excursion Nanjing/Suzhou: After breakfast, tour Nanjing, China s ancient capital. Enjoy a scenic motorcoach ride to Suzhou, nicknamed Venice of the East for its intricate canals. Tour a Silk Factory and Fishermen s Garden. Have lunch and continue via motorcoach to Shanghai. (B, L, D) Disembark; Old City Wall tour; motorcoach to Suzhou; Silk Factory tour & Fishermen s Garden; motorcoach to Shanghai; hotel check-in Shanghai: This morning, tour Old Shanghai and the Bund, an elegant riverfront promenade. Visit the Children s Palace, housed in a grand, early 20th century building. Dine in a restaurant, followed by a Chinese acrobatic performance. (B, L, D) Old Shanghai/Bund tour; Children s Palace; Chinese acrobatic performance Shanghai: Your Viking River Cruises guide will escort you to the airport. (B) Hotel check-out Complete your China vacation with 3 nights in Hong Kong & 1 night in Guilin. See details page 41. Note: Schedules and activities subject to change dependent upon water levels, port accessibility and weather. Passengers must be able to climb ramps for ship embarkation/disembarkation; these have a number of steep steps. Tours include up to 1-2 mile walks over steps and uneven ground. For passenger safety and enjoyment, you should be in good physical condition to participate in all tours. See Travel Information, Ships and destinations in China do not have facilities to accommodate wheelchairs or physically challenged passengers. This itinerary is also available in the reverse direction. Port sequence and times may vary, and there are some variations in the included tours in Beijing & Shanghai. Beijing to Shanghai, 16 s / 15 Nights VIKING CENTURY SUN for deck plans, see page nights (Beijing, Xian, 9-night cruise Chongqing Nanjing, Shanghai) Dates are 2007 Hotel Check-In Dates Jun 22; Jul 10, 28 Apr 29; May 17; Jun 4 Category Aug 15 Apr 11 Sep 2, 20; Oct 8 Cat F $3,179 $3,479 $3,779 Cat E 3,329 3,629 3,929 Cat D 3,629 3,929 4,229 Cat C 3,779 4,079 4,379 Cat B 4,079 4,379 4,679 Cat A 4,379 4,679 4,979 Cat A Superior 4,979 5,279 5,579 Mini-Suite 5,879 6,179 6,479 Suite 7,379 7,679 7, nights (Shanghai, 9-night cruise Nanjing Chongqing, Xian, Beijing) Dates are 2007 Hotel Check-In Dates Jul 3, 21 May 10, 28; Jun 15 Category Aug 8, 26 Apr 22 Sep 13; Oct 1, 19 Cat F $3,179 $3,479 $3,779 Cat E 3,329 3,629 3,929 Cat D 3,629 3,929 4,229 Cat C 3,779 4,079 4,379 Cat B 4,079 4,379 4,679 Cat A 4,379 4,679 4,979 Cat A Superior 4,979 5,279 5,579 Mini-Suite 5,879 6,179 6,479 Suite 7,379 7,679 7,979 Note: Prices listed above are per person, double occupancy and include port charges of $63. Limited singles are available at an additional charge; call for details. Intra-China air taxes/fees of $13 are additional. Cruise fuel surcharges of $45 are additional; surcharges are subject to change. Normal cancellation policy applies to all Early Bookings; see Terms and Conditions at the back of this brochure. Early Booking Discount is not combinable with any other offer except Past Passenger Discount. Viking River Cruises reserves the right to correct or revise any pricing or date errors throughout the season. R OUNDTRIP AIRFARE STARTING AT $ Night Cruise with 19 Guided Tours from $ 3,179 EXTEND YOUR ADVENTURE with 4 nights in Hong Kong & Guilin. See pages for details. TO BOOK, SEE YOUR TRAVEL AGENT OR CALL TOLL FREE: VIKING DESTINATIONS DAY 1-3- Beijing DAY 4- Beijing/Xian DAY 5- Xian/Chongqing DAY 6- Fengdu DAY 7- Three Gorges Lesser Three Gorges DAY 8- Three Gorges Dam DAY 9- Jingzhou DAY 10- Dongting Lake DAY 11- Wuhan DAY 12- Jingdezhen 18 VIKING RIVER CRUISES 19

13 We want to tell you what a great trip it was. The accommodations were excellent, the sights we visited were spectacular and our guide Luc was key to making our trip wonderfully enjoyable. - Eileen McMahon, Oakdale, MN Fly to Shanghai. Upon arrival, you ll be met by a Viking River Cruises guide who will escort you throughout your journey.11- / 10-Night Cruise with 12 Guided Tours YOUR ITINERARY Upon arrival, you ll be met by a Viking River Cruises guide who will escort you throughout your journey. BEIJINGTO SHANGHAI & LHASA, TIBET ROOF OF THE WORLD This extraordinary 13-night adventure takes you throughout China, down the Yangtze River by boat, then on to sacred Lhasa, Tibet nestled at the foot of Mt. Everest. In Lhasa, you ll visit Buddhism s holiest temple, Jokhang Temple, housing the precious Shakyamuni Buddha. Pay pilgrimage to former home of Dalai Lamas peaceful Potala Palace. Then visit the residence of modern day monks at the beautiful Sera Monastery. All this punctuates the end of an already awakening journey through imperial Beijing, fascinating Xian and bustling Shanghai, followed by an unforgettable 3-night cruise along the picturesque Yangtze. Truly, this is an adventurer s journey of a lifetime. 1 2 Beijing: Welcome to Beijing, China s ancient imperial capital featuring many noted monuments and historic sites. Hotel check-in & free time Beijing: After breakfast, visit Tiananmen Square which spans 100 acres. Also visit the Forbidden City. Stroll among the elegant palaces, pavilions and gardens. Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City tour Lunch in a local restaurant is followed by a tour of the 700-acre Summer Palace. You explore the grounds, the finest examples of Chinese gardens, and enjoy a dragon boat ride across the scenic lake. Tonight s dinner features Peking Duck. After dinner, you ll be enchanted by the artistry of the Peking Opera. (B, L, D) Summer Palace tour; Peking Duck Dinner & Peking Opera *All itineraries are escorted throughout by a Viking River Cruises guide. Transfers are included if you purchased Viking River Cruises trans-pacific air. 3 4 Beijing: This morning, travel to the Badaling Hills to walk along the fabled Great Wall of China. After lunch in a local restaurant, visit The Sacred Way, a tree-lined avenue flanked by sculptures of elephants, lions and camels guarding the entrance to the Ming Tombs. Taste some local specialties at tonight s dinner. (B, L, D) Great Wall & Sacred Way of the Ming Tombs Beijing & Xian: Your morning tour takes you in a rickshaw throught the narrow alleys of old Beijing. You also visit a silk carpet workshop and see the intricacies of this long-standing art. Hutongs rickshaw tour & Silk Carpet Workshop visit After lunch at a local restaurant, fly to Xian, China s legendary home of the Tang Dynasty from A.D. Tonight you ll experience the period s grandeur with a performance of traditional Tang Dynasty song and dance in colorful period costumes. (B, L, D) Fly to Xian & Tang Dynasty dinner show DESTINATIONS DAY 1,2,3 -Beijing DAY 4- Beijing/Xian DAY 5- Xian/Chengdu DAY 6-Chengdu/Lhasa DAY 7,8- Lhasa DAY 9- Lhasa/Chongquing DAY 10- Fengdu DAY 11- Three Gorges DAY 12, 13, 14- Three Gorges/Shanghai 20 VIKING RIVER CRUISES 21

14 YOUR ITINERARY R O O F O F T H E W O R L D Xian & Chengdu: This morning, your tour features Xian s archaeological wonder of 6,000 life-sized terra cotta warriors buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Get a bird seye view of the army, each soldier, horse and chariot molded in incredible detail. Terra Cotta Army visit After lunch, fly to Chengdu for an overnight stop on your way to Tibet. Dinner will be at the hotel. (B, L, D) Fly to Chengdu & hotel check-in Chengdu & Lhasa: An early flight takes you to Lhasa, City of the Sun economic, spiritual and cultural center of Tibet. This afternoon, experience Tibetan culture with a family-hosted tea followed by dinner in a local restaurant. (B, L, D) Fly to Lhasa & hotel check-in; Tibetan family visit & tea Lhasa: After breakfast, visit the 1,300-year-old Jokhang Temple where you ll see Buddhist worshippers making reverent clockwise circuits on their hands and knees. After a local lunch, explore the maze-like Barkhor Market in old Lhasa. Later you tour the Tibetan Museum to learn the history of this region set at the top of the world, followed by a traditional Tibetan dinner. (B, L, D) Jokhang Temple visit & Barkhor Market; Tibetan Museum tour Lhasa: Your morning tour takes you to the extraordinary 13-story Potala Palace, winter home of the revered Dalai Lama since the seventh century. It boasts more than 1,000 rooms, including the Red Palace (where the Dalai Lama once lived) and 10,000 chapels. This afternoon, visit the Sera Monastery. With three colleges for monks in training, it s an active temple. Both lunch and dinner will be in local restaurants. (B, L, D) Potala Palace visit & Sera Monastery tour The following meals are included in your cruisetour fare: B = Brea kfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner Lhasa & Chongqing: After breakfast, fly to the mountain city of Chongqing, your embarkation port for your cruise aboard Viking Century Sky. (B, L, D) Fly to Chongqing; board your ship Fengdu: Your morning is highlighted by a scenic cruise along the mighty Yangtze. You then dock in 2,000-year-old Fengdu. From here, visit Snow Jade Cave with its beautiful stalagmite formations. Return to your ship for dinner and cruise through the night. (B, L, D) Snow Jade Cave Lesser Three Gorges: This morning cruise through the Yangtze s limestone cliffs that create the famous Three Gorges. See Qutang Gorge, the most spectacular of these three large gorges. Then, take a smaller boat into the Lesser Three Gorges to enjoy lunch surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Return to your ship and cruise through Wu (Witches) Gorge, noted for its magnificent lush green mountains. Dinner is served aboard. (B, L, D) Qutang & Wu Gorge; Lesser Three Gorges excursion Three Gorges Dam & Shanghai: After breakfast, disembark for a tour of the monumental Three Gorges Dam project, scheduled for completion in Disembark; Three Gorges Dam Tour After lunch, fly to Shanghai. Begun as a tiny fishing village more than 5,000 years ago, today Shanghai is an important port with a cosmopolitan character. Tonight s dinner is in a local restaurant. (B, L, D) Fly to Shanghai; hotel check-in & free time Shanghai: This morning, tour the historic core of Shanghai,with its narrow lanes and bustling street markets. Travel along the elegant Bund riverfront promenade and see many of Shanghai s banks and trading houses. After a local lunch, browse through the many exhibits of ancient Chinese art at the Shanghai Museum. After dinner in local restaurant, you ll enjoy a performance of China s acrobats. (B, L, D) Old Shanghai/Bund tour; Shanghai Museum; Chinese acrobatic performance Shanghai: Your Viking River Cruises guide will escort you to the airport. (B) Hotel check out Experience the shopper s paradise of Hong Kong and the mystic beauty of Guilin. See details pages Note: Schedules and activities subject to change dependent upon water levels, port accessibility and weather. Passengers must be able to climb ramps for ship embarkation/disembarkation; these have a number of steep steps. Tours include up to 1-2 mile walks over steps and uneven ground. For passenger safety and enjoyment, you should be in good physical condition to participate in all tours. See Travel Information, pages Ships and destinations in China do not have facilities to accommodate wheelchairs or physically challenged passengers. The altitude in Lhasa is very high and may affect some people. Beijing TO Shanghai plus Lhasa, Tibet, 14 s / 13 Nights VIKING CENTURY SKY for deck plans, see page nights (Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Lhasa, 3-night cruise Chongqing Yichang, Shanghai) Dates are 2007 Hotel Check-In Dates Jun 8, 22 Apr 20; May 4, 11, 18, 25 Jul 6, 20 Sep 7, 14, 21, 28 Category Aug 3, 17, 31 Apr 6 Oct 5, 12, 19, 26 Cat F $3,879 $4,029 $4,129 Cat E 3,929 4,079 4,179 Cat D 4,029 4,179 4,279 Cat C 4,079 4,229 4,329 Cat B 4,179 4,329 4,429 Cat A 4,279 4,429 4,529 Cat A Superior 4,479 4,629 4,729 Mini-Suite 4,779 4,929 5,029 Suite 5,279 5,429 5,529 Note: U.S. flights depart one day prior to hotel check-in date. Transfers are included with roundtrip airfare purchase. Airfare purchased from Viking River Cruises does not include air taxes/fees or fuel surcharges, which are subject to change depending upon airline policies. At time of printing, air taxes/fees/fuel surcharges were $320. R OUNDTRIP AIRFARE STARTING AT $ Night Cruise with 12 Guided Tours from $ 2,579 EXTEND YOUR ADVENTURE with 4 nights in Hong Kong & Guilin. See pages for details. TO BOOK, SEE YOUR TRAVEL AGENT OR CALL TOLL FREE: VIKING DESTINATIONS DAY 1,2,3 -Beijing DAY 4- Beijing/Xian DAY 5- Xian/Chengdu DAY 6-Chengdu/Lhasa DAY 7,8- Lhasa DAY 9- Lhasa/Chongquing DAY 10- Fengdu DAY 11- Three Gorges DAY 12, 13, 14- Three Gorges/Shanghai 22 VIKING RIVER CRUISES 23

15 & Five Star Ships VIKING VIKING CENTURY CENTURY SKY SUN While cruising on China s Yangtze River, you ll be traveling aboard one of our deluxe 5-star ships, specially built for the discerning traveler. Our 5-deck cruise ships are the newest and best ships sailing on the Yangtze. Each ship was designed by internationally acclaimed travel architects, Yran & Storbraaten to maximize your comfort and river cruise experience. Viking Century Sky 24-hour service at our reception desk Our staff welcomes you aboard Onboard you ll enjoy stylish comfort and beautiful Finnish design. Each of the 153 spacious outside cabins features a balcony, private bathroom with shower, hairdryer, hotel-style beds, individual climate control, telephone and television (with English programming including CNN Asia, BBC, China s CCTV and Hong Kong s Star TV, depending on satellite reception). At 221 square feet, our standard cabins are the largest of any ship in China. And, you ll enjoy an array of fine amenities that you d expect from a 5-star hotel including two elevators, a gym, sauna, massage rooms, business center, internet café and coffee bar as well as the services of a doctor and beauty salon. Enjoy your gourmet meals in our well-appointed dining room. The menus were designed to give you a wonderful combination of authentic Chinese cuisine and traditional American favorites. Viking River Cruises was the first to introduce Western food aboard its Enjoy drinks at the Observation bar ships and specifically designed its kitchens to accommodate the preparation of both Eastern and Western styles of cooking. The intimate size of our ships and friendly atmosphere, allow you to get to know your traveling companions. And our own onboard Swiss hotel management and award-winning, gracious English speaking staff are the best in China. They are always there to look after you and make sure you re pampered. Probably the most relaxing and yet most informative trip we ve ever taken. The staff and crew were outstanding. - Glen & Barbara Halliday, Salem,OR Enjoy both Chinese and Western cuisine in our gourmet dining room 26 VIKING RIVER CRUISES 27

16 VIKING CENTURY SKY & VIKING CENTURY SUN Suite Standard cabin Junior suite Built: 2005, 2006; Length: 415 ft. Crew: 168; Passengers: 306 Restaurant, observation lounge & bar, coffee bar, sun deck bar, sauna, business center, sun deck, shops, laundry and massage services. Doctor, gym and beauty salon on lower deck. Decks: 5; 153 all-balcony cabins, with private bathroom and shower, hotel-style beds, telephone, TV and A/C, in-room safes and hair dryers (6 suites, 4 jr. suites, 2 superior, 141 standard) 2 elevators Voltage: 220, and razor outlet 28 VIKING RIVER CRUISES 29

17 Extend your adventure, add to your itinerary. HONG KONG AND MYSTIC GUILIN Not ready to go home? You can extend your trip in China to include our popular 4-night excursion to two popular destinations, Guilin and Hong Kong. You ll experience the contrasts of this amazing country with a 1-night stay and river cruise in beautiful Guilin, plus 2 full days and 3 nights in bustling, modern Hong Kong. Explore Hong Kong, a shopper s paradise. Wander among quaint traditional markets and modern skyscrapers as you shop for everything from traditional Asian handicrafts to designer originals. A mecca for the bargain hunter, you ll find amazing deals on stunning silk, designer suits, perfumes, antiques, electronics, leather goods, jewelry and more. And be sure to take a break from shopping to see the sights. Take a ferry across Victoria Harbor and catch scenic views atop Victoria Peak. Visit the floating city of Aberdeen and enjoy a sampan ride around the scenic Aberdeen harbor. Discover Guilin, inspiration for countless watercolors. Take in the spectacular vistas of one of China s most breathtaking destinations as you cruise along the scenic Li River. Marvel at the awe-inspiring crystal waters and bamboo groves, and watch as limestone peaks emerge from the semi-tropical river surroundings. This is the China that has inspired the world s poets and artist for thousands of years. A SHOPPER S PARADISE HONG KONG & GUILIN EXTENSION 4 NIGHTS EXTENSION, ONLY $ 1,280 PER PERSON **. Your Itinerary includes: H-star hotel accommodations: 3 nights Hong Kong & 1 night Guilin 3 tours with private English-speaking guides: Hong Kong city tour & Aberdeen sampan ride; Guilin/Li River; Yang Shuo shopping tour 7 meals: 4 brea fasts, 2 lunches and 1 dinner* All intra-china flights & appropriate transfers English-speaking escort * On pre-cruise extension, 4 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner SAMPLE ITINERARY, FOLLOWING YOUR BEIJING TO SHANGHAI CRUISETOUR 1 Guilin: After a local lunch in Shanghai, depart your Shanghai hotel and fly to Guilin, known for beautiful scenery that inspired countless Chinese watercolors. You ll be greeted at the airport and escorted to your hotel. Dinner will be at your hotel and your evening is free. (L, D) Fly to Guilin; hotel check-in 2 Guilin & Hong Kong: After breakfast at the hotel, you ll discover the scenic Li River. Board a small boat to sail past limestone peaks, and see local village life; enjoy lunch aboard. Afterwards, take a walking tour of Yang Shuo village. Cruise on Li River; Yang Shuo shopping tour Next, fly to exciting Hong Kong, a city of skyscrapers and bustling activity. Enjoy evening free time to explore Hong Kong then find a restaurant for tonight s dinner on your own. (B, L) Fly to Hong Kong; hotel check-in 3 Hong Kong: After breakfast, your half-day city tour of Hong Kong includes a trip to the top of Victoria Peak to capture Hong Kong s breathtaking landscape. You also visit the floating city of Aberdeen and take a sampan ride around the harbor. And, you ll also visit Stanley Market, a duty-free shopper s paradise. After lunch, you have free time to further explore the island or go shopping. Tonight, try one of Kowloon s fine restaurants for dinner. (B) Hong Kong city tour & Aberdeen sampan ride; free time 4 Hong Kong: You have a full free day to explore Hong Kong. Today, you can take a ferry across Victoria Harbor and visit other islands. You may go shopping or stroll through any of Kowloon s unique markets. Or, visit one of the city s museums. (B) Full day at leisure 5 Hong Kong: (B) Hotel check-out The following meals are included in your cruisetour fare: B = Brea kfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner **On the reverse itinerary, you start your vacation by flying to Hong Kong, then continue to Guilin, and finally to Shanghai for your Shanghai to Beijing cruisetour. Additional intra-china air taxes apply. For Guilin/Hong Kong, add $18 per person. For Hong Kong/Guilin, add $23 per person. If you purchase Viking River Cruises trans-pacific air in conjunction with your cruisetour and extension, add $50 to the air price from your selected itinerary. Extension package single supplement: $ VIKING RIVER CRUISES 25

18 YOUR HOTELS DURING THE LAND PORTION OF YOUR JOURNEY. Stay in China s most exclusive hotels. 5-STAR ACCOMMODATIONS BEIJING SHANGHAI The only way to compliment your stay aboard our custom-built ships with all of the amenities of a 5-star hotel is to provide you with luxurious accommodations ashore. That s why, for the land portion of your journey through China, you ll stay at only 5-star hotels that are centrally located in the heart of the city and often within walking distance from your itinerary s cultural destination. Beijing Hotel This 5-star hotel is a five-minute walk from Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. It has received the Five Star Diamond Hotel award. chinabeijinghotel.com Westin Shanghai This 5-star hotel, located in Shanghai s Bund district, received the 2006 Five Diamond Award and was voted to Condé Nast Traveler s Gold List. bundcenter.com Beijing Shangri-La This 5-star hotel was fully refurbished in 2005 and each room offers modern luxury. Centered in Beijing s western district, it s close to major sites and has a private landscaped garden. shangri-la.com St.Regis This 5-star hotel, voted to Condé Nast Traveler s Gold List and #1 in Shanghai by Travel + Leisure, is the only Shanghai hotel to offer 24-hour butler service to all guests. stregis.com The Westin Beijing, Financial Street Opening in 2007, the 5-star Westin Beijing is within easy access of the city s business, shopping, sightseeing and entertainment districts. westin.com/beijingfinancial Pudong Shangri-La Located along the Huangpu River in the financial district, this 5-star hotel enjoys breathtaking views of Shanghai s Bund and showcases dazzling restaurants, bars and CHI, the Spa. shangri-la.com XIAM LHASA Each of these premium hotels offers large, modern rooms, fine dining, top service and a highly trained staff to ensure you have a comfortable stay. Many rooms have panoramic cityscape views, and other rooms look out over the river. We ve gone to great lengths to make sure your accommodations are outstanding, and hope you enjoy our choice of award-winning hotels. Sofitel The Sofitel at Renmin Square is a 5-star hotel in the heart of Xian. Located in the commercial and government district, it s just minutes away from major shopping centers and cultural sites. accorhotels.com/asia Lhasa Hotel This 4-star property is considered the most luxurious hotel in Lhasa. It s minutes from the city center and has a great view of the majestic Potala Palace. lhasahotel.com.cn 30 VIKING RIVER CRUISES 31