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INTRODUCTION
CHINA
see & do
CITIES Unsurprisingly, given the size of its population, China has a large number of well known cities, the best of which are included in this brochure. Each differs and together they offer a lucid collection of world class hotels, ancient imperial sights, modern design, traditional districts, sprawling gardens, tranquil canals, varied entertainment and fabulous shopping. ANCIENT SIGHTS As befits a breathtaking country that represents one of the earliest civilisations in the world with a colourful history stretching back over 3,600 years, China is blessed with a rich vein of awe-inspiring ancient sights. The Great Wall of China, the Terracotta Warriors and the Forbidden City are three of the most popular. Also recommended is the Summer Palace in Beijing. GARDENS & WATERTOWNS Classical Chinese gardens and quaint picturesque watertowns are highly recommended as a tranquil alternative to the hustle and bustle of China's major cities. Many of the gardens, particularly in Suzhou, are UNESCO World Heritage sites
and known the world over for their horticultural beauty and creativity. With many traditional watertowns easily accessible from Shanghai, Suzhou, Nanjing and Hangzhou, take time to visit Tongli, Zhouzhuang, Wuzhen and Shaoxing, stunningly preserved oasis' of ancient stone bridges spanning calm canal waters with hardy stone pathways dividing traditional humble dwellings. NATURAL BEAUTY China is a vast country, its landscape as rich and varied as its people. Majestic mountains rise up in the west, then spread across its central belt through the soaring peaks and waterfalls of Jiuzhaigou to the stunning Yellow Mountains in the east. Alternatively journey along the ancient Silk Road in the northwest, through the dramatic gorges of the mighty Yangtze in the centre and enjoy a leisurely cruise among soaring karsts along the Li River in the south. TEMPLES & PAGODAS Certain aspects of China seem to sum up its timeless beauty and enduring appeal, no more so than its many intricate and elaborate ancient temples and stunning pagodas. Often built in areas of outstanding beauty, they make interesting and highly decorative distractions from the frenetic pace of the main cities.
BEACHES Framed by the warm waters of the South China Sea, the relaxed beach resort of Sanya on Hainan Island shares a similar climate to Hawaii. Endless days of year round sunshine ensure a relaxing end to a tour or tailormade holiday. CUISINE In contrast to the popular westernised menus of home, the taste of authentic Chinese cuisine is unforgettable. Falling into four main regional categories covering light flavours to spicy delicacies there is always a variety to suit any palate. Rice dominates in the south, in the north noodles and dumplings are more popular. Rest assured however, when your desire is for a more familiar taste of home, western cuisine is widely available. MINORITY PEOPLES China's population amounts to a colossal 1.3 billion, 93% of whom are Han Chinese and the remainder belong to one of the 55 other ethnic groups. Often located in mountainous and borderland towns and villages, particularly in Yunnan, their communities are steeped in the ancient customs and traditions of their forefathers. Their colourful costumes and highly evocative folklore performances have long delighted visitors from the west. SHOPPING Awoken from its self-imposed Communist slumber in the new, more open China, shopping is fast becoming the new religion. From department stores and designer boutiques, to shopping malls and traditional markets, there are a wealth of opportunities to bring home a bargain or two.
1 Giant pandas 2 Traditional costume 3 The Great Wall of China 4 Shanghai by night 5 Guilin scenery 6 Black Dragon Pool, Lijiang 6
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INFORMATION Capital: Beijing Population: 1.3 billion Size: 9,590,000 square km Time Difference: GMT +8 Flight Time: To Beijing 10 hours; Shanghai 111/2 hours Visas: Required in advance from Chinese Embassies and Consulates, usually lasting for up to 30 days. Additional Permits are required for Tibet. These permits (TTBs) are included in your airfare from Chengdu on our escorted tours. For independent travellers TTBs will be arranged by Kuoni in advance. Please note if you intend to visit Hong Kong from China and then return to China, or Sanya from Hong Kong, flying home via Hong Kong, a multiple entry Visa is required. Currency: RMB. Its standard unit is the Yuan. Not convertible outside China, once you arrive, you can use ATMs or exchange cash or travellers cheques at banks or hotels. Credit Cards/ATMs: Credit cards are widely accepted, however it is always advisable to carry RMB/USD cash with you. ATMs are now prevalent across China, but not in the remote areas. Banks are open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday; 8am to 11.30pm Saturdays. Tipping: Neither expected nor requested in many parts of China, but not in the more remote areas. Please see `Need To Know' section of each tour for details of what tipping is included. Weather: China is a country of contrasts, so when one area is `wet' another is `dry', and other areas maintain the same weather year round. The most popular time to visit China is between February to November. Please see our climate guide on p115.
call 01306 740500 I www.kuoni.co.uk I see your travel agent
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