Dream Trip Vacation to China & Thailand
China
China kept itself to itself for thousands of years, and foreigners still find it difficult to penetrate the inner depths of this fascinating and enigmatic country. There is a great deal to discover in this, the world's most populated country, with more than 1.3 billion citizens, and the third largest in the world territorially. What makes it attractive as a destination for Western tourists is its fascinating culture and valuable antiquities. Ruins and relics from Neolithic settlements and the dynastic reigns of the mighty emperors are there to behold, along with adventures along the legendary ancient trade routes, such as the Silk Road. The Forbidden Palace, Great Wall, and X'ian's Terracotta Army, are just some of the incredible attractions to be seen in this ancient Eastern empire.
The People's Republic of China has been under communist government since 1949, but is currently undergoing social and economic development. Emphasis is being placed on tourist facilities and infrastructure. China is opening the doors to its wealth of historical and cultural treasures and visitors are flooding in to be amazed and awed. Organised tours are still the favoured way to explore China, but independent travel is slowly becoming easier. The major cities, like Beijing and Shanghai, are modern metropolises offering fast food and glitzy stores alongside centuries-old historical buildings and traditional eating houses. Archaeological wonders vie with amazing architecture in the interior, while majestic mountains and remote monasteries crown the northern areas.
Beijing
The capital of the People's Republic of China, Beijing (formerly Peking) is a very modern and exceedingly busy city (nearly 14 million people call it home) with high-rise buildings, international hotels and sprawling suburbs. The city is abuzz and bristling with cranes on the skyline as construction projects give rise to new skyscrapers and modernisation proceeds apace. However, Beijing also encompasses numerous attractions of cultural and historical interest, of which some, such as the Great Wall, former Imperial palace (known as the Forbidden City), the Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace and the remains of Peking Man at Zhoukoudian, are UNESCO-endorsed World Cultural Heritage Sites. Chinese history and culture fascinates Western visitors, and Beijing is the place to start exploring it. The city abounds in imperial palaces, temples, mansions, gardens and tombs that epitomise classical Chinese architecture. It has 120 museums and more than 100 public gardens.
The first port of call for most visitors is the Forbidden City, which lies at the heart of Beijing with the rest of the city radiating out from it in a grid pattern. For five centuries this massive palace complex with 9,999 rooms functioned as the administrative centre of the country and home to a succession of emperors, who lived in luxurious isolation, surrounded by courtiers and retainers. The Palace overlooks the famous Tiananmen Square, site of so much political drama and dissent, the epitome of this capital city.
Xian
In ancient times the city of Xi'an was a major crossroads on the trading routes from eastern China to central Asia, and the beginning point of the famed Silk Road; in recent years this 3,100 year old city that was once regarded to be on a par with Rome and Constantinople, has come back into its own as one of China's major tourist attractions. In 1974, on the city's eastern outskirts, archaeologists stumbled across a treasure trove: an army of terracotta warrior figurines in battle formation standing in underground vaults. Hailed as the greatest archaeological find of the 20th century, the terracotta warriors have brought visitors from around the world flocking to Xi'an to soak up its historical and cultural heritage, and perhaps embark on an adventure tour along the ancient silk caravan route.
Xi'an, in ancient times known as Chang'an, is situated in central China in the southern part of GuanZhong Plain in Shaanxi province, with the Qinling Mountains to the north and the Weihe River to the south.
Besides the terracotta warriors, the city has a great many historical relics of interest, having been the capital city of China through 12 dynasties during its thousands of years of development.
Thailand
From idyllic, unspoilt beaches with turquoise seas and pure, white sands to bustling cities sporting exotic markets and a vibrant, colourful nightlife, it is easy to see why Thailand has become one of the most popular tourist destinations for the adventurous and young at heart.
A turbulent, and often bloody history has left Thailand scattered with ruins, forgotten temples and deserted cities that reveal a rich tableau of past eras to those willing to explore.
Thailand's booming tourist economy, driven largely by Hollywood (the country has been the setting for The Man with the Golden Gun, The Bridge over River Kwai and most recently Alex Garland's The Beach) has resulted in the opening of a number of expensive and luxurious international hotels. Those looking for the rustic splendour of the beaches and islands will find plenty of cheap and comfortable accommodation.
The size and geographical diversity of Thailand provides for a variety of activities. Snorkelling, diving and a host of watersports are very popular around the Islands, while inland enthusiasts can trek into the mountains or cycle across the flat river areas of the northeast.
Bangkok
Chaotic, carnal and congested, Thailand's capital is divided by the Chao Phraya River and is nestled in one of the world's most fertile rice-producing deltas. Bangkok's 579 square miles (1,500 sq km) are criss-crossed by a series of canals carrying passengers and cargo, its roads clotted with endless traffic jams, while the city sprawls in all directions with a hodgepodge of urban, commercial and industrial buildings. A new overland metropolitan railway speeds above the city, providing visitors with a relaxed and efficient way to observe the hustle and bustle below.
Despite its pollution and overcrowding, Bangkok is undoubtedly one of Asia's most exciting cities, and one of the world's largest, promising to reveal to each traveller the wild and untamed mysteries of the east. Khao San Road is one of the city's most vibrant streets, and is probably one of the best examples in the world of a backpacker's 'ghetto'. Day and night the short stretch of road is abuzz with activity. On the banks of the Chao Phraya visitors will find the Grand Palace as well as Wat Phra Kaew, the palace temple housing the Emerald Buddha, constructed entirely from translucent green jade. Slightly upriver are the exquisitely ornamented Royal Barges, still used today for special floating processions.
Of the 30 or so temples in Bangkok, the largest is the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, which houses an impressive statue of the deity. The famous Floating Market is a delight to visitors and well worth a visit. As the sun lurches towards the horizon in the west and the sweat cools, this city of royalty and religion comes alive with a palpable decadence. Music and dazzling neon advertise a miasma of trendy bars and nightclubs, as well as the notorious 'girlie joints' that have ensured the Patpong district its reputation for hedonism.
Chang Mai
Chiang Mai is Thailand's second largest city, and an excellent starting point for excursions into the northern territories. Its name means 'new city', although Chiang Mai is much older than Bangkok, built in 1296 under the rule of King Mengrai. While this city has many ancient temples, including the one at Doi Suthep, which offers breathtaking views over the area, its popularity is largely due to the elephant treks in the surrounding countryside. Thai cookery classes are also a popular tradition in the city. Chiang Mai also has an extensive night market, with dozens of street vendors selling a variety of traditional Thai wares that can be obtained at very low prices if you have the patience to bargain for them. The city is small enough to get around on a bicycle, has several attractions, and offers excellent accommodation, although tourists are advised that it can be difficult to find a room in peak season, between December and March.
China-Thailand
Dream Trip Itinerary
July 4th - July 26th
July 4th
Fly from U.S. to Beijing.
July 5th
Arrive in Beijing late afternoon or early evening and check in to hotel.
Beijing, the nation's capitol, offers a bustling mix of old and new. The city's historic sights unfold during your visit.
There are two hotels that we recommend for your stay in Beijing.
The Shangri-La Hotel Beijing
24 story elegant hotel located in the Haidian Economic District near the Beijing Zoo.
The China World Hotel
Contemporary hotel located in the heart of the diplomatic and financial district and close to the Forbidden City.
July 6th
Visit the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven.
Walk through the world's largest public square, Tiananmen Square, and then pass through the gates of the Forbidden City. Explore the 175-acre display of palaces, pavilions, courtyards and gardens alive with history. Continue to the lovely Summer Palace and the blue-tiled Temple of Heaven.
July 7th
Day of leisure and sightseeing.
The following are some of the exciting optional activities that can be added to enhance your stay: Acrobat Show and Dinner, Half-day Hutong Tour or Peking Duck Dinner and Opera
July 8th
Tour the Great Wall of China and Ming Tombs. Journey out of the city to explore the Great Wall of Chia, one of the most spectacular structures ever built by man, and the elaborate Ming Tombs.
July 9th
Fly to Xian and check into your hotel.
Once a crossroads on the trading routes from China to Central Asia, Xian vied with Rome for title of the world's greatest city. Today, Xian is renowned for its archaeological treasures.
In Xian we recommend these two hotels:
Shangri-La Golden Flower
This hotel is attractive, modern and conveniently located close to Xian's historical sights.
The Hyatt Regency Xian
The Hyatt Regency Xian is a modern high rise, in atrium design, conveniently located within the ancient city walls.
After you check into your hotel you will visit Yang Ling Tombs and the restoration work currently underway.
July 10th
Visit Terra Cotta Warriors and explore the ruins of a Neolithic village, and see the sights of ancient Xian. You will also have the opportunity to visit the Shagnxi Provincial Museum.
July 11th
Fly to Chengdu for a lunch and city tour.
In all, for over two thousand years, Chengdu has been constantly learning and absorbing the new and advanced culturally and intellectually. This explains why Chengdu has remained prosperous politically, culturally and economically all through history.
While in Chengdu you will be lodged in either the Crown Plaza Chengdu or another 5 star property.
Crown Plaza Chengdu
The Crown Plaza is located near the major shopping are of Zong Fu Street and the commercial center. It is within walking distance of the heart of the city.
July 12th
Visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Center and Sanxingdui Museum with artifacts covering 5000 years
July 13th, 14th and 15th (Viking River Cruise)
Fly to Chongqing to board the 4 Day River Cruise. This cruise will be with Viking River Cruises on the Viking Sky. All meals, transfers, English speaking guides and shore excursions are included.
Ports of call include Fengdu, Shibaozhai Temple, The Lesser Three Gorges and The Three Gorge Dam Site.
July 16th
Depart in Yichang and fly to Kunming.
In Kunmin
g we recommend the follow hotels:
The Kuming Hotel
Located in the city center near shopping, train station and airport.
Kunming Harbour Plaza Hotel
This modern hotel overlooks Green Lake Park and is located in the western part of the city.
July 17th
Tour Western Hills and the Golden Palace Temple. Surrounded on three sides by mountains and open onto Dianchi Lake on the fourth, Kunming, nicknamed the "City of Spring" is renowned for its verdant trees and plants. Scenic spots abound, among the most renowned is the Stone Forest, a bewitching karts land formation.
July 18th
Fly to Bangkok, Thailand via Shanghai. (You may need to overnight in Shanghai)
July 19th
Sprawling along the banks of the Chao Phraya River and adorned with some 400 temples, Bangkok offers a variety of sights and activities.
Your first day will include a full city tour. While in Bangkok we recommend the following hotels:
The Amari Atrium
This is a modern hotel a short distance from the underground train station and offers excellent service.
The Shangri-La Bangkok
This sophisticated resort is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. All rooms have ocean views.
July 20th
Your family will enjoy the Royal Grand Palace Tour.
The Royal Grand Palace displays stunning architectural styles from the Renaissance to Thai. Explore the dazzling Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the King's personal place of worship. Continue through the elegant reception halls and pavilions of the Palace, leaving you with a lasting impression of the elegance and beauty of Thailand.
July 21st
Fly to Chiang Mai to start the Golden Triangle Route. This is an hour's flight north of Bangkok in a lush valley surrounded by verdant, forested hills. Here lies the "Shangri-La" of Thailand. The nation's second largest city, Chiang Mai is one of the world's largest centers of "cottage" industries. Your stay provides a wonderful introduction to the scenery and cultures of "up country" Thailand.
While in Chiang Mai we recommend the following hotels:
The Sheraton Chiang Mai
The Sheraton Chiang Mai is a modern hotel located near the business and shopping district.
The Hotel Empress
This modern 17-story hotel is located 10 minutes from the city center.
July 22nd
Explore Thailand's Northwest frontier where Thailand meets Myanmar and Laos. En route you will enjoy some of Southeast Asia's most breathtaking scenery and visit hill tribe villages.
Travel via motor coach through the countryside to a hill tribe village and the "Grand Canyon" before arriving in Mae Hong Som and your accommodations at the Rooks Holiday Hotel.
July 23rd
Take an elephant ride along the Pai River to a Padong hillside village, where the women are know as "Giraffe Women" due to the brass rings they wear around their necks. Later, visit local temples and get a bird's-eye view of the enchanting Mae Hong Son Valley.
July 24th
Visit a forest camp to see elephants demonstrating their skills en route to a Meo hill tribe village and lunch in the town of Tha Torn. Continue through the Golden Triangle area with visits to Mae Salong and Akkha villages, arriving at The Legend Boutique River Resort & Spa on the mighty Mekong River.
July 25th
Visit the border village town of Mae Sai en route to the airport for your trip home.
Spend the evening at a hotel near the Bangkok Airport.
July 26th
Fly back to the United States
