Best of China

br />Book by August 31, 2010 and save $200 per couple on air-inclusive bookings on 2/16/11 and 2/23/10 departure.

Restrictions apply, based on availability.
Ask your agent for details today!Click here for terms and conditions.Peek into the past, present, and future of China on this comprehensive tour of a diverse country with an amazing history. This tour weaves the best major sites with personal experiences — from a Walk on the Great Wall to a private Tai Chi lesson and discovery of the incredible Terra-Cotta Warriors. Explore the ancient water village of Zhujiajiao, where you’ll visit the rice museum and enjoy a boat cruise along the canal. From a guided tour of the Reed Flute Caves, a lesson in making dumplings and vibrant Shanghai with its futuristic skyline, a trip to China is unforgettable.

Day 1: Overnight Flight


Day 2: Arrive Beijing, China - Tour Begins
Join us on a tour of one of the world’s most fascinating countries.In China, experience the traditional bustle of Beijing, the ancient splendor of Xi`an and the modern cityscape of Shanghai. Your adventure begins in Beijing, the vibrant capital city.

Day 1: Arrive Beijing, China - Tour Begins
Join us on a tour of one of the world’s most fascinating countries.In China, experience the traditional bustle of Beijing, the ancient splendor of Xi`an and the modern cityscape of Shanghai. Your adventure begins in Beijing, the vibrant capital city.

Day 1: Arrive Beijing, China - Tour Begins
Join us on a tour of one of the world’s most fascinating countries.In China, experience the traditional bustle of Beijing, the ancient splendor of Xi`an and the modern cityscape of Shanghai. Your adventure begins in Beijing, the vibrant capital city.

Day 2: Beijing
LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Today, your Tour Manager will help you discover the origin and history of the language(s) you will experience on your tour along with key words and phrases that will help you communicate with the locals. A sightseeing tour of Beijing begins with a visit to the expansive and historic Tiananmen Square. Continue to the Forbidden City, a vast network of palaces, including five halls, seventeen palaces and numerous other buildings.

Day 2: Beijing
LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Today, your Tour Manager will help you discover the origin and history of the language(s) you will experience on your tour along with key words and phrases that will help you communicate with the locals. A sightseeing tour of Beijing begins with a visit to the expansive and historic Tiananmen Square. Continue to the Forbidden City, a vast network of palaces, including five halls, seventeen palaces and numerous other buildings.

Day 3: Beijing
LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Today, your Tour Manager will help you discover the origin and history of the language(s) you will experience on your tour along with key words and phrases that will help you communicate with the locals. A sightseeing tour of Beijing begins with a visit to the expansive and historic Tiananmen Square. Continue to the Forbidden City, a vast network of palaces, including five halls, seventeen palaces and numerous other buildings.

Day 4: The Great Wall
China’s legendary landmark, the Great Wall, is yours to discover today. During your visit, you’ll have a chance to walk along a portion of this 3,700 mile marvel! Then continue through the valley of the Ming Tombs to visit the extensive Sacred Way burial site, commissioned by Emperor Yongle in the 15th century. You will have time to experience a time-honored and favorite pastime of the Chinese when you go kite-flying! Tonight, enjoy a Peking duck dinner followed by a traditional Peking opera show where you delight in the colorful costumes and interesting music.

Day 3: The Great Wall
China’s legendary landmark, the Great Wall, is yours to discover today. During your visit, you’ll have a chance to walk along a portion of this 3,700 mile marvel! Then continue through the valley of the Ming Tombs to visit the extensive Sacred Way burial site, commissioned by Emperor Yongle in the 15th century. You will have time to experience a time-honored and favorite pastime of the Chinese when you go kite-flying! Tonight, enjoy a Peking duck dinner followed by a traditional Peking opera show where you delight in the colorful costumes and interesting music.

Day 3: The Great Wall
China’s legendary landmark, the Great Wall, is yours to discover today. During your visit, you’ll have a chance to walk along a portion of this 3,700 mile marvel! Then continue through the valley of the Ming Tombs to visit the extensive Sacred Way burial site, commissioned by Emperor Yongle in the 15th century. You will have time to experience a time-honored and favorite pastime of the Chinese when you go kite-flying! Tonight, enjoy a Peking duck dinner followed by a traditional Peking opera show where you delight in the colorful costumes and interesting music.

Day 4: Beijing
This morning you will visit the UNESCO site of the Summer Palace, amongst the most noted classical gardens in the world. The remainder of your day is at leisure.

Day 4: Beijing
This morning you will visit the UNESCO site of the Summer Palace, amongst the most noted classical gardens in the world. The remainder of your day is at leisure.

Day 5: Beijing
This morning you will visit the UNESCO site of the Summer Palace, amongst the most noted classical gardens in the world. The remainder of your day is at leisure.

Day 6: Beijing - Xi`an
Explore the world-famous Temple of Heaven, an ornate sanctuary where Chinese Emperors worshiped their gods. Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime rickshaw tour through the Hutongs, the narrow streets of ancient Beijing. Then visit a local home where you will share a simple lunch and learn the art of dumpling making. A short flight brings you to China’s interior city of Xi`an.

Day 5: Beijing - Xi`an
Explore the world-famous Temple of Heaven, an ornate sanctuary where Chinese Emperors worshiped their gods. Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime rickshaw tour through the Hutongs, the narrow streets of ancient Beijing. Then visit a local home where you will share a simple lunch and learn the art of dumpling making. A short flight brings you to China’s interior city of Xi`an.

Day 5: Beijing - Xi`an
Explore the world-famous Temple of Heaven, an ornate sanctuary where Chinese Emperors worshiped their gods. Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime rickshaw tour through the Hutongs, the narrow streets of ancient Beijing. Then visit a local home where you will share a simple lunch and learn the art of dumpling making. A short flight brings you to China’s interior city of Xi`an.

Day 6: Xi`an
Today you visit one of the most famous Buddhist temples in the world, the classical Wild Goose Pagoda. The impressive structure was built during the Tang Dynasty to house Buddhist treasures. For lunch you will savor a local specialty, Xi`an dumplings, before traveling to the excavation site of the Terra-Cotta Warriors. This army of men and horses was buried with the first Emperor of Qin to protect him in the afterlife. You will be amazed by the sheer numbers of them and their detailed features!

Day 6: Xi`an
Today you visit one of the most famous Buddhist temples in the world, the classical Wild Goose Pagoda. The impressive structure was built during the Tang Dynasty to house Buddhist treasures. For lunch you will savor a local specialty, Xi`an dumplings, before traveling to the excavation site of the Terra-Cotta Warriors. This army of men and horses was buried with the first Emperor of Qin to protect him in the afterlife. You will be amazed by the sheer numbers of them and their detailed features!

Day 7: Xi`an
Today you visit one of the most famous Buddhist temples in the world, the classical Wild Goose Pagoda. The impressive structure was built during the Tang Dynasty to house Buddhist treasures. For lunch you will savor a local specialty, Xi`an dumplings, before traveling to the excavation site of the Terra-Cotta Warriors. This army of men and horses was buried with the first Emperor of Qin to protect him in the afterlife. You will be amazed by the sheer numbers of them and their detailed features!

Day 8: Xi`an - Guilin
An early morning flight whisks you from Xi`an to the beautiful city of Guilin, land of mystical landscapes of limestone karst pinnacles covered with lush vegetation. Visit the legendary Reed Flute Caves for a guided tour showcasing the spectacular underground scenery. You’ll also stop to take in the view of Elephant Trunk Hill, named for its curious shape which resembles an enormous elephant drinking water from the placid river.

Day 7: Xi`an - Guilin
An early morning flight whisks you from Xi`an to the beautiful city of Guilin, land of mystical landscapes of limestone karst pinnacles covered with lush vegetation. Visit the legendary Reed Flute Caves for a guided tour showcasing the spectacular underground scenery. You’ll also stop to take in the view of Elephant Trunk Hill, named for its curious shape which resembles an enormous elephant drinking water from the placid river.

Day 7: Xi`an - Guilin
An early morning flight whisks you from Xi`an to the beautiful city of Guilin, land of mystical landscapes of limestone karst pinnacles covered with lush vegetation. Visit the legendary Reed Flute Caves for a guided tour showcasing the spectacular underground scenery. You’ll also stop to take in the view of Elephant Trunk Hill, named for its curious shape which resembles an enormous elephant drinking water from the placid river.

Day 8: Guilin
Begin this day to remember with a scenic cruise along the Li River to admire the landscapes that have been inspiring Chinese artists and poets for centuries. Be sure to keep on the lookout for water buffalo! Next, visit the Guilin Tea Institute, learn the art of tea leaf picking and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.

Day 8: Guilin
Begin this day to remember with a scenic cruise along the Li River to admire the landscapes that have been inspiring Chinese artists and poets for centuries. Be sure to keep on the lookout for water buffalo! Next, visit the Guilin Tea Institute, learn the art of tea leaf picking and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.

Day 9: Guilin
Begin this day to remember with a scenic cruise along the Li River to admire the landscapes that have been inspiring Chinese artists and poets for centuries. Be sure to keep on the lookout for water buffalo! Next, visit the Guilin Tea Institute, learn the art of tea leaf picking and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.

Day 10: Guilin - Shanghai
Start the day with a private Tai Chi lesson, a highly-revered Chinese martial art that is both invigorating and relaxing. Then depart for Shanghai, a bustling trade port and the economic heart of China whose futuristic skyline will leave you speechless. Enjoy a locally-guided tour of the waterfront district known as the Bund which runs along the western bank of the Huangpu River. Famous for its gorgeous colonial buildings, you’ll feel as though you have stepped back into 19th century Europe as you wander among the impressive Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture.

Day 9: Guilin - Shanghai
Start the day with a private Tai Chi lesson, a highly-revered Chinese martial art that is both invigorating and relaxing. Then depart for Shanghai, a bustling trade port and the economic heart of China whose futuristic skyline will leave you speechless. Enjoy a locally-guided tour of the waterfront district known as the Bund which runs along the western bank of the Huangpu River. Famous for its gorgeous colonial buildings, you’ll feel as though you have stepped back into 19th century Europe as you wander among the impressive Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture.

Day 9: Guilin - Shanghai
Start the day with a private Tai Chi lesson, a highly-revered Chinese martial art that is both invigorating and relaxing. Then depart for Shanghai, a bustling trade port and the economic heart of China whose futuristic skyline will leave you speechless. Enjoy a locally-guided tour of the waterfront district known as the Bund which runs along the western bank of the Huangpu River. Famous for its gorgeous colonial buildings, you’ll feel as though you have stepped back into 19th century Europe as you wander among the impressive Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture.

Day 10: Shanghai
This morning is highlighted by a visit to the Children’s Palace, an ornate fortress where the local children come to learn various arts including calligraphy, piano and dance. Delight in the sight of children at work and play as you tour the palace. Next, visit the Old Town and walk its winding, narrow lanes. You’ll pass traditional Chinese buildings as you make your way to the once-private Yu Yuan Gardens. Admire the classical design as you wander among the flowering trees and quiet ponds. End your full-day sightseeing tour with a stop at the beautiful Temple of the Jade Buddha. Tonight, take in the energy and excitement of a Chinese acrobatics show.

Day 10: Shanghai
This morning is highlighted by a visit to the Children’s Palace, an ornate fortress where the local children come to learn various arts including calligraphy, piano and dance. Delight in the sight of children at work and play as you tour the palace. Next, visit the Old Town and walk its winding, narrow lanes. You’ll pass traditional Chinese buildings as you make your way to the once-private Yu Yuan Gardens. Admire the classical design as you wander among the flowering trees and quiet ponds. End your full-day sightseeing tour with a stop at the beautiful Temple of the Jade Buddha. Tonight, take in the energy and excitement of a Chinese acrobatics show.

Day 11: Shanghai
This morning is highlighted by a visit to the Children’s Palace, an ornate fortress where the local children come to learn various arts including calligraphy, piano and dance. Delight in the sight of children at work and play as you tour the palace. Next, visit the Old Town and walk its winding, narrow lanes. You’ll pass traditional Chinese buildings as you make your way to the once-private Yu Yuan Gardens. Admire the classical design as you wander among the flowering trees and quiet ponds. End your full-day sightseeing tour with a stop at the beautiful Temple of the Jade Buddha. Tonight, take in the energy and excitement of a Chinese acrobatics show.

Day 12: Shanghai - Zhujiajiao - Shanghai
Enjoy a full day excursion to the water village of Zhujiajiao, an ancient city located on the banks of Dianshan Lake. After more than one thousand years, Ming & Qing dynasty buildings still stand and 36 ancient stone bridges cross the canal that runs through the center of town. Visit the rice museum, enjoy a boat ride on the canal and have time to shop. This evening you may choose an optional cruise on the Huangpu River to enjoy the Shanghai skyline by night, followed by a western dinner.

Day 11: Shanghai - Zhujiajiao - Shanghai
Enjoy a full day excursion to the water village of Zhujiajiao, an ancient city located on the banks of Dianshan Lake. After more than one thousand years, Ming & Qing dynasty buildings still stand and 36 ancient stone bridges cross the canal that runs through the center of town. Visit the rice museum, enjoy a boat ride on the canal and have time to shop. This evening you may choose an optional cruise on the Huangpu River to enjoy the Shanghai skyline by night, followed by a western dinner.

Day 11: Shanghai - Zhujiajiao - Shanghai
Enjoy a full day excursion to the water village of Zhujiajiao, an ancient city located on the banks of Dianshan Lake. After more than one thousand years, Ming & Qing dynasty buildings still stand and 36 ancient stone bridges cross the canal that runs through the center of town. Visit the rice museum, enjoy a boat ride on the canal and have time to shop. This evening you may choose an optional cruise on the Huangpu River to enjoy the Shanghai skyline by night, followed by a western dinner.

Day 12: Shanghai
Today you will discover the treasures of the Shanghai Museum, home to priceless artifacts that span China’s rich history. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to explore more of the city on your own or to revisit some of your favorite locales. Snap a few more photographs, enjoy another steaming bowl of noodles, or shop for a few last-minute souvenirs. Later this evening, bid farewell to China at a dinner with your fellow travelers.

Day 12: Shanghai
Today you will discover the treasures of the Shanghai Museum, home to priceless artifacts that span China’s rich history. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to explore more of the city on your own or to revisit some of your favorite locales. Snap a few more photographs, enjoy another steaming bowl of noodles, or shop for a few last-minute souvenirs. Later this evening, bid farewell to China at a dinner with your fellow travelers.

Day 13: Shanghai
Today you will discover the treasures of the Shanghai Museum, home to priceless artifacts that span China’s rich history. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to explore more of the city on your own or to revisit some of your favorite locales. Snap a few more photographs, enjoy another steaming bowl of noodles, or shop for a few last-minute souvenirs. Later this evening, bid farewell to China at a dinner with your fellow travelers.

Day 14: Shanghai - Tour Ends
Your tour ends in Shanghai but you will carry your memories of China with you as you make the journey home.

Day 13: Shanghai - Tour Ends
Your tour ends in Shanghai but you will carry your memories of China with you as you make the journey home.

Day 13: Shanghai - Tour Ends
Your tour ends in Shanghai but you will carry your memories of China with you as you make the journey home.

Don't miss our current specials: Free or Reduced Companion Air to Europe Check out these last minute SAVINGS provided by our airline partners who have offered special pricing for specific tours and dates only. As a result, we're delighted to offer you FREE or reduced companion air on select tours. See list of tours for details on our last minute offer applied to that specific tour when you make your air-inclusive booking. Some restrictions may apply, please call 800-942-3301 for details. Italian Vistas This 13 day trip has everything you've always wanted in a trip to Italy. Enjoy multiple night stays in Rome, Florence, Venice, the Amalfi coast and Stresa in the Lakes District. Discover the treasures of Classical and Christian Rome. Walk in the footsteps on the ancients in Pompeii. See the gems of the Renaissance in Florence's Academy Gallery, including Michelangelo's David. Visit Lugano, Switzerland, and cruise to Isola Bella, one of the scenic Borromean Islands. Reflections of Italy Revel in the magic of Italy on this 10-day tour that explores the cities of Rome, Florence, Venice, Assisi and Perugia. Travel the Tuscan and Umbrian countryside, exploring medieval hill towns and visiting the birthplace of St. Francis, Assisi. Discover the masterpieces of the Renaissance in Florence and see hot glass transformed into exquisite art on Murano Island. Linger in Venice for two nights before ending your journey in the lovely Italian Lake region. Cross the border and explore the Swiss resort town of Lugano. Spain's Classics Spain is a colorful pageant of art, history and culture, set against a backdrop that spans sunny Mediterranean shores and grand mountain ranges, dotted with groves of oranges and olives. Explore the priceless treasures in Madrid’s Prado Museum. Visit the exotic and expansive Alhambra palace, resplendent with Moorish regal flair. See Columbus’ tomb. Feel the passion of the Flamenco with reserved seating at a performance in Seville. Explore Valencia, Barcelona, Granada, Cordoba and Toledo. Travel the Sierra Nevada Canada's Winter Wonderland Immerse yourself in the ultimate winter wonderland — the Canadian Rockies. Hop aboard VIA Rail Canada's Snow Train Express and head for Jasper with spectacular views. Travel across the Icefields Parkway with breathtaking scenery. Relax at three Fairmont properties: Jasper Park Lodge, Château Lake Louise, and the Banff Springs Resort, each magically decorated for the holiday. Enjoy a cooking demonstration, kitchen tour and learn how to make your own holiday pastries FREE Door to Door Service Now Vacations Start at HOME! Don't worry about getting to the airport... because a vacation should be worry-free. With Collette Vacations, enjoy free round trip sedan service that takes you from your home to the airport when you purchase an air-inclusive Collette tour.* This personalized service - including gratuities - is available on new air-inclusive bookings to the South Pacific, Canada, and Europe; and on ALL Smithsonian Journeys Travel Adventures and Explorations by Collette tours. On departures May 2010 and beyond, Door to Door transfers are included with air-inclusive bookings to all destinations Great Savings • Added Comfort • More Convenience
Touring Date	Land Only	Land + Air	Single (Land Only)	Single (Land + Air)
9/22/2010 - 10/5/2010	$1,949
10/27/2010 - 11/9/2010	$1,949
2/23/2011 - 3/8/2011	$1,849
3/9/2011 - 3/22/2011	$1,899
3/23/2011 - 4/5/2011	$1,899
3/30/2011 - 4/12/2011	$1,949
4/6/2011 - 4/19/2011	$1,949
5/11/2011 - 5/22/2011	$1,849
6/8/2011 - 6/19/2011	$1,849
7/13/2011 - 7/24/2011	$1,799
9/21/2011 - 10/2/2011	$1,849
10/5/2011 - 10/16/2011	$1,849
10/12/2011 - 10/23/2011	$1,849
2/22/2012 - 3/4/2012	$1,799
3/14/2012 - 3/25/2012	$1,849
4/18/2012 - 4/29/2012	$1,849
Airfare Disclaimer A NOTE ABOUT AIRFARE: We encourage you to buy your airfare from the tour operator, because if your tour cancels then your airlines tickets will be covered. Purchasing flights separately at a lesser rate and incorporating it with a Non-Guaranteed Departure Date can result in loss of total cost of your flight investment. Depending on the fare rules, flights may be Non-Refundable and/or Non-Transferable. Neither the tour operator and/or Atlas Cruises & Tours will be held responsible for loss if a tour is cancelled for Lack of Participation. If you would like to check for discounted fares on Guaranteed Departures or for competitive pricing on air and hotel packages, we invite you to follow this link. Documents TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Necessary Travel Documents such as Passports and Visas is the responsibility of the traveler. Passports must be valid six months from your return travel date.

Free or Reduced Companion Air to Europe

FREE Door to Door Service

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