Travelling in China
General Notes
Tipping is now expected in China. In order to overcome embarrassment, misunderstandings or simply lack of appropriate change, your tour manager or national guide will propose a ‘tipping pool’ arrangement at the start of the tour to which you may contribute. Further guidance will be given before travel.
- Food in China differs in presentation and in taste from that which is available in the UK. Vegetarians can be catered for but please ensure that you make us aware beforehand of your requirements.
- All meals are included in China (except Hong
Kong) at either the hotel or in local restaurants
and generally offer a selection of Chinese dishes
with a drink and tea. - Chinese cities, even the less well known ones, are incredibly big, populous and busy. Traffic is heavy causing jams and pollution.
- Summers are very hot and winters are extremely cold. Nonetheless, winter is a good time to travel as the days are clear and the sights are much quieter.
- Group sizes vary considerably, from 6 to 35. As a guide, spring and autumn departures are the most popular times to travel and therefore groups will be larger than in peak summer or winter.
- Mobility – our tours involve much walking when sightseeing and in towns, frequently over uneven terrain, so a degree of fitness and mobility is essential. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are able to keep up with the group and its activities.
- Transportation is in private air-conditioned vehicles with local guides accompanying all tours (except on flights).
- Our 3, 4 and 5-star hotels generally include a
restaurant, bar/coffee shop and English speaking
reception staff. Accommodation is in air-conditioned rooms with private facilities, hairdryer, telephone, mini-bar and satellite TV with tea making facilities and complimentary mineral water.
