I have been reflecting on my recent visit to China, especially after the country has been in the news regularly since then.
The tour was very good value for money. China is full of natural beauty and contrasts. I enjoyed every province, city and excursion. Definite highlights were the Forbidden City, temples, climbing The Great Wall and rose-lined roads in Beijing and the breathtakingly beautiful lakes, gardens and parks in the south. Shanghai was fabulous and the sunset cruise on the last evening was the best way to end a memorable experience. Based on that, there would be no complaints!
Flights: Very long, but under good conditions and service. There was only one security counter open at OR Tambo, Terminal B, and I just about made the connecting flight. We arrived late in Hong Kong and were ushered to the connecting flight to Beijing by very efficient ground staff. The return flights were also good. I’d fly Cathay Pacific again without hesitation.
Hotels: Excellent, and mostly in beautiful settings. Only one was not up the same standard as the others.
Meals: Breakfasts were excellent with a vast variety. The quality of lunches and suppers ranged from excellent to poor. The Peking Duck and Salty Duck were very good and I enjoyed the variety of vegetables. It wasn’t pleasant eating with people who were always complaining, making comparisons and looking for Mc Donald’s, Burger King or Pizza Hut. I thought it rude and insulting to the guides and local people.
Transfer vehicles: Good and clean.
Tour guides: The national tour director, Kiki was very accommodating, patient and tried her best to solve all our problems. She did a very good job under very difficult circumstances. I tried to email Charming Asia Tours to give her a good testimonial, without success as my email was returned.
The local guides were well informed and had a very good command of English.