Departs October 4, 2008.
13 days, deluxe hotels and first-class ship accommodations.

Watch China unfold during this incredible adventure. Discover Beijing, China’s second largest city and home to the 2008 Summer Olympics. Stand in the middle of Tiananmen Square, visit the Forbidden City, and walk along the Great Wall – a man-made wonder. Cruise the breathtaking Yangtze River with its stunning surroundings and the famous Three Gorges, each with its own unique characteristics. Travel to Xi’an and visit Emperor Qin’s life-sized Terra Cotta Soldiers and Horses, a sight to behold. Explore Shanghai, China’s largest city and home to Shanghai’s legendary Acrobats.

Itinerary:

October 5.  Depart from North America on overnight flight to Shanghai.

October 6.  Arrive Shanghai, transfer to hotel.

October 7.  We will visit the peaceful Yu Yuan Gardens and then stroll through Old Town and along the Bund, Shanghai’s famed waterfront promenade. Cap the day off with a dazzling performance by the amazing Shanghai Acrobats.  (B/L/D)

October 8.  Fly to Yichang and board ship. Enjoy outside stateroom with private balcony. (B/L/D)

October 9-11.  Cruise the Yangtze River.  Highlights for these three days include Three Gorges Dam, Lesser Three Gorges, and Shibaozai. (B/L/D)

October 12.  Disembark in Chongquing and visit the world famous Chongquing Zoo for a glimpse of the Giant Pandas.  Fly to Xi’an. (B/L/D)

October 13.  Xi’an is the capital of Shaanxi Province and the site of one of the most significant archaeological excavations of the 20th century, the Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses. In the evening, indulge in a Tang Dynasty dinner and cultural show. (B/L/D)

October 14 - 16.  Fly to Beijing for three days exploring this exciting city.  We’ll see The Great Wall, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Ming Tombs, and the Summer Palace.  Enjoy Peking Duck dinner one evening and the spectacular Beijing Opera another evening. (B/L/D)

October 17.  Transfer to airport for flight home. (B)

Price: $4,699

Prices are per person, based on double occupancy, and include roundtrip air from San Francisco, all transfers (including domestic flights within China) and excursions as indicated in itinerary, guides’ services, outside stateroom on Victoria Katarina, all meals on board, deluxe hotels, meals as indicated in itinerary, travel insurance, gratuities, port charges and taxes.  Airfare from other gateways quoted individually.