5 Star China & Yangtze Cruise

• Return international full-service flights (economy class), surcharges may apply

• 4-night Yangtze River cruise with Victoria Cruise Line in a private balcony cabin with ensuite

• 10 nights of 5-star hotel accommodation

• Enjoy 21 meals, including daily breakfast, 4 lunches and 3 dinners

• English-speaking tour guides
• Airline taxes and surcharges

• Transportation by private air-conditioned vehicles
• 4 one-way high speed train journeys (or one-way domestic flights, subject to availability). Please note: At least one high speed rail journey is guaranteed.

• Return airport transfers

• Optional Tours: Optional experiences and tours are available to add to your itinerary (payable on tour).

Please note: Extra charges may apply. See the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details.

Today, depart Australia (or New Zealand) for Xi’an, China and upon arrival, a tour representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel.

Located in central-northwest China, Xi'an records the great changes of the country just like a living history book. Called Chang'an (the eternal city) in ancient times, it is one of the birthplaces of the ancient Chinese civilisation in the Yellow River Basin area. As the eastern terminal of the Silk Road and the site of the famous Terracotta Warriors of the Qin Dynasty, the city has a worldwide reputation. More than 3,000 years of history, including over 1,100 years as the capital city of ancient dynasties, have endowed the city with an amazing historical heritage.

Please note:
• Some travellers may depart on Day 0.
• Some travellers may have an overnight layover in China with accommodation and transfers provided by the airline.
• Some travellers may have an overnight layover in an Australian city with airport accommodation provided (excluding transfers).
• Some travellers may arrive early in the morning of Day 2.

Overnight: Sheraton Xi’an Hotel or similar, Xi’an

Meals included: In-Flight

Enjoy a sleep in this morning, then get ready to discover one of China's UNESCO Heritage Listed icons.

The highlight today is a visit to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum. Unearthed near Xi’an, the thousands of life-size sculptures of soldiers, chariots and horses are considered a world wonder. With different facial expressions and weaponry adorning each soldier, the Terracotta Warriors were believed to have been created to accompany the Qin Emperor into the afterlife. This site is among the top archaeological excavations of the 20th century and you're sure to be amazed by the scale of the Terracotta Warriors Army.

Afterwards, you'll visit the Terracotta Warriors Reproduction Factory.

Overnight: Sheraton Xi’an Hotel or similar, Xi’an

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast visit Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This impressive pagoda stands in pleasant surroundings in the grounds of the ancient Jianfu Temple and has a history dating back over 1,300 years.

Then, transfer to Xi’an Railway Station for a high speed train ride (or a domestic flight) to Beijing. Upon arrival, a tour representative will meet and transfer you to the hotel.

Please note:
• High-speed train tickets are subject to availability, and if train tickets are unavailable a domestic flight will be provided to Beijing in place of this train journey. Train/flight tickets will be confirmed in your travel documentation which will arrive 4-6 weeks prior to your departure date or in some cases provided by your tour guide on arrival in China.
• If you do not provide your passport details at least 60 days prior to departure you may not be in the same train carriage or on the same train as your companions and other group members.
• Seating arrangement on high-speed trains consists of a row of 2 seats and a row of 3 seats. Due to this, we cannot guarantee you a seat right next to your travel companion on this journey.

Overnight: Wyndham Beijing North or similar, Beijing

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, your exploration of Beijing begins with a visit to a pearl factory to learn about cultivating fresh pearls. Then visit Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, before stopping by the Imperial Palace in the Forbidden City. The Forbidden City, known officially as the Imperial Palace Museum, was originally constructed by the third Emperor of the Ming Dynasty, Yong Le Emperor Zhu Di, in the early 15th century. The palace was built between 1406 and 1420 but has been burnt down, rebuilt, sacked and renovated countless times so most of the architecture you can see today dates from the 1700s onwards.

Optional Tour: The Golden Mask Dynasty
Tonight, take the opportunity to attend an optional large-scale dramatic musical, "The Golden Mask Dynasty". This optional activity is paid on tour, see Important Information for pricing.

Please note:
• There is a daily limit on the number of tickets available for The Forbidden City, therefore entry cannot be guaranteed and is subject to availability. In the event that tickets can not be secured, a visit to The Temple of Heaven will be offered instead.
• The Temple of Heaven, founded in the first half of the 15th century, is a dignified complex of fine cult buildings that are set in gardens and surrounded by historic pine woods. In its overall layout, it symbolises the relationship between earth and heaven which stands at the heart of Chinese cosmogony and also recognises the special role played by the emperors within that relationship.
• Scheduling of attractions and activities may be alternated for the days in Beijing (Days 4 to 6).

Overnight: Wyndham Beijing North or similar, Beijing

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, travel to a jade museum to learn about the history of jade and observe skilled artisans at work as they create intricate designs. In Chinese, jade is pronounced as “Yu” and has a history of at least four thousand years in China.

Take a scenic drive through the countryside and mountains to reach China’s most renowned monument, the Great Wall of China. Along the way, you'll enjoy stopping for a delicious Peking Duck lunch, one of Beijing's most famous dishes (vegetarian options will be available also).

On arrival at the Great Wall, you'll visit the less-touristy and more original Juyong Pass, avoiding other sections that are the most accessible and consequently, the most crowded. The Great Wall meanders through China’s northern mountain ranges from the Yellow Sea to the Gobi Desert, a distance of more than 5,600 kilometres.

Please note: The Juyong Pass requires a moderate level of fitness, with some sections being steep and uneven.

Optional Tour: Hutong Pedicab Tour & Dinner
In the afternoon, take the opportunity to join an optional tour of Beijing’s 700-year-old Hutongs area by old-fashioned pedicab. Visit a local family to experience local customs and enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner. The optional tour also includes a visit to Shichahai, a historic scenic area consisting of three lakes (Qianhai, Houhai and Xihai) which surround places of historic interest, scenic beauty and remnants of old-style hutong and courtyard local residences. This optional activity is paid on tour, see Important Information for pricing.

Please note:
• Scheduling of attractions and activities may be alternated for the days in Beijing (Days 4 to 6).
• The old-fashioned pedicab operation may be suspended without prior notice and a replacement optional tour will be offered.

Overnight: Wyndham Beijing North or similar, Beijing

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch

After breakfast this morning, make a stop at a traditional Chinese health centre where you’ll learn about acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other wellness practices integral to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Afterwards, travel by high-speed train (or domestic flight) to Suzhou. Upon arrival, a tour representative will meet and escort you to the hotel.

Please note:
• High-speed train tickets are subject to availability, and if train tickets are unavailable a domestic flight will be provided to Shanghai, followed by a coach transfer to Suzhou, in place of this train journey. Train/flight tickets will be confirmed in your travel documentation which will arrive 4-6 weeks prior to your departure date or in some cases provided by your tour guide on arrival in China.
• If you do not provide your passport details at least 60 days prior to departure you may not be in the same train carriage or on the same train as your companions and other group members.
• Seating arrangement on high-speed trains consists of a row of 2 seats and a row of 3 seats. Due to this, we cannot guarantee you a seat right next to your travel companion on this journey.

Overnight: Renaissance Suzhou Wujiang or similar, Suzhou

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, explore Suzhou, dating back to 514 BC, and sometimes referred to as the ‘Venice of the East’. Visit the famous Lingering Garden, recognised with other classical Suzhou gardens as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

China is renowned for its exquisite silk, so naturally, a visit to the Silk Spinning Factory is in order. Then take the opportunity to cruise along the Grand Canal (not included) to view life along China’s ancient waterway. Afterwards, drive to Shanghai (approximately 2 hours) to check into your hotel.

Tonight, there is an optional activity to watch a thrilling Chinese Acrobatic Show “ERA: The Intersection of Time”.

Optional Activity: Grand Canal Cruise
Take the opportunity to cruise along the Grand Canal to view life along China’s ancient waterway. This optional activity is paid on tour, see Important Information for pricing.

Optional Activity: ERA and The Intersection of Time
Tonight there is an optional activity to watch a superb and thrilling Chinese Acrobatic Show “ERA: The Intersection of Time” or similar. This optional activity is paid on tour, see Important Information for pricing.

Overnight: Radisson Collection Yangtze Shanghai or similar, Shanghai

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, step back in time at the Shanghai History Museum. Shanghai History Museum is a landmark museum that comprehensively reflects the local history of Shanghai. Then, enjoy some free time at leisure this afternoon or join an optional half-day tour of Shanghai.

Optional Activity: Half-Day Shanghai Tour
Join a half-day tour of Shanghai including a ride on The Shanghai maglev train, the world’s fastest high-speed train in commercial operation. Visit Yu Garden, believed to have been built more than 400 years ago. The exquisite garden architecture has made the garden one of the highlights of Shanghai. Other attractions that you could enjoy with free time include City God Temple of Shanghai and Xintiandi. This optional activity is paid on tour, see Important Information for pricing.

Optional Tour: Huangpu River Night Cruise
In the evening, take the opportunity to join the optional “Night Cruise on the Huangpu River”. This optional activity is paid on tour, see Important Information for pricing.

Please note:
• If the Shanghai History Museum is closed, a visit to Suzhou Museum will be provided in place of this visit on Day 7 of the tour.

Overnight: Radisson Collection Yangtze Shanghai or similar, Shanghai

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning transfer to Shanghai Railway Station for a high speed train ride to Yichang (approximately 6.5 hours). Upon arrival, a tour representative will meet you at the railway station to escort you to check in to your Yangtze River cruise onboard Victoria Jenna, then settle in to your balcony cabin.

Tonight refresh and prepare for the next day’s sightseeing on the amazing Yangtze, the ancient pathway across China, spanning centuries of cultures and blending the best of the old and the modern.

Please note: Cruise staff may offer cabin upgrades and additional optional shore excursions when on tour. All offers are subject to availability and will be communicated and paid for on tour. Additionally, since boarding is between 5:30-11pm, dinner is not included tonight. An onboard restaurant will be available for you to conveniently purchase your own meals for this evening.

Overnight: Victoria Jenna cruise or similar, Yangtze River Cruise

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, enjoy a shore excursion to the Three Gorges dam. This 60-storey, mile-wide structure is a stunning example of human achievement and a hallmark of an emerging China. It is the world’s largest power station.

Victoria Jenna departs upstream through the west section of Xiling Gorge in the late afternoon, the first of these dramatic slices through the surrounding mountains. The new reservoir has altered the landscape and, with more than a million people relocated, the scenery is now of a wild countryside and the physical embodiment of thousands of beautiful Chinese landscape paintings. Watch the fog move in as it appears to turn the mountains into ghostly sculptures and enjoy a sumptuous Captain’s Dinner for your evening meal.

An additional optional shore excursion is available in the morning (river conditions permitting) to the Tribe of the Three Gorges and the recently-completed unique ship lock with a ship lift (not included - paid on tour).

Overnight: Victoria Jenna cruise or similar, Yangtze River Cruise

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Transfer to another vessel for an excursion through Shennong Stream small gorges, which are narrower than the Three Gorges, but very impressive. Enter the 45 kilometres long Wu Gorge, known for its quiet beauty, forest covered mountains, and cliffs so sheer that the sun barely penetrates the precipices. Then sail through Qutang Gorge, the shortest (8 kilometres), narrowest and most dramatic gorge.

Depending on river conditions, an alternate excursion may be substituted to the gorges of Goddess Stream.

An additional optional shore excursion is available in the late afternoon (river conditions permitting) to White Emperor City and “Return to the Three Gorges” Live Show (evening). Not included, paid on tour.

Overnight: Victoria Jenna cruise or similar, Yangtze River Cruise

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

This morning, after breakfast, experience an adventurous shore excursion to Snow Jade Cave.

The cave's interior is China's only pure-white, jade-like example. It continues to expand due to erosion in the surrounding karst landscape. 1,644 metres, of which 1,161 metres has been explored, the Snow Jade Cave is spread over three levels. Inside, both the 8-metre Stone King's Flag (石旗王) and the 4-metre high Stone King's Shield (石盾王) features are the largest of their type in the world. There are also numerous examples of corals.

An additional optional shore excursion is available (river conditions permitting) to Fengdu’s “Ghost City”, known for its statues of ghosts and devils on Mingshan Hill (not included - paid on tour).

Overnight: Victoria Jenna cruise or similar, Yangtze River Cruise

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

After breakfast, disembark your cruise in Chongqing and transfer to Chongqing Railway Station for a high speed train ride to Guilin. Upon arrival, a tour representative will meet you at Guilin Station to escort you to the hotel for check-in. On the way make a stop to view one of the top attractions in Guilin, Elephant Trunk Hill (Xiangbishan).

Overnight: Guilin Lijiang Waterfall Hotel or similar, Guilin

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, visit Chuanshan Park, one of the most famous attractions in Guilin. The graceful idyllic Chuanshan Park on the east bank of the clear Xiaodongjiang River offers plenty of beautiful scenery. Chuanshan Park is famous for its Cockfighting Hills, formed by Chuanshan Hill and Pheasant Hill. The two hills together resemble 2 birds itching for a fight.

Afterwards, enjoy the day at leisure, or take the opportunity to join an optional full-day tour to see Yangshuo Ancient Town and the famous Li River.

Optional Tour - Yangshuo Ancient Town and the famous Li River
Drive to Yangshuo and visit Fuli Ancient Town. This 800 year old town is known as the artistic town of the area for traditional colourful fans and scroll paintings. Along the cobbled alleyways that connect the town centre you will find plenty of small factories making painted paper fans. Watch the intricate paper fans being made and hand painted in this sleepy old town set on the banks of the Li River.

Take a Bamboo raft to see the Li River. The rafts are built in the traditional design which has plied the river for centuries and is still used by fisherman and farmers. Bamboo was originally used in construction, however these days the hull consists of 10 large plastic pipes fastened together. You will see why Yangshuo and the Li River offer some of the most extraordinary views on the planet.

Afterwards visit a local village to learn how local families and children live before returning to Guilin where you will enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. See Important Information for pricing.

Overnight: Guilin Lijiang Waterfall Hotel or similar, Guilin

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, transfer to Guilin Airport for your return flight back to Australia.

Please note:
• Standard check-out time is 12:00 and luggage storage is available at the front desk for those with later fights.
• Some travellers may be required to depart a day later and additional accommodation and transfers will be provided free of charge. This will not apply to passengers departing before 2am the following day as they will be transferred to the airport the day prior.

Meals included: Breakfast

Please note some customers may arrive +1 days

Meals included: In-Flight

After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase.

Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.

On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information. 

Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.

Cancellation & Refund Policy
By placing a booking with us, you acknowledge the following important information:
• we act as your booking agent: TripADeal is a booking services provider, and curates the Travel Offers available on our website. We act as your booking agent, and we receive payment for the Booking Services as part of the booking price, however, we do not provide any of the Travel Services (flights, accommodation, tours or other products or services) included in your booking – the Travel Services are provided by a number of third party Travel Suppliers.
• each booking is unique: our Travel Offers are made up of a variety of different components and are, during the booking process, uniquely tailored to suit your requirements, for example, departure dates and ports, flight and room upgrades, tour inclusions, etc.
• changes/modifications to your booking may not be possible: once your booking has been made, changes or modifications may not be possible, and where possible, may incur a fee. It is important to ensure that the information you provide during the booking process is accurate and up to date, and that you read the Travel Offer carefully before placing your order.
• Travel Offers are a package: our Travel Offers have been curated into package offerings and must be used as a package – individual components cannot be used independently of the full package offering.
• our Travel Offers are generally non-refundable: in order to provide great value Travel Offers, we work with a variety of Travel Suppliers to find the best deals – this often means the Travel Suppliers’ offerings are non-refundable to ensure the best price. We recommend that you obtain travel insurance as soon as you make a booking with us.

To read more about our Cancellation and Refund Policy, please click here.

General Terms & Conditions
By placing your booking with us, you acknowledge and agree to our Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy and Cancellation Policy.

This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 12th November 2025.

Minimum group size 20, maximum group size 28 per vehicle.

This travel offer is priced per person based on a twin share. 

As a condition of purchasing this travel offer, you must not deviate from the advertised itinerary, and the local supplier reserves the right to cancel your onward travel services if you do. This does not apply to days where there is specified time at leisure.

Departure Dates     
2025
March: 12, 19
May: 14, 21, 28
June: 4, 11
September: 3
October: 15, 22, 29
November: 5, 12

Please note: see checkout for live dates and availability.

Single Traveller Supplement
For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement of $1,450 applies. 
Please note: Accommodation for single customers who are travelling on a tour or cruise package may be in a single room, depending on availability.

Age Policy
This travel offer is strictly valid for those 18 and over.

Departure Cities     
Sydney, Melbourne, *Brisbane, *Adelaide, *Perth or *Auckland

Departure City Surcharges
• Brisbane, Adelaide or Perth: $450 per person
• Auckland: $600 per person

International Full-Service Flight(s)
• Cabin Class: Economy Class
Please note:
• We cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation. 
• Travellers departing Perth may be ticketed with Singapore Airlines, with the Singapore to Xi'an sector being operated by Scoot, with luggage, meal and a bottle of water included on this flight

Baggage Allowance
• 20 kilograms of checked baggage (one piece)
• 7 kilograms of carry-on baggage

Arrive Early 
Not available

Stay Behind
Not available

Stopover Packages 
Not available
 
Flight Class Upgrades
Business Class: For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.
Please note:
• Flight upgrades are subject to availability and pricing changes (if we cannot fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded).
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed

Missed Flights 
If you fail to arrive for your outbound flight, you risk all flight and land arrangements in your destination being automatically cancelled by the airlines and land operator, respectively. Additional fees may apply to reinstate these services. If you miss your flight for whatever reason, please contact us as soon as possible to make arrangements. 

Victoria Jenna
Inaugurated in 2009 and refurbished in 2018, the Victoria Jenna sets the standard for fine luxury river cruising. Facilities include 2 restaurants, 4 elevators, a three-story atrium lobby, 2 lounges, 3 bars, a fitness center, 2 full-sized lecture rooms, reading room, artist corners and gift shop (charges may apply). All cabins have private balconies. The Jenna is equipped with Wi-Fi, and cabins have HBO and CNN broadcasts.

Onboard Currency
RMB

Cabins/Staterooms
Superior Cabin
• Private balcony
• Wi-Fi access, HBO and CNN
• Private bathrooms with bathtub and shower
• Electricity: 220V/110V in bathroom

Please note:
• If Victoria Jenna ship is unavailable, an alternative ship of a similar standard may be used.
• All cabins are subject to availability; some cabins may have restricted views.

Accommodation Used
5-Star Properties (Self-Rated)
• Xi’an: Sheraton Xi’an Hotel or similar
• Beijing: Wyndham Beijing North or similar
• Suzhou: Renaissance Suzhou Wujiang or similar
• Shanghai: Radisson Collection Yangtze Shanghai or similar
• Guilin: Guilin Lijiang Waterfall Hotel or similar

4-star Properties (Self-Rated)
• Yangtze River Cruise: Victoria Cruises Victoria Jenna

Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel.
 
Extra Nights
Not available. 
 
Maximum Room Capacity
2 people.
 
Triple Share
Not available. 
 
Bedding Configuration
Twin or double (subject to availability).

• Day 4: The Golden Mask Dynasty - 350 RMB per person
• Day 5: Hutong Pedicab Tour & Dinner - 360 RMB per person 
• Day 7: Grand Canal Cruise – 220 RMB per person
• Day 7: ERA and The Intersection of Time – 390 RMB per person
• Day 8: Half-Day Shanghai Tour - 300 RMB per person
• Day 8: Huangpu River Night Cruise - 280 RMB
• Day 14: Yangshuo Ancient Town and the famous Li River - 550 RMB

Please note:
• Prices are based per person, are subject to availability, time permitting and weather conditions, and are payable directly to the tour operator in the currency specified.
• Some tours or shore excursions require minimum numbers to operate.
• Shore excursions can be booked/reserved directly with the cruise line before travel (subject to availability)
• Shore excursions can also be booked whilst onboard (subject to availability).
• Shore excursion programmes and itineraries may vary depending on local conditions and/or any unforeseen events concerning the timing on the day of the tour. Some excursions are very popular, and therefore availability cannot always be guaranteed, it is advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

• Visa fees and requirements 
• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer
• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer
• Expected gratuities of $12 AUD per person, per day for land component
• Cruise gratuities of 150 RMB (approx $33 AUD) per person total for the Yangtze River cruise component
• Optional activities/tours 
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Any costs associated with an interruption to your tour as a result of an airline schedule change or cancellation

Land
Tipping is a firm and customary element of the tourism industry and is therefore expected. The expected tipping amount is $12 AUD or 60 RMB per person per day. While tipping is not mandatory, it is a common practice in China and a gesture of appreciation which is shared amongst the local guides, drivers and other staff members who have serviced your tour. The tipping amount can be paid in AUD or RMB to your expert tour guide in each region. As most tour guides in China consider tipping a part of their income, please don’t feel intimidated should the tour guides approach you as they bid you farewell.

Cruise
Gratuities (tips) are not included for the cruise staff's services throughout this tour's cruise component. Gratuities are expected on your cruise and will be charged at 150 RMB total (approx. $33 AUD) per person for the entire 4-night cruise component of the tour. If you have any questions regarding the gratuities on your cruise, please speak to the guest services staff onboard the ship.

TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER
Tour Guide
Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group. 

Tour Leader
An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined. 

Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured. 

CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Beijing
Beijing has a temperate and continental monsoon climate, with four distinct seasons and big differences in temperature between day and night.
The seasons: Summer in Beijing is hot and humid, while winter is cold and dry. Spring and autumn are short and cool. The coldest month is January at an average of -4°C, and the hottest month is July at an average of 26°C.
 
Shanghai
Shanghai weather is generally mild and moist, with four distinctive seasons - a pleasant warm spring, a hot rainy summer, a comfortable cool autumn, and an overcast cold winter. The weather of Shanghai in July and August is the hottest, with more than 10 days' high temperatures above 35°C. The coldest period is from late January to early February. The springtime from March to May is recommended as the best time to pay a visit, while October to November, with pleasant autumn climate, is also a wise choice.

FLIGHTS
Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points
We do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.

Passport Validity
Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.

CRUISE
Embarkation/Disembarkation
• Begins approximately 2 hours after docking.
• Due to security reasons, all guests must be on board 2 hours before sailing.
• Itineraries are subject to change at any time without notice.
• Check your specific sailing for exact departure and arrival times. All times are local to the port.
Please note: Strict Covid-19 terms may also apply regarding proof of insurance covering Covid-19 and/or vaccination. Please refer to the cruise lines’ terms and conditions for further information before boarding.

Cruise Loyalty Discounts
Please note: Travellers must contact the cruise line directly upon receiving their travel documents in order to request any membership benefits they may be entitled to.

COACH TOUR
Meals
For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify us of any dietary requests/requirements. 
Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.

Luggage
You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and unloading of bags from the vehicle.

OTHER
Mobility
If you require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.

Fitness Level Required
Expect a moderate pace of touring with a focus on guided tours that may include full days with guided walks of up to 2 hours at a time. You will require a general level of fitness for unassisted navigation of stairs and inclines, longer distances with possible periods of standing when visiting sites, walking on sloping, uneven ground or elevations. You will be responsible for your own luggage and have the ability to board all modes of transport without assistance. 
 
Please note:
• It is expected that every traveller be self-reliant and able to undertake all aspects of their own travel. Please speak to your booking agent about your personal circumstances and any assistance requirements to ensure this tour is right for you.
• If you have any concerns, please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.

Payments & Currency On Tour  
Visa/MasterCard/Amex can only be used at some hotels and is not often accepted in local restaurants and supermarkets.
 
Whilst WeChat and Alipay are commonly used payment platforms in China at most businesses, some travellers can experience issues due to internet accessibility and other technical difficulties.
 
Cash is still widely accepted in China and most people still use cash on a daily basis. Therefore we recommend taking cash in either RMB (local currency) or AUD and the tour guides can assist with currency exchange in China if required.
 
Optional tours and tipping can be paid in RMB or AUD on tour and credit card and Alipay/WeChat are not accepted.

Sightseeing
Please note: If entry to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).

Shopping
Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.

The Chinese Government has announced that Australian and New Zealand citizens will now qualify for Visa-free travel to China. This will commence from the 1st of July 2024 and apply for stays up to 30 days in China (from the day of arrival into China until the day you leave China). Eligibility criteria will apply. Please consult Smart Traveller and your nearest Chinese consulate for up-to-date eligibility criteria and information. 

Important: 
• Please start arranging your visa three weeks before departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.
• Visa rules are subject to change. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination/s you are visiting once you receive your travel documentation to ensure you have the most up to date information.
• It is your responsibility to be travel-ready and ensure that you are aware and comply with any destination or travel requirements, including the validity of all required travel documents.
• Passengers who are not Australian citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.
• It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.

Voluntary Changes
This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.
• Changes - $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Name Changes Due To Passenger Error
If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Supplier Fees
In the event the tour package you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.