China Destination Guide
China is one of the world's most exciting and diverse travel destinations. Boasting a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes from the snowy Himalayan mountains of Tibet to the tropical beaches of Sanya, it's little wonder China holidays are fast becoming a favourite for global travellers.
The third most visited country in the world, China’s history, mystery, beauty and cuisine make for truly memorable holiday experiences. China's cities gleam with modernisation, yet its countryside is filled with green rice paddies.
There's always a reason to hang the celebratory lanterns in China, especially when the temperature begins to dip. The annual Harbin Ice Festival highlights a lesser known side of China – one that enjoys spending the night in an ice hotel and taking a romantic sleigh ride.
If you're looking for a ski holiday with a difference, it might not be the Swiss Alps but the ski resorts around Harbin will definitely give you your powder fix.
Join in the festivities at...
- Chinese New Year
- The Dragon Boat Festival
- The Ice and Snow Festival
In China the balancing act of Yin and Yang is seen throughout. In Shanghai and Hong Kong sleek skyscrapers are paired with quaint back alleys serving up steamed dumplings and local brews.
Beyond Beijing’s concrete capital lies the Forbidden City, the Great Wall and thousands of years of Imperial history. The 'golden triangle' of Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai is a great itinerary option for first-time visitors to this sprawling country, especially if you want to add a couple of China tours to the mix.
Experience the essence of China by...
- Riding through Beijing in a sidecar
- Hugging a Giant Panda Bear
- Camping out on the Great Wall
Nature lovers often seek out Kunming. Once the gateway to the Silk Road, ‘the City of Eternal Spring’ is celebrated for its pleasant climate and flowers. Experience the romance of China cruising along the Pearl River in Guangzhou, or soak-up old world charm in the seaside city of Xiamen.
Great contrast is also present in the bustling port city of Hong Kong, with its colonial heritage, busy marketplaces and stunning city panorama best admired from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade in the evening.
Don’t leave without tasting...
- Dim sum in Guangzhou
- Peking duck in Beijing
- Sichuan hotpot in Chengdu
China's other Special Administrative Republic, Macau, is also a vibrant clash of east-meets-west. A Portuguese colony until recent decades, today Macau is known as the Vegas of the East, earning a mention in China travel guides for both its European charms and glittering casinos.
When booking your flights to China keep in mind that a good idea is to fly into one city and leave from another so you can savour as many sights as possible in between. You'll no doubt be enraptured by what you see, ensuring another trip to China is not far off the horizon.
