Experience more of China on this journey filled with unique insights everyday. Learn Tai Chi in a tranquil park and explore atop the Great Wall away from the crowds. In the company of an expert guide, you’ll stroll in classic gardens, venture inside the Olympic Aquatic Center, and handle ancient artifacts at the Xian Museum. Every detail has been carefully planned... We even include travel insurance coverage and your China visa – a $355 value!

Click for your Local AAA Travel Office

Itinerary
Accommodations
Pricing & Dates
Add Ons
Visas
Print this Tour
Terms & Conditions
Your Included Insurance Coverage

See all
AAA Exclusive Vacations


Engaging Experiences... Only for AAA members!

  • Feast on Peking Duck at the historic Beijing restaurant where Mao and Nixon also dined.

  • Touch Antiquity in Xian, a rare and exclusive opportunity to handle ancient artifacts with a museum curator.

  • An evening cruise on the ancient Grand Canal reveals the splendid Ming Dynasty architecture of enchanting Suzhou.

  • Venture into the rugged Juyongguan Pass to explore atop the Great Wall, in an area that is rarely visited by larger tour groups.

  • 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites


10 days for $1,999
We never cancel a departure

With all this included… Superior first class and deluxe hotels, 19 meals, in-depth small group sightseeing, special AAA events, all internal flights, luggage handling, our comprehensive travel insurance coverage and China visa fee

• 100% cash refund up to 30 days before travel.
• Only $100 deposit to lock in your trip cost.
• Complete travel insurance coverage included.
• Visa fee for China is included.



Your Exclusive Itinerary


Day 1 – Welcome to the Celestial Kingdom - Arrive Beijing, China

Check-in to the superior first class Traders Hotel, perfectly located in the heart of the capital.

Day 2 – The Splendors of Imperial Beijing

YAncient traditions offer an invigorating start to your day. Gather with city residents at the Temple of Heaven for Tai Chi and explore this architectural embodiment of Heaven and Earth. Established in the early 1400’s, traditional Chinese beliefs in numerology and symbolism are revealed in the overall layout and architecture of the temple’s vast park-like grounds and buildings. Then behold the grandeur of Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public plazas in the world. Follow in the footsteps of Ming Dynasty emperors through their once-exclusive domain, the Forbidden City . Explore with your guide into this vast realm of courtyards, palaces and Imperial audience halls. According to legend, 9,999 rooms lie within the imposing walls of the Forbidden City! Meals B,L,D

Day 3 – Out and About in the Capital

Explore by rickshaw through the lanes of a hutong, one of the city’s ancient districts where traditional courtyard homes still endure amidst the 21sth century skyscrapers. Meeting a resident family here reveals the daily rhythms of life in this evolving city. Stroll in the Summer Palace this afternoon and admire the graceful pavilions and palaces set on landscaped grounds along the shores of Lake Kunming against the serene backdrop of Longevity Hill. Chinese feudal lords and emperors discovered the tranquility and abundant natural beauty of this area more than 1,000 years ago, and for centuries this was the favored retreat of China’s rulers. Tonight you dine in the historic Hepingmen Quanjyde Restaurant, where Mao and Nixon also feasted on savory Peking Duck. Meals B,L,D

Day 4 - The Great Wall ... and Great Olympic Achievements

Journey through rugged mountains to Juyongguan Pass, one of the most impressive yet less-visited sections of the Great Wall and the site of many ancient battles. Walk atop this ancient fortification and then return to the city for a visit to the Olympic Green and a specially arranged entry into the National Aquatic Center, the ‘Water Cube’ where American swimmers won gold. The design of this iconic, futuristic structure is based on the natural formation of soap bubbles. Made of highly durable plastic, the interior and exterior films had to be inflated and continuously pumped to maintain this soap-bubble effect. Per the contractor’s brief, this operation and maintenance must continue for at least 10 years! Meals B,L

Day 5 – Fly to Xian and Touch Antiquity in the Ancient Capital

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Xian, the ancient capital of China for 13 dynasties. This afternoon, an exclusive excursion brings you to the Xian History Museum. Join curators for the rare opportunity to examine and handle priceless ancient artifacts recently excavated from archaeological sites across the country. Overnight at the inviting Shangri-La Golden Flower Hotel . Meals B,D

Day 6 – Ancient Warriors. Ancient Healing.

Farmers stumbled upon the site while digging a well; now the Terra Cotta Army is China’s greatest archaeological discovery. Marvel at the exquisite facial details of these clay warriors buried 2,000 years ago to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor. It has been estimated that more than half a million laborers and craftsmen worked for nearly 40 years to complete the tomb - and the thousands of terra cotta soldiers, horses and chariots that were to serve him in the afterlife. Then join your guide to explore a local market as he reveals the healing properties of medicinal herbs in use since ancient times. The day ends at the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an ancient site with seven tiers rising more than 200 feet. Meals B,L

Day 7 – Journey to China’s City of Gardens

Fly to Shanghai and travel to Suzhou, revered for its classic gardens. Cruise along the ancient Grand Canal in the soft evening light, gliding peacefully past buildings and under gracefully arching stone bridges that have stood here for centuries. Dinner and a tranquil overnight await at the Jasmine Hotel. Meals B,D

Day 8 – From the Ming Dynasty to the 21st Century

Poets have long been inspired by Suzhou’s aristocratic gardens and you’ll be equally enchanted. Begin your day at the exquisite Garden of the Master of the Nets, first designed a thousand years ago during the golden age of the Song Dynasty. Here, a beautiful central pond is graced with pathways, pavilions and a delicate stone bridge less than one foot wide. Peaked roofs, delicately carved lattice panels and graceful ornamentation complement the garden’s landscape – offering visitors a tranquil stroll through artistry and nature. Then visit a silk workshop where ancient techniques yield exquisite fabrics. Then try your hand at calligraphy in a city park, stroll Pingjiang Road, and explore 600 years of artistry at the Kun Opera Museum. Continue to Shanghai and overnight at the Hilton Hotel. Meals B,L

Day 9 – Explore Shanghai

Today’s in-depth sightseeing explores the many facets of China’s most fascinating city. Begin your day with refreshing Tai Chi in popular Fuxing Park. Then stroll through the tranquil French Concession. In 1849 and continuing for nearly 100 years, this prime city-center district was designated for the French. Today the picturesque tree-line avenues and European-style mansions still evoke an air of Paris in the East! Join your guide on the efficient subway for a quick ride to bustling People’s Square, built on the site of Shanghai’s horseracing track - a favored 19th century gathering spot for the city’s British community! Visit the Shanghai Museum, renowned for its exhibits showcasing centuries of Chinese arts and culture from ancient bronzes and celadon pottery to exquisite jade pieces and Ming Dynasty furniture. This enriching day ends along the Bund, Shanghai’s grand and historic waterfront boulevard. Meals B,L

Day 10 – Depart Shanghai

Your journey finishes today after breakfast. Meals B


First Class and Deluxe Hotels with Terrific Locations


Shangri-La Traders Hotel, Beijing

Experience Shangri-La’s legendary warmth and service at this superior first class hotel in the heart of the capital. You’re connected directly to the luxury China World Shopping Mall.

Shangri-La Golden Flower Hotel, Xian

In the heart of this ancient walled city, our historic hotel is one of the city’s finest, with elegantly appointed guestrooms and Shangri-La’s legendary service. Enjoy complimentary Internet access, satellite and cable TV, minibar, in-room electronic safe, hair dryer and luxurious bath amenities.

Jasmine Hotel, Suzhou

Travelers love the prime location of this modern high-rise hotel, just steps away from historic Shantang Street – graced with 1,000 years of history and now home to some of the city’s most popular shops and eateries.

Hilton Hotel, Shanghai

This stylish hotel has a privileged city-center address in the historic French Concession. Pamper yourself at the expansive spa and sample regional Chinese cuisine and international fare at the hotel’s five award-winning restaurants.


10 days for $1,999

All this is included… Superior first class and deluxe hotels, 19 meals, in-depth small group sightseeing, special AAA events, all internal flights, luggage handling, our comprehensive travel insurance coverage and China visa fee

Book with total confidence

• 100% cash refund up to 30 days before travel.
• Only $100 deposit to lock in your trip cost.
• Complete travel insurance coverage included.
• Visa fee for China is included

We never cancel a departure

Per Person Double

Single Supplement

2010
Mar 15, Apr 26
May 10, Jun 7
Jul 19, Sep 13
Oct 11, Nov 8
Dec 6

$1999

$400

Call your AAA Travel Professional for international economy or business airfare which includes arrival and departure transfers. Prices are per person, double. Our Travel Insurance cost of $155 per person is included, but purchase is not mandatory and the policy can be optionally deducted from your trip cost at the time of final payment. China visa fees of $199 per person is also included.
We can arrange convenient air services for this tour aboard United

Solo travelers save $200 off their next trip.

return to top


Extend your Journey & Experience More of Asia!

Down the Yangtze

6 days for $1,799
Step aboard the MS Yangzi Explorer, the finest luxury ship on the Yangtze! With only 62 beautiful staterooms, the all-balcony Explorer is the most intimate luxury ship on the river. An elegant single-seating dining room features fine international cuisine including wine with lunch and dinner. Enjoy expertly guided, small-group excursions, relax in the inviting Explorer Lounge, and refresh in the spa. To enhance your voyage, the Yangzi Explorer offers a comprehensive and enriching shipboard cultural program. We include roundtrip air from Shanghai and transfers between the airport and your ship.

Day 1 – Another Day in Shanghai

A day at leisure to enjoy at your own pace. The Hilton Hotel’s prime city-center location makes it so easy to step out for shopping and exploration in this exciting, cosmopolitan city. Meals B

Day 2 - Fly to Chongqing and board your ship

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Chongqing. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and escorted to the riverbank to board the luxurious MS Yangzi Explorer. Settle in to your spacious, balcony stateroom before dinner is served in the elegant dining room. Later this evening, a documentary film about the enormous Three Gorges Dam will be shown in the Tang Theater. Meals B,D

Days 3 – Ashore in Fengdu

Early risers can join our onboard master for an invigorating Tai Chi class before breakfast. Enriching morning lectures and demonstrations include tea appreciation and traditional Chinese arts and crafts. After lunch, step ashore to explore the famous ‘Ghost City’ of Fengdu where numerous temples, some dating to the 14th century, feature fantastic carvings of spirits and creatures from Chinese mythology. Meals B,L,D

Day 4 – Into the Three Gorges

This morning you cruise through Qutang Gorge, the narrowest and some say most spectacular of the famous Three Gorges. Later, you step aboard smaller boats to explore the magnificent scenery of a Yangtze River tributary. Your ship sails through lovely Wu Gorge before entering the ship locks of the mighty Three Gorges Dam. Meals B,L,D

Day 5 – Visit the Three Gorges Dam

Visit the awe-inspiring Three Gorges Dam, the largest on Earth. Tour this engineering marvel and learn about its far-reaching impact on the life and geography of the region. Then fly to Shanghai where you’ll be met and escorted to the luxurious Hilton Hotel. Meals B

Day 6 – Depart Shanghai

Your tour ends this morning after breakfast. Meals B


To Tibet Aboard the Sky Train

6 days for $2,299
China’s Sky Train is the highest rail journey in the world, sweeping across the Tibetan Plateau and over the Roof of the World to mystical Tibet! Enjoy in-depth sightseeing in Lhasa with your own personal car, driver and guide, 9 meals, all on-tour transportation and internal air.

Day 1 – Fly to Xining

Fly to the ancient Silk Road city of Xining and board the Sky Train.  Meals B,L,D

Day 2 – Onward and Upward to Tibet

The aptly-named Sky Train travels through some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet, vistas of antelopes and yaks grazing in emerald green fields against a magnificent backdrop of snow-capped mountain peaks. Three locomotives are required to pull the train over the 16,640 Tangula Pass en route to Lhasa. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and escorted by private car to the lovely Four Points Sheraton Hotel.

Day 3 – Explore Lhasa and Go Inside Tibet

This morning’s specially planned cultural excursion reveals the deep spirituality of the Tibetan people… Witness the timeless ritual of Tibetans on pilgrimage, walking slowly clockwise around a Buddhist temple as they offer morning chants, including the sacred mantra Om Mani Padme Hum. Return to the hotel for breakfast and then visit the Tibet Museum and Norbulinka, the lovely summer palace of the Dalai Lamas. Later, Go Inside Tibet at the Sera Monastery, where our exclusive arrangements gain you privileged access to monastic residences that are normally off-limits to the public. You’ll have a rare and enriching opportunity to visit the monks’ private living quarters, including shared spaces like the kitchen and dining areas. Meals B,L

Day 4 – The Potala Palace

Today’s privately guided sightseeing features the incomparable Potala Palace, former home of the Dalai Llama and a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism. You also explore the lively Barkhor Market and nearby Jokhang Monastery. Then spend time in the studio of a master artist to learn about Thangkas, colorful religious paintings that have long been a Buddhist tradition. Meals B,L

Day 5 – Back to Beijing

You’ll be escorted by private car to the airport for your flight to Beijing. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted for your private transfer to the Shangri-La Traders Hotel.  Meals B

Day 6 - Depart Beijing

Your tour concludes this morning after breakfast. Meals B

Hong Kong

4 days from $799

You’ll be captivated by the sophistication and East meets West charm of Hong Kong. Choose from our wonderful city-center hotels and explore Hong Kong Island with your own private guide. More info

Click for your Local AAA Travel Office


Copyright 2010 AAA Exclusive Vacations. All rights reserved.