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friday 07.27.07
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| .wonders of china |
The Great Wall of China was recently named one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. This engineering marvel dating from the 5th century is the largest man-made monument on the globe, and is believed to be the only one visible from space. We suggest you both see it up close, along with the many other wonders China has to offer.
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The sheer size of China makes it challenging to see as much of the country as you'd want. Although the major cities should be easy to manage on your own, you may want to try a tour to reach more outlying areas. Virgin Vacations offers a two-week escorted China Explorer Tour through Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Guilin, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong (starting at $2949 per person for round-trip airfare, hotels, most meals, and in-country travel). Highlights include the Forbidden City, a complex of ancient imperial palaces that were home to emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for over 500 years, the unforgettable Terra Cotta Warriors and horses at the Tomb of Qin Shi Huang, and, of course, The Great Wall.
For a similar but more personalized trip, Graduate Tours offers a 14-Day China Exclusive package to Shanghai, Lijiang, Guilin Li River, Xian, and Beijing. Instead of traveling with a group, you'll have your own private guide, driver, and vehicle to explore with. You can customize the itinerary and make any changes you like along the way. This unequaled attention comes at a price, of course. Tours start at $6052 per person, not including flight to and from the US.
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Perhaps the ultimate adventure can be found with the 15-day Exclusive China package from aptly named company Artisans of Leisure. Private tours start at $10,225 per person and include luxury accommodations and in-country transportation. In Lijiang, spend a few nights of romance at a luxury resort in one of China's best-preserved traditional villages at the foot of the Himalayas. In Beijing, travel by rickshaw down the narrow lanes of a traditional residential neighborhood. In Hong Kong, ride a sampan across Aberdeen Harbor and a tram up Victoria Peak. And finally, walk The Great Wall, taking a moment to appreciate this awe-inspiring wonder of the world.
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