CHINA
Colossal and dizzying in its growth and powerful reach, China is developing at an unprecedented rate and, to the benefit of travelers, it is splendidly diverse in its geographic and cultural make-up. High speed rail ties the country together, making it possible to explore key attractions including the impactful sights of Great Wall, The Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, and majestic Yangtze River as well as the serene beauty of the Yellow Mountains, the Beijing Opera, and the prosperous Bund and steel-and-glass skyscraper forest of Shanghai. Yet it’s the sheer scale and energy of the country that travelers say leaves the most lasting impression. It is home to one of the world’s oldest cultures, with dozens of official ethnic groups, and traditions vary greatly between provinces, cities, and towns. It is a place that must be seen to begin to be understood.
A helpful note: Hotel rates are highest during the prime weather months of March until May then late September to early November. You also may prefer to schedule your trip to avoid hectic activity and packed tourist attractions during three main Chinese public holidays: Chinese New Year (usually falling in late January or early February), May holiday (the first week of May) and National Day (the first week of October).