Imperial Paths and Historic Waterways

The hottest trend in the travel industry right now is river cruising.   You only unpack once, fantastic meals, and you are on a small ship.   This is definitely the best way to see a country.  We are already taking bookings for 2015.

The mighty Yangtze River winds like an endless silk ribbon through the cultural fabric of China, the geographic summation of over 4,000 years of history.  A river cruise along the celebrated Three Gorges, the acclaimed 75 mile stretch of this nearly 4,000 mile river, takes you to the heart of ancient tradition hidden between towering mountains and within remote villages, all while pampering you in modern luxury.   You can combine exploration along this illustrious river with land excursions in vibrant cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong and even crossing borders into Tibet. 

With China being the world’s second largest country in population and host to more than 56 distinct ethnic groups, you can be escorted though the fascinating maze of languages, dialects, and dynasties.

From the moment you set foot on board the Century Legend or Century Paragon, the exacting nature of the luxury is tangible.  Sleek architectural lines and extravagant onboard amenities ranging from an indoor lap pool and two restaurants to a spa and movie cinema; cater to an intimate group of up to 398 passengers.   Your travel agent can get you treated to several exclusive benefits, from a complimentary spa visit and fruit basket to complimentary wines, beer and soft drinks.     

During your Yangtze River voyage revel in the engineering phenomenon of Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydroelectric dam in the world.   Stops along the way give you glimpses of daily life in remote river villages where locals tether their boats to create a floating marketplace of handicrafts ranging from beaded jewelry and small carved boxes to colorful pyramids of fruits and vegetables.  

Be awestruck by the 12 story Shibao Pagoda, a multihued temple carved into the type of a hill and constructed within a single nail.  Later, board a small boat and cruise the Shennong Stream, a tributary of the Yangtze River to view the spectacular Lesser Gorges dotted with hundreds of Karst caves.  China boats one of the world’s most extensive and diversified groups of these soluble rock formations artfully shaped by centuries of erosion.  

On land, five star hotels serve as your base to explore the Museum of the Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses in Xian, as well as for savoring Shanghai’s sumptuous dim sum, a Cantonese delight originating in southern China.    In Beijing, pass through the Gate of Heavenly Peace in Tiananmen Square or walk a length of ancient stones comprising part of the legendary Great Wall. 

Whether you are enjoying a lunch in Beijing or a folk dance performed in traditional Tang Dynasty style, you can be assured that your experiences capture the essence of the local people, history, culture and cuisine, creating memories forever made in China.

This is definitely the best way to visit the highlights of China.

Maureen Jones is president of All Horizons Travel  at 160 Main Street. Members of her staff are experts in business travel, cruises, and all types of leisure.