panorama travel and tours

panorama destination

Welcome to panorama destination official website --> welcome to pano r ama destination official website, about panorama destination, panorama was founded by mr. adhi tirtawisata in 1972. over nearly five decades since, the company has evolved and expanded into panorama leisure group, integrating tourism, transportation and hospitality as the core of the group's business activities. panorama destination was founded in december 1999 and is made up of more than a thousand travel professionals and licensed tour guides, specialising in inbound travel services. we operate a network of offices across indonesia, thailand, malaysia and vietnam, providing unmatched tourism services throughout southeast asia. panorama destination is indonesia’s leading tour operator, awarded ‘best tour operator in indonesia’ 2007, 2008, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2019 by ttg asia and most popular destination company for mice in 2015. we were named best inbound travel agency in south east asia by travel weekly in 2016, 2018 and 2019, and were included in the prestigious forbes 50 best of the best companies for 2017 and 2018. every year, more than 150,000 inbound tourists trust their travel arrangements to us., exotic trails of java.

EAST JAVA - INDONESIA

WAKATOBI CULTURAL EXPLORATION

WAKATOBI - SULAWESI

RHAPSODY OF SULAWESI

SULAWESI - INDONESIA

THAILAND FOODIE TRAIL (B)

THAILAND ISLAND HOPPING KOH SAMUI – KOH PHANGAN – KOH TAO

KOH CHANG BEACH BREAK

KOH CHANG - THAILAND

3D2N MULU NATIONAL PARK

SARAWAK - MALAYSIA

6D5N SARAWAK MAJESTIC ESCAPE

3D2N MOUNT KINABALU

KINABALU - MALAYSIA

Saigon Evening Street Food

HO CHI MINH CITY - VIETNAM

Hanoi War Memorial Tour

HANOI - VIETNAM

Hoi An Ancient Town & My Son Sanctuary

HOI AN - VIETNAM

Destination: Thailand

A Message from our Thailand office:  Hello from Bangkok!   Tourism in Thailand is really warming up this June, just in time for the summer season. At Panorama Destination, we also have lots of reasons to celebrate, and the future’s looking […]

Destination: Malaysia

A Message from Panorama Destination Malaysia:  Greetings from Kuala Lumpur!   We’re currently hosting a number of large and small groups, introducing travellers from around the world (Vietnam, Poland and Cyprus, among others) to the wonders of Malaysia. There’s plenty of […]

MICE and Medical: Malaysian Tourism Growth

With its combination of attractive tourism offerings and excellent infrastructure, Malaysia is ideally positioned as one of the world’s top destinations for business events and healthcare services. A series of initiatives from the government are aiming to maximise this potential, […]

Tourism Malaysia Focuses on West Asian Markets

On the global tourism stage, a spotlight continues to shine on Malaysia. This is partly due to word of mouth – the quality of Malaysian destinations speak for themselves – but also due to proactive efforts by tourism officials to […]

Destination: Vietnam June 2024

Destination digest: Vietnam news in brief  There’s plenty of good news coming out of Vietnam at the moment. Here are a few stories making the headlines:  Vietnam tourism industry promotes green transformation towards sustainable development  Vietnam’s tourism sector is striving […]

360° Panoramic Creations:

We create high-quality stabilized video having 8k and 4k resolution, 48 or 24 frames per second together with high-quality post-processing. Videos are supported by the most advanced technologies, such as virtual reality headsets (including Samsung Gear VR), different electronic devices and YouTube channels.

We use different types of moving and fixed objects (tripods, monopods, cars, helicopters, building cranes, etc.) to record videos. For aerial shooting we usually use drones with fully gyro-stabilized unique suspension. Panoramic video covers up all the space around the camera 360x180 degrees without black spots at both nadir and zenith viewing angle.

360° videos are available in any format you choose: .mp4, .avi, .mov, etc. All the videos are made and kept in frames, making it possible to encode them into any available format and bitrate with the resolution up to 8k.

360° PHOTOGRAPHY

Our team creates high-quality 360° photo-panoramas with 35000x17500 pixels resolution (in the equidistant projection) and carries out professional post-processing and corrections of any complexity. We develop virtual tours which are suitable for all browsers, support both Flash and HTML5 technologies and are compatible with different mobile devices and virtual reality headsets (including Samsung Gear VR).

We use different types of moving and fixed objects (tripods, monopods, cars, helicopters, building cranes, etc.) to record videos. For aerial shooting we usually use drones with the fully gyro-stabilized unique suspension. Panoramic video covers up all the space around the camera 360x180 degrees without black spots at both nadir and zenith viewing angle.

Ready 360° photo-panoramas cover up all the space around the camera 360x180 degrees without black spots at both nadir and zenith viewing angle.

Info-points (description buttons that can be placed in the panorama), embedded pictures, video and audio can be added to the virtual tour.

360° GIGAPANORAMA

Our team creates high-quality 360° photo-panoramas with resolution from 1 to 3 gigapixel and carries out professional post-processing and corrections of any complexity. We develop virtual tours which are suitable for all browsers, support both Flash and HTML5 technologies and are compatible with different mobile devices and virtual reality glasses (including Samsung Gear VR).

Info-points (description buttons that can be placed in the panorama), embedded pictures, video and audio can be added to the ready virtual tour.

360° TIMELAPSE

We can make panoramic timelapses with the given viewing angle and resolution up to 12k with professional post-processing and without black spots at both nadir and zenith viewing angle. 360° timelapses are supported by the most advanced technologies, such as virtual reality glasses (including Samsung Gear VR), different electronic devices and YouTube channels.

360° timelapses are available in any format you choose: .mp4, .avi, .mov, etc. All the timelapses are made and kept in frames, making it possible to encode them into any available format and bitrate with the resolution up to 12K.

Content sales:

VIRTUAL TOURS

On the basis of 360° panoramas we create virtual tours of any complexity, branded with logos and design elements of the company’s website together with embedding interactive elements, such as photos, slideshows, videos, descriptions, switch-points to other panoramas, audio descriptions, 3D sounds.

Our clients receive a fully functional virtual tour developed in HTML5 and supported by any computer or mobile device (iOS, Android, Windows Phone).

360° Photo    Price List

STOCK PHOTOS

For almost 10 years of travelling around the world our team has gathered an extensive stock of pictures, taken from both flying devices and the ground.

Any picture presented at our stock can be licensed for any kind of possible use. We can also offer the photos of ultra-high quality (the longer side up to 103,000 pixels).

You can also take a look at the spherical panoramas published on the website www.airpano.ru . Any of the 360° panoramas represented on the website can be converted into a printed image of very high quality.

Photogallery    Price List

STOCK 360° VIDEOS

By filming 360° video since 2011, our team has gathered an extensive stock of clips, taken from both flying devices and the ground.

Any video presented on our website can be licensed for any kind of possible use.

360° videos are available in any format you choose: .mp4, .avi, .mov, etc. All the videos are made and kept in frames, making it possible to encode them into any available format and bitrate.

360° Video    Price List

APPLICATIONS

We are one of the software developers of applications based on 360° photos and videos. Currently, there are 7 applications in our portfolio. One of them was top-rated in 84 countries and listed among the best applications of the year 2014 according to App Store.

These applications can also be used for demonstration of panoramic content with the help of virtual reality devices, such as Samsung Gear VR, Google Cardboard and analogues.

Exhibition installations:

EXHIBITION INSTALLATIONS

AirPano team has the experience of creating panoramic cinemas and video-walls, making it possible to demonstrate our panoramic content at different kinds of events, exhibitions and in museums. The size is only defined by the premises, the quality of projector and the dimensions of plasma screens. Such solutions usually make a deep impression on visitors.

The control is carried out by a tablet or Kinect devices.

TOUCH SCREENS

We are ready to create applications with panoramic content working on touch screens of any size. Both AirPano panoramas and the client’s material can be the basis for this kind of software.

We create virtual tours of any complexity, branded with logos and design elements of the company’s website together with embedding interactive elements, such as photos, slideshows, videos, descriptions, switch-points to other panoramas, audio descriptions, 3D sounds.

VR HEADSETS

Our virtual tours and 360° videos are supported by all the types of virtual reality headsets (VR): Google Cardboard, Oculus Rift, Samsung Gear VR, Sony Morpheus and others.

We can also develop special software for operating on Samsung Gear VR, if required.

AirPano in cooperation with Polden Studio carries out the installation of the binocular usage of the client’s or our own content. With the help of binoculars, the client can present the panoramic content at different kinds of events, exhibitions and in museums. This kind of devices usually attract a lot of visitors and leave a deep impression on them.

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Beyond the Box.

Panorama brings a broader perspective and new possibilities to the world of travel through timeshare exchange, home swap, and global travel options. We’re part of Travel + Leisure Co, the world’s leading membership and leisure travel company with a portfolio of nearly 20 resort, travel club and lifestyle travel brands.

Our brands include: RCI, 7Across (formerly DAE), Love Home Swap, the Registry Collection, @Work International, and Alliance Reservations Network (ARN). Each one known for elevating the travel experience for our partners and their millions of members worldwide.

The Way to Travel.

Vacation ownership and exchange is a significant part of how the world enjoys vacation, with 20 million timeshare and vacation club members around the globe.

Panorama aims to broaden the business, identify new capital efficient sources of supply, offer new and innovative products and develop new solutions in partnership with club affiliates in order to increase overall satisfaction of club members.

Rethinking Partnerships.

In its first expansion beyond the timeshare space, Panorama is launching a new travel services business to drive focused growth outside its core market. The first product is a new travel club product powered by ARN that can be custom-branded or co-branded and marketed to new membership organization customers not currently in the company’s base.

Who’s taking travel in new directions?

With 30 years of experience in international hospitality and executive leadership, Olivier Chavy was named president of Panorama and guides the strategic direction, operation, and growth of the company.

“Our strategy is to expand beyond into the broader travel market to become a leading travel membership provider,” Olivier said. “We plan to continue our focus on our customers by offering more ways to use their memberships across the full spectrum of travel. The creation of the Panorama business is a recognition that the companies acquired over the last 10 years have come together to create a powerful travel business that has the opportunity to grow and expand.”

Visit TravelandLeisureco.com  to learn more about our parent company.

Visit  TravelandLeisureco.com  to learn more about our parent company.

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Amazing Turkey

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• Accommodation in 4* Hotels in DBL BB
• Round Trip Airport Transfers
• Sightseeing Tours
• Lunches or dinners
• Museum Entrance Fees

Related Tours

34 Days China Panorama Tour with Yunnan, Tibet and Yangtze River Cruise

Tour Overview

This is a long duration China full-view tour. It is suitable for those tourists who have enough time and hope to see China as much as possible. It is...

Code of Tour : YET0000003556

Length of Travel : 34 Day

Destinations of Tour : Beijing-Xian-Jiuzhaigou-Chengdu - Lhasa-Shangri-La - Lijiang-Dali - Kunming-Chongqing-Yangtze River Cruise-Shanghai - Huangshan-Hangzhou - Guilin-Yangshuo - Guilin - Hong Kong

Departure City : Beijing

Price of Tour : Request

Type of Tour :

Features of Tour : Nature Culture History Cruise Landscape

This is a long duration China full-view tour. It is suitable for those tourists who have enough time and hope to see China as much as possible. It is the best-designed tour covering most of the popular places in China, including Beijing, Xian, Jiuzhaigou, Chengdu, Lhasa, Shangrila, Lijiang, Dali, Kunming, Chongqing, Yichang, Shanghai, Huangshan, Hangzhou, Guilin, Yangsuo, and Hong Kong. During the tour, you can also have a 3 night cruise trip on the Yangtze River. 

Highlights:

• The best-designed tour covering most of the popular places in China.
• Enjoy the natural ecological landscape such as Jiuzhaigou, Li River, etc.
• Explore the unique history of human landscape in Beijing, Xian,Shanghai, etc.
• Have a 3 night cruise trip on the Yangtze River.

Brief Itinerary

• Day 1: Beijing Arrival
• Day 2: Beijing
• Day 3: Beijing
• Day 4: Beijing – Xian
• Day 5: Xian
• Day 6: Xian – Jiuzhaigou
• Day 7: Jiuzhaigou
• Day 8: Jiuzhaigou – Chengdu
• Day 9: Chengdu
• Day 10: Chengdu – Lhasa
• Day 11: Lhasa
• Day 12: Lhasa
• Day 13: Lhasa – Shangrila
• Day 14: Shangrila
• Day 15: Shangrila – Lijiang
• Day 16: Lijiang
• Day 17: Lijiang – Dali
• Day 18: Dali
• Day 19: Dali – Kunming
• Day 20: Kunming – Chongqing
• Day 21: Yangtze River Cruise
• Day 22: Yangtze River Cruise
• Day 23: Yangtze River Cruise – Yichang – Shanghai
• Day 24: Shanghai
• Day 25: Shanghai – Huangshan
• Day 26: Huangshan
• Day 27: Huangshan
• Day 28: Huangshan – Hangzhou
• Day 29: Hangzhou
• Day 30: Hangzhou – Guilin
• Day 31: Guilin – Yangsuo
• Day 32: Yangsuo – Guilin – Hongkong
• Day 33: Hongkong
• Day 34: Hong Kong Departure

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 arrival beijing.

Sightseeing and Activities : Arrival Beijing Accommodation : Beijing Meals :

Arrive in Beijing, the capital city of China, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Free at leisure for the rest of the day.    Beijing, China’s capital and one of the great travel destinations of the World, offers sights and cultural relics found no where else on Earth. The city has a character all its own; there are quadrangles, small alleys, tricycle, boiled mutton, roasted duck, arts and crafts, Peking Opera, The Great Wall, the 2008 Olympics venue and a vibrancy that is the distinctive flavor of Beijing.

Day 2 Beijing

Sightseeing and Activities :Tian’anmen Square, Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, Peking Opera Accommodation : Beijing Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Depart from your hotel in the morning to visit Tian’anmen Square.  As the biggest city center square in the world, Tian’anmen Square covering 44 hectares in the heart of Beijing. It is the place where history-changing events and ceremonies occurred. A few steps away, come to visit the Forbidden City , which was the Imperial Palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing Dynasties and, it is one of the largest, and certainly the most completely restored, ancient architectural complex in the world. Walk in the footsteps of Emperors; come to the museum and see with your eyes, and feel with your hearts; you’ll begin understand what life in this richest of feudal realms was like for the Imperial Rulers, their concubines and their slaves.

After enjoying a delicious lunch, continue on to the Temple of Heaven . Departing from the Imperial vermilion and gold hues of the Forbidden City, The Temple of Heaven is decorated in blue, the color of the Heavens. The perfect harmony between the architectural environment and nature can be felt here; you might easily imagine the vivid spectacle of a great sacrifice to the Heavens for a good harvest. The magnificent Hall of Prayer of Good Harvest is one of the most important and impressive building in China.

In the evening, we offer you an opportunity to enjoy Peking Opera . Expert performers convey powerful emotions to the audience through song, dance, facial make-up, exquisite masks and costume, skilled use of body language and sympathetically integrated musical accompaniment. 

Day 3 Beijing

Sightseeing and Activities :Great Wall, Ming Tombs, Accommodation : Beijing Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

The star attraction of China is its Great Wall, a massive defensive structure built to keep intruders from entering the mainland. Today you will have the opportunity to traverse the ancient steps of Mutianyu Great Wall. But before this exciting experience, you will first take a short visit to the Ming Tombs (Changling Tomb). 

Mutianyu Great Wall was first built in the mid-6th century during the Northern Qi, making it older than the Badaling section. In 1569, the Mutianyu Great Wall was rebuilt and till today most parts of it are well preserved. The Mutianyu Great Wall has the largest construction scale and best quality among all sections of Great Wall.

The Ming Tombs are located in the northern suburbs of Beijing. Altogether there are thirteen tombs of Ming Dynasty Emperors from the period after the capital was moved from Nanjing to Beijing. You’ll visit the Changling Tomb, burial site of Emperor Yong Le, the biggest and first built at this historic site.

For today’s dinner, how about taste the famous Peking Roasted Duck , as it is the best-known dish in Beijing. It is very tender and unforgettably delicious. You’ll visit a local restaurant to enjoy a full meal and learn the proper way to experience Peking Roasted Duck. From the whole roasted duck to the soup of duck bones, you’ll enjoy a banquet made from every part of the duck. Moreover, the chef will demonstrate his skill of cutting the skin of the duck for your entertainment.

Day 4 Beijing – Xian

Sightseeing and Activities :Hutong Tour Accommodation : Xian Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, take a Hutong Tour by rickshaw to visit the ancient lanes and alleyways of Beijing. If exploring the Forbidden City has improved your understanding of the lifestyles of China’s ancient Imperial Court, then this half-day Hutong Tour will give you an insight into the lives of ordinary Chinese people and reveal their social culture in today’s Beijing City. The narrow streets of old Beijing are known as Hutongs. You’ll take a pedicab tour along the Hutongs and see the 100-year-old houses, courtyards and a vanishing way of life in today’s Beijing.

Wonderful time always passes so quickly, in the afternoon, you have to take a flight to Xi’an, the city that steeped in history and still giving up secrets, is your gateway to ancient Chinese civilization. In its 3,100 recorded years of evolution, it has been home to 13 dynasties.  Xi’an was also the end of civilization for those setting out on the famous Silk Road. Today’s Xi’an is a vibrant, modern city, but surrounded by history, even underfoot! So there can be no underground railways due to the obligation to preserve the wealth of ancient treasure still awaiting discovery.

Sightseeing and Activities :Terracotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xian City Wall Accommodation : Xian Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Today enjoy your full day visit to the Terracotta Warriors , one of the world’s most important archaeological finds, with troops, horses and carriages in battle formation and then to see the Big Wild Goose Pagoda , and the massive Xian City Wall . 

This evening you could choose Jiaozi Banquet as a local flavor experience. It includes over 10 kinds of Jiaozi, whose shapes and flavours vary, such as rabbit, duck, shrimp, peanuts and so on. Or if you more interested in dancing show, choose a Tang Dynasty Show with Dinner would be a good idea. You’ll enjoy the sumptuous dinner while watching a fabulous dancing and singing performance of the Tang Dynasty. This is not only a performance of Chinese traditional dancing and singing, but a re-enactment of Chinese ancient ceremony and culture.

The fabulous Terracotta Warriors was created to guard Emperor Qin Shihuang’s tomb. In accordance with ancient beliefs, this grand project was mounted at enormous cost by the cruel and tyrannical Emperor, only to be attacked, plundered, burnt and buried after his funeral by the peasants who’d labored under the whip to build it.  Then, over two thousand years later, this “Eighth Wonder of the World” was rediscovered by farmers digging a well. The fine troops, horses and carriages in battle formation are a National ancient art treasure. Three excavation pits are now opened to the public and a fourth is nearing completion.  You can, like US President Clinton, now gaze in wonder upon this historic site, listed by UNESCO in 1987 as a world cultural heritage.

Xian was always a walled city, and the Xian City Wall represents one of the oldest and best preserved Chinese city walls, as well being one of the largest ancient military defensive systems in the world.  The first city wall of Chang’an was begun in 194 BCE.  The existing wall was started during the Ming Dynasty in 1370; it is massive, measuring 13.7 km in circumference, 12 m in height, and 15–18 m in thickness at the base. The South Gate and North Gate are the two main entrances to the inner city. The city itself is neatly arranged along the city wall.  This impressive structure is just a precursor to the remarkable discoveries awaiting visitors to Xian.

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda was built in 652 during the Tang Dynasty and originally had five stories, although the structure was rebuilt in 704 during the reign of Empress Wu Zetian and its exterior brick facade renovated during the Ming Dynasty. One of the pagoda’s many functions was to hold sutras and figurines of the Buddha that were brought to China from India by the Buddhist translator and travelers Xuanzang. Now this well-preserved holy place for Buddhist has been the symbol of Xi’an. 

Day 6 Xian-Jiuzhaigou

Sightseeing and Activities :Xian-Jiuzhaigou Accommodation : Jiuzhaigou Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Take a morning fly to Jiuhuang Airport. On arrival, your local guide will meet you at the airport and accompany you for a half day visit to Huanglong Scenic Area, the fairyland (about 3.5 hours). After the tour, be transferred to Jiuzhaigou Reserve area for overnight stay.

Day 7 Jiuzhaigou Valley

Sightseeing and Activities :Jiuzhaigou Valley Accommodation : Jiuzhaigou Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Enjoy your whole day time for the excursion in this fairy land (green vans available in the scenic area). Recommended Jiuzhaigou Valley 1 Day Sightseeing Routes from us is: after entering into the entrance, taking the sightseeing bus to visit Rize Valley sites including Panda Lake, Five Flowers Lake, and Pearl Shoals , and then walking to the Pearl Shoals Waterfall (about 1 km). Have you lunch at tourist Center in Nuorilang. After that, continue to visit Zechawa Valley, Long Lake, and walking about 1.2 km to take photos of Five Colored Pool. When finish that, walking for another 1 km to the parking lot for bus to leave the scenic area.   Panda Lake has an average depth of 14 meters and as its name implies is in the heart of panda country. This area is surrounded by bamboo forests and a mix of deciduous and coniferous woodland. The vivid green color in autumn attracts tourist all over the world.  

Pearl Shoal and Pearl Shoal Falls are best viewed by taking the walkway. This takes visitors across the “Golden Bell Lake” and “Pearl Shoal” down the left side of the falls then across the base of the Falls to “Mirror Lake”.

Long Lake , also known as Changhai Lake is at the head of the Zechawa valley. The S-shaped Long Lake covers an area of 930,000 sq meters, making it the largest lake in Jiuzhaigou. It is 4390 meters long, and has an average width of 200 meters and reaches a depth of 80 meters. Tibetans prefer to call this lake as “The Lake that never dries out”

Five Color Pool , also called Jade Pool, is fed by underground streams from Long Lake. Just as its name implies, the colorful water in this lake makes it as a charming part during the summer time. Despite its very modest dimensions and depth, it has a richly colored underwater landscape with some of the brightest and clearest waters in the area.

Note: The above itinerary is a recommended one. You also can tell us your planned itinerary such as hiking or photographing tour in Jiuzhaigou so that we can help you to tailor make it for you.

Day 8 Jiuzhaigou Valley-Chengdu

Sightseeing and Activities :Thatched Cottage of Dufu Accommodation : Chegndu Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, be transferred to the airport for your flight to Chengdu, the capital city of Sichuan Province. On arrival, you can take a short visit to Thatched Cottage of Dufu , a beautiful garden and museum to honor Du Fu, one of the greatest Chinese poets. Optional Hot Pot in Sichuan style is available for a dinner if you are interested.

Day 9 Chengdu

Sightseeing and Activities : Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Sanxingdui Museum Accommodation : Chengdu Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Today, you will start your one day tour with a visit to the famous Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (about 40 min driving), where you may have chance to see cute pandas. Then continue your tour to Sanxingdui Museum (about 40 min driving), which is recognized as one of world’s most important ancient remains. After the tour, be transferred back to your hotel. In the evening, it will be a good idea for you to appreciate the Sichuan Opera for an optional activity. 

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is the world-famous Panda breeding research located about 10km (6 miles) out of the city. This institution replicates the natural habitat of the giant panda and is dedicated to preserving and increasing their population. Visitors are able to hold lovely pandas and be photographed with them.

Sanxingdui Museum is the place where you can learn about the culture that existed between 2,800 and 800 BC. The museum houses ancient remains including bronze wares, jade and stone objects, gold articles, pottery and bone objects excavated near present city of Guanghan, a famous historic and cultural city 40km from Chengdu in the south.

Sichuan Opera is staged in a local tea house, so during the show you may enjoy tea and snacks. There are folk music, opera, solo music, some comedy, amazing acrobatics, shadow puppets, intriguing face changing and spectacular fire eating. You’ll be enthused by colorful costumes, sounds of traditional music and charmed by the shadow play.

Day 10 Chengdu – Lhasa

Sightseeing and Activities : Accommodation : Lhasa Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Be transferred to the airport for the flight to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. Located at the foot of Mt. Gephel, Lhasa’s altitude is 3,490 m and the air contains only 68% of oxygen compared to sea level. 

Day 11 Lhasa

Sightseeing and Activities :Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple Accommodation : Lhasa Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Taking a visit to Lhasa, a trip to Potala Palace is a must. It’s the largest monastery of its type in the world and official home to Dalai Lama. Then move to Jokhang Temple , where monks receive their official training and education. The surrounding is Barkhor Street . Walk along this street of eight corners which will afford us a window into Tibetan culture and an opportunity to buy colorful ethnic handicrafts rarely seen outside of Tibet. 

The awe-inspiring Potala Palace, perched high above much of Lhasa, is the landmark of the city. The palace which consists of the Red Palace, the White Palace and some attached buildings was a complex of political and religious function. Now it is a huge treasure house for materials and articles of Tibetan history, religion, culture and arts.

Located at the center of the old Lhasa, Jokhang Temple is the spiritual center of Tibet. Built in 647 by Songtsen Gampo, it has a history of more than 1,300 years. The temple is the fine product of Han, Tibetan and Nepalese architecture techniques. Visitors will be treated to the sight of various exotic and sacred sculptures. Jokhang Temple also houses many invaluable cultural relics. Every year, the Great Prayer Festival is held here. 

Barkhor Street is a famous commercial and commodity-distributing center in Lhasa, consisting of more than 120 handicrafts shops and more than 200 stalls. It is a good choice that should never be missed by tourists coming to Lhasa, for you can buy anything Tibet-related, from sacks of incense, chunks of yak butter to monk outfits. Barkhor is the road that pilgrims tramped out around Jokhang Temple through centuries. When walking along Barkhor Street, you should move in the clockwise direction.

Day 12 Lhasa

Sightseeing and Activities :Drepung Monastery, Norbulingka, Sera Monastery Accommodation : Lhasa Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Today, you will start your one day city tour with a visit to Drepung Monastery, then continue your tour to Norbulingka and Sera Monastery .    Located 5 km from Lhasa, the Drepung Monastery is considered one of the three great monasteries in Tibet. It was first built in 1416, and held 7,700 monks in its heyday. In Tibetan language, Drepung Monastery means monastery of collecting rice.

Norbulingka means Jewel Garden. First built in 1751, it borrowed architectural style from the inland areas of China while maintaining local ethnic and religious features. Norbulingka served as a traditional summer palace and residence starting with the 7th Dalai Lama, and now it is the largest garden in Tibet.

The Sera Monastery is the last of the three principal Yellow Sect monasteries built in Lhasa. The setting itself is very beautiful with cobbled alleyways, temples and colleges. The highlight of visiting Sera Monastery will be watching monks debating inside the shady courtyard behind the main temple. Every day, hundreds of red-robed monks assemble in small groups and practice their debating skills.

Day 13 Lhasa – Shangri-La

Sightseeing and Activities :Dukezong Ancient Town Accommodation : Shangrila Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Shangri-la, the legendary lost paradise, a place with stunning scenery, the azure sky and the hospitality of unsophisticated people. On arrival, take a visit to Dukezong Ancient Town . 

Shangri-la is a primarily Tibetan county in northwestern Yunnan and the capital of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The county was formerly called Zhongdian but in 2001 was renamed after the fictional land of Shangri-La, from the James Hilton novel Lost Horizon. With many miles of beautiful vistas to discover, this region offers unique hiking and horse trekking opportunities to those who make the journey down to Northern Yunnan. At an altitude of 3,200 meters, Shangri-La is the start point of the Tibetan world in Northern Yunnan. The small town once was the frontier trading post on the doorstep of Tibet.

Day 14 Shangri-La

Sightseeing and Activities :Songzanlin Lamasery, Potatso National Park Accommodation : Shagnrila Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Today, begin your exciting tour with a visit to Songzanlin Lamasery , the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan, then visit Potatso National Park (green vans available in scenic area) after lunch.    Not far from Shangri-la, Songzanlin Lamasery is the largest Tibetan Buddhist lamasery in Yunnan, and one of the 13 large lamaseries in the joint area of Tibet, Yunnan and Sichuan. Constructed in 1679, it took about three years to complete. Built against the mountain with a magnificent appearance, Songzanlin is a faithful imitation of the Potala Palace in Lhasa Tibet. The most famous treasures in the lamasery are the eight gold-covered sculptures of Sakyamuni , bronze sculptures, the Ganzur scriptures hand-written in liquid gold, gold lamps, and many exquisite gilded silver incense burners. 

Located 22km east of Shangri-La, Potatso National Park is the first national park in mainland China. In Tibetan language, Patatso means reaching the opposite side of the lake by boat under the help of deity. Bitahai Lake and Shuduhu Lake are two major parts of the park. Besides these two lakes, forest, marsh, valley, alpine meadow and so on can be seen in the park. All major spots are connected by walkable plank which offers a closer distance for travelers to experience the natural environment.

Day 15 Shangri-La – Lijiang

Sightseeing and Activities :Lijiang Ancient Town Accommodation : Lijiang Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, take another 4 hours driving, you will reach Lijiang, and visit Lijiang Ancient Town to walk down the cobblestone streets over 700 years and see the Naxi way of life which changed little over time.

Lijiang Ancient Town is well-preserved and known as a center for the Naxi people’s brilliant culture. With a history of more than 800 years, the town was built in the interval as the Song Dynasty changed to the Yuan Dynasty, and occupies an area of 3.8 square kilometers. It is built along the lie of mountains and the flow of rivers with the ancient water-supply system which is still in use today, providing a precious example for research on ancient architecture. As a result of selective adoption of ideas from other cultures by the Naxi group, the buildings in town incorporate the best of the architectural styles of Han, Bai and Tibetan, developed into the unique Naxi style. The layout of the town is free and flexible, the houses are close and diverse and the lanes are narrow and meandering. Along both sides of the lanes, there are shops selling superb handicrafts. Here you also have the chance to trace the ancient Tea-Horse Road.

Day 16 Lijiang

Sightseeing and Activities :Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Yufeng Temple, Baisha Mural Accommodation : Lijiang Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, drive about half an hour to visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (cable car and green vans available in the scenic area). After lunch, visit Yufeng Temple and Baisha Mural in the ancient capital of Naxi Kingdom in Baisha Old Town . 

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain nestles near Lijiang. It is the southernmost glacier in the Northern Hemisphere, consisting of 13 peaks with the highest one, Shanzidou, at an altitude of 5,600 meters. Looking from the town, the mountain resembles a jade dragon laying in the clouds, hence the name. The view of the massif from the gardens at the Black Dragon Pool in Lijiang is noted as one of China’s finest views.

Built in 1756, Yufeng Temple is located at the southern foot of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, 13km from Lijiang. The temple is surrounded by a verdant forest and river with the snow mountain at its back. It displays a harmonious mix of architectural styles of Han Buddhism, Tibetan Buddhism, Taoism and local Naxi Dongba Religion. It is witness to the peaceful coexistence of multinational cultures and religions.  It still plays an important role in local residents’ religious life.

Baisha Mural is located at Baisha Old Town, 10km north of Lijiang. Although the traditional houses do not look impressive, this was the cradle of the Naxi culture and ancient capital of the Naxi Kingdom. The valuable murals are protected inside Dabaoji Palace and the colored glaze temples. The originality and figures within the murals reflect the different religious cultures and artistic forms of Buddhism, Lamaism, Taoism and local Naxi Dongba religion’s development into Naxi School. Each painting includes at least one hundred portraits, which are not only Buddha, but also ordinary people such as bureaucrats, farmers, citizens and even criminals. Many of the scenes and subjects are drawn from people’s daily life showing fishing, riding horses, weaving, dancing and casting iron.  

Day 17 Lijiang – Dali

Sightseeing and Activities :Dali Ancient Town, Three Pagodas Accommodation : Dali Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, you will be transferred to Dali, the ancient political, economic and cultural center of Yunnan area. Upon arrival, visit Dali Ancient Town and Three Pagodas , the symbol of the history of Dali.    Dali is located on a fertile plateau between the Cangshan Mountains to the West and Erhai Lake to the East. It has traditionally been settled by the Bai and Yi minorities. Dali is the ancient capital of both the Bai kingdom Nanzhao, which flourished in the area during the 8th and 9th centuries.

Dali Ancient Town is 13km (8 miles) away from Dali City. The city’s history can be traced back to the early Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). According to ancient literature, the City was a gateway to the ancient Silk Road in Southwestern China. Because of its history and wealth, Dali Ancient city was surrounded by the wall which is over 6km in length, 7.5 meters high and 6 meters thick. In 1982, the northern and southern city wall towers were rebuilt to offer visitors a glimpse into the ancient wall’s grandeur. The architecture of Dali Ancient City is in the traditional Bai ethnic style and gives the city a very distinct feel. Dali Ancient City is well known for its traditional arts and crafts. It is particularly famous for its marble and hand woven handicrafts.

With a history over 1,800 years, the Three Pagodas is the symbol of Dali, and the witness of the development of Buddhism in the area. The Three Pagodas are at the East foot of the tenth peak of Cangshan Mountains and face the West shore of the Erhai Lake of the ancient Dali Town. They are an ensemble of three independent pagodas arranged on the corners of an equilateral triangle, with the main pagoda 69 meters in height. Three Pagodas together with Zhaozhou Bridge in Hebei Province and Great Wild Goose Pagoda in Xi’an are known as the three curiosities of Chinese ancient architecture.

Day 18 Dali

Sightseeing and Activities :Erhai Cruise, Three Courses Tea, Xizhou Bai’s Houses Accommodation : Dali Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Today, after breakfast, you will first be transferred to the pier and take an Erhai Cruise for about 4 hours. Then in the afternoon, then visit Xizhou Bai’s Houses (Yan’s Courtyard included) where you can see what the Bai people’s houses like.

Erhai Lake is the second largest lake in Yunnan after Dianchi Lake, and one of the seven biggest fresh water lakes in China. On sunny days, the crystal water of the lake and the snow mantled Cangshan Mountain create a beautiful scene described as silver Cangshan and jade Erhai. The surrounding isles, temples and villages of Erhai Lake are also worth visiting. The Golden Shuttle Island and the nearby fishing community of Bai people with Bai’s culture and lifestyle are charming attractions. You can also enjoy the Three Courses Tea of Bai people on the isles.

Xizhou Bai’s Houses  is 18 km north of Dali. Green mountains, winding creeks and fertile land make life here lyrical and carefree. The history of Xizhou dates back to the Sui Dynasty (581-618AD). People nowadays regard Xizhou as a town famous for the Bai culture. The old houses and streets are well preserved and visitors may still find traces of past glory. The houses of are characterized by a traditional Chinese rectangular courtyard with a screen wall facing the gate. On the screen wall usually are four Chinese characters reading ‘Qingbai Shijia’ (innocent family) or ‘Ziqi Donglai’ (Auspicious air comes from the East). Around them are landscape paintings and decorations with colors in profusion. The doors and windows are full of grills with auspicious paintings.

Day 19 Dali – Kunming

Sightseeing and Activities :Western Hill & Dragon Gate, Village of Ethnic Culture Accommodation : Kunming Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Fly back to Kunming in the morning, you will then take a visit of Western Hill & Dragon Gate . After the tour, you can have a short visit to Village of Ethnic Culture .

Western Hills lies in the Biji Mountain chain to the west of Kunming. It is visible from the eastern or northern banks of Dianchi Lake . Clouds and mist often hide the mountain sides, with their giant firs and pines and many ancient temples. The Dragon Gate in the Western Hills is close to the west shore of the Dianchi Lake. The elevation of the Dragon Gate is over 2,300 meters, 300 meters higher than the water surface of the Dianchi Lake. It consists of the Sanqing Temple and the Dragon Gate Grotto which was accomplished through 72 years of hard work (1781-1853). The 3 March is a festive time in the Western Hills, when it is considered the best time for Kunming residents to climb the mountains and look into the distance, to admire the spring flowers and appreciate the feeling of new life.

Located by the Dianchi Lake and at the foot of the Western Hill, the Village of Ethnic Culture is a major part of Kunming Dianchi National Tourist and Holiday Zone. Opened to the public on February 18, 1992, the community is 8 km away from the city of Kunming proper and covers an area of 1,340 mus. The whole community contains 26 villages, and so far the Dai Village, the Bai Village, the Yi Village, the Naxi Village, the Wa Village, the Jinuo Village, the Lahu Village, the Bulang Village and 4 other villages have been completed.

Day 20 Kunming – Chongqing

Sightseeing and Activities :Flower and Bird Market Accommodation : cruise Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

In the morning, pay a visit to the local Flower and Bird Market to get close touch with the Kunming resident’s life. After lunch, take a flight to Chongqing. When arrival Chongqing, your tour guide and drive will pick up at the airport and stroll around Chongqing city for a while. Till the evening time, you will be transferred to embark the Yangtze River Cruise and start your cruise experience to the longest river of China. 

Located on Yongdao Street of Kunming downtown area, the Flower and Bird Market was originally the site selling flowers, birds, pets, insects and goldfishes to the locals. As business prospered, it has begun to attract more and more visitors, and has gradually developed into an enchanting shopping and sightseeing center with a true local flavor.

Chongqing, the largest inland city of China, is a booming metropolis located in the southeast of the Sichuan Basin at the confluence of the Yangtze and the Jialing rivers. Surrounded by waters on three sides, and by the mountains on four sides, Chongqing is known as ‘mountain city’, ‘foggy city’ and ‘furnace city’.

Over 6,300 kilometers long, the Yangtze is the largest and longest river in China, surpassed only by the Nile of Africa and the Amazon of South America. Born of the melting snows and ice in the Tanggula Mountain chain in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, the torrent flows from west to east through provinces of Qinghai, Tibet, Sichuan, Yunnan, Sichuan, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangxi, Anhui and Jiangsu and the city of Shanghai, finally emptying into the East China Sea.  Between the town of Fengjie (Sichuan Province) and Yichang (Hubei Province) are the magnificent Three Gorges.  

Day 21 Yangtze River Cruise

Sightseeing and Activities :Yangtze River Cruise Accommodation : cruise Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy your Yangtze cruise! You will have a shore excursion to Fengdu (at own expense), the “Ghost City”. An excursion to Shibaozhai will be arranged for you today   Today you will stop for a visit to Fengdu, is located on the northern bank of the Yangtze 176km downstream from Chongqing. Fengdu received its reputation in the Eastern Han Dynasty. A plethora of demon-decorated temples, buildings and statues in this river town earned it the moniker “Ghost City” – the carved facades are truly fascinating. The temples built on Mt. Mishan display punishing instruments and wild demon images, which vividly depict the Chinese people’s imagination of Hell. Another classic site – Shibaozhai may for your optional visiting.

Shibaozhai, literally means Stone Treasure Fortress, located in Zhong County at the south bank of the Yangtze River, 278 kilometers away from Chongqing City. It was first built in Qing Dynasty in 1750. Shibaozhai is one historical site that has a new appearance since 2009. 

Day 22 Yangtze River Cruise

Today pass through Three Gorges that namely Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and then, you will have an excursion to Goddess Stream (4.5 – 5 hrs). After that and back to the cruise ship for viewing the Xiling Gorge scenery. Around 23:00 today, the ship will pass through the locks of Three Gorge Dam. The optional excursion today will be the White Emperor City (at own expense).   This morning, rise early to see the dawn light the Yangtze River before the boat enters the first gorge- Qutang Gorge, the shortest (8 km), narrowest and the most dramatic one of the three gorges. Two mountains, Chijia (Red Passage) and Baiyan (White Salt), guard the entrance to this gorge like giant castle doors.

A few hours later you see the second gorge -Wu Gorge, the middle gorge which is best known for its quiet beauty, sheer cliffs and twelve unique peaks. Often veiled in swirls of mist, six line the north side of the river and six staggered peaks stand to the south. The most famous, Goddess Peak, resembles a kneeling maiden.

Xiling Gorge extends from Badong County in the west to the Nanjin Pass in Yichang in the east, about 66 km long. It is the longest of the Three Gorges and is entirely within Hubei Province. Xiling Gorge is full of shoals and rapid currents. The most dangerous shoals are Xietan, Qingtan and Kong Ling, collectively known as the Three Shoals of Xiling. Among all the dangerous shoals, Qingtan Shoal and Kongling Shoal are the most famous.

Goddess Stream also be called “Beauty Stream” in locals. The length of the stream is about 15km. In this 15km, there are 10km-long virgin valley. When in high water level season, visitors may have chance to see the beautiful virgin scenery and oritinal inhabitants there. In the past, only few photographers know this charming place. And now, it turns into a new scenic spot in Yangtze River Cruise.

Day 23 Yangtze River Cruise-Yichang-Shanghai

Sightseeing and Activities :Three Visitors Cave Accommodation : Shanghai Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

When finish your breakfast on the cruise ship, you could really feel the might of the dam by having an excursion to Three Gorges Dam.  After the visiting, you can still appreciate the Xiling Gorge on the deck. And then, disembark at Yichang and have a visit to Three Visitors Cave. After that, be transferred to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Arrive in Shanghai and be transferred to the hotel to catch up on some rest.

Three Gorges Dam is 2,335-meter long, 185-meter high, 18-meter wide on the top and 130-meter wide at the bottom. The dam will raise the river to a level of 175 meters above sea level, creating a 600km long reservoir with storage capacity of 39.9 billion cubic meters extending from the dam site all the way to Chongqing. It is the largest water conservancy project ever undertaken.  

Three Visitors Cave (Sanyoudong) is located in the cliff of the Mt. Xiling by the Yangtze River, 7km away from the center of Yichang city. It is backed by the mouth of Xiling Gorge in the Yangtze Three Gorges. Facing the Xialao River, the Cave has wonderful and beautiful scenery. It is one of the famous historical sites in Hubei province and on May 25, 2006, Yichang’s Three Visitors Cave was listed into the sixth batch of national key cultural relic protection units for its precious cultural treasures.

Shanghai is a city unlike any other in China. It is the bustling economic heartbeat of China that enjoys all of the comforts and amenities of a fully modern metropolis. Shanghai today looks to regain its former position at the turn of 20th of being one of the largest financial centers in the world behind New York and London. It is a city that seamlessly blends East and West.

Day 24 Shanghai

Sightseeing and Activities :Jade Buddha Temple, Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai World Financial Center, the Bund Accommodation : Shanghai Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

A full day of sightseeing starts with Jade Buddha Temple and Yuyuan Garden , a Chinese classic garden in city downtown. Then visit the nearby old street. Continue your trip to Shanghai World Financial Center , which is one of the most popular attractions of the city. After that, you can have a walk along the Bund , Shanghai’s famed waterfront promenade. Tonight if you are interested, you can enjoy the breathtaking Acrobatics Show as your optional entertainment.    Jade Buddha Temple is located in a crowd of Shanghai City. It was first built in 1882 in Jiangwan on the southern outskirts of Shanghai. At that time, a 1.9-metre-high white jade Buddha was installed here after a monk had brought it from Burma to Zhejiang Province in 1882. Jade Buddha Temple is one of the Shanghai must-see attractions, and till now, it still be an active one that with 70 resident monks at last count.

Yuyuan Garden has a lot of stories for it was severely damaged in the 19th century and was restored in 1961. This garden was first built in the 16th century by provincial governor, Pan Yunduan, in honor of his father who was the then government minister. It has many scenic courtyards decorated with baroque rockery, pools, and flora that are all connected by corridors and passageways. The delicate design and exquisite layout of the whole garden reveals a strong impression of ‘garden in the garden, whole in the part.

Shanghai World Financial Center is a super tall skyscraper in Pudong New Area, Shanghai. It is a mixed use skyscraper which consists of offices, hotels, conference rooms, observation decks, and shopping malls on the ground floors. On 14 September 2007 the skyscraper was topped out at 492.0 meters (1,614.2 feet) and became the second tallest building in the world; as well as the tallest structure on mainland China, including Hong Kong.

The Bund is the showcase with the old buildings of colonial-era leftover along Huangpu River. The renowned waterfront district is the city’s most famous landmark. The word BUND is of Anglo-India origin meaning embankment on the waterfront. It is also the popular site to enjoy the night view of the city.

Shanghai offers colorful recreations with rich contents and creative form. Your night may be filled with an interactive old form of art known as the Acrobatics. Those professional performers have been trained of as early as age six or seven so that they can play so well and excellent. It definitely will be an unforgettable night in your memory.

Day 25 Shanghai – Huangshan

Sightseeing and Activities :Tunxi Old Street Accommodation : Huangshan Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Free at leisure in the morning till be transferred to the airport in the early afternoon for the flight to Huangshan. After one hour’s flight, the plane will land at Huangshan City, which located at the south of Anhui Province and famous for the Mt. Huangshan and the scattered serene villages. In the evening, if you are interested, you can take a leisure stroll along Tunxi Old Street which is regarded as a span of the old-time memory of the area. Tomorrow we’ll find out more.

Tunxi Old Street, located at the center of Tunxi District of Huangshan City, has been the distribution center of south Anhui Province knowing for the production of green tea and ink. It is the witness of the flourish of Anhui merchant’s for a period of time. The street is 1.5 kilometers long and 7 meters wide with double-floor wooden houses built during the Ming and Qing dynasties at two sides. So far, over 100 movies have been shot in the old street. Here you can buy featured souvenirs such as traditional Chinese medicine, Qimen Black Tea, Anhui ink stick, Shexian ink stone and Anhui Four Carvings.

Day 26 Huangshan

Sightseeing and Activities :Xidi Village, Hongcun Village Accommodation : Huangshan Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Depart from Huangshan City, take a 1 hour driving you will reach the ancient Yixian County and take a visit to Xidi Village and Hongcun Village . In the late afternoon, be transferred to Huangshan city. 

Xidi Village is known for its unique and elegant wooden houses with prettified walls preventing rain infiltration, black tiles recording the history of the town, and decorative gate towers standing for the particular flavor of the architecture. The exquisite wood carvings, stone engravings and tile carvings are also can be found in Xidi. Walking into an ancient house, you will find yourself in a well-arranged garden with rockeries, fish ponds, stream and cobble-paved ground.

Hongcun Village, with a history over 400 years, has a cattle-like plan, a stream passes by every door in the village like cattle’s gut, a semi-lunar pond looks like cattle’s stomach, and the four bridges over the stream from the cattle’s feet. With marbled ground, black tiles, fresh red lanterns, elaborate woodcarvings and amazingly comprehensive water system, Hongcun Village is known as ‘the folk imperial palaces’.

Day 27 Huangshan

Sightseeing and Activities : Mt. Huangshan scenic area Accommodation : Huangshan Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, you will be transferred to well-known Mt. Huangshan scenic area and climb up the mountain by cable car to have your exploration. Lunch and dinner will be served at the restaurant on mountain. Stay overnight at the top of the mountain. 

Mt. Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) is one of China’s ten best-known scenic spots. It is characterized by the four wonders, namely, odd-shaped pines, grotesque rock formation, seas of clouds and crystal-clear hot springs. Having all the features of mountain scenery, Mt. Huangshan is known as the No. 1 Mountain under the Heaven. Because of the mists and clouds, natural scenery in the area changes beyond prediction. Xu Xiake, a noted Chinese geologist and traveler in Ming Dynasty, praised Mt. Huangshan as the best of all mountains. 

Because of the limited water and food resources, the price climbs high on mountain. Please be careful while sight-seeing and environmental-friendly to the beautiful scenery. Take a good rest for tomorrow’s soul-stunning sunrise.

Day 28 Huangshan – Hangzhou

Sightseeing and Activities :Hefang Ancient Street Accommodation : Hangzhou Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Enjoy your own free time then you will take about 3 hours driving to reach Hangzhou. On arrival, enjoy your own free exploration of this city. If you are interested, you can take a leisure stroll along the Hefang Ancient Street to get a first impression of this city, which is a cobble street lined with traditional shops selling herbal medicines, handicrafts and silk products.

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is located by the Qiantang River at the Southern end of the Grand Canal.  As one of the most renowned and prosperous cities of China for much of the last 1,000 years, Hangzhou is also well-known for its beautiful natural scenery, with the West Lake as the most well-known location. The Venetian Marco Polo supposedly visited Hangzhou in the late 13th century. His book refers to the city as “beyond dispute the finest and the noblest in the world.”

Hefang Street is a well-designed old pedestrian street, which is the epitome of old Hangzhou. The original street has been ruined and it recently takes on a completely new look after lager-scale of restoration. Shops selling art crafts, souvenirs, silk, teahouses, and restaurants line on both sides of the street. Many famous century-old shops can be found along the street, such as Hu Qing Yu Pharmacy and Wang Xing Ji Fans. Hefang Street is otherwise known as the Snack Street for the diverse food it serves. The street clearly concentrates food from all around the country, while at some time highlighting the local flavors.

Day 29 Hangzhou

Sightseeing and Activities :West Lake, Lingyin Temple, Six Harmonies Pagoda and Tea Museum Accommodation : Hagnzhou Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Enjoy your full day relaxing tour that covers the visit to West Lake , the most famous attraction in Hangzhou, Lingyin Temple, Six Harmonies Pagoda and Tea Museum . Huaiyang Cuisine is available for your optional dinner (at your own expense).

“Rippling waters shimmering on a sunny day, Misty mountains shrouded by the rain; Plain or gaily decked out like Xizi; West Lake is always alluring.”   These sentiments by the famous poet Su Dongpo, comparing West Lake with Xizi, the most renowned beauty of the Song Dynasty, leave one in no doubt of the splendor of the scenery that inspired them. Enclosed by the hills on three sides, the West Lake mirrors the surrounding landscape to form a panorama of great beauty. The lake was originally part of the Qitang River until its outlet became silted up. It is now 15km in circumference with an average depth of 1.8 meters.

The Lingyin Temple is regarded as one of the four temples by the side of the West Lake.  The main hall, 33.6 meters high, is one of China’s tallest single-story buildings, further distinguished by double eaves. Within, a statue of Sakyamuni, carved out of 24 pieces of camphor wood and gilded with 104 ounces of gold, stands an impressive 19.6 meters high.

Standing by the Qiantang River in Hangzhou, the Pagoda of Six Harmonies (Liuhe Tower) has for hundreds of years been praised by poets and men of letters. The pagoda was constructed first in 970 during the Northern Song Dynasty to suppress the tidewaters. It is nearly 60 meters tall with 13 stories outside and seven inside. From here you can have a good view of the Qiantang River meandering far into the distance.

While you are enjoying the beautiful sightseeing of Hangzhou, you can also try the well-known Huaiyang Cuisine which is the style prevailing in Shanghai, Hangzhou, Ningbo and Suzhou. The basin of the lower reaches of the Yangtze and the coast are blessed with the products of rivers, lakes and the sea; everything for seekers of fine food. Huaiyang dishes are characterized by the addition of a relatively high proportion of soy sauce.

Day 30 Hangzhou – Guilin

Sightseeing and Activities :Reed Flute Cave, Elephant Trunk Hill Accommodation : Guilin Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Take a morning flight to Guilin. On arrival, your local guide will meet you at the airport then transfer you to the hotel. On the way, you will have chance to visit the gorgeous Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill , the symbol of Guilin City. The Rice Noodle Banquet will be a good choice as an optional dinner if you wanna have a try.

Guilin is world-famous for its serene landscape, Karst limestone formations, mist-covered hills and bamboo groves. It is home to more than ten ethnic groups, including Han, Zhuang, Miao, Yao, Hui and Dong. On the way from the airport to your hotel, you will see dozens of pretty hills everywhere in the city of Guilin. It is a city of hills and green trees and boasts one of the most photographed areas of China.

Elephant Trunk Hill, or Xiangbishan, is the symbol of Guilin. Observed from a distance, you’ll see an elephant-like form standing majestically at the confluence of the Li and Yang Rivers, with its trunk arching into the clear waters, a fantasy elephant eternally quenching a gargantuan thirst; lifelike in shape and energetic in posture. 

Reed Flute Cave is named for the special reeds, used for making flute instruments, that grow near the cave entrance. The caves are a feast for the eyes. The natural beauty of a profusion of stalactites and stalagmites, stele, stone pillars, stone curtains and stone flowers creating an infinite variety of extraordinary scenes, creatively illuminated, is bound to evoke gasps of admiration. It is fitting then, that Reed Flute Cave is commonly praised as Nature’s Grand Art Palace.

Guilin Rice Noodle is the most popular snack in Guilin. If you want to know Guilin’s culture deeply, it’s a recommended choice for you to taste the Banquet of Rice Noodle as your optional dinner. The thing that sets one dish apart from another is the soup, which is made of pork, steak, Lo Han Kuo, and other seasonings. Depending on different kinds of ingredients used in the soup, rice noodles can be divided into vegetable, three-fresh, original soup, spicy and sour, beef, and horse meat ones.

Day 31 Guilin – Yangshuo

Sightseeing and Activities :Li River cruise Accommodation : Yangsuo Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

The highlight of today’s sightseeing is a leisurely cruise down the Li River to Yangshuo . Meandering through valleys, bamboo groves and mysterious Karst rock formations, the cruise will affords you a glimpse of a life far removed from the concrete jungle. Stay overnight in Yangshuo. In the evening, if you are interested, you can enjoy the night show called Impression of Liu San Jie as an optional activity.

In the morning, be driven to Pier for your Li River Cruise. A double-decker river boat is waiting for you. The landscape from Guilin to Yangshuo is truly a masterpiece of nature. The crystal waters, straight-out-of-a-painting mountains, peaceful farm fields, hard-working-but- ever-smiling fishermen and wandering water buffaloes inspire poetic musings of Guilin’s charming life. Under the blue sky, your river boat transports you in an unending daydream.

You will end up your cruise in Yangshuo, is a small oriental but Western-influenced town with a history of 1000 years. The West Streetin the town earns its name since almost every one in West Street can speak fluent English and every restaurant or bar offers menus in several languages. You’ll feel no borders or distance here and will soon fall under the spell of this charismatic, welcoming small-town atmosphere. Moreover, West Street is flanked by fascinating little shops and vendor stands selling a broad variety of superior quality souvenirs, perfect gifts for friends and relatives. West Streets charms increase when night comes; countless bars, cafés and bistros open till midnight with dynamic music and live bands to ensure you can have a really memorable night with your new-found friends.

Some guests may also hear about the night show – Impressions of Liu Sanjie performance. The site is only one mile from West Street in the world’s largest natural theatre which utilizes the waters of the Li River as its stage, flanked by twelve mist shrouded hills and the heavens as its backdrop. Mist, rain, moonlight, the hills and their inverted reflections in the river all become the ever-changing natural background, so you will enjoy a unique experience each time you attend. In the ‘Impressions of Liu Sanjie’, you will be presented with stylized scenes and events from the daily life of the Zhuang people living around the Li River. From these pageants, you will gain a realistic sense of Sanjie’s birthplace and appreciate the beauty of the folk songs. If you are able to take photographs under low-light conditions, you are assured of some stunning images from this performance.

Day 32 Yangshuo – Guilin – Hong Kong

Sightseeing and Activities :Yangshuo countryside Accommodation : Hong Kong Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Enjoy an interested cycling tour around the countryside (electric sightseeing bus is an alternative choice if you don’t like to have the cycling tour) and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere along the way – you may have chance to take an exterior view of the famous Moon Hill. After lunch, be transferred to the airport for your afternoon flight to Hong Kong..

From Yangshuo, take a short, pleasant drive along the country road. The fields, the bafflo, the farmers, all of these are the most local lifestyle of Yangshuo. Both cycling or sitseeing bus tours will let you to get close to the nature. 

Here we recommend a cycling route for your reference:  West Street – Xiangshui bridge – Jima – Xiatang Village – Back to Aishanmen – Chaoyang – Giggling Tree – Mountain Retreat – Gongnong bridge – Ten-mile Gallery – West Street Tour duration is about 2.5 hours Tips: We would suggest start the tour in the morning at 08:30 a.m. in order to avoid the sun burns and hot temperature.

Hong Kong is a bustling and vibrant destination boasting a rich blend of Chinese and European traditions. Visitors to this “Pearl of the Orient” will experience breathtaking views from Victoria Peak, the uniqueness of Aberdeen’s Floating Community, and the offerings at Stanley Market. It would be hard to find a more exiting city than Hong Kong. Set among beautiful natural surroundings it has all the benefits of a thriving and vibrant commercial center home to shopping like no place.

Day 33 Hong Kong

Sightseeing and Activities :Victoria Peak, Aberdeen Accommodation : Hong Kong Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Today, enjoy your half day city tour that including a visiting to Victoria Peak , Aberdeen (no sampan) – home to hundreds of people living on fishing junks, and the largest jewelry factory in Hong Kong. After the tour, enjoy your own free exploration in this city.   Victoria Peak is Hong Kong’s premier visitor attraction, providing magnificent harbor and city views. You will experience the dazzling panorama of Hong Kong Island, the Victoria Harbor, the Kowloon Peninsula and hills beyond. By night, you are thrilled to the neon-light skyline. What’s more, the Peak offers visitors a multitude of fantastic entertainment, dining and shopping options.

Aberdeenis also located on the southern side of Hong Kong Island. It is home to hundreds of people living on fishing junks. The traditional lifestyle is dramatically juxtaposed against a modern high-rise community that spreads up the nearby hillsides. To get a close-up look at the Aberdeen way of life, many visitors take a sampan ride. In the evenings, any others prefer to take in the view from the floating seafood restaurant anchored there.

Day 34 Depature from Hong Kong

Sightseeing and Activities : Accommodation : Meals : Breakfast

The vacation is over all too soon as you’re transferred to the airport to board the home-bound flight, bidding a fond farewell to China, and we know you’ll be back. Service ends.

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Service included:.

• Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
• Meals as listed in the itinerary;
• Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
• Private English-speaking tour guide;
• Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
• Service charge & government taxes;
• Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
• Domestic train tickets of soft sleeper.

Service Excluded:

• Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
• Chinese visa fees;
• Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
• Single room supplement;
• Tips to guides and drivers;
• Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
• Personal travel accident insurance;
• All optional programs.

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Yunnan Travel Guide

Theme tours guide.

• Ancient Tea Horse Road Tours
• Ancient Villages and Towns Tours
• Camping Tours
• China Self-driving Tours
• China Tours Including Yunnan
• China Train Tours
• Chinese-speaking Group Tours
• Daocheng Yading Tours
• Destinations to Yunnan Tours
• Ethnic Markets Discovery
• Family Tours
• Haba Snow Mountain Climbing Tours
• High Speed Train Tours
• Hot Spring Tours
• Indochina Overland Tour from Yunnan
• Kunming-Dali-Lijiang Tours
• Kunming-Dali-Lijiang-Shangri-La Tours
• Kunming-Dali-Lijiang-Shangri-La-XishuangBanna Tours
• Kunming-Jianshui-Yuanyang Tours
• Lijiang-Shangri-La Tours
• Luxurious Yunnan Tours
• Mekong River Discovery
• Minority Discovery
• Minority Festival Tours
• Night Tours
• River Rafting Adventure
• Shangrila Adventure
• Students Education Tours
• Tai Chi and KungFu Tour
• Tea Culture Tours
• Three Parallel Rivers Tours
• Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Tours
• Top China Tours
• Top Yunnan Tours
• Wildlife Tours
• Winter Experience
• Yoga Retreat Tour
• Yuanyang Rice Terraces Tour
• Yunnan Adoption Heritage Tours
• Yunnan Birdwatching Tours
• Yunnan Classic Tours
• Yunnan Coffee Tours
• Yunnan Cycling Tours
• Yunnan Flowers Tour
• Yunnan Food Culture Tour
• Yunnan Golf Holiday
• Yunnan Hiking Tours
• Yunnan Join Group Tours
• Yunnan Motorbike Tours
• Yunnan Muslim Tours
• Yunnan Panorama Tour
• Yunnan Photograph Tours
• Yunnan RV Tours
• Yunnan Tibet Tours

Tips Before Travel

Bring copies of your passport.

Don't assume you're restricted to the main hubs of Beijing and Shanghai, our tours can start from any city.

Register with your embassy

For your safety, please register with the Embassy.

Always have local cash

Exchange some local currency for your trip

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• Private Tours

Original Sound of Music Tour® - Tour 1A

• Also available as Private tour
• Also included in Other products

Do you have special requirements? Make a request

daily at 9.15 am and 2.00 pm

Panorama Tours Bus Terminal , Mirabellplatz / Hubert-Sattler-Gasse 1, 5020 Salzburg Arrival information

Join us on a wonderful ride through Salzburg on the Original Sound of Music Tour®

Tour the picturesque World Heritage City of  Salzburg  as well as the beautiful  landscapes where the opening scenes of the movie   The Sound of Music  were filmed with our live guide!

The Sound of Music Tour Salzburg includes original shooting locations from "The Sound of Music" movie:

• Mirabell Garden and Pegasus Fountain , where Maria and the children danced in the movie
• Nonnberg Convent , where Maria was a novice
• Schloss Leopoldskron ,  the house, where the Trapp Family lived in the movie which is now a luxury hotel
• Hellbrunn Palace (singing scenes in the movie)
• Gazebo (now placed in Hellbrunn), where the Baron von Trapp kissed Maria for the first time
• Church Mondsee , where Maria and the Baron get married

The Sound of Music in Salzburg

The enormous success of  The Sound of Music  Broadway Musical by  Rodgers & Hammerstein  premiering in 1959 made film director Robert Wise and 250 crew members turn  Salzburg  and its surroundings into the  Sound of Music filming location  in 1964. And it was  Salzburg Panorama Tours  who took the  Sound of Music  film crew to the  various locations  where the  famous movie  was filmed.

Shortly after its release, the film became a tremendous success, receiving five Academy Awards, becoming the highest grossing movie ever and reaching cult status over the years. Both musical and film are based on the "The Story of the Trapp Family Singers" written by  Maria von Trapp  in 1949.

Get to know Salzburg

Follow the traces of the  Trapp family  and take a tour through Salzburg and its surroundings. See the  original film settings  and just imagine being  Julie Andrews , the main character in the film, playing  Maria von Trapp . Learn about the historical and architectural landmarks of Salzburg as well as the Lake District while enjoying the highlights of the movie. Relax and listen to the  Original Sound of Music  soundtrack and of course feel free to sing-along  Edelweiss  and many more... Our live guide will tell you everything you need to know about The Sound of Music, the Trapp Familiy, the film locations and about the shooting.

• Please make your own way to meeting point, 15 min. prior departure
• free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to tour departure
• We are not able to offer a pick-up service from the hotel
• Infants up to 4 years are not entitled to their own seat
• Pets are not allowed in the tour

FAQs Original Sound of Music Tour®

Where does sound of music take place.

The true story, that The Sound of Music is based, on took place in the Austrian city of Salzburg. Large parts of the movie were filmed in and around Salzburg, some scenes even in the original locations. Featured in the  Original Sound of Music Tour® are among many others Leopoldskron Palace and the gazebo at Hellbrunn Palace . 

When did the true story of Sound of Music take place?

Maria was asked to teach Georg von Trapp's children in 1926 and their wedding took place in 1927. In 1938, the Trapp family moved to the US to escape the Nazi regime in Germany and Austria. Their move was however far less dramatic than it is portrayed in the film. The 1965 film is an adaptation of the 1959 stage musical and based on Maria von Trapps 1949 memoir "The Story of the Trapp Family Singers".

Where is the Sound of Music house?

There are three locations associated closely with the Trapp family in Salzburg. The original Trapp family home Villa Trapp is located in Aigen to the southeast of Salzburg and not seen in the movie. Two other estates were used to portray the Trapps' home in the movie: Leopoldskron Palace and Frohnburg Palace .

Where is the Sound of Music gazebo?

The gazebo featured in the "Sixteen Going on Seventeen" scene was located in the gardens of Leopoldskron Palace during filming. It was later moved to the gardens at Hellbrunn Palace to make it accessible to interested visitor. The Original Sound of Music Tour® stops at the gazebo to give you the opportunity for unforgettable moments and souvenir photos.

Which church was used in Sound of Music?

While many other scenes were filmed in the city of Salzburg, the romantic wedding scene in the movie The Sound of Music was shot at the church in Mondsee. A stop at this church is part of the Original Sound of Music Tour® by Salzburg Panorama Tours  and gives you the opportunity to explore this beautiful filming location.

When is the Original Sound of Music Tour® operated?

This tour is operated daily with two start times at 9.15 am and 2.00 pm.

Please notice:

We are not able to offer a pick-up service from the hotel. Please make your own way to meeting point, 15 min. prior departure.

Only Salzburg Panorama Tours is responsible to schedule the tour vehicles.

Infants up to 4 years are not entitled to their own seat.

Pets are not allowed in the tour.

Stefan Herzl

Hello, my name is Stefan Herzl and I’m really looking forward to show you my beautiful hometown Salzburg. I am a native Salzburg offering since 1976 various sightseeing tours in Salzburg & surroundings.

This tour is included in other products - get more for your money!

Sound of Music - Private Half-Day Tour & Cooking Class

Sound of Music & Hallstatt - Private Full-Day Tour

Sound of Music Tour with Schnitzel & Noodles

Sound of Music Special

Sound of Music at Schloss Leopoldskron

The Hills are Alive in Salzburg

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Get the best deal for your stay in Salzburg with this Sound of Music package! Discover the city of Salzburg and its surroudings on the Sound of Music Tour and find out more about the movie, its filming locations and the Trapp family's true story.

Mozart Dinner Concert

Attend this performens and be taken back to Mozart’s time! Enjoy an evening likely to have taken place in 1790 - in the baroquehall - lit by candles, having a dinner based on historical recipes, listening to a concert with musicians in authentic costumes and the music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. 

The Sound of Music | Salzburg Marionette Theatre

"A delightful surprise from start to finish" (NY Times)

Sound of Music Tour with Schloss Leopoldskron & Trail - Private Full-Day Tour

Enjoy a perfect full-day Sound of Music experience including Leopoldskron Palace & Hiking Trail

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The 10 Best Group Travel Tour Companies for 2024

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Executive Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Caroline has a passion for adventure travel and has hiked to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro and the bottom of the Grand Canyon in pursuit of a good story. Follow her around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

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For those truly epic, once-in-a-lifetime destinations, you want to leave your itinerary to the experts. Whether your dream is to see the Big Five on an African Safari, trek tall mountains, explore European cities, or something even wilder, a group tour is the easiest way to do it.

However, picking the wrong group tour company is the quickest way to ruin your trip. Make sure you choose a tour company that aligns with your goals and travel styles. Do you want an intimate group tour or do you prefer to make lots of new friends in a big group? Does the price line up with what you like (luxury vs. budget)? Is the itinerary going to all the places you want to see? 

We’ve done the research and found the very best group travel tour companies for 2024 for every type of traveler.

Best Overall Group Travel: Exodus Adventure Travels

With trips on every continent, Exodus Adventure Travels covers anywhere on this planet that you could possibly want to go, from popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast to well off-the-beaten-path adventures like Tajikistan. This award-winning group travel company boasts thousands of repeat customers who sign up for trips year after year (97% of past participants would recommend Exodus Adventure Travels to a friend). 

These small group tours operate with only around 8-16 people and always feature experienced local leaders who can give you a unique insight into your destination. Exodus Adventure Travels caters to any type of travel style, including trips broken down by type of activity (think walking, cycling, multi-adventure, winter, or cultural) as well as type of traveler (family, age group, etc.). There are curated collections (coastal, “away from it all”, European wilderness, and trips of a lifetime) to inspire you, as well as self-guided options for when you want all the benefits of a group tour planner without the actual group. Looking for that special safari? Exodus Aventure Travels just partners with the African Wildlife Foundation to create carefully curated luxury adventures that go above and beyond the standard safari. 

Exodus Adventure Travels tours work for almost any budget, with options that range from affordable to premium. 

Top Trip: Explore under-the-radar Europe by foot on Exodus Adventure Travels’ Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia walking tour .

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Best Adventure Group Travel: World Expeditions

World Expeditions has been taking adventurous travelers to remote locations all over the world ever since its first group trek through Nepal in 1975. Today, World Expeditions offers active itineraries on every continent. Intrepid travelers can opt for trips themed around mountaineering, rafting, cycling, hiking, and more. 

World Expeditions aims to leave communities and places where they operate tours better than they found them. Trips are created using the company’s Thoughtful Travel Charter as a guideline, which emphasizes respect for the environment, sustainability, having a positive impact on local communities, protecting wildlife, and more. 

World Expeditions’ trips are capped at just 16 people to provide a good experience for participants, and there are no single supplements for solo travelers willing to share a room with someone of the same gender. 

Top Trip: Summit Africa’s tallest mountain on a fully-supported trek up Kilimanjaro on World Expeditions’ eight day trip up the beautiful Lemosho Route . 

Best Budget Group Travel: G Adventures 

For travelers on a budget, G Adventures offers cheap group tours that make dream destinations accessible to nearly anyone. (Think: sailing the Galapagos for just $1,014 , criss-crossing India’s Golden Triangle for $799 , or spending 8 days in Bali for less than $749.)

G Adventures is one of the best tour companies for solo travelers as well, as most trips don’t have a single-supplement. You can choose to share a room with another G Adventures solo traveler, or pay extra to have your own space.

G Adventures keeps costs down by opting for cheaper hotels and local meals, and making certain activities optional (for an additional cost). Pick your travel style—options range from “basic” to more luxe tours run in partnership with National Geographic. Family tours, local living tours (featuring homestays), and wellness-focused tours are also available. 

Top Trip: G Adventures’ China Express trip is a great way to see the highlights of China if you’re short on both time and budget. 

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Best Educational Group Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours

When you really want to learn about a destination, consider a group trip with EF Go Ahead Tours . EF is the world’s largest private education company, and the Go Ahead Tours arm capitalizes on the company’s relationships with local educators, historians, and tour guides to create group trips that take you deep into a destination. 

These small group tours generally cap at 38 travelers, and feature unique educational experiences. For a bucket list trip, EF Go Ahead Tour’s special event tours are particularly enticing, as they offer behind-the-scenes access to tough-to-plan trips like Oktoberfest in Munich or Cherry Blossom season in Japan. 

Intimidated by solo travel? EF Go Ahead Tours is a great option for solo travelers, since it offers designated trips for solo travelers , where everyone is traveling alone, making it less intimidating.  

Top Trip: Bring the tastes of Italy home with you on EF Go Ahead Tours’ Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany tour (operated in partnership with America’s Test Kitchen), where you’ll learn how to make local dishes. 

Best Responsible Group Travel: Intrepid Travel

Looking for a responsible group travel operator that focuses on bettering the communities and destinations they visit? Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest travel B Corporation, a certification for companies doing good. 

Intrepid Travel’s tours focus on sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and sustaining communities. The company has its own charity, The Intrepid Foundation , which has donated over 10 million dollars to over 160 community organizations. 

Intrepid Travel’s small group tours attract a wide range of travelers, but they are especially great for younger travelers, as they have a large number of trips designed for people aged 18-35 . (Other trips, including family-focused trips, are geared toward any age.)

Top Trip: Experience foodie trip of a lifetime Intrepid Travel’s South Korea Real Food Adventure , which includes time in three cities and an overnight temple stay.

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Best Private Group Travel: Kensington Tours

Whether your group consists of just two people or involves taking the entire extended family, Kensington Tours will take all the hassle of planning out of the equation. This private group operator creates personalized trips and itineraries tailored to your preferences, while their experts handle all the logistics and bookings. 

Plans are entirely flexible, and can even be changed while on the trip on a whim. Need some inspiration? Browse Kensington Tours’ travel ideas , to get some ideas for your next adventure. 

Top Trip: Sail around the stunning shores of Croatia and the Dalmation Islands on a private luxury catamaran on Kensington Tours’ fully customizable tour . 

Best Polar Group Travel: Chimu Adventures

Whether you’re headed north to the Artic or south to Antarctica, Chimu Adventures has the perfect polar group trip for you. Chimu Adventures has some of the most variety for polar trips, with options to fly, cruise, or a combination of both to get to your destination. For an ultra-unique Antarctica trip, Chimu Adventures offers cruises departing from Australia or New Zealand (most Antarctica trips depart from Argentina).

Chimu Adventures is one of the cheapest group trips to Antarctica, with rates starting under $6,000.

Top Trip: If you’re pressed for time (or simply don’t have the stomach for the Drake Passage), Chimu Adventures’ Antarctica Fly Cruise will get you to the ends of the earth quickly and smoothly.

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Best Group Tours for Solo Travelers: For the Love of Travel

Group tours can be a great way to meet new people, but they can sometimes skew on the older age range. If you’re between 25-39 and a solo traveler looking to meet new people, you’ll love For the Love of Travel . All participants on the trips are between 25-39, and according to the company, 80 percent are solo travelers—so you’ll make friends fast. Hoping to meet someone who will be more than just a friend on your next trip? Trips include a balanced number of “gal and guy spots” to ensure an even balance of genders within groups (and of course, non-binary genders are always welcome). 

For the Love of Travel offers weeklong (or longer) international trips as well as shorter weekender trips to closer destinations like Mexico or Costa Rica—perfect for people without a lot of vacation time.

Top Trip: Sleep in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights, go sledding with huskies, and warm up in traditional saunas on For the Love of Travel’s Lapland tour , already booking dates for 2024.

Best Biking Tours Group Travel: DuVine Cycling

Biking through the rolling hills of Italy or across the mountain roads of Chile sounds like a dream, but the logistics seem daunting (especially if you don’t want to haul all your own stuff from point-to-point). Enter: DuVine Cycling , a luxury small group tour company that specializes in bike trips. 

With trips across Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the United States, DuVine Cycling is a cyclist’s dream. Choose from all-biking trips or mix things up with a cycle and sail bike tour or a multi-sport adventure —no matter what, everything is included, from luxury boutique accommodations to top-quality name brand bikes. 

Top Trip: DuVine’s Holland Bike Tour promises “tulips, windmills, beer, and cheese”—what more could you need?

Best Luxury Group Travel: Abercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent has been delighting discerning travelers since 1962. Today, they take travelers on unforgettable adventures across over 100 different countries and all seven continents. Although Abercrombie & Kent’s trips are pricey, they encompass once-in-a-lifetime experiences like private jet tours around the world or luxury chartered cruises .

There are trips designed for solo travelers and families , and the small group journeys max out at around 14-18 guests.

Top Trip: Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines, feed proboscis monkeys in Malaysia, and photograph wild tigers in India on Abercrombie & Kent’s Wildlife & Nature: Around the World by Private Jet trip , already booking dates into 2024.

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Britain and Ireland Panorama

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19 Day UK and Ireland Tour of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales

19 days, 4 countries and 28 cities

Accommodation

18 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 5 Dinners

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Dive right into history, culture and spectacular scenery on this immersive England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland trip. Step in the shoes of Highland warriors, 12th-century monks and welcoming, Irish locals.

Looking to book in a group of 9 or more?

Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

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Day by day itinerary

19 days itinerary trip from London to London visiting 4 countries and 28 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore London, Edinburgh, the Isle of Skye, Dublin and Cobh

Discover York, Glasgow, Chester, Galway, Cork, Cardiff, Bath and Plymouth

Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, Edinburgh Castle, Isle of Skye, the Necropolis in Glasgow, the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Blarney Castle, the Waterford Crystal Showroom, the Roman Baths in Bath, Glastonbury Abbey, the fishing village of Polperro and Stonehenge

View Eilean Donan Castle, Anne Hathaway's thatched cottage in Stratford-upon-Avon, York Minster in York and the Mayflower Steps in Plymouth

See Galway Cathedral and the Principality Stadium in Cardiff

Scenic Drive around the Ring of Kerry

Tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

All transport and transfers shown

The services of a Trafalgar Local Host when you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Pick-up and drop-off when you stay at the Trafalgar recommended London hotel, booked through Trafalgar

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Return ferry across the Irish Sea between Wales and Ireland

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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