13 Day Trip to China
Just returned from a wonderful 13-day visit to China. We worked with Carol of China Highlights to design, create and manage this trip. She, and the whole China Highlights team, did an extraordinary job. During the trip I posted reviews identifying five specific locations, guides, drivers, accommodations and activities. The trip execution in each location was fantastic. Now I’d like to focus on trip preparation, communication, booking and overall management. This trip was envisioned just 60 days before departure date. An initial inquiry to China Highlights identified arrival location in China, major site and attraction preferences, request for private guides and transportation within China, description of the three travelers and departure location. In 24 hours, Carol had provided a detailed plan and very competitive quote for the entire trip. Through email over the next 7 days, we were able to modify some accommodations, locations and meals. We then committed to the trip and sent a deposit. From that point, China Highlights provided regular communication identifying many of the issues we needed to address (visas, tec.) and helpful hints on making our trip easier once we hit the ground. Strongly suggest you read these communications and consider the recommended actions. From the moment we stepped off the plane in China, their people were there to ensure our trip was outstanding. Our internal China trip included flights, bullet trains and cars. Since we did not speak Chinese, we were concerned about navigating plane and train terminals. They took care of everything including scheduling, booking, pickups and drop-offs. Everything worked like clockwork. Accommodations were extraordinary. We did choose to use top hotels and suites with a separate sleeping area for the third traveler. Every location provided very comfortable and spacious rooms. I believe they really wanted to build their relationship with China Highlights and their customers. Our agenda was quite full. But along the way there were opportunities for rest or other activities. When timing allowed, the guide suggested some additional activities that really hit the mark for great entertainment and local flavor. Strongly recommend considering these additions. Guide will help you book and driver will make sure you return safely to your hotel after. China Highlights is an extraordinary travel company. As we experienced in China, we believe they are also highly valued by their local partners (hotels, drivers, guides, attractions). We could not have envisioned a better travel experience.