BUSINESS ORIENTATION TOUR OF MAINLAND CHINA

21ST CENTURY CHINA TOUR 2014
" A unique blend of BUSINESS and CULTURAL experiences"

OVERVIEW:

Twenty-first century China is composed of 22 different provinces, four prefecture cities-Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, Chonqing; two special administrative regions-Hong Kong and Macau; and five autonomous regions-Guangxi, Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, Ningxia, and the Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR). In 1987 , Deng Xiaoping relaxed the rules of business ownership from non performing government assets to encourage competition and innovation and unintentionally created entrepreneurial oil.

The new class of business ownership, the town and village enterprise (TVE) has created China's market economy. The TVE share of China’s industrial output rose from 9% in 1978 to 30% in 1991. By the mid-1990’s the majority of TVE’s are privatized and sold to individual owners.

Today, the private sector produces over 40% of China’s GDP and is rising. Imagine the unexpected events one encounters on your introductory day to day business visitation to China.

OUR MISSION

To provide an introductory cultural and business orientation for people wishing to visit China that combines business and recreation in a Chinese cultural context.

o Cultural tour of seven provinces in the four quadrants of China

o Customized business tours for small groups while on tour to observe Chinese business practices/ operations

o To understand and manage cultural differences in a new world of business

§ Background briefing

§ Historical perspective

§ Negotiating in China

§ Business courtesies

§ Business etiquette

§ Guidelines for doing business

§ Cross-cultural barriers

VALUE – ADDED ( optional ) SMALL GROUP BUSINESS TOURS MAY INCLUDE UPON REQUEST:

· Attendance at a trade show ( if available)

· Real Estate company

· Wholesale and Retail Trade Industries

· Financial investment/ Banking/ Insurance

· Public Health, Sports & Social Welfare Industries

· Educational/Film/ Culture/Arts/Film/Telivision

· Farming

· Oil and Gas investment

· Medical/ Dental

Current Cities on Tour:

· Chengdu---is in the province in Sichuan. Chengdu is the financial and information technology hub of southwestern China home to more than 5,000 foreign-funded enterprises because of tax breaks and other perks offered to companies investing there. Over 30 large multi-national corporations including Motorola, Pepsico, Coca-Cola, and McDonnell Douglas of the U.S.A., Bayer and Siemens of Germany, and Toyota and Mitsubishi of Japan have started operations in Sichuan. Key industries are IT, machinery, metallurgy, pharamaceuticals, chemicals, food and beverage and building materials.

· Shanghai---is a city of 7.5 million and the nation’s financial centre. In2004 , there were 113 foreign financial institutions operating in Shanghai. Foreign investments in Shanghai are engaged in industry with 62.4 % going into manufacturing. Key industries: automobiles, petrochemicals, specialty chemicals, steel and iron, biotech, electronics, textiles, and IT. Consumer goods manufactured include: specialized dies, lathes, electronic assembly equipment, watches, cameras, radios, fountain pens, glassware, leather goods, stationary products, and hardware.

· Xiamen---is located in Fujian Province across the strait from Taiwan. Xiamen is the regional transportation hub, distributing everything from minerals and textiles to wood pulp, paper, electrical and mechanical products, chemicals and base metals. Approximately six thousand foreign invested enterprises have established a presence in Xiamen. Key industries include: electronics, machinery, pharmaceuticals, textiles, foodstuffs and building materials.

A tentative 20 to 21 day tour of China is being planned. ( Begins First week in September )

Click on the following link FOUND IN ( BLURB.COM) 2012 Six Province Tour of China to view pictures of the 18 day tour. This is a book I published that shows the sites we visited on the last tour. The 21 day tour will include the core of this book. If there is an 18 day tour we will substitute the Leshan Buddha instead of the irrigation system.

Tentative Itinerary:

1. Beijing---Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Great Wall

2. Fly to Xian---Terra Cotta Warriors, Old Chinatown, Walled City

3. Sichuan---Chengdu, World Heritage Panda Reserve, Leshan Giant Buddha

4. Guilin--Reed flute caves , Li River Boat Cruise

5. Naning

6. Xiamen--Guylangyu island, Hakka Earthen Houses

7. Suzhou

8. Shanghai---French Concession, The Bund, The Pudong

Detailed Itinerary

Day01 Depart Canada for Beijing- crossing International Date Line

Day02 Arrive Beijing

Arrive historical Beijing，Capital of the People’ Republic of China, a modern metropolis with a population of 21 million! On arrival at the airport, you’ll be met by our professional guide at the international arrivals’ exit, and transfer to our hotel check-in at the 5* Century Grand Hotel, or similar hotel for a short rest. Later, dinner at local restaurant. (D, dinner)

Day03 Beijing

Full day Beijing tour: Today’s first stop the Temple of Heaven, the sacred place where ancient emperors fulfilled the Mandate of Heaven.by praying for a good harvest. Later we’ll tour Beijing’s old residential area the Hutongs by enjoying a nice rickshaw ride tour into the alleys; lunch with a local family; some market shopping, visit a fresh water pearl workshop and an eyeglass store ; return to hotel. If you wish, we can have a tailor come to the hotel to make made to measure apparel. (BLD: Buffet Breakfast at hotel, Lunch, Dinner included at local restaurant, same for below).

Day04 Beijing

Full day trip to Great Wall, an iconic symbol of ancient Chinese civilization; climb the wall as much as you can and enjoy the breath-taking view; lunch at a Cloisonne Factory ; later pay a visit to the National Bird's Nest Stadium , the main statium of the magnificent 2008 Beijing Olympics; afterwards visit a Traditional Chinese Medicine Center, to understand the concepts of TCM and enjoy a free traditional foot massage . (BLD)

Day05 Beijing, Fly Beijing/Xian in the afternoon

Free time at hotel this morning and afternoon check out from hotel; visit Tiananmen Square, walk on the largest city square in the world and walk to the outer court of the Forbidden City to take some photographs; after lunch, we’ll experience a local free market for some fun bargain shopping; afterwards transfer to airport and fly to Xian; met upon arrival in Xian and transfered to hotel, 5* Xian Sheraton Hotel or similar, check in & rest (BLD)

Day06 Xian

Full day Xian, tour the Ancient City Wall, the best preserved city wall from all the dynasties; walk along on the Wall; later visit a Jade Carving Workshop, chance to learn about Chinese jade culture and view the show room; finished jade items available for sale if interested. Afterwards, proceed to Terra Cotta Soldiers & Horses Museum, one of the most exciting archeologial finds of the 20^th century and known as the “8^th wonder” of the world: See the various burial pits of the terra cotta figures and the bronze chariot of the powerful Qin Emperor, dating back to more than 2200 years . Return to your hotel. (BLD)

Day07 Xian, Fly Xian/Chengdu

More touring of Xian. Make a stop at the Tang Dynasty Art Gallery, to experience Chinese painting and calligraphy. In the afternoon take a flight into Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province & hometown of the giant pandas & spicy Sichuan Cuisine; Arrive in Chengdu, check in 5* Chengdu Dorsett Grand Hotel or similar, & rest.

Day08 Chengdu-Leshan Giant Buddha-Chengdu

Day trip to Leshan (by about 3 hours coach ride one way), enjoy the rural landscape on the way. Arrive Leshan for lunch and then tour the Leshan Giant Buddha & Temple, the largest Buddha statue in the world carved from a huge rock cliff face on site during the Tang Dynasty more than 1200 years ago. Drive back to Chengdu. (BLD)

Day09 Chengdu

Tour of Chengdu, this morning and a visit to the Giant Panda Breeding & Research Institute, an organization specially engaged in the research of captive breeding and conservation of the giant pandas. You’ll see the more giant pandas than anywhere else in the world. Balance of the day is free time on your own. (BLD)

Day10 Chengdu/Guilin

Transfer to airport and fly to Guilin - a beautiful south China city that boasts the best scenery and landscape in

China

. On arrival, meet our guide and transfer to the town for lunch and in the afternoon tour the Reed Flute Cave, a spectacular Karst cave; check into 5* Guilin Sheraton Hotel. (BLD)

Day11 Guilin

After breakfast at hotel, transfer to the pier for our 0930AM departure cruise along the picturesque Lijiang River; enjoy this 4-hour river cruise journey, the unrivalled scenery of mountains, vegetation, inhabitants, flora and fauna ; lunch served on boat. Disembark at Yangshuo town in early afternoon, and some free time in the local market; drive back to Guilin, on the way make a stop for photo opportunity in the rice paddies. (BLD)

Day12 Guilin/Nanning (5 hours drive)

After breakfast , we check out of hotel; we drive southwards to Nanning, Capital city of the province known as Guangxi Zhuang (“Zhuang” is the largest ethnic group in China) Autonomous Region and where China borders

Vietnam

. Arrive Nanning and check in to 5* Nanning Hotel or similar. Nanning tour, visit Guang Xi Botanic Garden. Dinner at local restaurant. (BLD)

Day13 Nanning-Detian Waterfall on Vietnam Border (3 hours drive)

Drive toNanning-Detian Waterfall and enjoy the beautiful tropical country view . Detian is a small quiet town located on the Sino-Vietnam Border but with the better road system it now attracts thousands of tourists from all over to view the breath-taking view of Detian Waterfall. Enjoy the fantastic scenery and later walk to the border, to linger around a small border market . After that, we drive to Mingshi village, overnight at local best, 4* Mingshi Shan Zhuang Hotel. (BLD)

Day14 Mingshi-Nanning

Breakfast at hotel, enjoy a peaceful morning in this beautiful country village and tour around the fields, taking a bamboo raft on the small river and enjoy the tranquil ambiance & unrivalled scenery . Afterwards, we'll drive back to Nanning. In the afternoon visit the beautiful Guangxi Regional Museum, to learn about the history of local Zhuang nationality’s culture and customs.. Check in back at Nanning Hotel. (BLD)

Day15: Nanning/Xiamen

Fly to to Xiamen. Arrive Xiamen, a city on China’s south-east coast, that faces Taiwan across the Taiwan Strait and known as “Garden City on the Sea”, from where many overseas Chinese emigrated... meet our guide and tour of Xiamen city, take the ferry to Guylangyu and walk around the vehicle free Gulang Islet: upon your return drive along the beautiful seaside avenue and then. Check in 5* Xiamen Marco Polo Hotel or similar. (BLD)

Day16 Xiamen-Hakka’s Earth Buildings-Xiamen

Full day trip by coach to Huan An County to view the unique earth buildings of the Hakka’s people, a magnificent architectural work of village houses known for its unique style, earth structure and grand scale. Historically, the earth building was a well-protected fortress designed by the Hakkas to defend themselves from enemies. These houses from the history are still inhabited by the local people today Although built over 1000 years ago , they don't look a day older than 900.. We’ll visit some of these houses today and also the walk around the village to enjoy the beautiful country view. Drive back to Xiamen in the afternoon. (BLD)

Day17 Xiamen-Zhangpu, tea culture tour

Today we’ll drive to Zhangpu County, a beautiful county region famous for Chinese Woolong tea and, we’ll visit the Zhangpu Tianfu Tea Academy, walk through a tea plantation, learn how tea is made, and partake in the tasting of different teas and snacks made from tea, etc. Return to Xiamen in the afternoon. (BLD)

Day18 Fly Xiamen/Shanghai

Transfer to airport and today we fly to Shanghai, financial, economic center of the country and symbolic city of modern

China

, with a population of 23 million! Arrive Shanghai for lunch, followed by a brief city tour, with a stop at the waterfont, the Bund, to view the beautiful architure -Chinese or western style, modern or traditional, appear on both side of the Huangpu River; one can hardly believe that you are in Shanghai! Check in 5* Jinjiang Tower Hotel or similar to rest; (BLD)

Day19 Shanghai

More tours and shopping in Shanghai: a tour to the Lujiazhui Financial District with a stop at the magnificent Oriental Pearl TV Tower for a wonderful panoramic view of Shanghai; and then we go to the Old Town Market to mingle with local people and spend time bargain shopping. Visit Shanghai Museum in the afternoon. Enjoy the wonderful Shanghai Acrobatics in the evening. (BLD)

Day20 Shanghai/Suzhou

Trip to Suzhou, known as the“Oriental Venice” & “city of Gardens and Silk” (about 2 hour drive). Full day sightseeing in Suzhou,visit Humble Administrator’s Garden, Suzhou Museum; and Suzhou No.1 Silk Mill, to view silk production from raw silk to finished product; check in 5* Suzhou Garden Hotel or similar, overnight in Suzhou. (BLD)

Day21: Suzhou/Shanghai

Tour Suzhou this morning. Drive back to Shanghai in the afternoon, check in 5* Jinjiang Tower Hotel. Enjoy a Farewell Dinner this evening. (BLD)

Day22 Depart Shanghai

Time free to relax or finish your last shoppings in Shanghai before drive to airport for flight back home. (B)

End of Trip!

All inclusive tour includes:

•Return air fare

•All meals --buffet breakfasts (Western cuisine included), lunch, dinner

•Air conditioned buses

•Certified English speaking tour guides in each province

•Tour leader

•5 Star American Hotels

•All entrance fees

•Shopping at Friendship stores

•Four Internal air flights

•Overnight train ride Beijing to Xian

•Shuttle service between airports, train stations and hotels

5 Star Hotels on tour include:

1) Beijing 5* New Century Grand Hotel

2) Xian 5* Shangri-la Golden Flower Hotel

3) Chengdu 5* Minshan Hotel

4) Guilin 5* Sheraton Hotel

5) Nanning 5* NanNing Hotel

6) Xiamen 5* Pan Pacific Hotel

7) Shanghai 5* Jinjiang Tower Hotel. Or similar 5* hotel

Terms and Conditions:

Deposits made by cheque to RCL Communications

•$500 non-refundable deposit to place booking

$200 tips and gratuities collected in advance

•Balance 60 days prior to departure

•Travel and medical insurance is not included

•Cost based on double occupancy

•Tentative cost: airfare and land package $5,500 (21 day tour ) (not finalized)

•Tips not included: Approximately $200 per person covers tips for coach drivers, tour guides and tour leader. ( $10 CAD per day)

•Vaccinations not-included: Hepatitis A & B

•Visas not included

•Extra cost for single room $850 for 18 day, $1030 for 21 day

Note: NOT INCLUDED: BUSINESS TOUR COSTS PER PERSON $250 includes:

· Travel to and from business in shuttle bus or available transportation

· Tour of business facility/ business presentation

· English translator and guide ( one should tip the guide/translator and driver)

· Business introductions

· Lunch

Business Tours Confirmed: There are five one day business tours that occur on tour in Xian, Chengdu, Xiamen, and Shanghai

1). Day07 Xian: visit to a local private cow farm

0800AM depart from hotel and take coach to the county to visit Li Family Cow Farm

0900AM arrive and visit the farm, meet with the farmer

1000AM a visit to the village

1100AM Lunch at a farmer's home

1200N Transfer to airport, meet with main group and fly to Chengdu

2). Day09 Chengdu: Visit PIXIAN Sichuan Cuisine Institute: (website http://www.cdccbwg.com/)

0800AM Depart from hotel to the Pixian Sichuan Cuisine Institute

0900AM Arrive and have a brief tour of the Institute, visit show room that explains Sichuan culinary culture, spicy sauces workshop

1000AM-1200N Meet with cooks, make your own Sichuan dish with the instruction of the cooks

1200N Sichuan Style Lunch

1300PM Coach back to Chengdu

1400PM Meet back with main group

3). Day15 Xiamen(in the afternoon): Visit Jianfa Real Estate (http://www.chinacnd.com/estates_en)

1400PM Depart from hotel and take coach to Jianfa Real Estate Company

1430PM Arrive and meet with Jianfa's senior manager, briefing about overall real estate business of whole China as well as

that of Xiamen - considered one of the most desirable cities in China to live

1600PM Take coach to see a actual real project under development or something similar.

1730PM Transfer back to hotel or to meet with main group

4). Day19 Shanghai morning: Lenovo (PC) Shanghai Plants (http://www.lenovo.com.cn);

0800AM Depart from hotel to Lenovo Shanghai Plant at Waigaoqiao town

0900AM Arrival and meeting with plant managers, briefing about Lenovo corporation and the production plant

1000AM-1130AM Visit the production sites of both laptops and desktops

1145AM Take coach back to the town for lunch

5). Day19 afternoon: Heshan Textiles Group (http://www.heshangroup.com/ )

1300PM Drive to Heshan Textile Group

1400PM Arrive at Heshan Textile, brief introduction of the company and a Q&A session

1500PM Visit to the different clothing workshops to see the process of the production

1630PM Drive back to Shanghai.

1740PM Return to hotel to meet with main group

Optional Hiking Tour of Great Wall and Yellow Mountain

CUSTOMIZED HIKING TOUR OF GREAT WALL AND YELLOW MOUNTAIN

With regards to the Great Wall Hiking tour, I would suggest that we also do a smaller group of around 8 people ( similar to the Business Tours) Below is the suggested itinerary & quotation for your reference. As we mentioned, we can organize this as a side trip for the hikers from our main group, so the hiking group can go to the Great Wall on Day02 from Beijing while the main group tours the sites of Beijing.

Day02 Beijing-Badaling-Shixiaguan

After breakfast at hotel, we drive to Badaling Great Wall, which is the best known and most popular section of the Great Wall. After arrival, we'll hike Badaling Wall first for about 1.5 hours. Afterwards, we continue hiking for about 3 hours until we arrive at Shixiaguan (Stone Gorge) Pass, 5km southwest of the Badaling section of the Great Wall. This is one of the most intact and most well preserved parts of the Great Wall. Box lunch on tour.

Later in the afternoon, we drive to Jinshanling, another site of the Wall & overnight at local hostel or farmer's home. Dinner at local restaurant.

Day03: Beijing-Gubeikou-Jinshanling

After breakfast, we will be driven to the Gubeikou Great Wall, an important strategic position in the northern defence of China. There are 14 beacon towers, 143 watchtowers, 16 strategic passes, three citadels and many other military constructions. We'll hike un till we reach the landmark of the General Tower. Picnic/box lunch on tour.

In the afternoon we will cross over into Jinshanling, one of the best preserved sections of the Great Wall. Jinshanling Great Wall was first built from 1368 to 1389 durimg the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), From 1567 to 1570 the construction of the Wall was mainly organized by the famous General Qi Jiguang (1528-1588). After about 2 hours hiking on Jinshanling, we'll return to the hostel or farmer's house to stay overnight. Dinner at local restaurant.

Day04: Jianshanling-West Wing of Simatai), Drive back to Beijing

After breakfast, we'll continue hiking on the Jinshanling Wall and proceed towards West Simatai Great Wall. The Simatai Section of the Great Wall is one of the few sections that retain the original appearance of the Great Wall. After 2 hours hiking in West Simatai, we will leave the wall and drive back Beijing. Lunch on the way.

Check in at our hotel in Beijing; Meet our main group for dinner.

Price (EXTRA compared to main group): CA$-260 per person (extra) based on group of 6-8 people is based on twin sharing at the hotel or farmer's house in the Wall area. English speaking guide; all entrance fees included. Tipping to guide is not included. The actual itinerary might need to be adjusted again, according to the weather, & other conditions if any

For Huangshan part, I'm still waiting for our Huangshan agent to reply. Basically, we can also do a 3-4 days side trip to Huangshan for hiking while our main group is in Shanghai/Suzhou for other tours. So it's good time-wise to do the Huangshan side trip.

If you have any other query, please feel free to let me know.

Below is our suggested hiking program for Huangshan and a tentative quote. Our suggestions for Great Wall hiking, we assume is the same hiking group that will do the Huangshan hiking tour while the main group tours the Shanghai area.

Day17: Fly to Huangshan; On arrival, met by our guide in Huangshan and transfer to Tunxi

Town (located at the base Huangshan Mountain); Check into hotel. Dinner at local restaurant.

Huangshan Mountain is known as "the most scenic mountain" in China; a member of World Geologic Park, World Natural Heritages & World Cultural Heritages. Hiking around Huangshan Mountain & enjoying the unrivalled scenery is a hiking traveller’s dream.

Day18: Breakfast at hotel; drive to the cable station to ride part way up to Huangshan Mountain; after half an hour ride, we will be halfway up the mountain and from here, we start to hike to our hotel (4* Beihai Hotel or similar) to drop off our luggage; there will be a full day sightseeing and hike in Huangshan; to different sites to appreciate the unrivalled Huangshan scenery; hike to "Start-to-believe" Peak, "Bright Summit","Flying-over Rock", etc. Overnight on the mountain.

Day19: Early morning wake-up hike to view an fantastic sunrise on Huangshan mountain, then return to hotel for breakfast. Afterwards, we hike (descent) to the most scenic but very steep Xihai Grand Canyon, enjoying the marvellous scenery on the way. After reaching the bottom of the West Sea Canyon, we'll climb the mountain again from the other side, and then return to our hotel.

Lunch on tour. (About 6 hours hiking for the whole trip).

Day20: Breakfast at hotel; descent from Huangshan enjoy some time touring Tunxi town, walking along

the "Old Street" and then fly back to Shanghai to meet main group. (BL)

Price (EXTRA compared to main group):

CA$-430 per person (extra) based on group of 6-8 peole on this group, twin sharing at

the hotel. English speaking guide; all entrance fees included. Tipping for guide is not included.

FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING TOURS:
CONTACT:
RONALD LEE Email: leeronald82@gmail.com
Joe Forzani Email: joeforzani @shaw.ca

TRAVEL TIPS FOR TRAVELING IN CHINA

Know Before You Go

Good preparation can make a China Tour more enjoyable and care free. The following information will help clarify what to expect on your China travel vacation.

Do before you go

Flights to China

Air China mileage

Passport & China Visa

Arrival Procedures

Baggage

Inoculation

Medication

Internet

China Tour Guides

China Tour Group Size

Money Matters

Time Difference

Electricity

Water

Meals

Climate

Dress & Laundry

Mail

Media

Cell phone

Telephone

Camera, Memory Card

Toiletry

Shopping

Packing for a China Tour

Gratuities

Travel Insurance

Jet Lag Precaution

Air China & Air Canada

Canada Duty-free

Do before you go

Make sure that you have 1) your valid passport ready, and 2) obtain the right China visa. 3) Check your name spellings on your airline tickets to make sure it matches EXACTLY on your passport. 4) Check the weather in the places you are going to visit in China and pack your baggage light and smart. 5) Call the airline related to get your seat pre-assigned and your special dietary request placed as soon as you receive your airline tickets.

Make two copies of your passport identification page. This will facilitate replacement if your passport is lost or stolen. Leave one copy at home with friends or relatives. Carry the other one along with a passport size photo with you in a separate place from your passport. Leave a copy of your China Tour itinerary and contact information with family or friends at home so that you can be contacted in case of an emergency.

Flights to China

Contact the airline concerned to confirm the flight number and any possible schedule changes prior to leaving for the airport. Connecting passengers should verify, at the time of check-in, that luggage can be checked through to your China destination. For transpacific flights, you must check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time. Please check the detailed Air China Flight Schedule for your China Tours.

If you choose to arrange your own add-on flights to the designated gateway city, you must take the following facts into consideration before booking any flights. RCL Communications is not responsible for any missed connections and penalties/loss as a result. For a peace of mind, please buy trip interruption insurance. Note:

•For transpacific flight, you must check-in at least three (3) hours ahead of departure time.

•It takes at least

one (1) hour to clear customs and claim your checked baggage. •For domestic flight, you must check in at least two (2) hours prior to departure time.

Most airline tickets are issued using a special fare which cannot be changed or cancelled without incurring additional cost. Should you lose or misplace your tickets while traveling, you should immediately notify the airline. In most cases the airline will have you complete a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and for a fee, issue replacement tickets.

For Air China flight schedule of your China trip and all other issues regarding your air travel to China, please read more details at Air China Flight Schedule and All About Flights.

Additional airline fees

Additional airline fees may apply at check-in. Fees may be charged by airlines for services such as preferred seat selection and baggage handling. Please note that fees are determined by the airline you check in with and may change at any time. Additional overweight baggage fees are charged and vary by airline. Please check with your airline for weight restrictions. The airline fees are not part of the RCL Communications tour fare. It is our customer’s responsibility to check with the related airline for up-to-date information. begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skyp begin_of_the_skype_highlighting

Passport & China Visa

All foreign nationals traveling to the People's Republic of China must travel on a valid passport with at least six(6) months remaining validity after the entry date into China. A tourist visa must be obtained prior to entering the PRC. Please read complete details about Passport & Visa for your China Travel Vacations.

Arrival Procedures

An RCL representative will greet you once you have cleared the Customs area at your China arrival airport.

Baggage

Always remember, "He who would travel happily must travel light". We strongly recommend you travel with one piece of checked luggage, one carry-on bag, and one personal item per person.

Baggage Allowance for China flights

Baggage allowance differs for the Trans-Pacific and the China domestic sections of your China trip. Baggage allowance for the Trans-Pacific flight is two pieces of checked baggage per person. Total dimensions (Length + Width + Height) of the two pieces must not exceed 107 inches (273cm); maximum dimensions of single piece shall not exceed 62 inches (158cm). Maximum weight per piece is 50 lbs. Each passenger may carry one piece of carry-on luggage, the combined dimensions of which shall not exceed 45 inches (115cm).

China domestic flights are more restrictive than Trans-Pacific flights. You are allowed only one piece of checked baggage, and that must not exceed 44 lbs per person. In addition, you are allowed one carry-on bag not to exceed 11 lbs, and one personal item such as a purse or camera bag. The carry-on must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. The airport authorities seldom weigh your carry-on baggage, but the size of it does matter, particularly when the flight is full. This is the rule. Sometimes it is enforced strictly and sometimes it is not - depending on the local airport and how full the flight is. The checked-baggage rule, allowing only one piece and its weight allowance are usually enforced, particularly in the inland cities.

Overweight luggage in excess of allowances will incur excess baggage charges payable on site by the passenger. For domestic China flights, you may be asked by the airline to pay fees of approximately $2 to $4 per pound in excess of the weight limit.

For U.S. & Canada domestic flight to Air China gateways (SFO, LAX, JFK, YVR), fees may be charged by airlines for services such as preferred seat selection and baggage handling. Please note that fees are determined by the airline you check in with and may change at any time. Additional overweight baggage fees are charged and vary by airline. Please check with the airline directly for the updated information on checked & carry-on baggage, weight restrictions, and seat selection. Check Airline Fee Chart for further details.

Baggage Lock & Liquids

You are advised that you leave your checked baggage unlocked in line with U.S. airport security rule. Or, if you wish to lock your baggage, you MUST use a TSA recognized lock, which allows TSA screeners to open and re-lock your bags for security screening. Ordinary locks are cut if physical inspection is required.

If you fly out of Vancouver you can either lock your checked baggage or leave it open to your discretion.

China aviation and transportation authorities have a different rule on this issue and your checked baggage must be locked during the transportation in China. You only need to lock the major compartment of your baggage. This is a Chinese regulation. If your bag is found unlocked during transit, the airline or the train station will lock it for you and you will be billed for the locks. So prepare a lock for the main compartment of each bag and any lock will do.

Liquids & gels over 100 ml must be packed in checked luggage at all airports in both U.S. and China.

Baggage Precautions

Make sure that you have luggage tags for each checked suitcase. A copy of your itinerary and contact information should also go in an outside pocket of your luggage to aid the airline personnel to locate you in case you and your luggage become separated. Never check luggage containing prohibited items (i.e. lighters), valuables (i.e. cash, jewelry, and cameras), fragile items (i.e. undeveloped film, bottles, eyeglasses) or critical items (i.e. medicines, travel vouchers). You should read more information about TSA Permitted and Prohibited Items.

Baggage Damage/Lost

RCL Communications will not be responsible for loss or damage to your luggage and/or personal belongings. You must report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your travel insurance provider. Travel Insurance covering lost and damaged baggage is strongly recommended. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form must be filled with the carrier before leaving the airport.

Baggage Lock

Your checked baggage must be locked during transportation while in China. This is a Chinese regulation. No specification on type of locks as long as there is one.

Inoculation

Inoculation is not mandatory for your China travel. However, we remind you that traveling in China does require certain precautions. Most seasoned travelers get immunized for Hepatitis A&B and Tetanus. Note we are not in the position to tell you that you should or should not take certain inoculation. We, therefore, highly recommend that you consult your family doctor to verify your particular needs, or contact your local Travel Clinic for their professional advice. You can locate a Travel Clinic in your area by a Google search using keyword “Travel Clinic” or look at your local Yellow Pages. Some shots need to be taken well in advance. For the latest overseas travel health information, please contact the Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by visiting www.cdc.gov/travel or by calling toll-free 1-800-232-4636 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-800-232-4636 end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

Medication

If you take prescription medication, be sure to bring enough to last the entire trip. Keep these medications with you and do not pack them in checked baggage.

Long-term travel overseas might cause tourists to develop stomach upset; a change in water, food, sleep habits and/or climate may all cause discomfort. Bring anti-diarrhea medications such as Imodium and Lomotil just in case.

If your China tour includes Tibet (elevation of 12,000 feet), you are strongly recommended to visit your doctor or a travel clinic for their professional advice about traveling at high altitudes. People may experience Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) with symptoms like light-headedness, shortness of breath and may tire a little more easily at that high elevation. Medication to reduce mountain sickness may be advised by your physician. Oxygen bags are available at your Tibet hotel; you may borrow or lease from the hotel housekeeping. While you are in Tibet, you must move in a very slow pace.

Internet

Internet access is available at almost all hotels on your China Spree travel itinerary. You can use the computers in the business center at your hotel for a fee. Internet access is usually charged by minute and may be expensive. Many hotels offer free internet access at your hotel room, so you may want to bring your own laptop, but some hotels do charge for that and it could be expensive (up to $15-18 per day). Wi-Fi is not commonly available in China hotels. Most hotels in China either do not have WiFi at all or only have WiFi in a public area. Usually you will not have access to WiFi from your hotel room. In order to use iPad or iPhone in your hotel room, you may buy an AirPort Express from Apple to convert the internet access from the cable modem to wireless. Your iPhone can roam to China but data roaming could be expensive. As a matter of fact, you will be very busy on your China Spree tour and you may not have much time to browse the internet.

China Tour Guides

Please rest assured you are in good hands when you join RCL Communications inclusive China package travel. Our travel guiding system in China is comprised of a centralized office on a national level, local offices and partners in each destination city, and an extensive network of tour guides.

For a tour group with 15 travelers or more, a professional China National Guide (a Chinese national) will be assigned to accompany the group throughout mainland China, supervising the work performed by local agencies and smoothing over any possible difficulties along the trip.

Your National Guide is a licensed professional who gives you personal care and is accessible 24 hours a day throughout your trip in mainland China (For tours in Hong Kong you only have a Hong Kong local guide). For your convenience, your National guide may give his/her cell phone number to you at the beginning of your China tour.

In addition to your national guide, a local guide is assigned along the trip in each destination to provide in-depth tour services to you and offer assistance on local tour arrangements. Sometimes, your National Guide may also act as your local guide in the city where he/she is from, provided he/she has a local tour guide license and is eligible to do so.

If the group size is under 10, the tour will be locally guided, from arrival to departure, with a local guide in each destination area or city. Your local guide will offer professional services of local tour arrangements and will be at your service while you are in his/her city, taking care of your accommodation, sightseeing tours, meals, transportation and transfers. Your local guide will assist you with airport check-in at the conclusion of your local tour, and see you safely take off before he/she can go home. You will be flying on your own from city to city. Most airports in China are newly built, equipped with modern facilities with instructions in both Chinese and English including the airline boarding notice. You should have no confusion or difficulty during transit from city to city without an accompanying tour guide.

Our tour guides are hand-picked, well trained and service oriented. They are constantly evaluated based on the performance and our customer evaluation of each individual China tour group. We strive to hire only the best. We know the success of your China trip largely depends on the quality of your tour guides.

Money Matters

China is very much a cash-based society – bring a money belt or clothing with secure pockets because you’ll need to carry around a fair amount of local cash. Major credit cards are only acceptable at hotels, tourist stores and upscale shops. Tipping can be made with either U.S. dollars or the equivalent Chinese RMB. Pay in smaller bills when shopping with street vendors.

•Chinese Currency

The Chinese currency is known as Renminbi (RMB), literally "People's Money". The basic unit of RMB is Yuan (dollar), which is divided into 10 Jiao (dimes), which is divided again into 10 Fen (cents). Bank of China issues RMB bills in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 Yuan and 1, 2, 5 Jiao. Bronze and nickel coin equivalents exist for the smaller units.

As of end of 2011, CAD$1=RMB 6.2, Exchange rate fluctuates daily. Check here for the current rate.

Chinese RMB is not internationally exchangeable; you must wait until you arrive in China to change your money and spend it all or exchange back to U.S./Canadian dollars before you leave the country. Hong Kong's currency is the Hong Kong Dollars (HKD). It is internationally exchangeable and worth slightly less than RMB. Note, Hong Kong dollar cannot be used in mainland China and you must convert all your HKD back to USD or CAD before leaving Hong Kong.

•Exchanging money

You can change money at hotels, China arrival and departure airports, and at Bank of China branches. The official exchange rate is used in most places so it’s unnecessary to shop around for a better deal. For the sake of convenience and safety we suggest that you change money in your hotel. Almost all hotels in your China trip offer foreign currency exchange service supervised by Bank of China. Retain the exchange receipts because you will need the receipt to convert RMB to your home currency at the end of the trip. Those traveling to Hong Kong can change RMB to Hong Kong Dollars there, but make sure you convert all Hong Kong dollars to RMB or your home currency before departing Hong Kong. You must exchange all Chinese RMB before the last day of your tour because you won’t have time to convert it back to your home currency at the airport.

•Traveler's Checks

The fact is that Traveler’s Checks become more inconvenient to use in China, particularly in the smaller cities and in local Chinese hotels. So don’t rely on Traveler’s Checks.

If you are lucky to cash your Traveler’s checks, you will find the advantage of it is obvious: you can always void them if they are lost. Keep your exchange slip; you will need it when buying back your home currency. We recommend you use only Traveler’s Checks issued by major financial organizations such as American Express and Visa. But note, cash, particularly in the form of U.S. dollars is easier to use than Traveler's Checks.

•U.S. Currency (or Canadian dollar)

Your busy tour schedule may not be convenient for you to find ATMs for cash advancement, you need to bring some cash with you. Please note: foreign coins are not acceptable in China. All paper bills should be complete, not badly worn and free from graffiti. Partial, badly worn or defaced bills will not be accepted by local vendors.

•Credit Cards

Major credit cards are only acceptable at hotels, tourist stores and upscale shops. We recommend you use a credit card for any big purchases at tourist stores and purchase insurance for the shipped items. Please call your credit card company to let them know you are traveling in China so they won’t decline your transactions made during your trip.

•Personal Checks

Personal checks are NOT acceptable in China.

•ATMs (Automated Teller Machine)

ATMs become more popular in the big cities of China (i.e. Beijing and Shanghai), expect high service fees for credit card and bank card cash advances. Don’t count on ATMs in the smaller cities or remote areas like Yunnan and Tibet. ATMs are commonly used in Hong Kong. Most ATMs in China can only be used for withdrawing RMB. The exchange rate on ATM withdrawals is similar to credit cards but there is a maximum daily withdrawal amount.

•Carrying Money

You may feel more comfortable using a money belt for large sums of cash and credit cards. Care and good judgment is a must in all travel.

Time Difference

Although P. R. China covers five time zones, only Beijing Standard Time is adopted for the entire country. It is 8 hours ahead of GMT, 16 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time (15 hours ahead of PST in daylight saving time). People in China's far western regions like Tibet follow a later work schedule to keep pace with the official centralized Beijing Time. Please check World Clock for current regional time.

When it's 8 am in Beijing, the time in other Canada cities at Daylight Saving Time is

Vancouver

Calgary / Regina

Winnipeg

Toronto

5 pm (previous day)

6pm (previous day)

7pm (previous day)

8 pm (previous day)

The following is the easiest way to convert Canada time to Beijing time during Daylight Saving Period:

Pacific Time + 3 hours, then switch AM and PM. For instance, it is 5 pm in Vancouver, Beijing time is 8 am, the next morning.

Eastern Time only change AM and PM. For instance, it is 8 pm in Toronto, Beijing time is 8 am, the next morning.

Electricity

China's electrical current is 220V, 50 cycles AC. Plugs and Outlets come in a variety of shapes and are different from that in North America. Adapters and converters are readily available at all hotels but may be limited to a small number. So if you have to use them in urgency you are advised to bring along your own adapters and converters for your North American appliances. As soon as you check-in, you should contact Housekeeping to borrow adaptors and converters. Hair dryers and irons are readily available also.

Water

Tap water is not considered safe to drink in China despite the fact that water in China is commonly chlorinated and processed. Drink only bottled water or boiled water. Bottled purified water and soft drinks can be easily obtained at reasonable prices. All your hotels offer boiled water to your room daily, with which you can safely make tea.

Meals

All meals are included as specified in your China Tour itinerary. Breakfasts included on your China Tour are usually American buffet breakfast to give you a good start for the day. Lunches and dinners are usually served in local Chinese restaurants with a set menu and in a family style. The tour strives to improve the meal arrangements for foreign group travelers to China. The tour guides take pride in selcting the meal quality and variety to focus on China’s many famous regional specialties, meanwhile using as many good local restaurants as we possibly can and eliminating junk tourist restaurants at all costs. This is one of the MAJOR differences that sets RCL Communications apart from ALL OTHERS.

A regular lunch/dinner is composed of 6-12 dishes shared by 6-10 people sitting at a round table (which symbolizes union and perfection-harmony). One beverage of your choice (beer, mineral water and soda) is included per person per meal at no additional charge; Chinese tea is usually complimentary. Special meals such as an authentic Peking Duck dinner, Dumping Banquet, Tea Lunch, Hot Pot dinner, and Dim Sum that reflects China’s many famous regional cuisines, are arranged for China our travelers to provide opportunities to further enhance your culinary experience.

Climate

China is a huge country with varied climates. In general, the north is cold and dry in winter. In the south, summer is hot and humid. The rainy season is in July and August. The best season to travel in China is April, May, late September, October and the first two weeks of November. The climate in Hong Kong is sub-tropical, similar to that of Hawaii. Read more on average temperatures in China's major tourist cities and their current weather conditions.

Dress & Laundry

China is a country with few dress taboos. Dress for comfort. Sandals, shorts, and jeans are widely accepted. Coordinate your outfits for multi-tasking. Dress in layers to suit various weather/temperature changes. No formal dress is required.

China hotels offer laundry service. It is convenient but may appear expensive for someone. The least expensive places to do laundry are in smaller cities like Xian and Guilin. Please check pricing at your Hotel Laundry List from the hotel information page of each tour.

Mail

Your China Tour hotels have postal service allowing you to send postcards and letters overseas. It usually takes more than 10 days for a postcard to reach North-America. The postage is charged in Chinese RMB equivalents to about 50 cents U.S. for a postcard, and 80 cents U.S. for a letter up to 20 grams.

Media

China publishes various newspapers and magazines in English. Among them, China Daily is a popular English newspaper, complimentary at most hotels. Imported publications like Time, Newsweek, and The Economist can be found at certain hotels. BBC, CNN or even HBO are becoming commonly available in most tourist hotels.

Cell phone

Blackberry and Iphone can roam to China, but data roaming could be expensive. Check with your phone carrier for their special internal roaming plan. You may also buy a SIM card in China to use on your cell phone if your phone is unlocked. You may also get an unlocked tri-band (multi-band) mobile phone from the States (Canada), and buy a local SIM card as soon as you arrive in China. The cards are prepaid -- e.g. RMB100 will get you quite a bit of talk time and at lower cost than the hotel IDD service.

For your convenience, you may rent a cell phone. Please visit Pandaphone.com for details.

Telephone

Both international and domestic calls can be made from your hotel room. Domestic long-distance rates in the PRC vary according to distance and are usually inexpensive. Local calls are either at a very low rate or free of charge depending on the hotel. International Direct Dial (IDD) calls made from a hotel room could be expensive when the hotel adds a surcharge on top of China's already high IDD rates. Some hotels may request that you pay a deposit before you can access the international line from your hotel room. Use a phone card for international calls; it is becoming more widely available and the rate is reasonable. Simply consult your Tour Director regarding this matter, he or she will be happy to assist you.

◾Calling North America from Mainland China

Dial 00 (international access code) + 1 (North America country code) + local number

◾Calling China from North America

Dial 011 (international access code) + 86 (China country code, or 852 for Hong Kong regional code) + China area code (minus initial zero) + local number

◾Essential Numbers in China

There are several telephone numbers that are the same throughout China. However, only

International Assistance and Local Weather Forecast are likely to have an English-speaking operator.

International Assistance:

115

Local Directory Enquiries:

114

Long Distance Enquiries:

113 or 173

Local Weather Forecast:

121

Police Hotline:

110

Fire Hotline:

119

Area Code list

CITY

CODE

CITY

CODE

Beijing

Guilin

773

Shanghai

Wuhan

Suzhou

512

Chongqing

Xian

Hangzhou

571

Nanjing

25
Wuxi

510

Lhasa

891

Canton

Chengdu

Hong Kong

852

Camera, Memory Card & Film

Your camera bag is considered a personal item and can be carried onboard in addition to your carry-on baggage. Make sure to bring many camera memory cards with you for your China travel vacations. A memory card is easy to obtain but may not compatible with your camera.

If you still use conventional camera and film you should be aware that when flying U.S. domestic and transpacific flights, you should pack all undeveloped film in carry-on baggage. Repeat screening on checked baggage will damage undeveloped film. Most X-ray machines in China's airports and railway stations are marked "film safe". However, films with a higher ASA rating could be fogged by repeat exposures to X-rays. You should carry such film by hand.

Toiletry

It is wise to bring hand wipes to use before dinner and after toilet. Also bring a handkerchief or bandanas; this can substitute for a hand towel. Often after washing your hands, there will be no way to dry them. Generally speaking, public toilets in China could be dirty. Be prepared for that. We understand your concern and tour guides know where to find “clean” restrooms and will assist you with that regard. Always bring your own toilet paper as it is not usually available in public toilets.

Packing for a China Tour

Pack light and you'll soon find you are better off with less!

The best packing question a traveler can ask is "do people where I am headed live without this item"? Don't pack the stuff which is readily available in the hotels where you will be staying. Don't cram your suitcase with unnecessary items, and you'll have room for the "treasures" you collect along the way. Remember that you will have access to:

•Convenient, same day laundry service in all your hotels, if you send clothes in the morning you should have them back in the evening. The price is reasonable. For any destination city where you stay two or more nights you can do laundry.

•A hair dryer and iron are readily available at most hotels for your use; simply contact Housekeeping.

•Bath accessories in your private bathroom include disposable tooth brush and toothpaste, comb, soap, shampoo, body lotion, sewing kit, sanitary bag, shower cap etc.

•You can easily purchase a shoulder bag or small piece of luggage to carry your purchases back home.

•Virtually anything you require can be secured along the way. It is part of the adventure. Travel in China involves a lot of walking. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Make sure to check current weather conditions before you decide what clothes to pack. Consult our Essentials to Pack list.

Gratuities

Tips are commonly expected from foreign tourists to China. Whether they are considered as gratuities or service fees, tips are the major motivator for the tour guides. Your China Tour national guide, local guides, drivers and porters are professional, conscientious, and most thankful for your acknowledgment. We realize that tipping can be confusing on a group tour to China; the following gratuity guideline is introduced solely for the convenience of China Spree group travelers:

CAD$10 per traveler per day, shared between all guides, porters and drivers.

($1.50 bus driver, $3.00 tour guide, $4.00 tour leader)

Outside dining: service charge is included (except in Hong Kong)

Detailed gratuity suggestions are also listed for specific programs and will be sent to you before you leave for your China vacation. Since your National Guide (where applicable) will accompany you throughout the trip, and is responsible directly to you, you may choose to give partial gratuities to your National guide entrusting him/her to dispense them along the way on your behalf. With gratuities given this way you will enjoy the journey in a more relaxing way. Although gratuities are customary, it totally depends on your satisfaction with the services.

Shopping

China is the world's factory and bargain shoppers' paradise. We are aware of the fact that shopping is an integral part of international travel, particularly to countries like China. However, your valuable travel time in China is limited and therefore China the tour features the minimum arranged shopping stops compared to all other tours.

Forced shopping is prohibited on our tours. We appreciate your input and feedback on this matter.

Tea House Scam (and possibly also the Art Gallery Scam)

Our travelers should use caution when dealing with unidentified strangers in your free time in Beijing or Shanghai.

Generally more than one young woman and man (or combination) may come up to you in a park, near a museum or other public place and ask if you are American/Canadian. They start up a conversation saying that they would like to practice their English and start asking you all sorts of questions as they engage you in conversation (where are you from, what do you do, what kind of car do you drive, what sights have you seen in Shanghai). They explain that they are students from another town in China touring Shanghai and possibly other cities. Just as they are getting ready to leave, they mention that they are on their way to see a performance at a tea house or they may say they are going to see a traditional Chinese tea ceremony and do you want to come along? If you accept, you risk the chance of being (over) charged a lot of money for "service and tea" and not realizing what the amount will be.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend you buy travel insurance to protect yourself and your travel investment against the unexpected. Please read more details about Travel Insurance.

Air China & Air Canada

Air China (CA) and Air Canada (AC) are code-sharing partners. Both airlines are members of Star Alliance.

Per rules of Air China, Air China group airfare only applies to flight operated by Air China (CA992/991, CA998/997) which refers to flight from Vancouver (YVR) to Beijing. Air China currently does not operate any flight from Toronto (YYZ) to Chi

Air China does not allow upgrade to business class using Air Canada mileage. Neither can you get a free Air China ticket by redeeming your Air Canada mileage through Air China .

Jet Lag Precautions

Jet lag happens when your body's inner clock falls out of sync with daily cycles of light, rest and meals as you cross time zones to reach your destination. Its symptoms are fatigue, irritability and vague disorientation. You cannot totally avoid jet lag, but you can minimize its effects. Here are some suggestions:

1.Get several good nights of sleep before your trip departure.

2.Set your watch to your destination time when you board the plane, and adjust sleep and meals accordingly.

3.Try to sleep on the plane.

4.Walk around the plane occasionally, do isometric exercises at your seat.

5.Drink plenty of water and fruit juice while flying.

6.Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated drinks during and after the flight.

7.On arrival, throw yourself into your new schedule, avoid naps, and try to stay awake until your normal sleeping time at home.

Canada Duty-free Exemption

When shopping in China, keep receipts of all purchases. Upon reentering the Canada be ready to show customs officials what you've bought. Each resident returning to Canada is entitled to one of the following personal exemptions based on his/her time absent from Canada (including all goods and/or gifts purchased or received abroad)

24 hours or more: CAN$200, 48 hours or more: CAN$800, 7 days or more: CAN$800

This includes alcohol and tobacco, see information below:

1.5 L of wine or 1.14 L of liquor or 24 x 355 ml cans or bottles (8.5 L) of beer or ale. You must be of legal age in the province of importation.

200 cigarettes, 200 tobacco sticks, 50 cigars or cigarillos and 200 grams of manufactured tobacco (Special duty may apply).

You must complete a Declaration Card before entering Canada Customs. Sample Declaration Card.

Please check the guideline for residents of Canada returning to Canada, and updated information on Duty-free exemptions and available at Canada Border Services Agency web site PDF version of Guideline for Residents of Canada Returning to Canada

BUSINESS ORIENTATION TOUR OF MAINLAND CHINA

Friday, February 28, 2014

Cultural/Business Tour of China 2014

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

CULTURAL/BUSINESS TOUR OF CHINA

Thursday, August 8, 2013

CHINA TOUR 2014: " A unique blend of BUSINESS and CULTURAL experiences"