WITH TOUR MANAGER ANTONY PHILIP

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK IN CHINA – BEYOND THE TOURIST TRAIL

“Of course, we take in the highlights of the country: Beijing, The Great Wall of China, the Terracotta Warriors, and Shanghai; but what’s remarkable about this itinerary is the opportunity to discover parts of China that people very rarely get to see. Cities like Kashgar, along the old Silk Road. Arriving here feels like stepping back in time; its culture, markets and architecture are all very different to what one would normally associate with China. In fact, Western tourists are such a rarity here, some of the locals were intrigued, asking where we were from, and if they could have their photo taken with us!

Another highlight was Yinchuan, where there are ancient imperial tombs in a mountain setting. The structures are compelling from an archaeological perspective.

Other wonderful moments included the city walls of Xi’an and its grand Bell Tower, illuminated at night. The culture, colour and costumes of Chengdu’s Sichuan Opera. And, of course, the soaring karst mountains of Yangshuo."

THE PRIVATE JET EXPERIENCE

“On this journey, we flew aboard two Bombardier Challenger 850 jets. There were only 14 guests on each plane. These are very upmarket, very nice aircraft. Upon boarding, there was a table toward the back of the jet set up with a beautiful bouquet of flowers and treats that we could help ourselves to. The whole experience makes you feel like a VIP, very exclusive. And for what is essentially a small jet, it feels quite spacious. The initial sector served as a beautiful introduction of what lay ahead for us, while our small group and the aircraft’s executive configuration created an intimate and convivial atmosphere.”

DINNER ON THE GREAT WALL – THE HIGHIGHT FOR MANY

“One of the most incredible experiences on this journey was the exclusive Welcome Dinner along the Great Wall. With nobody else around, to have this private, fine-dining experience, it truly was spectacular and probably one of the most impressive gala events I’ve been to … I’ve still got the bruises from pinching myself! Prior to the dinner, as we set beneath a full moon, we also had an expert deliver a fascinating talk on the wall, which really set the tone for the amazing event to come.”

STAYS IN MAGNIFICENT PROPERTIES

“The Amnor Resort in Yinchuan has one of the most spectacular views of the Helan Mountains and was stunningly beautiful. While Chengdu’s Upper House (formerly Temple House) perfectly combines history and modernity; its preserved, Qing Dynasty-era facade hides a beautiful courtyard garden, and the hotel is an architectural marvel.” The evolution of China’s cities, as well as the fascinating culture and history of some of its more remote regions, makes this an exceptional journey. Our guests were surprised at how green some of the destinations were – and each so unique. Reaching this many wonderful and distant places in 18 days just wouldn’t be possible without travelling by private jet.”