Book Ahead for China Savings

I recently came across an almost unbelievable price for a tour of China--$569 for air fare from the U.S. (Chicago or the West Coast,) eight nights in four star hotels, internal flights, the services of an English speaking guide and most meals. The catch is this price is for dates next November and December. If you wish to travel during the spring and summer, the cost is $230 more.

The package is available from Travelzoo http://www.travelzoo.com, and includes visits to Beijing, Shanghai, Wuxi, Suzhou, and Hangzhou. One thing to remember about travelling in China in winter is that winter is the worst season for pollution--I just saw that a city near Beijing had to close its airport because the pollution reduced visibility too much. Also, avoid travelling near Chinese New Year, which is usually in February. That is the time when Chinese themselves are on the road in their millions, going home to visit relatives.

China is one of the countries I have not visited, but at this price it is a tempting idea.