The Great Wall of China Extension

China’s 1.3 billion people have witnessed an extraordinary change of pace as the face of their country has seen rapid economic expansion, however, the pull of tradition remains strong. We’ll bring you together with residents of the bustling capital city of Beijing and go beyond the city boundaries to share a homemade meal with a welcoming local family. You’ll also see China from two completely different points of view while visiting two iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites – The Great Wall of China and the Summer Palace – in between.

We’ll make the three-hour flight to Beijing and hit the ground running before enjoying a peking roast duck and kung fu show. Rise early and join the locals who start each morning with a Tai Chi session in the park as you learn the basics from an expert instructor. Day two will be spent sight-seeing and exploring Summer Palace, the Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City.

On day three, experience one of the Wonders of the Modern World, the Great Wall of China. We’ll explore the wall’s Mutianyu section, where you’ll have the chance to take an optional Toboggan ride or take a cable car down from the wall before heading to Beijing’s old streets and hopping in a Hutong rickshaw. Dinner brings something truly special as we introduce you to a local family who will invite you into their home for a hearty, homemade Hutong-style family meal. It’s the perfect farewell before embarking on your trip home the next day.

After landing and settling in to your hotel, experience the spectacular Summer Palace, the former imperial garden and the largest, most well-preserved royal park in China. Between April and October, we’ll also take a scenic boat ride across the lake. On Day two, relax in the Temple of Heaven, where you’ll be surrounded by stunning imperial Chinese architecture, and enjoy a traditional Chinese tea ceremony in a local teahouse. We’ll also benefit from the expert knowledge of a local guide who will lead our visit to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Take in breathtaking views of historic Beijing from Jingshan Park before watching an astonishing evening performance by Chinese acrobats. Rest up for Day three as we head to The Great Wall of China!

Stay in a charming 4-star hotel in the  center of all the action in Beijing. Amenities include air conditioning, wifi, TV, hot water, breakfast in the morning, and fine dining dinner options  for those who do not want to venture out to the city after an action-packed day. Walks to the park for Tai Chi lessons have never been more convenient.