| TRAINS & TRAVEL P.O. BOX 10625 RENO, NEVADA 89510-0625 Chris@traintrips.biz Jane@traintrips.biz Deborah@traintrips.biz | 1-800 359-4870 USA 1-800 752-1836 CANADA 1-800 266-8751 FAX (775) 453-1004 | |
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A rare new addition to the ranks of great railway journeys, our tours between Hong Kong and Tibet’s capital Lhasa take in an extraordinary sweep of natural wonders and culture. We will enjoy everything from Lhasa - Tibet’s holiest city but until now virtually inaccessible in its remote Himalayan location - to China’s spectacular sights including the Three Gorges, Li River, the Terracotta Warriors, the world’s highest railway and beginning with the stunning international city of Hong Kong.
Our visit to Xian not only includes the 6,000 Terracotta Warriors (among the most important archaeological finds of the 20th Century) but also the city’s remarkable old walls and pagodas, as well as its drum and bell towers. We will also visit the extraordinary Yunnan Stone forest, known in China as the ‘First wonder of the world’, and have a chance to get close to Giant Pandas. Home for most of the tour will be the Shangri-La Express, although we will also ride on the purpose built high altitude regular service train to Lhasa and a modern fast express to access Hong Kong. A luxury river cruiser will be our home for four nights during our unhurried journey through the world-famous Three Gorges. This gives us time to absorb the sensational sight of the peaks soaring (in places) more than 4,000ft around us, but also some of the remarkable things created here by man. Fengdu’s unique ‘Ghost City’ is a man made vision of Hades, telling the story of those forced to live out their personal hell for eternity. Equally remarkable is the world’s largest dam. In contrast to all of this is Hong Kong, one of the world’s great modern cities, situated in its stunning position on Victoria Harbour. With so much packed into this remarkable tour our itineraries offer the journey of a lifetime. Why not treat yourself?
 Day 1: HONG KONG Arrive into Hong Kong airport where you will be met and transferred to the luxurious five-star Harbour Plaza hotel (or similar) for a one-night stay. We will enjoy a Welcome Dinner at our hotel, giving you the opportunity to meet your fellow travellers. Day 2: HONG KONG - GUANGZHOU This morning you are free to explore this vibrant and extraordinary city before joining a high speed train to Guangzhou, a journey which takes two hours. We then transfer to our private train, the Shangri-La Express. There is plenty of time to settle into your comfortable cabin before enjoying a Welcome Dinner onboard. Day 3: GUILIN The haunting beauty of Guilin is legendary. Our entire day is devoted to exploring some of the finest scenery in the world along the Li River. Our unforgettable day features a delightful cruise on the river amongst the strange karst rock formations that give this area its distinctive appearance. We also visit the 600,000 year old Yudi Lan (Reed Flute) Cave on the outskirts of the city. Day 4: YUNNAN STONE FOREST This afternoon we visit the dramatic Yunnan Stone Forest. Set amongst verdant forests, ancient karst stone formations stretch towards the skies. Numerous peaks, pillars and stalagmites jostle for our attention, extending as far as the eye can see. Sculpted by centuries of wind and rain, these sensationally intricate formations suggest the form of animals, plants and even human figures. Tonight we spend the night in a hotel in Kunming. Day 5: KUNMING Today we visit Kunming’s Golden Temple, the largest copper temple in China. This elaborate and magnificent structure is a testament to the aesthetic and architectural excellence of the Ming Dynasty. At lunchtime, we commence our journey over one of the world’s most spectacular railway lines completed in the 1970s. The line to Chengdu tortuously passes over many precarious bridge and traverses deep tumbling ravines, through areas of unsurpassed natural beauty. Day 6: CHENGDU Today we can relax onboard as the Shangri-La Express continues its journey to Chengdu where we arrive early afternoon. Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province is the centre for traditional Chinese medicine. This area is also home to the Giant Panda, an incredibly rare and enchanting creature which we can see at close quarters at the Giant Panda Breeding Research Institute. Day 7: CHONGQING Chongqing is situated in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River. We have a full day to explore the labyrinthine streets of this bustling city, perhaps most famous for its hot Sichuan cuisine and world famous hotpot dishes. As we enter the old part of this city we will come across street vendors and restaurants where we can experience these exciting and spicy delicacies. Late afternoon sees us transferring to a five-star Victoria Cruises river boat for our three-night Yangtze River cruise through the dramatic scenery of the Three Gorges. Day 8: THREE GORGES CRUISE - FENGDU This morning we take an off board excursion to the Fengdu Ghost City situated on Ming Mountain. Its 75 temples and numerous sculptures tell the story of ‘sinners’ who were forced to live out their own personal hell for eternity. Alternatively, we may visit Shibaozhai, perched precariously against a rectangular cliff, where we will see the stunning twelve-storey Quing Dynasty wooden temple. In the afternoon we sail through the Three Gorges region enjoying the stunning natural scenery. Day 9: THREE GORGES CRUISE First we enter the shortest but most dramatic of the three gorges, Qutang Gorge with steep, imposing mountains crowding the perimeter of the 5 mile (8km) stretch. Then we travel through the deep 27 mile (44km) Wu Xia Gorge from where we make a short trip to the shallow, clear waters of the Shennong Stream. We then continue along the western stretch of the Xiling Gorge, with its strong currents and rocky outcrops. At 43 miles (70km) this is the longest and deepest gorge and perilous peaks tower towards the sky reaching heights of over 4,000 ft (1,500m). Day 10: THREE GORGES CRUISE - YICHANG Today we cruise along the eastern stretch of the Xiling Gorge and visit the Three Gorges Dam project before our lunchtime disembarkation in Yichang and rejoin the waiting Shangri-La Express to continue our journey towards Lhasa. Day 11: XIAN - TERRACOTTA WARRIORS Our fascinating journey of discovery takes us to Xian, the former Imperial Capital of China. Here we will explore the ancient city walls and Great Mosque, one of the oldest and largest in China. If there is time, we will take a stroll through the historic Muslim quarter with its quaintly winding lanes. We dedicate several hours to visiting the world famous Terracotta Warriors, discovered by peasants only 30 years ago. The 6,000 terracotta figures and their horses, buried with the First Emperor of Xin in 210BC, are one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th Century. This evening we enjoy the Tang Dynasty Dinner, Music and Dance Show, a wonderful performance of ancient music and dance. Day 12: TIANSHUI & LANZHOU Today our tour takes us to the amazing Maijishan Grottoes, an extensive complex of caves that house thousands of ancient Buddhist sculptures that chart the evolution of this fascinating religion. Our train then takes us on to Lanzhou which used to be an important trading post on the ancient Silk Route with a rich history dating back some 2,000 years. Day 13: XINING Today we explore this historic and multi-ethnic region which is home to an incredible 37 different nationalities. Located on the eastern edge of Qinghai Province, Xining’s history can be traced back 2,100 years to antiquity. Here we will experience some of the distinctive traditions and beguiling customs of this region. Our exploration of Xining takes us on to Dongguan Mosque. Built in 1380, its eclectic style combines both traditional Chinese and Islamic architectural influences. Tonight is our final night on board the Shangri La Express. Day 14: GOLMUD - LHASA (TIBET) At Golmud we board the new high-altitude train (on which we have reserved seats) that will take us on an extraordinary and unforgettable 14-hour daylight journey along the new 1,142km ‘Roof of the World’ line to Lhasa, cresting the 16,640ft (5,072m) Tangula Pass. This is the world’s highest railway pass, reaching an unbelievable 3 miles (5km) above sea level. Due to the high altitude, supplementary oxygen is pumped in through the ventilation system. Personal oxygen masks are available if required. At Lhasa, we are transferred to the centrally located five-star Brahmaputra Grand Hotel (or similar) for a three-night stay. Day 15: LHASA This morning is free for you to acclimatise to this high mountain region or you may choose to wander through the vibrant streets of Lhasa, absorbing its unique atmosphere. This afternoon, our tour takes us to Norbu Lingka, the Dalai Lama’s Summer Palace. Built in the 1740’s as a retreat from the intense summer heat, its name literally means ‘jewel garden’. This tranquil dappled garden contains many valuable objects, including gold, silver, jade and Buddhist artifacts. Day 16: LHASA Today we explore the 13th Century Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s most holy shrine. This four-storey timber complex topped with a golden roof is a stunning fusion of architectural styles of the Tang Dynasty, as well as those of Tibet and Nepal. The ancient Barkhor market is next on our itinerary, where an astounding jamboree of activity greets us as we weave our way through its streets. A traditional lunch is served accompanied by traditional folk music. This afternoon we visit the 17th Century Potala Palace, former seat of the Tibetan Government and the Dalai Lama’s winter residence before he fled to India in 1959. Containing thousands of rooms, it dominates the city skyline and is one of the architectural wonders of the world. At a height of 170 metres, this breathtaking structure perches on Marpo Ri Hill, 130 metres above the Lhasa valley. Tonight we say goodbye to our fellow travelling companions at our Farewell Dinner.
Day 17: LHASA Following breakfast, you will be transferred to Lhasa airport to begin your journey home.
 Modern comfort in an ancient wilderness…the Shangri-La Express guarantees you good living even in the remotest places. Our twin-berth cabins are the perfect private retreat, comfortably furnished and traditionally decorated with the varnished wood and brass reminiscent of a different age. Each includes a ‘Pullman’ table and deep armchair alongside a large picture window; a perfect place from which to take in China’s ever-changing scenery. A state of the art shower car complements the two washrooms/WC’s in every sleeping carriage. Meals are served in the train’s spacious restaurant cars, where our dedicated chefs serve a western breakfast followed by a wide range of authentic Chinese specialities at lunch and dinner, using only the finest local ingredients. As well as soft drinks, tea and coffee, meals are accompanied by a selection of wines from around the world. Equally special is the unique ambience of the piano bar car, where our resident pianist is always happy to take requests. Staying open until the last person leaves, the bar is the perfect place to get to know your fellow passengers… or simply wile away some time, reading or taking in the scenery while enjoying your favourite drink.
Note that tours running through both Russia and China will use the ‘Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express’ for the Russia, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan part of the journey.
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PRICES ALL PRICES ARE PER PERSON TWIN..............................$12,795 SINGLE............................$17,995 DEPOSIT...........................$ 1,500 FINAL PAYMENT DUE 90 DAYS PRIOR TO START OF THE TOUR |
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TOUR PRICE: All tour prices are subject to change without notice at any time.
CHANGE OF ITINERARY: We reserve the right to substitute, change train routing, alter or modify the tour if any unexpected and unforeseen conditions beyond our control occur. As almost everyone knows, in the railroad industry last minute changes do occur.
RESERVATION CHANGES: A $50 per person charge will apply for any changes made to a reservation. This will also apply for any changes in credit cards usded.
DEPOSITS AND FINAL PAYMENTS: The required deposit is due in our office within 14 days of making a booking. For most tours the final payment is due in our office 90 days before the start of the tour. Due dates are posted for each tour and will also be on your invoice and in some cases we will vary the due Date depending upon the tour in question.
MILEAGE COLLECTORS: Mileage collectors please take note before you book! Trains and Travel does not cater just to mileage collectors. We cater to all people that enjoy the railroad hobby. We give strong warning that itinerary and route changes do happen and this is totally beyond our control when it does. If the only reason that you would want to book a tour with us is to collect the rare mileage, may we suggest that you be prepared for possible route changes.
RESPONSIBILITY AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: We assume no responsibility for injury, sickness, damage, loss, additional expenses, accidental delay or irregularities which may be caused through willful or negligent acts or omissions on the part of the companies providing or engaging in transportation, accommodations or services related to the accomplishment of the tour including Trains and Travel. We have no control on the timings of our charter trains and indeed passenger trains and charters can and do run late most of the time. Nor do we assume responsibility for natural disaster, social or political upheaval, acts of terrorism or acts of nature. The right is reserved to substitute hotels, tour leaders, equipment, motive power, trains, routes and to alter the itinerary when deemed necessary without notice. We are not responsible for expenses incurred by tour members in preparing for the tour.
CANCELLATIONS: Trains and Travel does not accept cancellations on the phone. Cancellations must be received by postal mail, e mail or fax before any refunds will be processed. Be sure and allow enough time if sending your written notice by the very slow US mail postal system. When a written cancellation is received in the Trains and Travel office this will be the effective date of the cancellation. Please take note that it can take up to 60 days to process some refunds in but most cases refunds will be issued in half that time. Cancellation refund rules: 100 days prior to the start of any tour you will receive a full refund less a $200 per person administration fee. 99 to 75 days before the departure of any tour there will be a 80% cancellation penalty based on the full cost of the tour. Any cancellations received 74 or less days before the start of any tour will not receive any refund. These cancellations rules apply to everyone and will be enforced.
RIGHT TO REFUSE SERVICE: Trains and Travel reserves the right to refuse service to anyone we deem necessary, to insure that all of our clients will have the best possible tour.
PRE-DEPARTURE TOUR BULLETINS: Tour bulletins will be sent to clients that have booked on our tours. Bulletins include weather, packing tips, food, health, updates and much more. Tickets and a detailed itinerary booklet will be sent out about three weeks before the tour begins.
PAYMENTS: Payments can be made with personal check drawn on a U.S. Dollar account, money order for U.S. Dollars, bank wire transfer, or credit card. We accept Visa, Master Card, Discover or American Express. Final payment for all tours is due 90 days prior to departure. If final payment has not been received 7 days after the due date, a late fee of $50 may apply.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: All prices are based on double room occupancy. We will try and match you with a roommate. if one is available. If not, you may be charged the single room supplement listed for the tour you are booked on. Single rooms may not be available in some remote locations and on some trains.
TOUR REFUNDS: If for any reason tour members amend or delete any arrangements during travel, and leave the tour on their own, we cannot give any refunds on unused portions of the tour. If buses and trains are cancelled by the carrier or there is a labor strike or they go out of business, we cannot be held responsible and we cannot give refunds. Travel insurance will protect you for any of these reasons. If TU needs to cancel any tour everyone will receive a full refund. Please take note that refunds can take up to 60 days to process.
PARTIAL TOURS: We will allow passengers to join or leave a tour at certain points. It will all depend on the tour and the conditions. Give us a call and we will try and work up a custom option for you.
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