Air Mauritius is increasing its capacity to Shanghai by over 100% (from 14,300 seats to 31,200 seats annually) as from 26th of March 2012.

The current weekly Airbus A330 flight to Shanghai will no longer stopover in Kuala Lumpur and will be operated by the larger Airbus A340 aircraft according to the following schedules ( All times local and subject to slot clearances and approval from authorities):

Departure Mauritius (Monday, 23h00)
Arrival Shanghai (Tuesday, 14h25)
Departure Shanghai (Tuesday, 21h25)
Arrival Mauritius (Wednesday, 04h45)

The airline will maintain its three weekly operations to Hong Kong and two weekly operations to Kuala Lumpur / Singapore hence offering the Chinese market 6 weekly options to Mauritius.

André Viljoen, Acting CEO stated: “We are obviously delighted to be progressing with our plans for China as announced earlier in the year. For the past two years we have been rebalancing growth to the emerging economies and Asia in line with Government’s strategy. Our direct operations has given a new boost to the marketing of Mauritius and the region in China and the objective of 10,000 Chinese tourists set for this year will be largely exceeded to reach around 14,000.

He also added “Our decision to fly non-stop will allow us to provide more capacity on the route and improve the product. We will also provide connections to Reunion, Madagascar and South Africa. We now look forward to a renewed engagement of our tourism partners and promotion agencies so that we all tap on the great potential of China.”

Air Mauritius Equipment: The Mauritius Air fleet is composed of two Airbus A340-300Es, two Airbus A319-100s, four Airbus A340-300s, two Airbus A330-200s and two ATR72-500s.

Air Mauritius Route Overview: Air Mauritius is based in Port-Louis, Mauritius and flies to:
Asia: Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Bengalaru (India), Dubai, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong
Europe: London, Paris, Munich, Geneva, Milan, Frankfurt
Australia: Perth, Melbourne
Africa: Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Antananarivo, Nairobi, Reunion, Rodrigues

My father told me he would kill me if I ever joined the military. Out of fear – and philosophical issues – I never did. However, when I visit a place like Ataturk’s Memorial in the middle of Turkey’s capitol, Ankara, I can see the value in the force for revolution that creates change for the common good.

The memorial uses clean, angular design, great views, marching soldiers, statues, dioramas, and recreations of the sounds of war to help to promote the importance of Turkey’s founding fathers, particularly Ataturk.
Ataturk died five minutes past 9AM, November 10, 1938 and the memorial is quite impressive. During his reign, Ataturk was actually quite a progressive, helping give women the right to vote and separating religion from government, something that still holds true in one of my favorite new destinations in the world, Turkey.

Devin Galaudet is the Editor of In The Know Traveler, an online travel magazine dedicated to international travel and cultural exchange. He also shares his insider information as a working travel writer on his personal blog Travel. Write. Live.. Before travel, he has survived careers in antiques, construction, film and professional card playing. When Devin is not traveling or writing, he lives in Los Angeles with his fiance, pixie-like ten-year-old daughter and his compulsive book buying habit. And yes, I am horseback riding in Costa Rica. Photo by Tim Williamson

For more about Turkey

Singapore’s cultural festivals and events are the perfect opportunity to experiences the colorful diversity and character of this vibrant country.  From shopping sprees to delicious moon cakes, Singapore has a festival for every taste.  Don’t miss out on the chance to see Singapore’s exciting celebrations with highlights as follows:

The following is a highlight of the most dynamic celebrations & events taking place in Singapore in 2012:

§  Chinese New Year (begins January 23):  Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year, or the Spring Festival, is one of the most eagerly anticipated occasions each year. This is the biggest and most significant event of the Chinese community, and it is observed by Singaporeans from all walks of life. Singapore bursts with all sorts of activities and events during Chinese New Year each year. The centrepiece of the festivities is the Chingay Parade, a grand carnival-like street parade with dazzling floats, thrilling spectacles like fire-eaters, magicians and sizzling dance acts. Another popular annual Chinese New Year event is the River Hongbao. Held on the Marina Bay Floating Platform and the Esplanade Waterfront Promenade, the vicinity comes alive with the throbbing beat of lively street performances, shopping and games stalls, lanterns and fireworks – a crowd favorite during Chinese New Year.

§  Thaipusam (February 7): Thaipusam is a highly symbolic Hindu festival celebrated by Singapore’s Tamil community. It is an annual procession by Hindu devotees seeking blessings, fulfilling vows and offering thanks. In Singapore, the Thaipusam ceremony starts in the early hours of the morning where devotees fulfill their vows with a 4.5 km walk from Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple along Serangoon Road to Sri Thendayuthapani Temple on Tank Road. The festival is not just an exclusively Indian affair; several Chinese devotees and people of other races also come to fulfill their vows on this day. The festival is a visual spectacle and it often brings traffic in the city centre to a standstill, with a colourful procession full of chanting and dizzying rhythms of Indian drums.

§  The Great Singapore Sale (May 27-July 24):  Singapore is a shopper’s paradise, but the best time to pick up bargains is during this annual event.  Each year, shopaholics from the region and beyond flood to these shores to get their hands on bargain buys during the Great Singapore Sale. With prices slashed up to 70% off its original prices at the main shopping belts and in suburban shopping malls throughout Singapore, this much-anticipated annual mega sale promises nothing less than tremendous bargains on a dizzying array of items from both Singaporean and international brands.

§  Hungry Ghost Festival (usually takes place in the month of August): Every year, the Chinese in Singapore observe a large-scale tradition of paying respects to the dead. Taoist Chinese believe that during this month, the “Gates of Hell” are opened and souls of the dead are freed and allowed to roam the earth. From grand feasts costing thousands of dollars to a mélange of puppetry, opera and singing performances, the various ways with which the Chinese appease these roaming spirits is fascinating to watch, these festivities usually take place across the various neighborhoods like Chinatown, Redhill and Geylang — so check these out if you’re feeling a little adventurous and want to lose yourself in a truly local experience.

§  Mid-Autumn Festival (September 30): Based on Chinese legend and traditions brought to Singapore by their ancestors, the Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated to commemorate the selfless act of Chang’ e, the wife of a merciless ruler. Observe and capture the timeless fond traditions surrounding the festival by heading to Chinatown, the vibrant hub of the Chinese community, to soak in the convivial mood. For the culinary adventurous and budding gourmands, sample scrumptious mooncakes (a rectangular  box or circle shape thick pastry dough filled with yummy ingredients) in traditional flavors like lotus and egg yolk or exotic varieties like durian, chocolate, coffee and ice-cream.

§  Hari Raya Haji (October 26): Hari Raya Haji, otherwise known as the “Festival of Sacrifice”, is celebrated over a period of three days by Muslims all over the world. It commemorates the Prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son in the name of God. After a long day of carrying out customary religious practices, Muslims then pay a visit to their parents, families and friends for a hearty lunch and merrymaking. You can partake in the festivities in areas such as Geylang Serai and Kampong Glam, where lively bazaars and dazzling local decorations are held to mark this important day for locals and visitors to soak in the atmosphere.

§  Deepavali (November 13):  Deepavali is the celebration of good over evil, and light overcoming darkness. During Deepavali, the streets of Little India are artfully decorated and lit up in bright festive colours, transforming it with an explosion of vibrant, colourful arches and lights.  Festive bazaars and numerous cultural activities such as the Indian Heritage and Craft Exhibition, Street Parade, Countdown Concert are also held.

§  Christmas in the Tropics (Mid-November to early January):  Snow blizzards and parkas will hardly be missed during this month-long festival.  Watch as shopping centers compete to put on the best light show and street performers and stilt-walkers roam about the streets.  And for fashion fans, look out for the colorful make-shift stages which are decked out in glittering lights and decorative baubles, all ready for local and regional models to strut across them in the season’s trendiest style offerings.

§  ZoukOut (December, dates TBA): While Singapore’s nightlife is one of the city’s major attractions, you would not have seen nothing yet until you’ve been to ZoukOut. This decade old dance extravaganza is without a doubt one of the biggest outdoor beach parties in Asia, having played host to world famous DJs such as dance music luminaries Carl Cox, Hawtin Sasha, Armin Van Buuren, and James Lavelle. Held at Siloso Beach on the island of Sentosa, it is definitely a place to be seen.

Myanmar is a truly spiritual destination, largely untouched by the influence of Western civilization. The stunning landscape of pagodas and temples surrounding Bagan has changed little in 1500 years.  Since the elections in November 2010, the government has started to open its doors and Secretary Clinton’s visit this week is the first step in ending the country’s international isolation.

Interest in travel to Myanmar has increased dramatically in the past few months since the National League for Democracy, founded by Nobel Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi, released a statement saying that it welcomes responsible tourism.  Abercrombie & Kent has responded to the growing interest in travel to Myanmar by creating three entirely new programs for 2012 that showcase different aspects of the country:

Myanmar’s Burmese Heritage – This Marco Polo Club Invitational program in February 2012 sold out within a month of being announced.  We are currently working to add another departure in the fall (October 22 – November 6). Experience the inspiring spirituality and old-world charm of Myanmar, a country largely untouched by modernity. Marvel at magnificent temples, masterful expressions of craftsmanship and devotion. Glimpse traditional life along Inle Lake and the Ayeyarwady and Lemro Rivers. Sixteen days from $6,295.

Angkor Wat & The Road to Mandalay - This small group escorted journey that combines two of Asia’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites with a three-night cruise through Cambodia and Myanmar. Marvel at the abandoned Khmer city of Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most enduring architectural wonders, before exploring the heart of Myanmar by land and along the fabled Ayeyarwady River on the luxurious MV ‘Road to Mandalay.’ Climb a temple to watch the sun set over Bagan’s fields, dotted with more than 2,000 stupas. Twelve days from $5,995.

Signature Myanmar – Be one of the few to experience Myanmar’s inspiring spirituality and old-world charm as it slowly begins to open to the world. Float over thousands of golden stupas in Bagan in a private hot air balloon. Discover the remote reaches of Myanmar, as you travel by private boat to Mrauk Oo, a town untouched by time. Wander through the otherworldly Shitthaung Temple, the “Temple of 80,000 Buddha Images.” Overnight in artful lodgings set amidst untouched natural settings, including the Inle Princess and Mrauk Oo Princess resorts. Private local guides. Thirteen days from $4,620.

(New York, NY, November 3, 2011) – Japan’s recent new tourism landmarks will signify Japan’s cultural and industrial richness.  Cherishing the unique history as well as advancing the efficient technology, the new facilities showcase Japan’s both past and future.

Dutch Trading House Museum

Nagasaki opened the 400 years old warehouse that was used by the East India Company in September 2011.  Nagasaki was the first base in Japan for the European merchants and travelers, since the self-defensing samurai-run Japanese government only opened a small area in Nagasaki for the Westerners.  The warehouse was originally built by the East India Company, and the September opening made the un-Japanese looking architecture into a museum of the European influence in the Hirado district, how the East India Company reached to Nagasaki, and Nagasaki’s unique encounter with the European (particularly Dutch) culture in the era when Japan was closed to the rest of the world.

More Japanese Cities in Michelin

Michelin started releasing the 2012 guides with two more Japanese cities for the world famous restaurant guides.  Nara, the very first capital of Japan, joined the Kyoto/Osaka/Kobe Restaurant Guide from the 2012 edition.  Michelin has already given the most number of starts to the Japanese guides, and the 25 restaurants in total are added from Nara.  Hokkaido, Japan’s northern island with the Olympic quality powder snow and endless agricultural lands, will be showcased in the Michelin Restaurant Guide, which is exclusively released in Japanese.

Fly Nonstop to Tokyo from New England

Japan Airlines will begin nonstop service between Boston Logan and Tokyo’s Narita International Airport starting April 22, 2012, and the airline will operate the route using its brand-new Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.  This first route to directly link Boston with Asia will launch with four weekly flights (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays), and increase to daily service from June 1, 2012.  The route will also be a code-share by American Airlines, who entered into a joint business agreement with JAL in April 2011.

Tokyo Sky Tree

Japan’s capital city is getting a new digital transmission tower in the era of digital broadcasting and mobile devices.  Named as Tokyo Sky Tree, the new transmission tower is 634 meter high (2,080 feet), and will be completed as the world’s tallest free-standing tower.  Equipped with Japanese high-tech structures and employed the traditional architectural method of center column vibration control from the five-story pagoda, the Tokyo Sky Tree is the latest seismic proof tower.  The tower easily surpasses height of the current Tokyo Tower (250m, 820ft) and other skyscrapers in Tokyo, creating a new skyline of Tokyo.  The tower’s grand opening is on May 22, 2012.

Hikarié, Shibuya

A new commercial tower emerges near the iconic enormous crossing in Shibuya.  Hikarié is in the final stage for the opening in summer 2012, in the vicinity of Shibuya train station.  Housing theatres, galleries, event space and shopping floors, Hikarié will become the ground zero of Tokyo’s art, culture, contents, and the information.  In tandem with many other theatres, galleries, cafés, clubs and stores, Shibuya has been culturally influential, and Hikarié will absorb and produce pop culture trends.

Global Financial Table in Tokyo

International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank will meet in Tokyo for the 2012 Annual Meetings’ venue.  The two largest international finance organizations picked Tokyo as an alternative venue for the 2012 event after Egypt, the original host country, gave up to host the meeting.  Starting from October 9, 2012, the Japanese capital city expects more than 20,000 visitors related to the meeting.  This is the first time to have IMF and World Bank meeting in Japan since 1964.

For more information contact: Nori Akashi, Public Relations Manager at nakashi@jntonyc.org.

(HA LONG, Nov. 2011) — Nearly 150 people turned out to celebrate the opening of Life Heritage Resort Ha Long Bay, Vietnam’s first private luxury fleet, in a theatrical launch at the Tuan Chau Marina Friday.

Representatives from the Embassy of Netherlands and Life Resorts’ sister properties watched along with tourism officials, travel agents and journalists as the new heritage junks sailed in formation through the marina to the beat of Vietnamese drums.

The ribbon cutting ceremony was officiated by the Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Quang Ninh Province, the Director of Tuan Chau Group, the Director of the Department of Transportation, the First-secretary of Private Sector Development from the Embassy of Netherlands, the CEO of real estate investment firm IBUS and the joint partners; followed by a champagne toast from the guests.

Members of the local media and Vietnam’s top travel agencies boarded the Life Resorts fleet for a cruise of Ha Long Bay Saturday morning.

The first boutique resort of its kind to launch in Ha Long Bay, Life Resorts’ 22 heritage junks are private floating hotel rooms, each carrying a maximum of four guests on a bespoke itinerary within the famed UNESCO Heritage Site.

Each 13-metre junk boasts a fully furnished 32 square-metre cabin with panoramic windows and traditional Vietnamese decor, an en suite bathroom, swim deck, covered separate lounge area, and upper sun deck. All boats in the Life Resorts fleet are maintained according to international maritime standards and outfitted with modern safety and emergency features.

Life Heritage Resort Ha Long Bay is now accepting guests for overnight cruises, four- and six-hour day cruises and wedding photography cruises.

(WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., Nov 08, 2011) — Surging ahead in China, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., today announced its popular Westin brand will open three new hotels in the fast-growing cities of Ningbo, Xian and Xiamen over the next six months. Earlier this year, Westin opened three hotels in several dynamic markets including its first hotel in Nanjing and Wuhan and its second hotel in Guangzhou. With the addition of these six hotels, Westin will boast a portfolio of 16 hotels in China by April 2012 and is on track to double its footprint in the region by 2014.

“Westin is rapidly branching out across China, fueled by growing enthusiasm among owners and developers who are eager to introduce the popular global brand to some of the country’s fastest growing cities,” said Brian Povinelli, Global Brand Leader for Westin Hotels & Resorts. “Our emphasis on wellbeing is resonating with travelers across China and around the world. More than 90% of Westin hotels currently in development will open outside the United States.”

“The phenomenal demand for the Westin brand is helping Starwood lengthen its lead in China, where we have nearly 100 hotels in the pipeline,” said Miguel Ko, Chairman and President of Starwood’s Asia-Pacific Division, a Chinese native who began his career with Starwood in 1979. “Demand for high-caliber global lodging continues to outpace supply in China, creating ideal conditions for the rapid expansion of all of our brands. We are also well positioned to leverage our long-standing relationships with local owners, who recognize the many benefits of joining the powerful Starwood network.”

The three new Westin hotel openings come on the heels of the month-long relocation of Starwood’s global headquarters to Shanghai, China this summer. The unprecedented managerial exercise highlighted Starwood’s evolution as a global company and the development boom in China.

The Westin Ningbo

Located in the heart of one of China’s oldest seaport cities, The Westin Ningbo is close to the Fenghua River in Ningbo’s central business district and close to the renowned Tian Yi Square’s many restaurants and boutiques. The 312-room hotel will offer six restaurants and bars, a Heavenly Spa and more than 14,000 square feet of meeting space for meetings, trade exhibits, and global conferences.

The Westin Xian

The Westin Xian is located in a vibrant entertainment and commercial area, near the ancient city’s numerous cultural attractions, ruins and temples, as well as its shops, restaurants, and corporate offices. The hotel will feature 326 guest rooms, a Heavenly Spa, an indoor swimming pool, 5,705 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting facilities and an art and artifact museum below the hotel.

The Westin Xiamen

The Westin Xiamen is strategically located in the new central business district and is part of a mixed use complex offering an art centre, retail shops and entertainment outlets. The hotel will offer 304 spacious guestrooms, a variety of Chinese and international cuisine at its three restaurants, a Heavenly Spa(R), indoor pool and more than 14,000 square feet of flexible meeting space for business meetings and social functions.

At all three new Westin hotels, the sensory-rich environment will offer a respite from the rigors of travel and sets a welcoming tone. Guestrooms will feature the world-renowned Westin Heavenly Bed(R) featuring lush sheets, down cushioning and a patented pillow-top mattress, which cradles and contours to the body for complete comfort. Another industry first, the Heavenly Bath(R) creates an invigorating spa-like experience, enhanced with the brand’s Heavenly Shower(R) Heavenly(R) Robe and exclusive White Tea Aloe bath amenities. In-room, high-speed Internet access and an ergonomic work space will offer travelers convenience and productivity in a tranquil setting.

For more information, please visit http://www.starwoodhotels.com.

(New York, NY, November 9, 2011) – With large varieties of cultural attractions, Japan awaits family travelers.  There will be more facilities opening in Japan in the coming year that will entertain both young and old.

CMAGLEV and Railway Park

Cup Noodles Museum in Yokohama

A unique museum was opened for the globally known Japanese product.  A Japanese food company Nissin is the manufacturer of the internationally saturated Cup Noodle, and opened the museum in Yokohama in September 2011.  Cup Noodle is saturated internationally, and this museum shows the product history and the founder’s creativity, and offers factory tour, and own cup noodle making program.  In the contemporary designed museum restaurant, enjoy global varieties of noodles.

Start the MLB 2012 Season in Japan

One of the 2012 season opening games goes to Tokyo.  The Major League Baseball announced the opening game between Seattle Mariners and Oakland Athletics in Tokyo on March 28 and 29, 2012.  MLB opened Boston Red Sox and Oakland Athletics game in Tokyo Dome in 2008, which is going to be the 2012’s opening game venue.  Baseball is one of the sports much loved by people in both Japan and the US, and the two countries even share the players as well.  Both the Mariners and the Athletics have Japanese players Ichiro Suzuki and Hideki Matsui, both of which are fan’s favorite.

Fish World far from Water

If looking for something else than cultural and historic landmarks in the old capital city of Kyoto, go to Umekoji Park just west of Kyoto station.  Already popular among local families for the Steam Locomotive Museum, the park is opening a new aquarium.  The construction continues to complete KYOTO AQUARIUM for grand opening in spring 2012, and it will be a rare aquarium located far from waters.  For the unique location, the aquarium contains large space for freshwater fish.

Odaiba Adds More Play Grounds

Odaiba, one of Tokyo’s top destinations Odaiba areas, adds more fun for family travelers:  In Tokyo’s waterfront entertainment city with indoor playgrounds and shopping malls, Tokyo LEGOLAND Discovery Centre will be opened in June 2012.  The newest LEGOLAND features interactive and educational indoor programs for children such as 4D cinema, and workshop with LEGO Master Model Builder.  The newly opened Trick Art Museum will invite visitors to the world of trompe l’oeils.  This is a very unique experience of the human vision tricks with Japanese art elements.

For more information contact:

nakashi@jntonyc.org

(Westport, CT, October 18, 2011) – Geringer Global Travel is offering a fully customizable and authentic trip to India, combining local family home stays with accommodations at charming bed and breakfasts and intimate boutique properties in Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Mandawa, Bikaner, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. In a home away from home, guests will enjoy the warm hospitality of Indian families, immerse themselves in local knowledge, indulge in rich, home cooked regional cuisines, and visit India’s most fascinating sights. This suggested 11-day itinerary, priced at $1,759 per person, double, is valid October 1, 2011 – March 31, 2012.*

Day 1-3: Delhi – Agra
The journey will begin with a home stay at Thikana, an intimate family property nestled in the quiet and relaxing neighborhood of Gulmohar Park in South Delhi. The hosts, Atul and Sheetal Bhalla, create a comfortable environment to make your stay as memorable as possible. On day two, guests will explore the sights of Delhi including the Red Fort, Qutub Minar and Chandni Chowk. On day three, guests will drive to Agra and check into Col. Lamba’s Indian home stay, hosted by a retired army officer from the Punjab Regiment. From this property guests can see the glories of the Taj Mahal very clearly. In the afternoon, sightseeing will include a visit to the Agra Fort and a sunset visit to the Taj Mahal.

Day 4-6: Jaipur – Mandawa
The next morning, guests will visit the Imperial ‘ghost city’ of Fatehpur Sikri en route to Jaipur. Upon arrival, guests will check into Dera Mandawa, a charming boutique property located in the heart of Jaipur. This historic estate built in 1890 is hosted by Thakur Durga Sing, a modern traditionalist delighted to share his activities of rain water harvesting with his guests. On day five, guests will embark on a full day city tour of Jaipur visiting the Amber Fort, City Palace and Jantar Mantar. On day six, guests will head to Mandawa, an ancient feudal settlement in Rajasthan and home of a royal castle. Decorated with frescos of famous merchants from the region, Mandawa is a veritable open gallery. Guests will stay at Mandawa Haveli, a majestic architectural marvel combining old world charm with the finest of present day luxury.

Day 7-8: Bikaner – Jodhpur
After breakfast guests will drive to Bikaner in north Rajasthan, a city dotted with scores of sand dunes and known for having the best camel riding in the world. After checking into the Vijay Guest House, guests will explore Junagarh Fort and the Jain Temples of Bhandeshwar and Sandeshwar. On day eight, guests will drive to Johdpur to be welcomed at Mohan Niwas, a home stay built by the father in law who was part of the Maharajah family of Johdpur. Sightseeing in Jodhpur includes the Meherangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada.

Day 9-10: Udaipur
En route to Udaipur, guests will visit the Ranakpur Jain Temples before checking into Devra, a privately owned five acre estate in the tranquil Aravali Hills with views of an 800-year old temple. Host, Major Durga Das, a former officer of the Indian elite Armoured Corps and of the premier nobles, is delightful company for bird watching or walks around the estate. His wife, Jyoti, is a fantastic cook and prepares beautiful meals for guests. In the evening guests will enjoy an enchanting boat cruise on Lake Pichola. On Day 10, sightseeing will include Jagdish Temple and a visit to the City Palace, one of the largest palaces in the world.

Day 11: Udaipur – Delhi
This day is free to relax or explore on your own until your flight to Delhi.

This suggested itinerary starts at $1,759 per person, double occupancy and includes: accommodations for 10 nights on twin sharing basis; daily buffet breakfast; all domestic transportation; rickshaw ride in Old Delhi; elephant ride in Jaipur; boat ride in Udaipur; entrance fees as per itinerary; English speaking guide; all current applicable taxes.

*Prices valid October 1, 2011 – March 31, 2012. Blackout Dates: December 20, 2011 – January 5, 2012.

(Blaine, WA., November 10, 2011) —The  best-value deal on the market is China Spree’s 14-day China’s Best Treasures tour.  Depending on the departure date, the price starts at $2,199 from San Francisco, which translates to $150 a day for luxurious hotel accommodations; 32 delicious meals; knowledgeable and personable guides; a fascinating and fun itinerary; and all transportation, including transpacific flights.

The tour covers some standard destinations: Beijing, with the Forbidden City and Great Wall;  Xian with its Terracotta Warriors; Guilin with its gorgeous landscape; Suzhou with its classical gardens; Tongli with its picturesque canals; and Shanghai, the lively, sophisticated financial center.

But the itinerary also includes rarely available, off-the-beaten path features like a hike to Long Sheng’s dramatic and beautiful Dragon Spine terraces (with a sensational lunch at the top).   Among the other very special activities are a rickshaw tour of Beijing’s maze-like old neighborhoods with lunch in a family’s courtyard home;  a walk through Xian’s Muslim Quarter; an overnight in Yangshuo, a town set in a classical Chinese landscape of soaring pinnacles (with the option of seeing a music and light spectacle on the Li River); a market tour and cooking class followed by a 5-course lunch; a “gondola” ride on Tongli’s  canals; and a transfer on the Maglev, the world’s fastest magnetic levitation train.

There are special meals: a Peking duck dinner, a dim sum banquet, a hot pot lunch, a tea banquet, a farewell feast, and elaborate American breakfast buffets in every hotel.

And the hotels—Marriott Beijing City Wall, Pullman Shanghai Skyway, Xian Grand Noble, and Sheraton Guilin—are 5-star luxury with every comfort and convenience, including business centers.

The tour starts at $2,499 from New York, Washington, D.C. and Chicago, and add-on air fares are available from many other departure cities. All prices quoted are cash only, per person double occupancy, and are subject to availability.

For more detailed information about the China’s Best Treasures and other tours, log onto www.chinaspree.com and click “China Tours.”