Itinerary Expand allBeijing to Xi'an Day 1 Overnight train to Xi'anThe day is free to relax or explore Beijing. In the evening we board an overnight train to the ancient city of Xi'an. This train is of a good standard. Sleepers are four berth and bedding is provided.Overnight Train Day 2 Arrive Xi'an; guided city tourThis morning we arrive in Xi'an, one of China's former capitals and one of the few cities in China to have retained its city walls; probably because they are so big that no revolutionary was willing to tackle the huge task of removing them. In the afternoon we take a guided tour of the city with the Bell and Drum Plaza at its heart, along with the Great Mosque. The Muslim quarter is a fascinating place to visit, especially in the evening as it comes alive with the bustle of the bazaars and food stalls.Skytel Hotel / Bell Tower Hotel Xi'an, or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 3 Terracotta Warriors visit; free time in afternoonToday we visit the famous mausoleum of Emperor Qin with its staggering display of Terracotta Warriors. His tomb lies covered by a grassy mound amidst green fields. Originally four armies were planned, at each point of the compass, life-size and lifelike. Three have been found and it is assumed the emperor's successors decided enough was enough before the fourth was begun. The first pit excavated had an estimated 6,000 figures in one army. The third pit has been opened to the public, which contains the 'command post' for the entire operation. This is one of China's greatest tourist attractions, and some people may find the sheer numbers of visitors rather overpowering. Upon your return to Xian the afternoon is free. It is possible to hire bikes (optional) and cycle on the city walls to appreciate the sheer scale.Skytel Hotel / Bell Tower Hotel Xi'an, or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 4 End Xi'anEnd your extension in Xi'an. Meals included: Breakfast
ChinaNearly all nationalities require a visa to enter China, which must be obtained prior to departure. The Chinese authorities now require a letter from Exodus, confirming all your accommodation details. Along with this, you need to supply a copy of your flight details, which are on your invoice if you have booked directly through Exodus. For further information see here. It is also essential that we have a clear copy of the details page of your passport. This is required to book certain ground services in China and we cannot confirm your details with our local partners until it has been received. This must be emailed as an electronic scan to [email protected] a minimum of 8 weeks prior to your trip.IMPORTANT: Please note that all visa applicants aged between 14 and 70 will need to visit one of the Chinese Visa Application Service Centres in person (appointment required) where biometric data will be taken as part of the visa application process.
ChinaThere are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Polio, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Typhoid, Hepatitis A. The risk of malaria is slight but you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice.If your trip visits Hong Kong, dengue fever is a known risk - this is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten: apply insect repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers.
Hotels & Sleeper train2 nights hotels, all ensuite; 1 night overnight trainThe overnight trains will be booked in soft-class sleeper A/C, sleepers are four berth and bedding is provided.There are many excellent trains in China and the standard of seating and sleeping is in line with European standards, however the journey from Yichang to Liuzou is more basic than the previous two rail journeys. On occasion, passengers of different genders will be required to share a compartment and there will be times where you'll be sharing with local travellers or travellers who are not part of your group. The train facilities are generally good but please be aware that these are shared and cleanliness can never be guaranteed.Snacks are often offered on board (at an additional cost) but you may wish to purchase your own food prior to the journey.
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