China Tour Reviews

Dear Wendy:

This is my second visit to Beijing -the first visit was 2004 ,at that time, My wife Tewen and My youngest son came with me through one Japanese travel agency through my California agent Ann, [before Summer Olympics]. China changes dramatically during these 13 years, more developed in all infrastructures, people are very friendly, with a continued booming economy.

I am very happy with this trip. Linda in Beijing, especially, we call us Linda's family -she is very professional, kind, she taught all of us about history and culture of China, the norms, the traditional ways, distinctive difference between East and West. Her English is fluent, just like we are in a family - feeling at home. On a score of 10/10, I will give her 12 and beyond. Our group of 17 is satisfied, happy, blissful, joy with her presence even among the extreme humidity, unbearable heat, climbing the great wall at Badaling.

The hotel Novotel is not as impressive compared to Sheraton Xian, or Pullman jing An in Shanghai. It is kind of old hotel, it's advantage is location, wishing Accor group can remodel the hotel, one at a time, otherwise, they will lose customers, the front desk receptionists do not communicate in fluent English or French, Korean or Japanese. I will give this hotel 3.5 stars. All locations are well chosen in Beijing. Wished to spend one more day in Beijing to enjoy gourmet food, the gardens, Chinese book store.

Tracy in Xian is fantastic, full of energy, knowledgeable, a good match for Linda, a younger version of Linda, very kind and affectionate just as Linda does, to be congratulated for her fine work and hospitality.

Xian Sheraton is definitely 5 stars; I have been in many Starwood hotels [Sheraton] before it was incorporated in the Marriott family in Hawaii, other major cities of US. , this one is one of the best with service, food and room, impeccable

All bus drivers are great both in Shanghai, Beijing and Xian

The dancing and performance from the Tang dynasty is a highlight. The tour of the old Xian city walls with its well preserved walkway, easy for bike riding -home visit with family well done. Terracotta to me is a good trip. I just cannot say any good things about the first king of Qin who is a tyrant.

In Shanghai, Jacob is a wonderful guide ,his English is not as fluent as Linda and Tracy, he has a very warm heart working also as interpreter for Volkswagen ,Shanghai hotel Pullman is very modern , one of the best Accor hotel [sofitel ] far better than its sister hotel, Novotel, Xinqiao in Beijing, a star of 4, well deserved every one of the group wishes to have a chance to try the high speed rail in China. Hope one more day in Shanghai - including a trip to Hang Zhou by HSR [the Chinese Bullet train]

I have given my card, e-mail address and telephone to all member of our group [Linda family] so that we can connect, expand family of Linda-Tracy -Jacob

WITH BEST PERSONAL REGARDS

KIN CHAN