The Great Wall of China

I haven’t yet been to China and it’s certainly right up there on my list. If for the sole reason that there is a big drawing-pinless gap on my world map. But ever since Philip Bailey sang in his high pitch about ‘walking on the Chineeeeeeeese wall’ sometime in the long distant 80′s (?) I’ve wanted to do that. (Click here for a blast from the past courtesy of YouTube.)

The trip is 12 days from June 1, 2010. It includes Beijing, Xian and old Shanghai, the Terracotta Warriors and a meander one of the famous Great Wall of China. You’ll sail the Yangtze River through the scenic Three Gorges and impressive Three Gorges Dam, visit small villages and modern metropolises (metropoli?), take photos of ancient history and futuristic technology on the state-of-the-art Viking Century Sun. It can accommodate only 300 guests and all rooms have balconies so you slip away, put your feet up and relax as the scenery floats past.

The price includes return flights ex Auckland on Cathay Pacific, 12 days ‘Imperial Jewels of China’, one night in Hong Kong and transfers in Shanghai and Beijing.

See ya later alligator, as Danny would say…

*Sorry folks, this deal was in 2010.

Luxury on the Yangtze - Viking Century Sun

Viking is famous for its European river itineraries, but newly added is the enticing sounding Yangtze which meanders through rural China and also includes Beijing, Xian and Shanghai and wisks you off each day to some cultural doings (or not – its your choice). Try Peking Duck where it was invented and see some amazing acrobatics that only those petite Chinese gymnasts can do.

But I was even more enthused by the thought of the Russia and Ukraine voyages with a few nights in St Petersburg and Moscow. This is pitched to those who have seen the major cities in Europe and now want something different. Learn a bit of history and get amongst the Cossaks and Vikings, visit ancient towns, open-air museums. Visit the Kremlin and Red Square, or Kiev and the Black Sea. Ooohh I feel a Russian dance coming on….

AND … here’s the drumroll bit … I am reliably informed that unlike in the past when the last to book got the best price, the whole tourism industry is undergoing a bit of a correction and now the earlybirds are being rewarded. SO that means, these prices will be the lowest you’ll get. Word. Right now you can save $1500 per person if you book and pay by 18 December.

Viking Cruises are on 0800 447 913 in NZ or 1800 829 138 in Australia.