China | Small Group Tours for Seniors

Q: Is tipping customary

<p>If you&#8217;re on an Odyssey tour, we take care of tipping so you don&#8217;t need to give it a second thought. However, in your free time, or if travelling independently, it&#8217;s essential that you make sure you tip an appropriate amount for services. Generally speaking, it is not common practice in China to tip for services rendered, although there are some exceptions. Group tour guides, hotel bellhops and waiters in high-level western restaraunts may accept tips, though don&#8217;t feel pressured to do so.</p>

Q: Can I use my mobile phone in China?

<p>Check with your cell phone provider to see whether you&#8217;re able to make calls and use data while in China. Many providers will offer a daily fee that allows you to make calls and check the internet while only being charged your regular rates. However, be certain to inform your provider that you&#8217;re heading overseas, because just like a bank they can turn off your service as a result of unusual activity.</p>

China tours for seniors

With a 4,000 year-old history, a population of 1.4 billion people, and a total landmass of 9.6m square kilometres, China is truly one of the most amazing travel destinations on the planet. Featuring an endless variety of geographical locales and cultural spectacles, there is no shortage of things to see or do while on a China tour. Delve into the history of ancient China on a visit to the terracotta army of Xi’an city, or experience the intensity of contemporary China in the mega-cities of Beijing and Shanghai. Take in China‘s natural wonders: the rugged peaks of Huangshan and Lushan, the beautiful karst mountain landscape of Guilin Yangshuo and drift down the Yangtze River, lifeblood of the world’s most ancient civilization. Join Odyssey Traveller and uncover the natural and historic wonders of China with a knowledgeable tour guide on our small group tours for senior or mature couples & the solo traveller.

China Tours

Tours for Mature Aged and Senior World Travellers.

65 days

Mar, Jul, Feb

Singapore to Lisbon by train

Visiting China

A small group railway journey from Singapore to Lisbon. The longest in the world for senior couples and mature solo travellers. Explore over some 56 days, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, Mongolia, Russia, France, Spain and Portugal. Limited to 10 travelers on this escorted program.

From A$43,995 AUD

View Tour

Silk Road specialist small group history tours for mature travellers

29 days

Aug, May, Sep

Travel on the Silk Road with Odyssey Traveller | Small Group Tour for Seniors

Visiting China, Kyrgyzstan

The Silk Road is an ancient trade route linking China and Imperial Rome through Central Asia. Few areas in the world remain as unexplored or offer such richness in terms of ancient and modern history, culture, and scenic diversity as Central Asia. Our Small group Silk road tours itinerary explores the Road through remote deserts and mountainous environments as we visit key sites between Xi'an and Bukhara.

From A$18,750 AUD

View Tour

Chinese history is long, unique, and truly remarkable, waiting to be discovered on your tour. A key impressive highlight is the terracotta warrior army, a super large collection of life-size terra cotta sculptures depicting the armies of Emperor Qin Shi Huang (221 – 210 BCE), the first Emperor of the first unified dynasty of China. Located at Xian city, the terra cotta warriors were buried with the Emperor as part of an elaborate mausoleum created to accompany and protect him in his afterlife. The underground vault contains the terracotta army, horses, and even a bronze chariot or few. On our Silk Road small group tours terracotta warriors in Xian are a popular site. They are explored with the help our tour guide who is vastly knowledgeable about the famous archaeological finds and history of the Qin dynasty. While in Xian we also explore the Ming-era city wall and Muslim bazaar that still stand.

Articles about China

15 Total Articles

Lushan National Park, China

From steep wintry peaks, rising more than 1.4 kilometers above sea level, to ancient forests and river ways, the range of scenery around Mount Lushan is genuinely breathtaking. A relatively unknown spot for Western tourists, the Lushan National Park is hugely popular for Chinese tourists. The mountainous region is littered with beautiful flora and fauna, and is teeming with wildlife, including the world's largest migratory white crane flock.

3 Jan 20 · 3 mins read

Read Article

The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is, first and foremost, a remarkable feat of human ingenuity, perseverance and construction. It offers a multi-dimensional insight into ancient Chinese history. From how the wall was constructed, to the ideology and strategic practicalities that necessitated its construction, there is so much to learn from the Great Wall of China.

3 Jan 20 · 5 mins read

Read Article

Red entrance gate opening to the forbidden city in Beijing - China

The Forbidden City, Beijing

Everything about the Forbidden City, from its name to its history, is full of intrigue. For many visitors, the Forbidden City embodies the secrecy, mystery and power of China’s past.

3 Jan 20 · 5 mins read

Read Article

Around the World in Six Coffees: Italy, France, Japan, China, Morocco & Argentina

Around the World in Six Coffees: Italy, France, Japan, China, Morocco & Argentina Order a cappuccino in Italy after 11am and expect to receive strange looks. In Argentina, don’t be surprised when your coffee order…

8 Dec 19 · 16 mins read

Read Article

Terracotta Warriors: History and Latest Discoveries

Travellers flock to Xi’an to walk around Emperor’s Qin’s tomb complex, one of the most famous archaeological finds in the world, the Terracotta Warriors

13 Nov 19 · 9 mins read

Read Article

Dinosaurs, Paleontology, & evolution: 10 best books

Dinosaurs and Dinosaur Fossils: The Definitive Guide for Travellers

Dinosaurs and Dinosaur Fossils Knowledge of dinosaurs exploded into the mainstream through Hollywood magic, thanks to Stephen Spielberg’s animated drama adventure Land Before Time (1988, co-produced with George Lucas of Star Wars fame) and the suspenseful Jurassic Park (1993) and…

3 Aug 19 · 10 mins read

Read Article

Touring China

The need to know

Getting around

Odyssey travels by coach and occasionally uses local transport, including trains and ferries. Specifics are always outlined in your tour itinerary. China has an extensive rail network, with a high speed rail network stretching across the country. Non-high speed rail services are also available, though are less fast and may be less comfortable. Most major cities have well-developed transport networks and have a variety of transport options, including subway trains, taxis and buses.

Taxis and buses are generally cheap and easy to find, though be advised taxi drivers don’t always speak English – having your destination written down for you in characters can be a big help.

Accommodation

In major cities in China, Odyssey typically stays in centrally located 4-5 star hotels, with easy access to public transport. In smaller towns or rural areas, we usually stay in clean family-run hotels or guesthouses in China.

Tour Guides

Odyssey always engages local guides with regional knowledge to ensure an authentic experience during which you can learn as much as possible about the history and culture of places you visit.

Geography, Environment & Weather

As the third largest country in the world, China’s geography is vast, varied, and diverse. China is divided into 22 provinces, 5 autonomous regions, 4 municipalities, and 2 special administrative regions. Physical landscapes greatly vary, from the mountains of Tibet, to the plains of northern China, and the deserts of Xinjiang in the west. Two major rivers flow across the country – the Yellow River to the north, and the Yangtze to the centre. Mountains and hills typify much of the southern and western regions of the country, while coastal flatlands and open plains feature in the east and north respectively.

Given the diversity of China’s geography, climate and temperature can vary considerably. The north often features hot summers and freezing winters, while the south is generally warm, subtropical and humid. Depending on the time of year and region you intend to travel to, be prepared to dress according to season and climate.

World heritage sites

China has more than 50 world heritage sites, the second most in the world. You can view the official list of the sites here https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/cn.

Although every site is worth visiting, here are a few highlights:

The Grand Canal, a colossal waterway system completed in the 7th century AD
Temple of Heaven, a stunning complex of religious buildings located in Beijing
Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries, home of China’s iconic national animal

Festivals and Events

With its ancient history and deeply ingrained cultural traditions, China is home to many colourful festivals and events. Chinese New Year, generally held at the end of January or the beginning of February is a time of celebration and excitement across the country, featuring fireworks, music and gift-giving. The Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival is the largest ice-sculpture in the world and attracts participants from across the country and the world, while the Duanwu Festival centres around the thrilling Dragon Boat races.

Reading list

A History of Chinese Civilization, by Jacques Gernet
The River at the Center of the World, by Simon Winchester
The Silk Road in World History, by Xinru Liu
China’s Lost Imperial Garden, by Guo Daiheng and Yawtsong Lee

Eating and Drinking

China’s cuisine is a central part of Chinese culture. Chinese cuisine draws from distinct regional flavours and cooking styles, including Sichuanese, Cantonese, Shandong and Jiangsu regional cuisines. Kungpao chicken, a dish native to Sichuan, showcases the region’s flair for spice and heat, while Peking duck is the signature dish of the nation’s capital. Tea remains an important part of Chinese culture, with many varieties consumed, including green, oolong, and white tea. Wherever you travel in China, you will always find a new and unique culinary experience.

Health and Safety

For most of the country, travel within China is usually safe. However, smartraveller.gov.au advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to Tibet or Xinjiang.

Electrical supply

Whenever you travel overseas, it’s always wise to take an appropriate travel adaptor. The electricity supply runs at 220V, and 50Hz. Chinese plugs will either have two vertical pins or three pins (either triangular or in a T-shape), depending on region, so make sure you have the right adapter with you before your trip.

Highlights

The best of China

The Forbidden city

The Forbidden City, the spectacular palace complex built as a residence for China's former emperors.

The Great Wall

The Great Wall, a triumph of Chinese architecture, stretching for over 21,000 kilometres

Lushan National Park

Lushan National Park, which features some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in China

Tour Reviews

The tour was fantastic and well organised and well managed. · I have travelled expensively but have not with a travel organisation that comes anywhere near Odyssey's attention to detail and the comfort of its travellers. · The tour was fantastic and well organised and well managed. The transport provided was always very good and where the seats were a little narrow, the bus was big enough for us to 'spread out' for more comfort. · Our accommodation was excellent as was our local guide.I would highly recommend a trip to this beautiful country with many treasures to explore and learn about. Discover Myanmar Nov ‘15

info@odysseytravel.com.au

Discovering Myanmar | Small Group Tour for Seniors

The trip to the Tang valley and the Ogyencholing museum were a highlight. Beautiful scenery, wonderful people and one of the best museums I've seen. That night and all next day it snowed - what a buzz. Made everything look magical and improved the scenery for the next few days

Participant March 2017

Bhutan | Small Group Cultural Tour

Your chat-operator was informative and helpful. We have covered quite a few countries and seasons to travel. Full marks for that!

Philip Lee

Discovering Myanmar | Small Group Tour for Seniors

I wish to sincerely thank Len for his amazing care, good cheer and flexibility ! Len has that great combination of simultaneous organisation and flexibility, which is so very necessary on a small trip such as this. In his stride, he was able to re-design the program at short notice due to weather conditions (working closely with Drakpa) and the end result was better than the original plan in my opinion!!! It was clear from day one, that Len cared and payed attention to each and every one of us at every step of the way – going out of his way to assist those who needed it. The trust and camaraderie we developed with Len made the trip that much more special! I miss our laughs.

Participant March 2017

Bhutan | Small Group Cultural Tour

The local guide, Drukpa, was exceptional value. When I was ill for a couple of days his care for me, assisted by Len, was way beyond my expectation.

Participant March 2017

Bhutan | Small Group Cultural Tour

We did this tour in 2011. Wonderful, extraordinary experience. Loved every minute.

Rex and Maree

Journey through Mongolia and Russia small group tour

Loved: National Institute of traditional medicine hike to Wanyditse Goemba Punakha festival – definitely a highlight Hanging the prayer flags at the pass! The outdoor picnics! Archery competition! Dumtse Lhakhang – went to heaven!!! Dzong Drak Kha (mini tigers nest) amazing views and climb Sanga Choekor Shedra (Bhuddist College) Drakpa and his team (Nima and Karma) were just amazing. Drakpa was very knowledgeable, friendly, caring and cheerful. He went out of his way to provide us with information and experiences to help our understanding of the culture and religion, he was funny and entertaining and very professional under pressure.Nima was a very competent driver, and I have never felt in safer hands in the difficult driving conditions we were in.

Participant March 2017

Bhutan | Small Group Cultural Tour

FAQs

What time zone is China in?

China has a single time zone, Beijing Time (UTC+8). China does not observe daylight savings.

Is tipping customary

If you’re on an Odyssey tour, we take care of tipping so you don’t need to give it a second thought. However, in your free time, or if travelling independently, it’s essential that you make sure you tip an appropriate amount for services. Generally speaking, it is not common practice in China to tip for services rendered, although there are some exceptions. Group tour guides, hotel bellhops and waiters in high-level western restaraunts may accept tips, though don’t feel pressured to do so.

What is internet access like?

Internet access is usually good in hotels, cafes, restaurants and bars. Be aware however that in China, the government censors certain internet content, and some websites, such as Facebook, Instagram, Google, Twitter, and YouTube are blocked in the country, as are certain news websites such as the BBC.

Can I use my mobile phone in China?

Check with your cell phone provider to see whether you’re able to make calls and use data while in China. Many providers will offer a daily fee that allows you to make calls and check the internet while only being charged your regular rates. However, be certain to inform your provider that you’re heading overseas, because just like a bank they can turn off your service as a result of unusual activity.

Articles about China published by Odyssey Traveller:

Terracotta Warriors: History and Latest Discoveries.

The History and Legacy of the Silk Road.

Xi’an: The Beginning of the Silk Road.

Silk Road Explorers: ‘Imperialist Villains’.

Books to Read About the Silk Road.

The History of the Bund, Shanghai.

Dinosaurs and Dinosaur Fossils.

Dinosaurs, Paleontology and Evolution: Ten Books to Read.

Eight Amazing Rail Journeys.

For all the articles Odyssey Traveller has published for mature aged and senior travellers, click through on this link.

External articles to assist you on your visit to China:

40 Beautiful Places to Visit in China.

Beyond Beijing: Six Chinese Cities You Need to Know.

Guide to the Eight Regional Chinese Cuisines.

Responsible travel tips for China

Learn at least the local greetings to break the ice. Although many locals speak English, the more you know of the native language, the greater your experience of the country will be.
Carry a business card in your wallet or purse from your local hotel, to assist you with the return journey if you do become lost.
Always ensure that you are covered by travel insurance. If you need advice on this feel free to contact Odyssey and we’ll be able to help.
When travelling independently, make sure you check the opening hours of shops and museums so that you don’t miss out! Museums and galleries are often closed on Mondays. Also be certain to check whether your trip coincides with any public holidays, so you can plan accordingly.
Consider contacting your bank to inform them that you may be making purchases overseas. Otherwise, they may flag any activity on your account as suspicious. Also, check which ATMs and banks are compatible with your cards, to ensure you can withdraw cash with minimal fees.
Before departing, make sure you have a number of Yuan notes in a range of denominations. You don’t want to be carrying around enormous amounts of cash, but take enough to make it easy to pay in locations that might not accept credit card. It will also help you avoid card transaction fees, and it makes tipping a breeze.

About Odyssey Traveller

We specialise in educational small group tours for seniors, typically groups between six to 12 people from Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada and Britain. Our maximum number of people on a tour is 18 mature aged travellers. We have some 150 tours and offer 300 scheduled departures on offer each year. Odyssey has been offering this style of adventure and educational programs since 1983.

Odyssey Traveller is committed to charitable activities that support the environment and cultural development of Australian and New Zealand communities.

Odyssey Traveller scholarship for Australia & New Zealand University students

We are also pleased to announce that since 2012, Odyssey has been awarding $10,000 Equity & Merit Cash Scholarships each year. We award scholarships on the basis of academic performance and demonstrated financial need. We award at least one scholarship per year. We’re supported through our educational travel programs, and your participation helps Odyssey achieve its goals. Students can apply for the scholarship by clicking on this link to find out more details.

Join our loyalty program when you join an international small group tour.

Every International small group tour taken typically contributes to your membership level in our Loyalty Program for regular travellers. Membership of the alumni starts when you choose to take your first international small group tour with Odyssey Traveller, discounts in tour pricing for direct bookings accrue from your third tour with Odyssey Traveller. To see the discounts and benefits of being a Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Diamond alumni member with us, please see this page.

For more information on Odyssey Traveller and our educational small group tours, visit and explore our website., remember to visit these pages in particular

Alternatively, please call or send an email.