Day 1 – Tuesday 
Location: San Francisco
After meeting and greeting your flight leader and the other students joining the Dali Language Programs, we’re off to Hong Kong! This is an easy, non-stop ride across the Pacific – and most students find that after dinner and a movie, they’re able to manage dozing off to sleep for a while. So sit back, have a chat with your new friends, and enjoy the flight!

Day 2 – Wednesday
This day is ‘lost’ as you cross the International Date Line. But don’t worry– you’ll get it back when returning home!

Day 3 – Thursday
Location: Dali
Arrive at Hong Kong International Airport, where you’ll meet your program leaders and have time for a long awaited stretch. You will have a few hours in the airport before connecting onwards. Next, we’ll grab our bags (preferably small and manageable!) and check-in for our connecting flight to Kunming. The flight takes about 1 ½ hours, and then you will be setting down in mainland China! Arriving into Kunming International Airport, you will meet up with the rest of the staff awaiting your arrival, and hop on a bus for the 4.5 hour ride up to the city of Dali, and Dali University. You’ll arrive into Dali in the evening and head up to Dali University to get settled into your new Chinese home. Dali University is located about a 10 minute walk from the city gates of Dali’s historic “Old Town” and you will be living in the newly completed traditional Chinese style Teahouse, but with all the Western necessities (Western toilets, bathtub and shower, full furnished beds, desk.)  After dropping your bags off and washing up from the long flight, you will head into Dali for your first dinner in China! From here you will head back up to the Teahouse and rest up for the night – welcome to China!

Day 4 – Friday 
Location: Dali
Today is a day to get settled into your new environment. You will have some time to rest up from the day of travel from the USA, unpack and get settled into your rooms, and most importantly – explore the Old Town. With its small pedestrian streets lines with cafés and market stalls, small streams and flowering trees, you will enjoy getting to know this beautiful corner of the globe before starting up your classes in the morning. Enjoy exploring Dali with your new friends and staff for the day, enjoy some great meals in the city, get oriented to the lovely mountain air, and get ready to start immersing yourself in your Mandarin classes early tomorrow.

Day 5 – Saturday through Day 13 – Tuesday 
Location: Dali
The schedule while here in Dali and at the University will be structured primarily the same for each day. Classes will be held in the mornings, and the daily study schedule will look like this:

7:30am:
Breakfast is taken at the Teahouse and is often fruit, oatmeal, morning pastries, fried bread and/or cereal.

8:00am – 11:55 pm:
Each morning you will be in class for 4 hours (divided into 4 periods, which allow you ample time for a rest and a chance to get snacks or water.)  On the first day of class, there will be approximately a 1 hour orientation and survey to gauge your Mandarin proficiency, in order to determine what group is right for you to study with.  So classes will begin 1 hour later on this first day, and then for the remainder of the 2 week course, they will begin at 8:00am.

12:15pm – 1:30pm:
Break for lunch. All meals will be taken together as a group, and students will eat in the Teahouse. All the lunches will be eaten with the staff, and the variety of traditional Chinese & local hill tribe dishes make up a fantastic array of foods to be enjoyed.  Vegetarians need not worry, China is known for its savory vegetarian and tofu dishes.  Also spiciness can be added or left out at request.

1:30pm – 2:30pm:
Since you get up so early in the morning, we give you an hour a day to take an afternoon Chinese nap, a common staple of the locals.  If you aren’t tired, many students take the opportunity to hike to a nearby waterfall, stroll and read in the nearby flower garden or get together with three friends to play Mahjong or cards.

2:30pm – 7:00pm:
There will be a multitude of afternoon activities that will be offered for students attending this program. Some activities which students will be encouraged to partake in are:

Chinese calligraphy classes
Chinese kung-fu and Tai Chi lessons
Hop on a mountain bike to explore some of the small villages located around Old Dali city
Cormorant Fishing with Locals
Take a stroll down to Erhai lake for an afternoon swim
Visit the local hill tribe markets on various afternoons coinciding with their lunar calendar schedule
Hike up into the Jade Mountains to swim in the glacial pools
Visit some of the mountain monasteries…
…and of course, time spent exploring the various markets and quiet streets of Old Dali city.

7:00pm-8:00pm:
Dinner will often be taken in Old Town; however, sometimes we head to Xiaguan (New City), which stands in interesting contrast to Old Town.  Possessing the feel of a modern city, we will go at least once to this area for dinner and to help students understand where China has come from (Old Town) and where it is headed (New Town.)

8:00pm- 10:00pm:
After dinner you will head back up to the Teahouse at Dali University and settle in for the night.  Students are held to a high standard and teachers often give homework or expect you to be fully prepared for the next day’s class.

10:00pm – 11:30pm:
The day comes to a close.  You will be back in the teahouse, and will have finished up your homework assignments for the day. You are free to hang out with the other students inside the Teahouse, chat about the day’s activities, practice your ever-growing Mandarin proficiency, and enjoy wrapping up another day.

11:30pm:
Lights out. It’s an early start each day, and you’ll be ready for a good night’s sleep!

Day 14 – Wednesday 
Location: Dali
Today is the last full day in Dali. Throughout your two-weeks here you will have completed 44 hours of class time the previous afternoon, and on this last day you have some free time to say good bye to your new found home. There’s time for some last minute shopping, beginning to pack up your things, spending one last day with your new friends, enjoying a few last meals of Chinese & local dishes, and wrapping up your time here in Yunnan Province.
Also, we often take these free days to pursue activities that take up more time than an afternoon.  These activities often incorporate spending the previous night in a different guesthouse (all will have Western toilets) and then taking all of today to get through.  In the past we have done the following:

For those who are on a water sport team back home, at least one staff member will swim across Erhai Lake with you (approximately 3 miles wide) and followed by a boat with Personal Flotation Devices.
Horseback Riding up the Mountain and a night stay up in the beautiful, lush woods
Take a boat ride out onto the Lake to get a better view of the countryside from out on the water
Hop on a Private bus to Natural hot Springs
Take a Private van to the other side of the lake for a night in a guesthouse, with a dock you can jump off of for a relaxing swim
Visit Shaxi, our Community Service program.  Located 3 hours away, this little village is full of charm and good food.  Just before falling asleep there, take candid shots of the school children and talk with the other Rustic students about their amazing experiences

Day 15 – Thursday 
Today it’s an early start. After breakfast it’s time to pack up everything and get ready for the journey onward! At 8:30, you will hop on the bus and begin the 4.5 hour journey back down to the city of Kunming. Once arriving into Kunming, you will either be flying to Hong Kong to connect back to the USA, or connecting onto another Rustic Pathways program. Say goodbye to the friends you have made, the adventures you have had, and the country you have come to know – China!

An Important Note about Schedule Changes:
Rustic Pathways reserves the right to change, alter, or amend the daily itinerary for this trip at any time. Changes can be made for various reasons including changes in flight or program schedules, changes in the schedules of various external tours incorporated in our trips, the addition of new activities into a trip, or the substitution of an old activity for a new activity. The itinerary shown here provides a good outline of the anticipated daily schedule for this program. As with any travel program, some changes may occur.

CHINESE LANGUAGE IMMERSION

The Most Important thing you can bring is an open mind and big heart.  The Chinese people are incredible hosts; with the right attitude you will have the chance to experience this firsthand, sharing endless stories and cups of tea.

It is customary in Chinese culture to bring a gift for your teachers.  A small postcard of America, keychain or anything that is unique to your home town/state will be greatly appreciated and you can expect something in return at the end of your studies.

 IMPORTANT: PACK LIGHT! Domestic airlines in China have a check-in baggage weight limit of 20 kilos (about 44 lbs). If your bags weigh more than this, the airline may charge you an excess baggage fee for every kilo over the allowed limit. In past years, we have had students incur SIGNIFICANT charges for excess baggage.

Carry-On Luggage: A small backpack is the best carry-on bag:

• Passport - you can't get on the plane without this
• Wallet - with a bit of US money for the trip over. Your allowance account will be available to you as soon as you arrive in China. Most students bring something like $100 on the actual flight in case they need it along the way. and Wallet
• Photo Copy of Passport (2 additional photocopies should be carried in checked luggage)
• Sunglasses
• Good Book (trade with buddies)
• Keep yourself hydrated to avoid jet lag
• Medications (Must alert staff)
• Journal and Pens - start the habit of writing in your journal before you leave
• Digital Camera, 35mm camera and/or disposable camera - Be aware that cameras can easily get broken, lost, or stolen in China so only bring a camera which you are prepared to part with.  Also, don't forget to bring your chargers, batteries and memory cards.  You can also bring your USB cords for downloading pics for emails. (For all ipod photo / video users, try and practice putting pictures onto your ipod at home before coming out here)

(TIP: BRING ALL OF YOUR FILM IN YOUR CARRY-ON, AND ASK THE STAFF AT EVERY X-RAY STATION TO WALK THE FILM AND YOUR CAMERA AROUND THE MACHINE. DO NOT PACK YOUR FILM IN YOUR CHECKED LUGGAGE!)

Make sure everything you pack in your carry-on complies with the new carry on regulations of the TSA:

http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm

Checked Luggage: A medium sized duffel bag or large backpack work best. Wheeled bags are OK as long as they are medium sized and can easily be carried like a duffle over rough terrain.

• T-Shirts with sleeves (5-7 t-shirts)
• Long Pants (1 or 2 pairs - I suggest something lightweight i.e. linen or a quick drying material)
• Underwear (between 7 - 10 pair- you will be able to pay for laundry service at some hotels)
• Socks (4 pairs)
• Swimsuit
• Tank Tops (1-2)- Remember that you want to be culturally sensitive with your dress, so don't bring anything too tight or revealing
• Long Sleeve T-shirt - one or two - they help keep off the sun and keep in a little warmth in the evenings
• Rainproof, Lightweight Jacket - a small travel one is best
• Shorts (3 or 4 pairs) - not too short or tight, as this is offensive in Chinese culture.
• Sandals that are strapped (Chaco's or Teva's are recommended) and/or flip-flops
• Hat or cap for sun
• Towel (1 towel - NOT white) - white towels get rather gnarly looking after a while
• Medications (must alert staff about these) - bring with you any medications that you will need while you are away. You will need to tell staff what medications you have brought during your orientation period. This is done privately, but it is essential that you disclose to your staff all medications you are carrying.

Toiletries (Please pack all items that could leak in a PLASTIC or ZIPLOCK bag and remember only a limited amount of them can come on the plan with you, so unless you really need them, throw them into your checked luggage.)

• Deodorant: You will have a very hard time finding deodorant in China, let alone a recognizable brand
• Toothpaste and Toothbrush
• Contact lenses and accompanying supplies - if you use contacts, bring all of your contact solution with you
• Sunscreen - we suggest that you bring two completely different types. Alternate between them to avoid having any allergic reactions
• Chapstick- make sure that it has sunscreen in it. Lip balm without sun protection actually attracts the sun. Burt's Bees has some nice products.
• Sunburn cream or Aloe Lotion - if you are someone who is prone to sunburn, we suggest that you bring a small tube or bottle of sunburn

relief cream just in case you get too much sun.
• Insect Repellant - bring one that is heavy in DEET (40% or more) and one that is natural Citronella - 2 cans or bottles minimum. Be sure to switch off between insect repellants since DEET-based repellants can cause allergic reactions.
• Hand Sanitizer- one bottle. Always use this before you eat as many germs are passed from your hands to your mouth and keeping your paws clean helps keep you healthy wherever you are traveling!

Optional:

• Snacks – comfort food that won't melt - granola, dried fruit, etc. You don't need much, but just in case you don't like the airplane food.
(Note: Singapore Air serves some tasty meals)
• iPod or other MP3 player.  Note: On your Singapore Airlines flight, each seat has its own personalized TV screen with a host of TV Shows, Movies and Music to choose from.  MP3 players are not necessary for the flight but may be nice to have when traveling on a bus or during your free time.  Also please remember that any nice electronic device can easily get broken, lost, or stolen in China so only bring a camera which you are prepared to part with.
• Deck of Cards - fun for the plane and with your friends in China too
• Silk or Cotton Sleeping Sheet- for hostel beds
• Running Shoes - 1 pair (optional)
• Small packs of Kleenex Tissues - public toilets in most of Asia do not supply toilet paper - you are meant to bring your own. It's always handy to have a few packs of Kleenex tissues with you when you travel in Asia, but be rest assured that if you run out or do not bring them then you can buy them on most streets for a very cheap price.
• Small day bag – for side trips or hikes.
• Personal First Aid Kit - optional but recommended - all staff will have basic first aid recourses but if you prefer a specific brand or have allergies, we strongly encourage you to bring your own basic first aid supplies, such as:

1 - How long is the flight to this country?
The direct flight from San Francisco to Hong Kong takes approximately 14 hours.  The return flight to San Francisco is a bit quicker, taking 12 hours.

2 - Will there be a flight leader to this country?
Yes. All flights between Hong Kong and the USA will have a flight leader starting when the fight leader meets the students at the airport in San Francisco.  If you are traveling on the Wonders of China, Visions of China or The Ultimate China Adventure, then each of your Mainland Asian flights will be escorted.  Otherwise, these short, usually less than an hour and a half flights are not escorted.
 
3 - Do we need to get visas for this program?
China requires a visa for US citizens which students must obtain themselves before departure. Information about obtaining your visa is provided with your acceptance letter. If your stay in China is longer than 30 days, please contact our office for information regarding additional visa requirements. Students who are not traveling on a US passport should check online for their visa requirements.

4 – What Chinese province(s) does this program pass through?
Dali is one of the most ancient and historically significant cities in China.  It is located in Yunnan Province (Southwestern China.)

5 - What immunizations do we need to get for this trip?
Rustic Pathways does not make recommendations regarding immunizations.  We strongly suggest that you consult with a travel doctor or your family physician for medical recommendations based on the area where the student will be traveling (as listed above).  You can also check the Center for Disease Control website at www.cdc.gov for more information.  Yellow fever vaccinations may be required to enter Costa Rica if you have traveled to some international destinations including Peru prior to your trip to Costa Rica.  Please check the Center for Disease control website for more information.   

6 - How does this program connect to other programs?
Throughout Mainland Asia, Thursdays are our travel days.  This allows you to connect to other programs in China or other countries in mainland Asia easily, quickly and safely.  While their flights to the starting destinations of connecting programs are often unescorted, they will be dropped off at the airport by their previous program leader and met at the arrival airport by their new program leader.  For more information about connecting to other programs, please contact our Ohio office or e-mail us at china@rusticpathways.com.

7 – How long is the flight from Hong Kong to this program?
From Hong Kong to Kunming is an easy 1 ½ hour plane ride and then a 4 ½ private bus ride to Dali.  The bus is very comfortable and makes no stops along the way.

8 – What is the climate in the region where this program takes place?
Due to Dali’s proximity to the mountains and a lake, there is a nice cool breeze throughout the days and nights can be cold at times.  A hoodie or long-sleeve t-shirt should do the trick.  Also, be prepared for rainstorms, which are easily avoided with a simple umbrella.  Throughout all of our programs, Dali by far has the most enjoyable weather.

9 - Is this a good program for students interested in practicing their Spanish?
Yes!  Students will receive four hours of formal instruction per day from Chinese University Professors.  They will also be staying on the University’s campus which will help them practice their conversational Chinese skills as well as give them an insight into Chinese student life. 

10- What service projects will I work on and how are the projects identified?
There are no formal service projects on this program; however, in the past students have taken initiative to help out, including washing the smelly but adorable local teahouse dog!

11 – How physically strenuous is this program?
This trip is not physically exerting.  There are a host of optional activities (swimming across the lake, hiking up the mountain or bike riding) that we encourage you to take part in but if you are not physically able to it will not detract from your trip.  We strongly encourage drink water during this program and we will be happy to find you some if you request it.

12- What costs are not included on this trip?
The majority of costs associated with the program are included on this trip. Students should have extra allowance money if they wish: to buy souvenirs, artwork and handicrafts from local artisans or additional snacks or sodas from the local grocery stores. Students should bring extra money if they choose to participate in optional activities that are not included in the trip costs.

13 – What are the optional activities available at an additional cost on this program?
Please note that these optional activities are subject to change.  Occasionally Rustic Pathways staff identify new opportunities throughout the summer that we feel will enhance the students overall experience.  Optional activities may also be canceled. 
For more information about the costs of optional activities, please e-mail china@rusticpathways.com.

14 - What kind of food will we be eating? Where?
Since Rustic Pathways program costs include all meals, we prefer to stay with a strictly Chinese food diet.  This is often not a hard compromise since it offers some of the best food in the world and each province offer amazing diversity for flavors and cooking methods.  In addition, by sticking with the local diet, your body becomes adapted to traveling in a  foreign country much easier; however, should a student really crave McDonald’s or some sweets, we allow ample time for students to use their own allowance to quench this hunger.
 
15 - Can we cater to specific diets?
Contrary to belief, China is not just about rice.  In fact, often Chinese people will ask you “Do you prefer noodles or rice?”  Better yet, the Chinese cuisine is one of the most suitable for vegetarians.  China’s vegetable dishes are plentiful and savory and spiciness can be increased or left out all together at a simple request.  One thing we do ask is that students are forthright about their food allergies, often China will use a lot of cooking oil and home spices, thus it’s important for us to know what you can and can not eat.  This will not mean you go a day without food; rather the simple ingredient is aksed to be left off.

16 - Will the kids be drinking bottled water?
With all your meals and activities in China, Rustic Pathways buys bottled water and soda for the students.  Drinking tea made with boiled water presents no problems; however, all other times it is imperative to buy bottled water or soda, which are easily purchased at side stalls and supermarkets.
 
17 - What will the accommodation on this trip be like?
You will be staying in the recently built and furnished teahouse at the top of the university’s hill.  Overlooking the lake, this picturesque room has two double beds, a Western toilet, Internet access, a TV and a shower with a bathtub.  There are also two areas for night time recreation and both breakfast and lunch are held at the teahouse.  In our opinion, this is the most comfortable living accommodation for our programs.

18.  What are the bathroom facilities?
We will tell you straight up, public toilets in China can be frightening.  If you can avoid going to bathrooms at gas stations or in heavily trafficked locations, there are often no problems.  At your guesthouses all toilets will be Western-style and when eating in restaurants, the “squatters” are often clean and well-maintained.  The bathroom issue is a sensitive one in China since most Chinese people prefer the squatters, believing less contact offers cleaner situations; however, we understand your concerns and often can recommend the best place to go when you really have to go.

19 - How many girls and boys are usually on this trip?
We expect a good mix between genders, however the exact numbers vary from week to week and usually lean to the side of more girls than boys.

20- What is the ratio of guides to students?
Rustic Pathways generally strives to maintain a ratio of approximately 1 guide for every 6 students. There will be 6 guides on this program. Our guides go through a rigorous selection process including interviews with our program managers and a full background check.

21-Is your staff qualified in First Aid?
Because safety is our number one priority, all of our programs have staff that is certified with First Aid and CPR training. Many of our guides are also qualified Wilderness First Responders, EMTs, Wilderness EMTs, or Life Guards.

22 - How often (if at all) will students be able to do laundry on this program and what will it cost?
Students should pack reasonably for this program and as long as you are wearing one outfit a day then laundry is available at all hostels (less than 24 hour turnaround) and usually costs less than $10 for a full load.

23 - How often will they have access to phone and internet?
Since most of the programs travel through cities, students will have access to internet during most of their visits; however, sometimes the Internet may be slow.  In addition, there are phones everywhere in China (most small, road-side shops have an International-ready line) to call home.