Day 1, Tuesday
Location: San Francisco
After meeting and greeting your flight leader and the other students joining the Wonders of China, 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 or so, 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 worry not – you’ll get it back when returning home!

Day 3, Thursday 
Location: Shanghai
Arrive at Hong Kong International Airport, where you’ll meet your program leaders and have time for a long awaited stretch. We’ll sit down for a relaxed chat and a refreshing drink while giving you our detailed plans for the rest of the day. Next, we’ll grab our bags (preferably small and manageable!) and check-in for our connecting flight to Shanghai’s Pudong International Airport. The flight takes about 2 hours. Upon arrival, we’ll be picked up by a private bus and taken downtown to our hotel. Check- in, grab a quick shower, drop your bags off, and then we’ll get together again, have a chat and hit the streets of Shanghai for a short walk through this amazing city at night, giving you a taste of what’s in store on our adventure – Rustic Pathways welcomes you to China!

Day 4, Friday
Location: Shanghai
After a good night’s rest, we’ll grab some breakfast at the hotel and begin our adventure as we walk to Shanghai’s legendary Old City. Your senses will be overwhelmed as you pass through the traditional buildings and wander the cobbled streets lined with shops and food stalls of the Old Town Bazaar. Check out the feng shui at Yuyuan Garden, and enjoy lunch on bustling Yunnan Street, savoring your first tastes of traditional Chinese food. Next, we’ll walk to the shores of the Huangpu River and walk up ‘The Bund’, perhaps the most famous mile in mainland China. ‘The Bund’ is Shanghai's historic colonial district, where the city's history of European presence stands, proudly represented by the classic European architecture. Next, we’ll cross under the river via the West Bund Sightseeing Tunnel over to Pudong – Shanghai’s largest high-rise district – and the fastest developing area in the world. To give you an idea of how fast Shanghai has developed into the high rise futuristic city that it is today – in the mid 90’s Shanghai held over half of the world’s construction cranes.  As the afternoon light begins to fade, we’ll make our way up the ‘Pearl of the Orient Tower’, to take in the best view of this amazing city. After taking countless panoramic photographs of the stunning skyline, you’ll get right back into the thick of things as we cap the night off with a stroll down Nanjing Street, home to the early evening heartbeat of dynamic Shanghai.

Day 5, Saturday
Location: Shanghai
On Saturday, we’ll start early with a buffet breakfast, and then we’ll head over to Renmin Square, the largest park in Shanghai. Gain a fascinating glimpse into Chinese history and art at the Shanghai Museum, and witness a true-to-life scaled down model of this impressive city, as well as development plans for the near future at the Urban Planning Hall. These exhibits are truly world class, and provide great insight about what the Chinese civilization has accomplished, as well as their aspirations for development in the future. After some time to relax, rejuvenate, and hang out with your new friends at the hotel, we’ll catch a subway to the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, the home of the amazing Chinese Acrobat Performance. A day packed full of the best cultural attractions that Shanghai has to offer will surely make for some lasting impressions.

Day 6, Sunday
Location: Beijing
 After a hearty breakfast, we’ll pack our bags, load up the bus, and head off to the airport. Today we transfer north to Beijing, China's timeless capital city and the host of the 2008 Summer Olympic Games. Just a short 90 minute flight north will bring us to Beijing International Airport around lunch time. We’ll be greeted by a private bus waiting at the airport, and quickly transfer to Fangyuan Hotel in the heart of old Beijing. After settling in to your new room, its time to explore this ancient capital! Just a short walk and you’ll be at the huge Tiananmen Square, the sight of the democracy protests in 1989. Just across the road stands a huge portrait of Mao overlooking the square, and behind him, Beijing’s prized Forbidden City. The immense Forbidden City is a place which was off-limits and unseen by any member of the Chinese public for several hundred years, and really opened up to foreigners in the early 1980’s. Capture stunning images as you wander these ancient grounds dotted by various temples and gardens constructed by Chinese royalty centuries before. Take a pedicab tour through the city's winding hutongs (narrow alleyways home to many local Beijingers), past the houses of former generals, which reveal images and glimpses into the simple life in Beijing. You’ll return home with some tired feet and amazing pictures, and have some time to relax at the hotel. Later, we’ll pop over to a local restaurant and have a chance to savor a dinner of legendary Peking Duck, before heading back to the hotel and calling it a night.

Day 7, Monday
Location: Beijing
Rising early, we'll hop on a chartered bus and head out of town for the entire day. Though we’ll be up very early, there is no reason to stress, as you’ll have time to sleep on the comfortable bus. Today you’ll have a chance to witness and explore The Great Wall - one of the seven man-made wonders of the world. A visit here truly puts history in perspective, and makes one of the greatest endeavors of humankind a part of your memories. After lunch and some refreshments, we’ll jump in the bus again and head west to Chuandixia, a quiant, traditional town nestled into the mountainside, which offers a window into slower-paced rural life. Returning late and well rested, we’ll cruise the streets of modern Beijing at night and feel the exciting vibe which permeates the city.

Day 8, Tuesday  
Location: Xi’an
After breakfast, we’ll grab our bags and get in the bus to the airport, and connect to our next stop: Xi’an. Upon arrival in Xi'an International Airport, we'll be picked up by a chartered bus and whisked out to the 2000 year-old Army of Terracotta Warriors. The Terracotta Warriors, discovered first in just 1974, are part of one of the biggest archeological discoveries in recent times, and are remarkably well preserved. On our way back into town, the tour goes on as we stop at a few of Xian’s famous sights which lie outside the town center. In the evening, we’ll return to town and check-in to the centrally located Hotel. After a well deserved shower and a spell of down time, its time to see to lively and diverse city center. We’ll check out the Great Mosque, and explore the streets of the culturally rich Muslim quarter nearby, which showcases a fascinating fusion of cultures. You’ll soon see that the staple food for these people is not rice but rather wheat, and all sorts of tasty middle-eastern inspired foods fill the roadside food stalls. 

Day 9, Wednesday  
Location: Mt. Hua
After a nice buffet breakfast at our hotel, we'll catch a bus out to Mt. Hua, home to one of China's most legendary mountain ranges. Travel time is again comfortable and social, and if you’re still a bit sleepy feel free to doze off for a while. When we arrive, we’ll take a cable car voyage to the top of the sharp peaks for a fantastic view. We’ll explore the area a bit, then head back down and grab some lunch before returning to Xi’an. We’ll take it easy in the early evening, having a look around the dramatic city center. After a relaxing dinner, we’ll ascend the city's legendary Bell towers, for some nice views from the heart of the city.

Day 10, Thursday 
Location: Dali
After another delicious buffet breakfast, we’re off to the airport again, transferring first directly south a couple of hours to Kunming International Airport in Yunnan province. From Kunming, we’ll connect to a short, 30 minute flight over the mountains to Dali Airport, outside of Dali City. On a clear day, this is a beautiful flight which will give you a unique birds-eye perspective of the stunning landscape of western Yunnan province. Once we arrive and check in to the Tibetan Lodge where we’ll be staying, we’ll take the afternoon to explore the lively city streets and acclimate to the easy pace of life here in the mountains of southern China. You’ll quickly find here that the air is a fresher, the people are quick to share a smile, and that Dali is a unique and comfortable place to unwind.

Day 11, Friday
Location: Dali
After an easy morning and a tasty breakfast, we’ll journey up the mountains overlooking the city by cable car, and savor the views from atop the mountains. Before returning to town, we’ll swing by Dali University, the home of Rustic Pathways’ Chinese Language Programs, and wander this beautiful campus perched on the foothills beyond the city or join in a friendly soccer game with the Rustic Pathways Chinese language students. In the afternoon, you’ll have plenty to time to wander the streets of Old Town, meeting the friendly vendors and enjoying a street performance or kung-fu movie playing on an outdoor screen at the city center. View the wonderful boutiques filled with everything from traditional Bai quilts, clothing, and jewelry to beautiful original art and quality outdoor gear. Scout for great souvenirs and gifts to bring home for your family and friends.

Day 12, Saturday
Location: Dali
Today, we’ll get out of town and explore the far shores of Erhai Lake. Take your bathing suit along, as we skip from village to village, checking out these sleepy little communities that receive few visitors. Just imagine – only a week ago, you were lost between the huge metropolises of Shanghai and Beijing – how things can change in just a week! Take a deep breath and behold the Jade Mountains as they’re reflected by the clear lake waters – not a bad way to spend a Saturday afternoon in China.

Day 13, Sunday
Location: Macau
First thing in the morning, it’s back to the Dali airport for a morning flight to Kunming, where we’ll connect on to Macau. This flight takes about 2.5 hours, and we’ll arrive in Macau by mid-afternoon. After checking in to the East Asia Hotel, we’ll step outside and wander the cobbled streets, pondering the many signs posted in both Chinese and Portuguese. View the beautiful architecture of the colonial period buildings, and feel the distinct vibe of this popular destination. As the sun sets, the city’s alter-ego emerges, as the bright casino lights come to life and suggest that Macau is the ‘Las Vegas of Asia’. Just another memorable and interesting stop on our Wonders of China tour!

Day 14, Monday 
Location: Macau, Hong Kong
After a breakfast sampling some tasty local cuisine, we’ll have a bit more time to have a look around the old city, before heading up the Macau Sky Tower for a sensational view and an optional adrenaline-pumping bungee jump. Test your guts and go for style points in front of your new friends, or simply enjoy the panoramic views of the island and cheer on your crazy comrades. Next, it’s off to the pier to catch the ferry across to Hong Kong, the final stop on our ‘Wonders’ tour. As we turn the corner and the bright lights of the city come into view, prepare for a special sight - Hong Kong is an amazing city to see from a distance. As this might be a little overwhelming coming from Dali just 2 days before, we’ll be sure to allow you some time to re-adjust to the exciting city atmosphere. Pulling into Kowloon, we’ll check in to our hotel, and spend the rest of the evening tasting some local cuisine and searching for bargains on Nathan Road before heading off to bed.

Day 15, Tuesday
Location: Hong Kong
After a nice breakfast at the hotel, we’ll pack up day packs and walk to the pier to join a morning tai-chi session. Next, we’ll grab a brown-bag sandwich lunch and take the subway out to Lantau Island. From here, we’ll take the cable car up the rural mountains to the Big Buddha. Here, we’ll have the whole day to hike around and explore this beautiful area, and find some nice beaches to stop at for a swim. After seeing the impressive size of Hong Kong, you won’t believe that just pristine forests, trails, and beaches exist so close to such a hue metropolis. We’ll have some time to relax and shower when we return to the hotel, grab a bite to eat, and then we’ll be out for the evening again - this time to the Temple Street Market for some more great bargain hunting and walk around the culturally diverse and intriguing streets of Hong Kong.

Day 16, Wednesday 
Location: Hong Kong
First thing, we’ll again pack up gear for the day - first stop at the exotic bird and flower markets of Kowloon which make for great, colorful pictures. Next, you’ll take the subway over to the high-rise world of Hong Kong Island. There are many sights to view here, from the dominating modern sky-scrapers, to the traditional streets of seafood and long-established medicine shops. As the sun sets, we'll take the tram to Victoria's Peak for the most stunning views of the city and some amazing photo opportunities for you and your friends. This is the perfect place to spend our last night together, as it offers a spectacular view to soak in while putting the whole experience in perspective.

Day 17, Thursday 
After a final breakfast, we’ll take the subway to the airport, where its time for an emotional goodbye with your friends (can you believe it’s only been 17 days?) who you’ll feel like you’ve
known for life. From here, you’ll either fly home or continue on to your next adventure with Rustic Pathways!

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.

The Wonders of China Program

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.
 
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?
This trip will cover the most ground, including passes through two Special Administration Regions (Hong Kong and Macau), two cities that serve as their own provinces (Beijing, surrounded by Hebei Province, and Shanghai, surrounded by Jiangsu and Zhejiang Province), Sha’anxi Province and Yunnan Province.

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?
The first leg of this trip goes from Hong Kong to Shanghai, which lasts about 2 hours.  The rest of the flights in this program are usually short, quick flights lasting less than an hour.

8 – What is the climate in the region where this program takes place?
Wonders goes through every type of Chinese climate except the desert.  Thus, although we stress that you pack light, do be prepared to face cold (but not frigid) nights and hot days.

9 - Is this a good program for students interested in practicing their Spanish?
does not include formal Chinese language instruction; however students will have multiple opportunities to practice Chinese with the locals and are often encouraged to learn on-the-go by a Rustic Pathways staff member who speaks the language.

10- What service projects will I work on and how are the projects identified?
There are no formal service projects on this program.

11 – How physically strenuous is this program?
This trip is physically exerting only in the fact that there are so many places to see.  We have arranged this program so that you have ample rest time and we are confident you will go through this trip without significant physical exertion, the hardest days require you to hike up a well-trodden mountain or bike riding excursion.  We strongly encourage drinking a lot of 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.
There is an optional Bungee Jump in Macau.

13 – What are the optional activities available at an additional cost on this program?
Bungee Jump: TBA
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 Western style accommodations throughout the duration of this trip.  That means that each room will have (2) comfortable twin beds, air conditioning and western style toilets.  Sometimes the showers will have no tub but always have a drain and are not hard to operate.

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.