The Magic of Myanmar & Yunnan China

TRAVEL IN CHINA The schedule will be demanding with moderate physical activity. Participants must be in good MAIN TOUR COST mental and physical health and be able to keep • Rates are per person and do not include international air: up with the pace of the group. Program partici- Main Tour, Double Occupancy $5,995 pants requiring assistance must be accompanied by someone who can and will be totally respon- Single Supplement $1,395 sible for providing all required assistance. Any PAID

mental or physical constraints must be reported Postage U.S. Oakland, CA CA Oakland, Chengde Post-Extension $1,495 Single Supplement $ 695 at the time of registration. 379 No. Permit TOUR HIGHLIGHTS & SPECIAL FEATURES Standard Presorted Beijing, Xian & Shanghai Post-Extension $2,395 Single Supplement $ 795 The itinerary is subject to change and modifi- Experience the Delights of a Well-Crafted Itinerary cation. Every effort will be made to carry out the program as planned, but alterations may Guilin & Longsheng Post-Extension $2,095 Single Supplement $ 850 still occur. Participants should be aware that no refunds will be made as a result of unforeseen Hong Kong Post-Extension $1,895 Single Supplement $ 850 changes, modifications, or delays. TERMS AND CONDITIONS Roundtrip International Air is available through Airtreks. For pricing, please contact Airtreks directly RESERVATIONS: Bookings are subject to the at 415-977-7136 or at [email protected]. terms and conditions mentioned in these sec- tions. A contract has been entered into as soon HE AGIC OF YANMAR Main Tour Includes: • Double occupancy accommodations • All meals listed in itinerary • All sightseeing, entertain- as your booking is received. To confirm your T M M ment and cultural activities listed in itinerary • Airport taxes • All group air and ground transportation as listed in the Dear Graduates, Parents and Friends of Brown, reservation, a deposit of $700 per person is itinerary • English-speaking local tour guides • China Advocates’ national tour director (with a minimum of 10 partici- required. By placing a deposit you agree to and Join us on this exploration of the magical Myanmar and the idyllic Yunnan are bound by the terms and conditions listed UNNAN HINA pants) • Brown lecturer (with a minimum of 15 participants) • Gratuities to local guides and drivers on main tour • herein. Credit card payment is accepted for the & Y C Preparatory materials • Airport transfers and porterage for travelers on the recommended international group flight • On- Province in southern China. Experience the very best of Myanmar, from the deposit only; final balance must be paid by check. tour flights from Yangon-Heho/Heho-Bagan/Bagan-Mandalay/Mandalay-Lijiang/Zhongdian-Beijing (in economy class) bustling cities of Yangon and Mandalay to the tranquil “floating” villages on Inle Not Included: • Domestic U.S. and international airfare • Gratuities to national tour director • Gratuities on extensions AIR: Air cancellations and penalties are based • Airport transfers and porterage for independent travelers • Visa processing • Meals not included in the tour • Excess Lake. Be awestruck by thousands of magnificent pagodas in the ancient city of on each carrier and ticket. Be sure to review these policies before purchasing air via Airtreks. baggage charges • Travel Insurance • Wine, beer, liquor and other items of a personal nature • International flights from Bagan. Marvel at the well-preserved cultures of the minorities in Yunnan, “Clouds China Advocates, Inc., Brown University and U.S. to Yangon and Beijing to U.S. the Brown Alumni Association are not responsi- in the South.” ble for any penalties incurred due to air changes For more information, please call China Advocates at 888.333.2585 Sunrise over Bagan or cancellations. [email protected] or email In Myanmar, explore a land whose people and culture remain authentic and CANCELLATIONS: No cancellation is valid until unaffected by the winds of modernity. Witness vestiges of colonial empires, it is received in writing by the office of China Tour Reservation Form § Marvel at the magic and glamour of the Shwedagon Pagoda, unrivaled by any Advocates. Cancellation penalties are based on shimmering golden pagodas, peaceful monks and the slow and simple way of life the date of receipt of written notice and are as Brown Travelers follows: 91 or more days prior to departure, monastery in Asia. a cancellation fee of $500 per person is re- The Magic of Myanmar and Yunnan China February 7 - 18, 2015 in rural villages surrounded by natural splendor. In Yangon visit the glittering § Take a private motorboat around Inle Lake to discover its natural beauty. Visit the tained; 90-46 days prior to departure, Shwedagon Pagoda, one of the most spectacular Buddhist temples in Asia. In $1,500 per person; 45-31 days prior to de- Enclosed is a deposit of $ ______($700 per person) to hold ______place(s). Please make parture, $2,500 per person; 30-0 days prior to

Brown Travelers Brown Box 1859 floating gardens and enjoy tea at a local family’s house. departure, no refund is made. Providence, RI 02912 checks payable to China Advocates. Final payment is due November 10, 2014. Mandalay, visit the snake temple, Paleik, and wander through hundreds of dome- § Climb a Temple in Bagan for a breathtaking view of over 4,000 ruins of ancient Cancellation penalties for additional hotel shaped Buddhist shrines (known as stupas). On Inle Lake see human ingenuity nights, hotel and cruise ship room upgrades, to alter itinerary or arrangements, such alterations may tour extensions, and any special arrangements, are as Name 1 ______Birthdate ______Class/Parent Year ______temples, pagodas and monasteries. be made without penalty to the operators. The right is and adaptability at its best with fishermen who use their legs to row their boats follows: 51 day or more prior to departure, full re- reserved to withdraw any or all tours should conditions § Walk the old alleys of the Lijiang Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. fund; 50-31 days prior to departure, 25% of cost is warrant, also to decline to accept or retain any passen- and cast/hold their nets, a most unique tradition. retained; 30-0 days prior to departure, no refund is gers as members for the tours. There are no refunds for made. Name 2 ______Birthdate ______Class/Parent Year ______§ Take a cable car to the summit of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and explore the Cross the northern border into China’s Yunnan Province, the most idyllic region any unused portions of the tour. Refunds for unused RESPONSIBILITIES: China Advocates, Inc., Brown Uni- carrier tickets may be only in accordance with the regu- sublime vistas amidst grazing yaks. of China, covered by alpine forests, wildlife, crystal rivers and breathtaking versity and the Brown Alumni Association act only as lations of the carrier. CST 2064278-40. Registration as Address______City ______State ____ Zip ______agents for the various carriers for which tickets are a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the mountains. A pleasant climate keeps life thriving throughout the four seasons. The provided and assume no responsibility or liability in State of California. All legal questions will be settled § Stand in awe at Tigers Leaping Gorge, where the magnificent Yangzi River drops connection with the service of any train, vessel, car- within the jurisdiction of the County of San Francisco, California. 10,000 feet, making this gorge one of the deepest in the world. ancient town Lijiang offers an extraordinary glimpse into the life of China’s riage, aircraft, motor vehicle or other conveyance Home/Office Phone ______Cell ______which may be used either wholly or in part, in the per- VISA: To obtain a Chinese visa, a passport is required formance of their duty to the passenger. Neither will § Wander through the majestic complex of the Songzanlin Monastery and marvel at the southern minorities. Naxi and Bai people have created enchanting music, dance that is valid for at least six months beyond the duration they be responsible for any act, error, or omission or for of the tour. Travelers are responsible for their own and traditional dress. Wander through the winding lanes and old stone and any injury, loss, accident, delay or irregularity which visas. E-mail 1 ______E-mail 2 ______gilded copper roof, colorful frescoes and many Tibetan antiquities housed within. may be occasioned by a reason of any defect in any wooden bridges in this UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore Heilongtan Park vehicles, or through neglect or default of any company Trip cancellation insurance is highly recommended Optional Extensions: Chengde Beijing, Xian, Shanghai Guilin Hong Kong or person engaged in conveying the passenger, or for and available. You will receive travel insurance and its stunning views of southwestern China's largest glacier atop Jade Dragon any hotel proprietor, hotel service or restaurant, or for information once you are confirmed on the pro- FACULTY LECTURER any other person engaged in carrying out the purpose gram. Accommodations: Single I need assistance in securing a roommate Double OUGLAS NDERSON Snow Mountain. for which tickets or coupons are issued. In the event it Itinerary is subject to modification. (I understand that if a roommate cannot be secured for me, I agree to pay the single supplement fee(s).) D A becomes necessary or advisable for the comfort or well Find yourself in Zhongdian (Shangri-la), sitting high near the Tibetan border. being of the passengers, or for any reason whatsoever, Prices are subject to change without notice. Emeritus Professor of Anthropology Bedding Request: One Bed Two Beds Smoking Non-Smoking The breathtaking natural scenery, endless grasslands, azure lakes and pastoral Signatures required by each person traveling, including parent/guardian for minor children: Doug Anderson retired earlier this year after teaching at Brown villages are only a few of the wonderful sights you’ll see here. The large Tibetan I/We have read, received a copy of, understand and accept the terms and conditions listed in this brochure: since 1965. He is a specialist in the archaeology of Asia and the Arctic regions, where he has directed numerous ethnographic population of Zhongdian is reflected in Songzanlin Monastery, the grandest Signature ______Date ______and archaeological expeditions funded by grants from the Na- Tibetan monastery in Yunnan. Built at the foot of Foping Mountain by the Fifth tional Science Foundation, the National Geographic Society Signature ______Date ______Dalai Lama, the temple architecture houses ornate carvings and frescoes. and the Wenner Gren Foundation. At Brown he taught courses Experience the mystical sounds of chanting monks and clanging prayer bells. Credit Card Number for Deposit: ______on the archaeology of trade in Asia along the Silk Road and Accompanying the trip will be Douglas Anderson, Emeritus Professor of points south, including Southeast Asia and Tibet. Together with Featuring Douglas Anderson, Emeritus Professor of Anthropology at Brown (Credit card payment is for deposit only. Balance must be paid by check.) Anthropology at Brown. I hope you will join us for this Brown-exclusive journey to Exp. Date ______CVV Code______his Thai wife, Professor Wanni Anderson, also a faculty member these enchanting regions. at Brown, he also taught courses on the ethnic minorities of Asia Signature ______Date ______Please fax or mail Reservation Form, with deposit, to: and their relations with the central governments. In addition to his faculty work at Sincerely, February 7 - 18, 2015 China Advocates Brown, he has taught at universities in Russia and Thailand. Professor Anderson’s 2339 Ocean Avenue • San Fracisco, CA • 94127 lectures on this trip to Myanmar and Yunnan will focus on the anthropology, religion YANGON • INLE LAKE • BAGAN • MANDALAY • LIJIANG • ZHONGDIAN • BEIJING FAX: 415. 841. 1790 and history of Southeast Asia and southern China. Beth Goldman Galer '88 Director of the Alumni Travel Program CUSTOMIZE YOUR CHINA EXPERIENCE floating tomato gardens, Phaung Daw The Ananda Temple and pagoda were from the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) in the Experience the area's traditional Stay in China a While Longer Oo Pagoda and a weaving factory. built by King Kyansitthar in 1091. This ancient Baisha Temple. architecture, Tibetan cultural and Enjoy lunch at Intha Heritage house pagoda is one of the largest, best In the evening, enjoy a traditional Naxi spiritual heritage and enjoy the gorgeous POST-TOUR EXTENSIONS and visit the gorgeous Burmese cats. A preserved and most revered in Bagan. music performance by the local Naxi countryside. The evening is free with Shan princess started this preservation The grounds of the temple resemble a musicians. (b,l,d) dinner on one’s own. (b,l) effort and is breeding the cats back from Greek cross with pavilions on all four • Accommodations at the Tibetan style H E N G D E M P E R I A L E S O R T Lijiang C I R near extinction. (b,l) sides February 15 • Shiner Hotel near old town February 17 - 21, 2015 Explore Dhammayangyi Temple, built This morning drive to Yak Meadow, one Inle Lake - Heho - Bagan Zhongdian - Beijing Spend three days experiencing the grandeur of the February 11 • by King Narathu in 1170. From a of the three peaks of Jade Dragon Snow February 17 • Qing Imperial Resort at Chengde, a two-hour drive In the south of the lake lie the ruins of distance, it looks like an Egyptian Mountain. Take a cable car to the summit In the morning visit the Songzanlin north of Beijing. A UNESCO World Heritage site with a history of Indein. Partly covered by vegetation, the pyramid. As the most massive brick and hike amidst grazing yaks, enjoying Monastery, at the foot of Foping more than 300 years, Chengde is one of the great area looks like a “pagoda forest.” Walk structure in Bagan, the temple’s masonry the sublime views. Mountain. Songzanlin is the largest cultural landmarks of all China. for one hour though the lush area to work is so meticulous that a small pin After lunch, tour the Tibetan Lamasery Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan The garden complex includes imperial halls, Thanaka, Traditional Facepainting of Myanmar Heilongtan Park, Lijiang enjoy a fantastic view over the lake and cannot go through the bricks. Zhiyun Monastery, one of the most province. Built on the hillside, the southern-style lake gardens, Mongolian yurts and a wooded hillside with numerous pavilions. Beyond the visit the Sulamani important monastery is palace many Buddhist temples were built, each one HE AGIC OF YANMAR UNNAN HINA primary school Temple was least six months to complete the process guide and check in at your hotel. (b) Tibetan often called the architecturally unique, of which five remain. T M MITINERARY & Y C in Tha Ley built in 1183 by so that the coating can dry naturally. • Accommodations at the Palace Hotel by monasteries “little Potala village. King Continue by horse cart through the Old Town outside Lhasa. Palace” because CLASSICAL HIGHLIGHTS: BEIJING,XIAN, SHANGHAI An optional Narapatisithu narrow country roads and farm fields The monastery of its ancient February 17 - 23, 2015 Yangon, Myanmar Lijiang February 7 - 8 • religion and how spiritual beliefs are two-hour hike with surrounded by ancient ruins. Reach the February 14 • sits in the Tibetan Depart the U.S. for Yangon, cross the mixed with the belief in nats, Myanmar is available for sophisticated Pyathagyi Pagoda in time for a special This morning enjoy a walking tour of middle of architecture. The See some of China’s most magnificent sites and classical international dateline and arrive on spirits. Submit offerings to the monks at those travelers architectural sunset viewing. Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World idyllic monastery highlights. In Beijing, traverse rugged mountains on the who wish to features. The evening is free and dinner is on Heritage site and the most charming countryside complex is a February 8th. Upon arrival, meet your the pagoda and visit a local fortune serpentine course of the Great Wall, the most enduring guide to transfer to the hotel. teller. Starting from the bottom of the explore further Known as the one’s own. (b,l) ancient town in China today. The with orchards, majestic site symbol of China. In the city of Xian see the Qin dynasty During your time in this charming city hill, roam through workshops, markets the Indein area. "crowning minority Naxi and Bai people have farm fields and with a white, red come alive through the extraordinary 2,300-year-old life-size terra-cotta warriors in the tomb of China’s first you will see the different faces of and monasteries and gain essential Enjoy a jewel," it February 13 • lived here and preserved their colorful lush vegetation. and tan exterior Mandalay - Kunming - Lijiang, China emperor. Walking Muslim Street, connect to the home-made features not Enjoy a tranquil and gilded Yangon, from the landmarks to the perspectives on the culture of Myanmar, culture and lifestyle. The Old Town is country’s Islamic past. In cosmopolitan Shanghai, feel hidden markets only few westerners which will set the tone for the rest of lunch served in only brickwork After breakfast, transfer to the airport famous for winding lanes as well as walk on small copper roofs the pulse of the city that is shaping China’s future. Leg Rower, Inle Lake Naxi Horseman have seen. your journey. a local but also stones for your flight to Mandalay. Upon stone and wooden bridges connecting roads through that shimmer in After a short rest at the hotel, visit the Transfer to the airport for your flight restaurant. inserted at arrival, meet your guide and enjoy a the small alleys to quaint courtyard farmlands. the sun for miles. The two main halls of Sule Pagoda, colonial downtown and the to Heho. Upon arrival, meet your guide Continue towards the Nam Pan village strategic places. Beams, cornerstones, brief tour of Mandalay. homes. Lots of art and craft shops The evening is free to explore Lijiang the monastery are magnificent, featuring S U B L I M E G U I L I N & L O N G S H E N G Yangon harbor. See the reclining Buddha and transfer to the hotel in Inle Lake by to explore the picturesque floating crenellated parapets and arches were put The snake temple in Paleik is known display ethnic works. Old Town and dinner is on one’s own. colorful frescoes depicting Buddhist February 17 - 21, 2015 (b,l) before a tasty lunch at Taing Yin Thar car and boat. (b,l) gardens in a canoe. in to strengthen the structure. for the three pythons sleeping at the Visit Heilongtan Park, known for the stories on the interior walls. The temple is Immerse yourself in the sublime beauty of Guilin, • Accommodations at Golden Island Transfer to the Heho airport for your At 61 meters high, the Thatbyinnyu Buddha statue that are washed and fed spectacular views of the snow capped full of Tibetan antiquities accumulated Restaurant, featuring typical dishes from Lijiang - Zhongdian Longsheng and the famous Li River. Explore the tribes throughout the country, such as Cottages 2 flight to Bagan. Upon arrival, meet your Temple (1144) towers above the other daily at 11am by local worshippers. peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, February 16 • from many dynasties. Songzanlin is evocative world of Longsheng, where traditional Kachin, Shan and Rakhine. Enjoy a drink guide and transfer to the hotel. (b,l) monuments of Bagan. The white facade Lesser known are the ancient temple the largest glacier in southwestern After breakfast, drive to Tiger Leaping home to the largest Tibetan prayer wheel Zhuang and Yao people have sculpted rice terraces into Inle Lake precipitous hillsides since the Song dynasty. View the at The Strand and continue to Bogyoke February 10 • • Accommodations at The Hotel at Tharbar is magnificent to behold. ruins in the same area, many of them China. Here you will tour the Dongba Gorge (three hours’ drive) to see the in the world. spectacular karst formations of Guilin, vertical Inle Lake in southern Shan State is a vast Gate After lunch at the lovely riverside over 200 years old and partly Research Institute and the Museum of magnificent Yangzi River as it drops The afternoon is free. This evening, Aung San Market before heading back to mountains were thrust up from the seabed some 300 natural lake surrounded by traditional restaurant in the park, visit the Bagan overgrown by vegetation. Explore this Naxi Dongba Culture. 10,000 feet. Have lunch at the traditional transfer to the airport and fly to Beijing. your hotel. Bagan million years ago. Cruise the Li River, winding past • Accommodations at the Kandawgyi Palace Shan villages. For centuries, the Intha February 12 • Archaeological Museum. View the off-the-beaten-path area, sometimes Proceed to tranquil Yuhu Village to courtyard Wanxue Restaurant in Haixi For those travelers who are continuing on ancient villages, and walk the agricultural paradise at by the Royal Lake people have lived in villages built Start the day climbing up a pagoda for a collections of original Buddha statues referred to as “mini Bagan,” and find visit the home of famous American Village. to post-tour extensions, an overnight in Yangshuo. entirely on stilts perched above the lake breathtaking view of ancient Bagan. and stone inscriptions from the ruined yourself feeling like the first foreigner photographer and traveler Joseph Upon arriving at Zhongdian, meet Beijing will be included. For travelers February 9 • itself. Take a private motorboat to Within 30 square miles lie 4,000 ruins of temples. A local historian will discuss the ever to discover this place. Rock, who worked for National your local guide and transfer to your flying back to the U.S., an overnight in a D E L I G H T S O F H O N G K O N G H A R B O R Yangon – Heho – Inle Lake discover the natural beauty around the giant temples, pagodas and monasteries; topic of Buddhism in Myanmar. Take a ferry to Ava and immerse Geographic Magazine and lived here hotel. Sitting at an altitude of 3,300 Beijing airport hotel can be arranged by February 17 - 20, 2015 What’s behind the golden façade of the lake. Visit the floating gardens, see some many were built almost 1,000 years ago. Later visit a lacquerware workshop. yourself in this lovely town. See a from the 1920s through the 1940s. Rock meters, this magic place is regarded as China Advocates (additional fees apply). ) Shwedagon Pagoda? During this of the famous leg rowers and enjoy tea at Bagan has the largest collection of Bagan is famous for its lacquerware; it banana plantation, the old city walls, collected wild flower seeds of the true Shangri-la by the locals. The (b This four-day extension combines captivating a local family’s house. Buddhist architecture—far more than was a favorite of royalty. Myanmar’s old temples, Bagaya Kyaung, Nanmyin rhododendrons and azaleas distinctive ancient town is split between Tibetan and sightseeing experiences with ample free time for interactive half-day insider’s tour, Beijing - U.S. Thailand, Sri Lanka and China Kings used to present lacquer objects as tower and Maha Aungmye Bonzan of Yunnan. He sent them back to the Han Chinese residents with a fair February 18 • personal exploration to create the perfect finish to your explore the full history of the pagoda Stop by a colorful local market China tour. and witness the daily life of local people. frequented by Shan and Pao people combined. The shimmering pagodas are gifts to foreign ambassadors. Quality monastery. U.S. where many are thriving at our smattering of Naxi, Bai, Yi and Lisu International flights for the U.S. will Visit the Sheung Wan Dried Food & Herbal Market living nearby. Visit a cheroot factory why Myanmar is called the Golden lacquerware has 16 applications of In the afternoon, fly to Lijiang via parks and homes. ethnic people. The surrounding depart on February 18th; you will arrive and take a ride on a sampan in Repulse Bay. Explore the Gain deeper insight into the Buddhist Aberdeen Floating Community and take the old tram to (where the Burmese cigars are made), Land. lacquer coating and colors. It takes at Kunming. Upon arrival, meet your Visit the famous mural paintings countryside is entirely Tibetan. on the same day. the top of Victoria Peak. With a magical skyline as a backdrop, there is no end to the fascination of this self- styled world city. CUSTOMIZE YOUR CHINA EXPERIENCE floating tomato gardens, Phaung Daw The Ananda Temple and pagoda were from the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) in the Experience the area's traditional Stay in China a While Longer Oo Pagoda and a weaving factory. built by King Kyansitthar in 1091. This ancient Baisha Temple. architecture, Tibetan cultural and Enjoy lunch at Intha Heritage house pagoda is one of the largest, best In the evening, enjoy a traditional Naxi spiritual heritage and enjoy the gorgeous POST-TOUR EXTENSIONS and visit the gorgeous Burmese cats. A preserved and most revered in Bagan. music performance by the local Naxi countryside. The evening is free with Shan princess started this preservation The grounds of the temple resemble a musicians. (b,l,d) dinner on one’s own. (b,l) effort and is breeding the cats back from Greek cross with pavilions on all four • Accommodations at the Tibetan style H E N G D E M P E R I A L E S O R T Lijiang C I R near extinction. (b,l) sides February 15 • Shiner Hotel near old town February 17 - 21, 2015 Explore Dhammayangyi Temple, built This morning drive to Yak Meadow, one Inle Lake - Heho - Bagan Zhongdian - Beijing Spend three days experiencing the grandeur of the February 11 • by King Narathu in 1170. From a of the three peaks of Jade Dragon Snow February 17 • Qing Imperial Resort at Chengde, a two-hour drive In the south of the lake lie the ruins of distance, it looks like an Egyptian Mountain. Take a cable car to the summit In the morning visit the Songzanlin north of Beijing. A UNESCO World Heritage site with a history of Indein. Partly covered by vegetation, the pyramid. As the most massive brick and hike amidst grazing yaks, enjoying Monastery, at the foot of Foping more than 300 years, Chengde is one of the great area looks like a “pagoda forest.” Walk structure in Bagan, the temple’s masonry the sublime views. Mountain. Songzanlin is the largest cultural landmarks of all China. for one hour though the lush area to work is so meticulous that a small pin After lunch, tour the Tibetan Lamasery Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan The garden complex includes imperial halls, Thanaka, Traditional Facepainting of Myanmar Heilongtan Park, Lijiang enjoy a fantastic view over the lake and cannot go through the bricks. Zhiyun Monastery, one of the most province. Built on the hillside, the southern-style lake gardens, Mongolian yurts and a wooded hillside with numerous pavilions. Beyond the visit the Sulamani important monastery is palace many Buddhist temples were built, each one HE AGIC OF YANMAR UNNAN HINA primary school Temple was least six months to complete the process guide and check in at your hotel. (b) Tibetan often called the architecturally unique, of which five remain. T M MITINERARY & Y C in Tha Ley built in 1183 by so that the coating can dry naturally. • Accommodations at the Palace Hotel by monasteries “little Potala village. King Continue by horse cart through the Old Town outside Lhasa. Palace” because CLASSICAL HIGHLIGHTS: BEIJING,XIAN, SHANGHAI An optional Narapatisithu narrow country roads and farm fields The monastery of its ancient February 17 - 23, 2015 Yangon, Myanmar Lijiang February 7 - 8 • religion and how spiritual beliefs are two-hour hike with surrounded by ancient ruins. Reach the February 14 • sits in the Tibetan Depart the U.S. for Yangon, cross the mixed with the belief in nats, Myanmar is available for sophisticated Pyathagyi Pagoda in time for a special This morning enjoy a walking tour of middle of architecture. The See some of China’s most magnificent sites and classical international dateline and arrive on spirits. Submit offerings to the monks at those travelers architectural sunset viewing. Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World idyllic monastery highlights. In Beijing, traverse rugged mountains on the who wish to features. The evening is free and dinner is on Heritage site and the most charming countryside complex is a February 8th. Upon arrival, meet your the pagoda and visit a local fortune serpentine course of the Great Wall, the most enduring guide to transfer to the hotel. teller. Starting from the bottom of the explore further Known as the one’s own. (b,l) ancient town in China today. The with orchards, majestic site symbol of China. In the city of Xian see the Qin dynasty During your time in this charming city hill, roam through workshops, markets the Indein area. "crowning minority Naxi and Bai people have farm fields and with a white, red come alive through the extraordinary 2,300-year-old life-size terra-cotta warriors in the tomb of China’s first you will see the different faces of and monasteries and gain essential Enjoy a jewel," it February 13 • lived here and preserved their colorful lush vegetation. and tan exterior Mandalay - Kunming - Lijiang, China emperor. Walking Muslim Street, connect to the home-made features not Enjoy a tranquil and gilded Yangon, from the landmarks to the perspectives on the culture of Myanmar, culture and lifestyle. The Old Town is country’s Islamic past. In cosmopolitan Shanghai, feel hidden markets only few westerners which will set the tone for the rest of lunch served in only brickwork After breakfast, transfer to the airport famous for winding lanes as well as walk on small copper roofs the pulse of the city that is shaping China’s future. Leg Rower, Inle Lake Naxi Horseman have seen. your journey. a local but also stones for your flight to Mandalay. Upon stone and wooden bridges connecting roads through that shimmer in After a short rest at the hotel, visit the Transfer to the airport for your flight restaurant. inserted at arrival, meet your guide and enjoy a the small alleys to quaint courtyard farmlands. the sun for miles. The two main halls of Sule Pagoda, colonial downtown and the to Heho. Upon arrival, meet your guide Continue towards the Nam Pan village strategic places. Beams, cornerstones, brief tour of Mandalay. homes. Lots of art and craft shops The evening is free to explore Lijiang the monastery are magnificent, featuring S U B L I M E G U I L I N & L O N G S H E N G Yangon harbor. See the reclining Buddha and transfer to the hotel in Inle Lake by to explore the picturesque floating crenellated parapets and arches were put The snake temple in Paleik is known display ethnic works. Old Town and dinner is on one’s own. colorful frescoes depicting Buddhist February 17 - 21, 2015 (b,l) before a tasty lunch at Taing Yin Thar car and boat. (b,l) gardens in a canoe. in to strengthen the structure. for the three pythons sleeping at the Visit Heilongtan Park, known for the stories on the interior walls. The temple is Immerse yourself in the sublime beauty of Guilin, • Accommodations at Golden Island Transfer to the Heho airport for your At 61 meters high, the Thatbyinnyu Buddha statue that are washed and fed spectacular views of the snow capped full of Tibetan antiquities accumulated Restaurant, featuring typical dishes from Lijiang - Zhongdian Longsheng and the famous Li River. Explore the tribes throughout the country, such as Cottages 2 flight to Bagan. Upon arrival, meet your Temple (1144) towers above the other daily at 11am by local worshippers. peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, February 16 • from many dynasties. Songzanlin is evocative world of Longsheng, where traditional Kachin, Shan and Rakhine. Enjoy a drink guide and transfer to the hotel. (b,l) monuments of Bagan. The white facade Lesser known are the ancient temple the largest glacier in southwestern After breakfast, drive to Tiger Leaping home to the largest Tibetan prayer wheel Zhuang and Yao people have sculpted rice terraces into Inle Lake precipitous hillsides since the Song dynasty. View the at The Strand and continue to Bogyoke February 10 • • Accommodations at The Hotel at Tharbar is magnificent to behold. ruins in the same area, many of them China. Here you will tour the Dongba Gorge (three hours’ drive) to see the in the world. spectacular karst formations of Guilin, vertical Inle Lake in southern Shan State is a vast Gate After lunch at the lovely riverside over 200 years old and partly Research Institute and the Museum of magnificent Yangzi River as it drops The afternoon is free. This evening, Aung San Market before heading back to mountains were thrust up from the seabed some 300 natural lake surrounded by traditional restaurant in the park, visit the Bagan overgrown by vegetation. Explore this Naxi Dongba Culture. 10,000 feet. Have lunch at the traditional transfer to the airport and fly to Beijing. your hotel. Bagan million years ago. Cruise the Li River, winding past • Accommodations at the Kandawgyi Palace Shan villages. For centuries, the Intha February 12 • Archaeological Museum. View the off-the-beaten-path area, sometimes Proceed to tranquil Yuhu Village to courtyard Wanxue Restaurant in Haixi For those travelers who are continuing on ancient villages, and walk the agricultural paradise at by the Royal Lake people have lived in villages built Start the day climbing up a pagoda for a collections of original Buddha statues referred to as “mini Bagan,” and find visit the home of famous American Village. to post-tour extensions, an overnight in Yangshuo. entirely on stilts perched above the lake breathtaking view of ancient Bagan. and stone inscriptions from the ruined yourself feeling like the first foreigner photographer and traveler Joseph Upon arriving at Zhongdian, meet Beijing will be included. For travelers February 9 • itself. Take a private motorboat to Within 30 square miles lie 4,000 ruins of temples. A local historian will discuss the ever to discover this place. Rock, who worked for National your local guide and transfer to your flying back to the U.S., an overnight in a D E L I G H T S O F H O N G K O N G H A R B O R Yangon – Heho – Inle Lake discover the natural beauty around the giant temples, pagodas and monasteries; topic of Buddhism in Myanmar. Take a ferry to Ava and immerse Geographic Magazine and lived here hotel. Sitting at an altitude of 3,300 Beijing airport hotel can be arranged by February 17 - 20, 2015 What’s behind the golden façade of the lake. Visit the floating gardens, see some many were built almost 1,000 years ago. Later visit a lacquerware workshop. yourself in this lovely town. See a from the 1920s through the 1940s. Rock meters, this magic place is regarded as China Advocates (additional fees apply). ) Shwedagon Pagoda? During this of the famous leg rowers and enjoy tea at Bagan has the largest collection of Bagan is famous for its lacquerware; it banana plantation, the old city walls, collected wild flower seeds of the true Shangri-la by the locals. The (b This four-day extension combines captivating a local family’s house. Buddhist architecture—far more than was a favorite of royalty. Myanmar’s old temples, Bagaya Kyaung, Nanmyin rhododendrons and azaleas distinctive ancient town is split between Tibetan and sightseeing experiences with ample free time for interactive half-day insider’s tour, Beijing - U.S. Thailand, Sri Lanka and China Kings used to present lacquer objects as tower and Maha Aungmye Bonzan of Yunnan. He sent them back to the Han Chinese residents with a fair February 18 • personal exploration to create the perfect finish to your explore the full history of the pagoda Stop by a colorful local market China tour. and witness the daily life of local people. frequented by Shan and Pao people combined. The shimmering pagodas are gifts to foreign ambassadors. Quality monastery. U.S. where many are thriving at our smattering of Naxi, Bai, Yi and Lisu International flights for the U.S. will Visit the Sheung Wan Dried Food & Herbal Market living nearby. Visit a cheroot factory why Myanmar is called the Golden lacquerware has 16 applications of In the afternoon, fly to Lijiang via parks and homes. ethnic people. The surrounding depart on February 18th; you will arrive and take a ride on a sampan in Repulse Bay. Explore the Gain deeper insight into the Buddhist Aberdeen Floating Community and take the old tram to (where the Burmese cigars are made), Land. lacquer coating and colors. It takes at Kunming. Upon arrival, meet your Visit the famous mural paintings countryside is entirely Tibetan. on the same day. the top of Victoria Peak. With a magical skyline as a backdrop, there is no end to the fascination of this self- styled world city. CUSTOMIZE YOUR CHINA EXPERIENCE floating tomato gardens, Phaung Daw The Ananda Temple and pagoda were from the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) in the Experience the area's traditional Stay in China a While Longer Oo Pagoda and a weaving factory. built by King Kyansitthar in 1091. This ancient Baisha Temple. architecture, Tibetan cultural and Enjoy lunch at Intha Heritage house pagoda is one of the largest, best In the evening, enjoy a traditional Naxi spiritual heritage and enjoy the gorgeous POST-TOUR EXTENSIONS and visit the gorgeous Burmese cats. A preserved and most revered in Bagan. music performance by the local Naxi countryside. The evening is free with Shan princess started this preservation The grounds of the temple resemble a musicians. (b,l,d) dinner on one’s own. (b,l) effort and is breeding the cats back from Greek cross with pavilions on all four • Accommodations at the Tibetan style H E N G D E M P E R I A L E S O R T Lijiang C I R near extinction. (b,l) sides February 15 • Shiner Hotel near old town February 17 - 21, 2015 Explore Dhammayangyi Temple, built This morning drive to Yak Meadow, one Inle Lake - Heho - Bagan Zhongdian - Beijing Spend three days experiencing the grandeur of the February 11 • by King Narathu in 1170. From a of the three peaks of Jade Dragon Snow February 17 • Qing Imperial Resort at Chengde, a two-hour drive In the south of the lake lie the ruins of distance, it looks like an Egyptian Mountain. Take a cable car to the summit In the morning visit the Songzanlin north of Beijing. A UNESCO World Heritage site with a history of Indein. Partly covered by vegetation, the pyramid. As the most massive brick and hike amidst grazing yaks, enjoying Monastery, at the foot of Foping more than 300 years, Chengde is one of the great area looks like a “pagoda forest.” Walk structure in Bagan, the temple’s masonry the sublime views. Mountain. Songzanlin is the largest cultural landmarks of all China. for one hour though the lush area to work is so meticulous that a small pin After lunch, tour the Tibetan Lamasery Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan The garden complex includes imperial halls, Thanaka, Traditional Facepainting of Myanmar Heilongtan Park, Lijiang enjoy a fantastic view over the lake and cannot go through the bricks. Zhiyun Monastery, one of the most province. Built on the hillside, the southern-style lake gardens, Mongolian yurts and a wooded hillside with numerous pavilions. Beyond the visit the Sulamani important monastery is palace many Buddhist temples were built, each one HE AGIC OF YANMAR UNNAN HINA primary school Temple was least six months to complete the process guide and check in at your hotel. (b) Tibetan often called the architecturally unique, of which five remain. T M MITINERARY & Y C in Tha Ley built in 1183 by so that the coating can dry naturally. • Accommodations at the Palace Hotel by monasteries “little Potala village. King Continue by horse cart through the Old Town outside Lhasa. Palace” because CLASSICAL HIGHLIGHTS: BEIJING,XIAN, SHANGHAI An optional Narapatisithu narrow country roads and farm fields The monastery of its ancient February 17 - 23, 2015 Yangon, Myanmar Lijiang February 7 - 8 • religion and how spiritual beliefs are two-hour hike with surrounded by ancient ruins. Reach the February 14 • sits in the Tibetan Depart the U.S. for Yangon, cross the mixed with the belief in nats, Myanmar is available for sophisticated Pyathagyi Pagoda in time for a special This morning enjoy a walking tour of middle of architecture. The See some of China’s most magnificent sites and classical international dateline and arrive on spirits. Submit offerings to the monks at those travelers architectural sunset viewing. Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World idyllic monastery highlights. In Beijing, traverse rugged mountains on the who wish to features. The evening is free and dinner is on Heritage site and the most charming countryside complex is a February 8th. Upon arrival, meet your the pagoda and visit a local fortune serpentine course of the Great Wall, the most enduring guide to transfer to the hotel. teller. Starting from the bottom of the explore further Known as the one’s own. (b,l) ancient town in China today. The with orchards, majestic site symbol of China. In the city of Xian see the Qin dynasty During your time in this charming city hill, roam through workshops, markets the Indein area. "crowning minority Naxi and Bai people have farm fields and with a white, red come alive through the extraordinary 2,300-year-old life-size terra-cotta warriors in the tomb of China’s first you will see the different faces of and monasteries and gain essential Enjoy a jewel," it February 13 • lived here and preserved their colorful lush vegetation. and tan exterior Mandalay - Kunming - Lijiang, China emperor. Walking Muslim Street, connect to the home-made features not Enjoy a tranquil and gilded Yangon, from the landmarks to the perspectives on the culture of Myanmar, culture and lifestyle. The Old Town is country’s Islamic past. In cosmopolitan Shanghai, feel hidden markets only few westerners which will set the tone for the rest of lunch served in only brickwork After breakfast, transfer to the airport famous for winding lanes as well as walk on small copper roofs the pulse of the city that is shaping China’s future. Leg Rower, Inle Lake Naxi Horseman have seen. your journey. a local but also stones for your flight to Mandalay. Upon stone and wooden bridges connecting roads through that shimmer in After a short rest at the hotel, visit the Transfer to the airport for your flight restaurant. inserted at arrival, meet your guide and enjoy a the small alleys to quaint courtyard farmlands. the sun for miles. The two main halls of Sule Pagoda, colonial downtown and the to Heho. Upon arrival, meet your guide Continue towards the Nam Pan village strategic places. Beams, cornerstones, brief tour of Mandalay. homes. Lots of art and craft shops The evening is free to explore Lijiang the monastery are magnificent, featuring S U B L I M E G U I L I N & L O N G S H E N G Yangon harbor. See the reclining Buddha and transfer to the hotel in Inle Lake by to explore the picturesque floating crenellated parapets and arches were put The snake temple in Paleik is known display ethnic works. Old Town and dinner is on one’s own. colorful frescoes depicting Buddhist February 17 - 21, 2015 (b,l) before a tasty lunch at Taing Yin Thar car and boat. (b,l) gardens in a canoe. in to strengthen the structure. for the three pythons sleeping at the Visit Heilongtan Park, known for the stories on the interior walls. The temple is Immerse yourself in the sublime beauty of Guilin, • Accommodations at Golden Island Transfer to the Heho airport for your At 61 meters high, the Thatbyinnyu Buddha statue that are washed and fed spectacular views of the snow capped full of Tibetan antiquities accumulated Restaurant, featuring typical dishes from Lijiang - Zhongdian Longsheng and the famous Li River. Explore the tribes throughout the country, such as Cottages 2 flight to Bagan. Upon arrival, meet your Temple (1144) towers above the other daily at 11am by local worshippers. peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, February 16 • from many dynasties. Songzanlin is evocative world of Longsheng, where traditional Kachin, Shan and Rakhine. Enjoy a drink guide and transfer to the hotel. (b,l) monuments of Bagan. The white facade Lesser known are the ancient temple the largest glacier in southwestern After breakfast, drive to Tiger Leaping home to the largest Tibetan prayer wheel Zhuang and Yao people have sculpted rice terraces into Inle Lake precipitous hillsides since the Song dynasty. View the at The Strand and continue to Bogyoke February 10 • • Accommodations at The Hotel at Tharbar is magnificent to behold. ruins in the same area, many of them China. Here you will tour the Dongba Gorge (three hours’ drive) to see the in the world. spectacular karst formations of Guilin, vertical Inle Lake in southern Shan State is a vast Gate After lunch at the lovely riverside over 200 years old and partly Research Institute and the Museum of magnificent Yangzi River as it drops The afternoon is free. This evening, Aung San Market before heading back to mountains were thrust up from the seabed some 300 natural lake surrounded by traditional restaurant in the park, visit the Bagan overgrown by vegetation. Explore this Naxi Dongba Culture. 10,000 feet. Have lunch at the traditional transfer to the airport and fly to Beijing. your hotel. Bagan million years ago. Cruise the Li River, winding past • Accommodations at the Kandawgyi Palace Shan villages. For centuries, the Intha February 12 • Archaeological Museum. View the off-the-beaten-path area, sometimes Proceed to tranquil Yuhu Village to courtyard Wanxue Restaurant in Haixi For those travelers who are continuing on ancient villages, and walk the agricultural paradise at by the Royal Lake people have lived in villages built Start the day climbing up a pagoda for a collections of original Buddha statues referred to as “mini Bagan,” and find visit the home of famous American Village. to post-tour extensions, an overnight in Yangshuo. entirely on stilts perched above the lake breathtaking view of ancient Bagan. and stone inscriptions from the ruined yourself feeling like the first foreigner photographer and traveler Joseph Upon arriving at Zhongdian, meet Beijing will be included. For travelers February 9 • itself. Take a private motorboat to Within 30 square miles lie 4,000 ruins of temples. A local historian will discuss the ever to discover this place. Rock, who worked for National your local guide and transfer to your flying back to the U.S., an overnight in a D E L I G H T S O F H O N G K O N G H A R B O R Yangon – Heho – Inle Lake discover the natural beauty around the giant temples, pagodas and monasteries; topic of Buddhism in Myanmar. Take a ferry to Ava and immerse Geographic Magazine and lived here hotel. Sitting at an altitude of 3,300 Beijing airport hotel can be arranged by February 17 - 20, 2015 What’s behind the golden façade of the lake. Visit the floating gardens, see some many were built almost 1,000 years ago. Later visit a lacquerware workshop. yourself in this lovely town. See a from the 1920s through the 1940s. Rock meters, this magic place is regarded as China Advocates (additional fees apply). ) Shwedagon Pagoda? During this of the famous leg rowers and enjoy tea at Bagan has the largest collection of Bagan is famous for its lacquerware; it banana plantation, the old city walls, collected wild flower seeds of the true Shangri-la by the locals. The (b This four-day extension combines captivating a local family’s house. Buddhist architecture—far more than was a favorite of royalty. Myanmar’s old temples, Bagaya Kyaung, Nanmyin rhododendrons and azaleas distinctive ancient town is split between Tibetan and sightseeing experiences with ample free time for interactive half-day insider’s tour, Beijing - U.S. Thailand, Sri Lanka and China Kings used to present lacquer objects as tower and Maha Aungmye Bonzan of Yunnan. He sent them back to the Han Chinese residents with a fair February 18 • personal exploration to create the perfect finish to your explore the full history of the pagoda Stop by a colorful local market China tour. and witness the daily life of local people. frequented by Shan and Pao people combined. The shimmering pagodas are gifts to foreign ambassadors. Quality monastery. U.S. where many are thriving at our smattering of Naxi, Bai, Yi and Lisu International flights for the U.S. will Visit the Sheung Wan Dried Food & Herbal Market living nearby. Visit a cheroot factory why Myanmar is called the Golden lacquerware has 16 applications of In the afternoon, fly to Lijiang via parks and homes. ethnic people. The surrounding depart on February 18th; you will arrive and take a ride on a sampan in Repulse Bay. Explore the Gain deeper insight into the Buddhist Aberdeen Floating Community and take the old tram to (where the Burmese cigars are made), Land. lacquer coating and colors. It takes at Kunming. Upon arrival, meet your Visit the famous mural paintings countryside is entirely Tibetan. on the same day. the top of Victoria Peak. With a magical skyline as a backdrop, there is no end to the fascination of this self- styled world city. CUSTOMIZE YOUR CHINA EXPERIENCE floating tomato gardens, Phaung Daw The Ananda Temple and pagoda were from the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) in the Experience the area's traditional Stay in China a While Longer Oo Pagoda and a weaving factory. built by King Kyansitthar in 1091. This ancient Baisha Temple. architecture, Tibetan cultural and Enjoy lunch at Intha Heritage house pagoda is one of the largest, best In the evening, enjoy a traditional Naxi spiritual heritage and enjoy the gorgeous POST-TOUR EXTENSIONS and visit the gorgeous Burmese cats. A preserved and most revered in Bagan. music performance by the local Naxi countryside. The evening is free with Shan princess started this preservation The grounds of the temple resemble a musicians. (b,l,d) dinner on one’s own. (b,l) effort and is breeding the cats back from Greek cross with pavilions on all four • Accommodations at the Tibetan style H E N G D E M P E R I A L E S O R T Lijiang C I R near extinction. (b,l) sides February 15 • Shiner Hotel near old town February 17 - 21, 2015 Explore Dhammayangyi Temple, built This morning drive to Yak Meadow, one Inle Lake - Heho - Bagan Zhongdian - Beijing Spend three days experiencing the grandeur of the February 11 • by King Narathu in 1170. From a of the three peaks of Jade Dragon Snow February 17 • Qing Imperial Resort at Chengde, a two-hour drive In the south of the lake lie the ruins of distance, it looks like an Egyptian Mountain. Take a cable car to the summit In the morning visit the Songzanlin north of Beijing. A UNESCO World Heritage site with a history of Indein. Partly covered by vegetation, the pyramid. As the most massive brick and hike amidst grazing yaks, enjoying Monastery, at the foot of Foping more than 300 years, Chengde is one of the great area looks like a “pagoda forest.” Walk structure in Bagan, the temple’s masonry the sublime views. Mountain. Songzanlin is the largest cultural landmarks of all China. for one hour though the lush area to work is so meticulous that a small pin After lunch, tour the Tibetan Lamasery Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan The garden complex includes imperial halls, Thanaka, Traditional Facepainting of Myanmar Heilongtan Park, Lijiang enjoy a fantastic view over the lake and cannot go through the bricks. Zhiyun Monastery, one of the most province. Built on the hillside, the southern-style lake gardens, Mongolian yurts and a wooded hillside with numerous pavilions. Beyond the visit the Sulamani important monastery is palace many Buddhist temples were built, each one HE AGIC OF YANMAR UNNAN HINA primary school Temple was least six months to complete the process guide and check in at your hotel. (b) Tibetan often called the architecturally unique, of which five remain. T M MITINERARY & Y C in Tha Ley built in 1183 by so that the coating can dry naturally. • Accommodations at the Palace Hotel by monasteries “little Potala village. King Continue by horse cart through the Old Town outside Lhasa. Palace” because CLASSICAL HIGHLIGHTS: BEIJING,XIAN, SHANGHAI An optional Narapatisithu narrow country roads and farm fields The monastery of its ancient February 17 - 23, 2015 Yangon, Myanmar Lijiang February 7 - 8 • religion and how spiritual beliefs are two-hour hike with surrounded by ancient ruins. Reach the February 14 • sits in the Tibetan Depart the U.S. for Yangon, cross the mixed with the belief in nats, Myanmar is available for sophisticated Pyathagyi Pagoda in time for a special This morning enjoy a walking tour of middle of architecture. The See some of China’s most magnificent sites and classical international dateline and arrive on spirits. Submit offerings to the monks at those travelers architectural sunset viewing. Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World idyllic monastery highlights. In Beijing, traverse rugged mountains on the who wish to features. The evening is free and dinner is on Heritage site and the most charming countryside complex is a February 8th. Upon arrival, meet your the pagoda and visit a local fortune serpentine course of the Great Wall, the most enduring guide to transfer to the hotel. teller. Starting from the bottom of the explore further Known as the one’s own. (b,l) ancient town in China today. The with orchards, majestic site symbol of China. In the city of Xian see the Qin dynasty During your time in this charming city hill, roam through workshops, markets the Indein area. "crowning minority Naxi and Bai people have farm fields and with a white, red come alive through the extraordinary 2,300-year-old life-size terra-cotta warriors in the tomb of China’s first you will see the different faces of and monasteries and gain essential Enjoy a jewel," it February 13 • lived here and preserved their colorful lush vegetation. and tan exterior Mandalay - Kunming - Lijiang, China emperor. Walking Muslim Street, connect to the home-made features not Enjoy a tranquil and gilded Yangon, from the landmarks to the perspectives on the culture of Myanmar, culture and lifestyle. The Old Town is country’s Islamic past. In cosmopolitan Shanghai, feel hidden markets only few westerners which will set the tone for the rest of lunch served in only brickwork After breakfast, transfer to the airport famous for winding lanes as well as walk on small copper roofs the pulse of the city that is shaping China’s future. Leg Rower, Inle Lake Young Monk have seen. your journey. a local but also stones for your flight to Mandalay. Upon stone and wooden bridges connecting roads through that shimmer in After a short rest at the hotel, visit the Transfer to the airport for your flight restaurant. inserted at arrival, meet your guide and enjoy a the small alleys to quaint courtyard farmlands. the sun for miles. The two main halls of Sule Pagoda, colonial downtown and the to Heho. Upon arrival, meet your guide Continue towards the Nam Pan village strategic places. Beams, cornerstones, brief tour of Mandalay. homes. Lots of art and craft shops The evening is free to explore Lijiang the monastery are magnificent, featuring S U B L I M E G U I L I N & L O N G S H E N G Yangon harbor. See the reclining Buddha and transfer to the hotel in Inle Lake by to explore the picturesque floating crenellated parapets and arches were put The snake temple in Paleik is known display ethnic works. Old Town and dinner is on one’s own. colorful frescoes depicting Buddhist February 17 - 21, 2015 (b,l) before a tasty lunch at Taing Yin Thar car and boat. (b,l) gardens in a canoe. in to strengthen the structure. for the three pythons sleeping at the Visit Heilongtan Park, known for the stories on the interior walls. The temple is Immerse yourself in the sublime beauty of Guilin, • Accommodations at Golden Island Transfer to the Heho airport for your At 61 meters high, the Thatbyinnyu Buddha statue that are washed and fed spectacular views of the snow capped full of Tibetan antiquities accumulated Restaurant, featuring typical dishes from Lijiang - Zhongdian Longsheng and the famous Li River. Explore the tribes throughout the country, such as Cottages 2 flight to Bagan. Upon arrival, meet your Temple (1144) towers above the other daily at 11am by local worshippers. peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, February 16 • from many dynasties. Songzanlin is evocative world of Longsheng, where traditional Kachin, Shan and Rakhine. Enjoy a drink guide and transfer to the hotel. (b,l) monuments of Bagan. The white facade Lesser known are the ancient temple the largest glacier in southwestern After breakfast, drive to Tiger Leaping home to the largest Tibetan prayer wheel Zhuang and Yao people have sculpted rice terraces into Inle Lake precipitous hillsides since the Song dynasty. View the at The Strand and continue to Bogyoke February 10 • • Accommodations at The Hotel at Tharbar is magnificent to behold. ruins in the same area, many of them China. Here you will tour the Dongba Gorge (three hours’ drive) to see the in the world. spectacular karst formations of Guilin, vertical Inle Lake in southern Shan State is a vast Gate After lunch at the lovely riverside over 200 years old and partly Research Institute and the Museum of magnificent Yangzi River as it drops The afternoon is free. This evening, Aung San Market before heading back to mountains were thrust up from the seabed some 300 natural lake surrounded by traditional restaurant in the park, visit the Bagan overgrown by vegetation. Explore this Naxi Dongba Culture. 10,000 feet. Have lunch at the traditional transfer to the airport and fly to Beijing. your hotel. Bagan million years ago. Cruise the Li River, winding past • Accommodations at the Kandawgyi Palace Shan villages. For centuries, the Intha February 12 • Archaeological Museum. View the off-the-beaten-path area, sometimes Proceed to tranquil Yuhu Village to courtyard Wanxue Restaurant in Haixi For those travelers who are continuing on ancient villages, and walk the agricultural paradise at by the Royal Lake people have lived in villages built Start the day climbing up a pagoda for a collections of original Buddha statues referred to as “mini Bagan,” and find visit the home of famous American Village. to post-tour extensions, an overnight in Yangshuo. entirely on stilts perched above the lake breathtaking view of ancient Bagan. and stone inscriptions from the ruined yourself feeling like the first foreigner photographer and traveler Joseph Upon arriving at Zhongdian, meet Beijing will be included. For travelers February 9 • itself. Take a private motorboat to Within 30 square miles lie 4,000 ruins of temples. A local historian will discuss the ever to discover this place. Rock, who worked for National your local guide and transfer to your flying back to the U.S., an overnight in a D E L I G H T S O F H O N G K O N G H A R B O R Yangon – Heho – Inle Lake discover the natural beauty around the giant temples, pagodas and monasteries; topic of Buddhism in Myanmar. Take a ferry to Ava and immerse Geographic Magazine and lived here hotel. Sitting at an altitude of 3,300 Beijing airport hotel can be arranged by February 17 - 20, 2015 What’s behind the golden façade of the lake. Visit the floating gardens, see some many were built almost 1,000 years ago. Later visit a lacquerware workshop. yourself in this lovely town. See a from the 1920s through the 1940s. Rock meters, this magic place is regarded as China Advocates (additional fees apply). ) Shwedagon Pagoda? During this of the famous leg rowers and enjoy tea at Bagan has the largest collection of Bagan is famous for its lacquerware; it banana plantation, the old city walls, collected wild flower seeds of the true Shangri-la by the locals. The (b This four-day extension combines captivating a local family’s house. Buddhist architecture—far more than was a favorite of royalty. Myanmar’s old temples, Bagaya Kyaung, Nanmyin rhododendrons and azaleas distinctive ancient town is split between Tibetan and sightseeing experiences with ample free time for interactive half-day insider’s tour, Beijing - U.S. Thailand, Sri Lanka and China Kings used to present lacquer objects as tower and Maha Aungmye Bonzan of Yunnan. He sent them back to the Han Chinese residents with a fair February 18 • personal exploration to create the perfect finish to your explore the full history of the pagoda Stop by a colorful local market China tour. and witness the daily life of local people. frequented by Shan and Pao people combined. The shimmering pagodas are gifts to foreign ambassadors. Quality monastery. U.S. where many are thriving at our smattering of Naxi, Bai, Yi and Lisu International flights for the U.S. will Visit the Sheung Wan Dried Food & Herbal Market living nearby. Visit a cheroot factory why Myanmar is called the Golden lacquerware has 16 applications of In the afternoon, fly to Lijiang via parks and homes. ethnic people. The surrounding depart on February 18th; you will arrive and take a ride on a sampan in Repulse Bay. Explore the Gain deeper insight into the Buddhist Aberdeen Floating Community and take the old tram to (where the Burmese cigars are made), Land. lacquer coating and colors. It takes at Kunming. Upon arrival, meet your Visit the famous mural paintings countryside is entirely Tibetan. on the same day. the top of Victoria Peak. With a magical skyline as a backdrop, there is no end to the fascination of this self- styled world city. CUSTOMIZE YOUR CHINA EXPERIENCE floating tomato gardens, Phaung Daw The Ananda Temple and pagoda were from the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) in the Experience the area's traditional Stay in China a While Longer Oo Pagoda and a weaving factory. built by King Kyansitthar in 1091. This ancient Baisha Temple. architecture, Tibetan cultural and Enjoy lunch at Intha Heritage house pagoda is one of the largest, best In the evening, enjoy a traditional Naxi spiritual heritage and enjoy the gorgeous POST-TOUR EXTENSIONS and visit the gorgeous Burmese cats. A preserved and most revered in Bagan. music performance by the local Naxi countryside. The evening is free with Shan princess started this preservation The grounds of the temple resemble a musicians. (b,l,d) dinner on one’s own. (b,l) effort and is breeding the cats back from Greek cross with pavilions on all four • Accommodations at the Tibetan style H E N G D E M P E R I A L E S O R T Lijiang C I R near extinction. (b,l) sides February 15 • Shiner Hotel near old town February 17 - 21, 2015 Explore Dhammayangyi Temple, built This morning drive to Yak Meadow, one Inle Lake - Heho - Bagan Zhongdian - Beijing Spend three days experiencing the grandeur of the February 11 • by King Narathu in 1170. From a of the three peaks of Jade Dragon Snow February 17 • Qing Imperial Resort at Chengde, a two-hour drive In the south of the lake lie the ruins of distance, it looks like an Egyptian Mountain. Take a cable car to the summit In the morning visit the Songzanlin north of Beijing. A UNESCO World Heritage site with a history of Indein. Partly covered by vegetation, the pyramid. As the most massive brick and hike amidst grazing yaks, enjoying Monastery, at the foot of Foping more than 300 years, Chengde is one of the great area looks like a “pagoda forest.” Walk structure in Bagan, the temple’s masonry the sublime views. Mountain. Songzanlin is the largest cultural landmarks of all China. for one hour though the lush area to work is so meticulous that a small pin After lunch, tour the Tibetan Lamasery Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan The garden complex includes imperial halls, Thanaka, Traditional Facepainting of Myanmar Heilongtan Park, Lijiang enjoy a fantastic view over the lake and cannot go through the bricks. Zhiyun Monastery, one of the most province. Built on the hillside, the southern-style lake gardens, Mongolian yurts and a wooded hillside with numerous pavilions. Beyond the visit the Sulamani important monastery is palace many Buddhist temples were built, each one HE AGIC OF YANMAR UNNAN HINA primary school Temple was least six months to complete the process guide and check in at your hotel. (b) Tibetan often called the architecturally unique, of which five remain. T M MITINERARY & Y C in Tha Ley built in 1183 by so that the coating can dry naturally. • Accommodations at the Palace Hotel by monasteries “little Potala village. King Continue by horse cart through the Old Town outside Lhasa. Palace” because CLASSICAL HIGHLIGHTS: BEIJING,XIAN, SHANGHAI An optional Narapatisithu narrow country roads and farm fields The monastery of its ancient February 17 - 23, 2015 Yangon, Myanmar Lijiang February 7 - 8 • religion and how spiritual beliefs are two-hour hike with surrounded by ancient ruins. Reach the February 14 • sits in the Tibetan Depart the U.S. for Yangon, cross the mixed with the belief in nats, Myanmar is available for sophisticated Pyathagyi Pagoda in time for a special This morning enjoy a walking tour of middle of architecture. The See some of China’s most magnificent sites and classical international dateline and arrive on spirits. Submit offerings to the monks at those travelers architectural sunset viewing. Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World idyllic monastery highlights. In Beijing, traverse rugged mountains on the who wish to features. The evening is free and dinner is on Heritage site and the most charming countryside complex is a February 8th. Upon arrival, meet your the pagoda and visit a local fortune serpentine course of the Great Wall, the most enduring guide to transfer to the hotel. teller. Starting from the bottom of the explore further Known as the one’s own. (b,l) ancient town in China today. The with orchards, majestic site symbol of China. In the city of Xian see the Qin dynasty During your time in this charming city hill, roam through workshops, markets the Indein area. "crowning minority Naxi and Bai people have farm fields and with a white, red come alive through the extraordinary 2,300-year-old life-size terra-cotta warriors in the tomb of China’s first you will see the different faces of and monasteries and gain essential Enjoy a jewel," it February 13 • lived here and preserved their colorful lush vegetation. and tan exterior Mandalay - Kunming - Lijiang, China emperor. Walking Muslim Street, connect to the home-made features not Enjoy a tranquil and gilded Yangon, from the landmarks to the perspectives on the culture of Myanmar, culture and lifestyle. The Old Town is country’s Islamic past. In cosmopolitan Shanghai, feel hidden markets only few westerners which will set the tone for the rest of lunch served in only brickwork After breakfast, transfer to the airport famous for winding lanes as well as walk on small copper roofs the pulse of the city that is shaping China’s future. Leg Rower, Inle Lake Naxi Horseman have seen. your journey. a local but also stones for your flight to Mandalay. Upon stone and wooden bridges connecting roads through that shimmer in After a short rest at the hotel, visit the Transfer to the airport for your flight restaurant. inserted at arrival, meet your guide and enjoy a the small alleys to quaint courtyard farmlands. the sun for miles. The two main halls of Sule Pagoda, colonial downtown and the to Heho. Upon arrival, meet your guide Continue towards the Nam Pan village strategic places. Beams, cornerstones, brief tour of Mandalay. homes. Lots of art and craft shops The evening is free to explore Lijiang the monastery are magnificent, featuring S U B L I M E G U I L I N & L O N G S H E N G Yangon harbor. See the reclining Buddha and transfer to the hotel in Inle Lake by to explore the picturesque floating crenellated parapets and arches were put The snake temple in Paleik is known display ethnic works. Old Town and dinner is on one’s own. colorful frescoes depicting Buddhist February 17 - 21, 2015 (b,l) before a tasty lunch at Taing Yin Thar car and boat. (b,l) gardens in a canoe. in to strengthen the structure. for the three pythons sleeping at the Visit Heilongtan Park, known for the stories on the interior walls. The temple is Immerse yourself in the sublime beauty of Guilin, • Accommodations at Golden Island Transfer to the Heho airport for your At 61 meters high, the Thatbyinnyu Buddha statue that are washed and fed spectacular views of the snow capped full of Tibetan antiquities accumulated Restaurant, featuring typical dishes from Lijiang - Zhongdian Longsheng and the famous Li River. Explore the tribes throughout the country, such as Cottages 2 flight to Bagan. Upon arrival, meet your Temple (1144) towers above the other daily at 11am by local worshippers. peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, February 16 • from many dynasties. Songzanlin is evocative world of Longsheng, where traditional Kachin, Shan and Rakhine. Enjoy a drink guide and transfer to the hotel. (b,l) monuments of Bagan. The white facade Lesser known are the ancient temple the largest glacier in southwestern After breakfast, drive to Tiger Leaping home to the largest Tibetan prayer wheel Zhuang and Yao people have sculpted rice terraces into Inle Lake precipitous hillsides since the Song dynasty. View the at The Strand and continue to Bogyoke February 10 • • Accommodations at The Hotel at Tharbar is magnificent to behold. ruins in the same area, many of them China. Here you will tour the Dongba Gorge (three hours’ drive) to see the in the world. spectacular karst formations of Guilin, vertical Inle Lake in southern Shan State is a vast Gate After lunch at the lovely riverside over 200 years old and partly Research Institute and the Museum of magnificent Yangzi River as it drops The afternoon is free. This evening, Aung San Market before heading back to mountains were thrust up from the seabed some 300 natural lake surrounded by traditional restaurant in the park, visit the Bagan overgrown by vegetation. Explore this Naxi Dongba Culture. 10,000 feet. Have lunch at the traditional transfer to the airport and fly to Beijing. your hotel. Bagan million years ago. Cruise the Li River, winding past • Accommodations at the Kandawgyi Palace Shan villages. For centuries, the Intha February 12 • Archaeological Museum. View the off-the-beaten-path area, sometimes Proceed to tranquil Yuhu Village to courtyard Wanxue Restaurant in Haixi For those travelers who are continuing on ancient villages, and walk the agricultural paradise at by the Royal Lake people have lived in villages built Start the day climbing up a pagoda for a collections of original Buddha statues referred to as “mini Bagan,” and find visit the home of famous American Village. to post-tour extensions, an overnight in Yangshuo. entirely on stilts perched above the lake breathtaking view of ancient Bagan. and stone inscriptions from the ruined yourself feeling like the first foreigner photographer and traveler Joseph Upon arriving at Zhongdian, meet Beijing will be included. For travelers February 9 • itself. Take a private motorboat to Within 30 square miles lie 4,000 ruins of temples. A local historian will discuss the ever to discover this place. Rock, who worked for National your local guide and transfer to your flying back to the U.S., an overnight in a D E L I G H T S O F H O N G K O N G H A R B O R Yangon – Heho – Inle Lake discover the natural beauty around the giant temples, pagodas and monasteries; topic of Buddhism in Myanmar. Take a ferry to Ava and immerse Geographic Magazine and lived here hotel. Sitting at an altitude of 3,300 Beijing airport hotel can be arranged by February 17 - 20, 2015 What’s behind the golden façade of the lake. Visit the floating gardens, see some many were built almost 1,000 years ago. Later visit a lacquerware workshop. yourself in this lovely town. See a from the 1920s through the 1940s. Rock meters, this magic place is regarded as China Advocates (additional fees apply). ) Shwedagon Pagoda? During this of the famous leg rowers and enjoy tea at Bagan has the largest collection of Bagan is famous for its lacquerware; it banana plantation, the old city walls, collected wild flower seeds of the true Shangri-la by the locals. The (b This four-day extension combines captivating a local family’s house. Buddhist architecture—far more than was a favorite of royalty. Myanmar’s old temples, Bagaya Kyaung, Nanmyin rhododendrons and azaleas distinctive ancient town is split between Tibetan and sightseeing experiences with ample free time for interactive half-day insider’s tour, Beijing - U.S. Thailand, Sri Lanka and China Kings used to present lacquer objects as tower and Maha Aungmye Bonzan of Yunnan. He sent them back to the Han Chinese residents with a fair February 18 • personal exploration to create the perfect finish to your explore the full history of the pagoda Stop by a colorful local market China tour. and witness the daily life of local people. frequented by Shan and Pao people combined. The shimmering pagodas are gifts to foreign ambassadors. Quality monastery. U.S. where many are thriving at our smattering of Naxi, Bai, Yi and Lisu International flights for the U.S. will Visit the Sheung Wan Dried Food & Herbal Market living nearby. Visit a cheroot factory why Myanmar is called the Golden lacquerware has 16 applications of In the afternoon, fly to Lijiang via parks and homes. ethnic people. The surrounding depart on February 18th; you will arrive and take a ride on a sampan in Repulse Bay. Explore the Gain deeper insight into the Buddhist Aberdeen Floating Community and take the old tram to (where the Burmese cigars are made), Land. lacquer coating and colors. It takes at Kunming. Upon arrival, meet your Visit the famous mural paintings countryside is entirely Tibetan. on the same day. the top of Victoria Peak. With a magical skyline as a backdrop, there is no end to the fascination of this self- styled world city. TRAVEL IN CHINA The schedule will be demanding with moderate physical activity. Participants must be in good MAIN TOUR COST mental and physical health and be able to keep • Rates are per person and do not include international air: up with the pace of the group. Program partici- Main Tour, Double Occupancy $5,995 pants requiring assistance must be accompanied by someone who can and will be totally respon- Single Supplement $1,395 sible for providing all required assistance. Any PAID