Most Inspirational Moment
It's so hard to choose. I think it would have to be visiting the Forbidden City in Beijing. This was the very heart of a civilization, and I was amazed by the size of the complex and the richness of meaning behind all of its structures and components.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Leon was incredible. He was exceptionally well organised and knowledgeable. He never seemed to tire and always had the energy to answer extra questions and arrange extra trips out. He made each person in the group feel valued as an individual, and always acted in a calm and professional manner.
Advice for Potential Travellers
1. In the words of a local guide, China is having a 'toilet revolution'! There are a surprisingly large number of public toilets available at frequent intervals, though bring your own loo roll and hand sanitiser.
2. Don't underestimate the VISA process. It is far more involved than for most countries, and UK travellers will have to visit a national centre to get their fingerprints taken. (From word of mouth in our group, the Edinburgh and Manchester centres were easier to deal with than the London centre, which is busier. I'm not sure about the Belfast centre).
3. Pack a range of clothing (in layers). As the distances travelled are huge, the climate will change a lot through the trip.
4. All the hotels we stayed in had both American-style and Australian-style plug sockets in the rooms, so either of those travel adaptors would be fine.
5. ATMs are available at frequent intervals throughout the trip, so although you will be expected to pay for most things in cash, you don't need to bring all of it in advance.
