The cheapest way to see most of the highlights in a few weeks?

So I’m planning on heading off on my travels next February, with my ultimate destination being Australia. As I’d have to stop over in Asia anyway I figured it would be silly not to check China (a country I have always wanted to visit) off the list. I’m a first time traveller so I’m anxious about all the usual stuff - being alone, getting lost, language barrier etc. I’d prefer to go with a company such as RealGap but their prices are extortionate! I can’t really see what you’re paying all that money for. Anyone know any alternatives or am I really best just going it alone? I know I’d probably meet other travellers but there’s always the “what if?” at the back of my mind.

I’d like to spend no more than 3-4 weeks there. I want to see the Great Wall, Teracotta Warriors, Confucius temple etc. I’d ideally like to finish in Hong Kong as it’s a convenient place to fly to Australia from.

Anyone planning a similar trip at the same time? Would also be good to get to know a few people.

hey Robert,

Im not sure if I picked up what route you are planning. Are you planning SEAsia - china - Australia?
I too am planning on setting off on my travels in February 2013. Im doing trans siberian - china - SEAsia - Australia. Hopefully with Nepal Slipped in there some where.

I too am trying to figure out how to do the china leg of my trip. i have looked at :

~ROMA China with STA costs £1050 for 18 days ends in hongkong or Beijing.

~ Just Booking various tickets through www.chinatraintickets.net

~Vodkatrain Rail Packs (check out their web site) costa vary from£235 to £570 depending what you go for. They also offer Train packages in to/from Vietnam.

I still cant decide which way to go…..

I cant find much info about the Vodkatrain Rail Packs which is really frustrating. I am waiting to see if STA can offer more info on them at the moment. The ROMA trip offers security but Looks a bit pricey so third option looks appealing of just booking a few train tickets my self before going.However it raises my worries of language barriers, being alone and getting lost etc etc.

When were you thinking of going to china?? I am the same 3 weeks would suit me quite fine. Have you had any further thoughts/finds??

Rachel

What i’m doing is this, sounds pretty much the same as your idea:

http://www.gadventures.com/trips/roam-china-hong-kong-to-beijing/ACRC/2012/

I’ll be going in early February as originally planned. I’m doing a teaching placement in Beijing for 4 weeks after the tour ends before heading to Australia until August/when I run out of money…

You should look at that tour i’m doing, heard good things. Might even end up in the same one!

Thanks Robert,
Yeh that was the tour I had been looking at. Im still trying to decide lol if I was to do it would be about the 24/03/2013 or 27/05/2013.

Just out of interest who did you book the Beijing placement with?

Cheers
Rachel

Traveller’s Worldwide

http://www.travellersworldwide.com/02-china/02-china-teach-home.htm

Not booked it yet but you can start whenever you like

Hi Robert,

Still heading this way in February 2013?
What places are top of your list ?

Have you made a priority order ?

Will you be staying long in China?

Vette