Vietnam and Angkor Wat

Expedition Details

Experience the culture and beauty of Indochina as you journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City and Cambodia's ancient capital of Angkor. Sail beneath the jagged karst pillars of Ha Long Bay on a traditional-style junk. Stroll past lush rice paddies, learn about local crafts from villagers, meet monks and royal descendants, and watch the sun rise over the Khmer temples of Angkor.

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Trip Highlights

• Explore Hanoi's lively Old Quarter by cyclo, and stroll through the ancient port city of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Board a luxury junk for a two-night cruise on Ha Long Bay.
• Discover the magnificent temples of Angkor, a masterpiece of the ancient Khmer Empire.
• Glide along the Mekong River on a private cruise, stopping to visit local villages.

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Itinerary - 15 Days

Days 1 & 2 — U.S./Hanoi, Vietnam

Depart for Hanoi, crossing the international date line, and arrive the following day. Sofitel Metropole Hanoi

Day 3 — Hanoi

Colonial architecture and lilting temples blend with a vibrant, modern culture in Hanoi. Discover Ho Chi Minh's simple stilt house, the lotus-shaped One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature. Hop on a cyclo for a ride along the winding lanes of the Old Quarter. Meet the puppeteers at a traditional water puppet performance before tonight's welcome dinner. Sofitel Metropole Hanoi (B,L,D)

Day 4 — Hanoi

On an excursion into the countryside, ride a bicycle past rice fields and picturesque hamlets to a beautiful farming village off the beaten path. Or you may travel directly to the village by coach and explore on your own. Gather for lunch and a visit to one of the lovely temples here. Return to Hanoi in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Sofitel Metropole Hanoi (B,L)

Day 5 — Ha Long Bay

Drive to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and board theHalong Jasmine, a traditional style junk. Weather permitting, take a swim or hike to a summit for panoramic views of the bay, scattered with more than a thousand tiny islands and ringed by saw-toothed karst formations. Explore a floating fishing village by kayak, whose residents spend almost their entire lives on water, venturing to land about once a month. Halong Jasmine (B,L,D)

Day 6 — Bai Tu Long Bay

Cruise to the remote reaches of Bai Tu Long Bay. Paddle among the islands in a kayak or ride a small bamboo boat, passing through a tunnel into a secluded lagoon where you may spot a monkey or two. Stop by the home of a fisherman to hear how his family has lived by the bay for generations. Halong Jasmine (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Ha Long Bay/Hanoi/Hue

Venture into the grotto of Sung Sot. Then head back to Hanoi and fly to Hue, Vietnam's capital from 1802 to 1945. Check into our hotel, a former governor's residence. La Résidence Hôtel & Spa (B)

Day 8 — Hue

After a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, bike or drive along the Perfume River to the Forbidden Purple City, seat of the Nguyen emperors. At the ancient Ba La Mat Pagoda, join monks for lunch and a discussion of Buddhism. Explore the park-like compound that serves as the royal tomb of the Emperor Tu Duc, the fourth and longest reigning Nguyen emperor. Tonight, dine in a royal residence with a descendant of the imperial family. La Résidence Hôtel & Spa (B,L,D)

Day 9 — Da Nang/Hoi An

Visit the ornate tomb of the Emperor Khai Dinh before traveling to Da Nang, stopping to take in spectacular views from Hai Van Pass. In Da Nang, join a researcher for a private tour of the renowned Cham Museum. Continue to the ancient fishing town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy time at leisure this afternoon. Life Heritage Resort Hoi An (B,L)

Day 10 — Hoi An

Set out on a walking tour of old Hoi An. A prosperous trading port from the 15th to the 19th century, Hoi An reflects Chinese and Japanese influences in its graceful architecture and covered bridges. Stop by the local market, where stalls brim with tropical specialties and lush silks. After lunch, explore the town on your own. Life Heritage Resort Hoi An (B,L)

Day 11 — Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City. Visit the War Remnants Museum, followed by a walking tour that includes ornate examples of the city’s French colonial architecture. Or you may choose to take an excursion to the Cu Chi tunnels, an underground network built during the Vietnam War. Dine at the former home of Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr., the first American ambassador to South Vietnam. Hotel Majestic (B,L,D)

Day 12 — Mekong Delta/Ho Chi Minh City

On an excursion to the Mekong Delta, stroll through fruit orchards, ride a bike past rural villages, and meet local families. Stop for lunch in Cai Be, and take a private cruise on the Mekong River. Return to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy an evening at leisure. Hotel Majestic (B,L)

Day 13 — Siem Reap, Cambodia

Fly to Siem Reap and settle into our hotel. In the afternoon, encounter the great temple complex at Ta Prohm. Built in 1186, this Buddhist monastery remains whimsically tangled with thick jungle roots and vines. Le Méridien Angkor (B)

Day 14 — Angkor/Siem Reap

If you choose, awaken early to see the sun rise at Angkor Wat. After breakfast, ride an elephant around Bayon Temple, stopping to explore its many towers and terraces. Then, discover Angkor Wat, the magnificent temple complex of the ancient Khmer Empire. In the afternoon, visit the town of Siem Reap on your own, or examine the exquisite carvings at the temple of Banteay Srei within the Angkor complex. Celebrate your journey at a farewell dinner and a Khmer dance performance. Le Méridien Angkor (B,L,D)

Tibet and Nepal

Expedition Details

In the company of mountaineer Peter Hillary, delve into the fascinating world of mountain lore and Tibetan and Nepalese cultures while visiting the fabled cities of Lhasa, Shigatse, and Kathmandu. On this specially crafted expedition, take in some of the most magnificent mountain vistas on Earth as we journey overland across the Tibetan Plateau to the North Face Base Camp of Mount Everest and into Nepal.

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Trip Highlights

• Explore the Himalaya with mountaineer Peter Hillary, son of the legendary Sir Edmund Hillary.
• Venture into Tibet's wondrous monasteries and the fabled Potala Palace in Lhasa.
• Gaze up at the soaring crags of Mount Everest from storied North Face Base Camp.
• Discover many layers of symbolism and belief at ancient Bodhnath—the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal.

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Itinerary - 16 Days

Days 1 & 2 — U.S./Beijing, China

Depart for Beijing, cross the international date line, and arrive the next evening. The Peninsula Beijing

Day 3 — Beijing/Chengdu/Lhasa, Tibet

This morning, embark on one of the world's most astonishing flights, crossing the Hengduan Range and three of Asia's greatest rivers—the Salween, the Mekong, and the Yangtze—en route to Lhasa (11,970 feet). Drive to the Holy City, scanning the vast countryside for the first sight of the Potala Palace. Gather for a welcome reception and dinner this evening. Dekang Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 4 — Lhasa

Explore Tibet's two greatest monasteries: Drepung and Sera. Drepung once housed 10,000 monks, and Sera almost as many. If we're lucky, we'll see and hear the lilting, booming chanting of the sutras or the theatrical debate of the monks. Set out on a hike in the afternoon. Dekang Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 5 — Lhasa

Venture up to the Potala Palace and explore the grandest of its myriad rooms. See the jeweled burial chortens of past Dalai Lamas as well as statuary, frescoes, and paintings. Then visit the lovely Jewel Park, where the Dalai Lamas spent their summers, enjoying an informality impossible in the Potala. Dekang Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 6 — Lhasa

Take an excursion to the historic Ganden Monastery, destroyed by China's Red Army in 1966 and now a working monastery once more. Later, visit the Jokhang, Tibet's holiest temple; and wander through the Barkhor, Lhasa's old market. Dekang Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Lhasa/Gyangzê

Our drive to Gyangzê (12,956 feet) traces the turquoise waters of the holy Lake Yamdrok and crosses two spectacular high passes. Stop to view a magnificent hanging glaciers, and if you wish, go on a hike for a closer view. Gyangzê Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Gyangzê

Take an optional hike to the Ganden Gyakgye Retreat, a monastic retreat badly damaged during the Cultural Revolution. Or choose an exploratory walk through the back streets of Gyangzê to visit houses and meet with locals. Later, visit the impressive Gyangzê Dzong fortress that dominates the skyline above and offers breathtaking views of the Nyang Chu Valley below. Gyangzê Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 9 — Gyangzê/Shigatse

Explore the Pelkor Chode, a complex of monasteries and temples in which all four major sects of Tibetan Buddhism worshipped. Then, drive to Shigatse (12,792 feet), home to the immense Tashilunpo Monastery, the seat of Tibet's second highest incarnation, the Panchen Lama. Venture into its warren of chapels and shrines linked by mysterious alleyways and steep staircases. Walk back to the hotel through the town of Shigatse, stopping to browse through the old market. Manasarovar Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 10 — Shigatse/Xêgar

The scenic drive to Xêgar crosses the Lakpa La (17,121 feet) and provides us with our first glimpse of Mount Everest (weather permitting). Settle into our hotel in the small town of Xêgar (14,268 feet) where the first expeditions to nearby Mount Everest stopped in the 1920s. Qomolangma Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 11 — Xêgar/Everest North Face Base Camp

From Xêgar, cross the 17,000-foot Pang La. Here, take in a superb vista of ice-capped peaks dwarfed by majestic Mount Everest— described by George Leigh Mallory, who pioneered today's route, as the "prodigious white fang...[rising] from the jaw of the world." Visit Rongbuk Monastery before continuing to the North Face Base Camp of Everest. Return to Xêgar tonight. Qomolangma Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 12 — Xêgar/Zhangmu

Today, journey from the barren Tibetan Plateau to the lush foothills of Nepal, descending more than 9,000 feet flanked by towering summits. In the border town of Zhangmu, settle into our hotel overlooking the Bhote Kosi river. Cai Yuan Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 13 — Zhangmu/Kathmandu, Nepal

Cross the Friendship Bridge from Tibet into Nepal, and continue to the medieval city of Bhaktapur where much of Little Buddha was filmed. Discover ancient temples and palaces adorned with intricately carved wooden windows and latticework. Continue to Kathmandu and settle into our hotel. Dwarika's Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 14 — Kathmandu

Spend today exploring the colorful capital city of Kathmandu. Visit the 2,500-year-old shrine at Swayambhunath. Delve into the bustle of Durbar Square and the Hanuman Dhoka palace complex. View the great Buddhist stupa of Bodhnath, the largest such structure in Nepal. Tonight, celebrate a remarkable journey with a festive farewell dinner. Dwarika's Hotel (B,L,D)

Days 15 & 16 — Kathmandu/U.S.

Depart Kathmandu and connect in Bangkok or Delhi for flights home. (B)

Land of the Nomad

Expedition Details

Amid the stark beauty of Mongolia’s varied landscapes lives one of the world's last surviving nomadic cultures, whose customs pre-date the age of Genghis Khan. On a journey from the mystical steppe to the remote dunes of the Gobi desert, witness an ancient way of life. Ride horseback across wetlands, hike in a dramatic oasis, and watch the sun set on the Flaming Cliffs. Stay in traditional ger camps and witness the exhilarating contests of the Naadam Festival.

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Trip Highlights

• Experience Naadam, Mongolia's most celebrated festival, and see wrestling and horse racing competitions.
• Spot wildlife in the wetlands of the Gün-Galuut Nature Reserve and learn about efforts to protect the takhi, Mongolia’s last species of wild horse, in Hustain Nuruu National Park.
• Explore the site of one of the world's most prolific dinosaur fossil quarries at the Flaming Cliffs.
• Attend a performance of Mongolian throat singing and learn about this fascinating traditional musical form.

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Itinerary - 13 Days

Days 1 & 2 — U.S. / Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Depart on an overnight flight to Ulaanbaatar and check into our centrally located hotel upon arrival. Ulaanbaatar Hotel

Day 3 — Ulaanbaatar

Spend the morning at the Gandan Monastery, Mongolia’s largest functioning Buddhist monastery—one of very few to survive Stalin’s crackdown on religion during the purges of the 1930s. Listen to the horns calling lamas to temple, observe the monks’ daily rituals, and visit the adjoining Megjid Janraisig and Kalachakra Temples. This afternoon, get an overview of Mongolia’s history and culture at the remodeled National History Museum, where Stone and Bronze Age artifacts, sacred relics, traditional costumes, and implements of everyday life are on display. At the Natural History Museum examine the fossilized dinosaur bones and eggs found in the Gobi, and step into the paleontology lab, where local scientists prepare recently discovered fossils. Gather tonight for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Ulaanbaatar Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 4 — Gün-Galuut Nature Reserve

Join a senior U.S Embassy official for an introduction to the current political and economic climate over breakfast. Then drive east to Gün -Galuut, a nature reserve near the Khentii Mountains where the steppe converges with stunning wetlands. Enjoy the rest of the day to explore the area on a hike or an optional horseback ride. Tonight, stay in a traditional ger camp and enjoy a typical barbeque dinner. Ger Camp (B,L,D)

Day 5 — Ulaanbaatar

Return to Ulaanbaatar, stopping en route at the new monument of Genghis Khan on horseback. Rising high above the surrounding fields, the 40-foot tall monument symbolizes the revival of Mongolia’s rich heritage, which had been suppressed during the Soviet era. Ulaanbaatar Hotel (B,L)

Day 6 — Gobi / Flaming Cliffs

Soar over the vast steppe on a flight to the mystical Gobi desert, site of some of the most important paleontological discoveries of the 20th century. Settle into your deluxe ger at Three Camel Lodge, voted in 2009 one of the "Top 50 Eco-lodges" by National Geographic Adventuremagazine. Over the next four days, discover the wildlife and varying landscapes of the desert, home to Bactrian camels, Argali mountain sheep, and saker falcons, as well as rare species such as snow leopards and Gobi bears. Travel to the legendary Flaming Cliffs, where brilliant red sandstone harbors a treasure trove of dinosaur fossils and eggs. Three Camel Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Yolyn Am

Awaken early to watch the rising sun infuse the desert with glowing hues of orange and gold. Travel to Yolyn Am, or Eagle Valley, a dramatic chasm that cuts a narrow path through the foothills of the arid Altai Mountains. Set out on a hike through this lush spot, keeping your eye out for native vultures called lammergeiers, ibex, and gazelles. Stop for a picnic lunch before visiting the local natural history museum. Three Camel Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Gegeet Valley / Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes

Depart on an overnight excursion, visiting the Gegeet Valley, the habitat of the elusive snow leopard, en route to the Khongoryn Els, a 60-mile stretch of rippling sand dunes that soar up to 600 feet and trace the edge of the Altai range. Take in the sunset on this stunning and remote desert landscape and spend the night in a nearby ger camp. Ger Camp (B,L,D)

Day 9 — Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes

After breakfast, encounter the “Singing Sands,” dunes known for the uncanny, deep groan the sand emits when the dunes’ surface is disturbed. Stop in at the camp of a camel herding family and experience traditional Mongolian hospitality. Take a ride on a Bactrian camel if you wish. Head back to the Three Camel Lodge after lunch. Three Camel Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 10 — Gobi / Ulaanbaatar

Fly to Ulaanbaatar this morning, arriving in time for lunch at a local restaurant. Then venture into the Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan, home of Mongolia’s last theocrat, Bogd Jebtzun Damba Hutagt VIII (Mongolia’s 8th Living Buddha). In the evening, take in a performance of traditional Mongolian dance and khoomi, or throat singing. Ulaanbaatar Hotel (B,L)

Day 11 — Naadam Festival / Hustain Nuruu National Park

Attend the opening ceremony of Naadam. Witness a wrestling competition, then head into the countryside to watch the traditional horse race. Late this afternoon, travel to our ger camp in Hustain Nuruu National Park. Ger Camp (B,L,D)

Day 12 — Hustain Nuruu National Park / Ulaanbaatar

Mongolia’s last remaining species of wild horse, the takhi, commonly known as Przewalski’s horse, was extinct in the wild until a small population was reintroduced into Hustain Nuruu in 1994. Now, nearly 400 horses roam re-introduction sites in Mongolia and China. Stop in at the visitor’s center to learn about conservation efforts and then set out into the park in search of these beautiful creatures. Return to Ulaanbaatar after lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Tonight, cap off your adventure with a festive farewell dinner at the Zanabazar Fine Arts Museum. Named for the first Buddhist leader of Mongolia—a renowned 17th-century sculptor, artist, and politician—the museum displays one of the world’s best collections of Buddhist art and artifacts, including many of Zanabazar’s original works. Ulaanbaatar Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 13 — Ulaanbaatar / U.S.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight, or continue on the extension. (B)

Journey in India

Expedition Details

Celebrate the rich cultural heritage of India on a journey to the vibrant cities of Rajasthan and the fascinating spiritual center of Varanasi. Gaze at the Taj Mahal at sunset and explore exquisitely carved fortresses and temples. Meet local artisans in their homes, and discuss modern India with distinguished professionals and dignitaries at intimate dinners. Delve into the colorful bustle of everyday life in Delhi and Jaipur, and observe ancient rituals on the Ganges River.

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Trip Highlights

• Experience one of India's spectacular traditional festivals.
• Watch the rising and setting sun transform the glorious Taj Mahal.
• Get acquainted with contemporary life and interact with locals through specially arranged events.
• Witness timeless Hindu ceremonies as you cruise past sacred sites that line the banks of the Ganges River.

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Itinerary - 10 Days

Days 1 & 2 — U.S./Delhi, India

Depart on an overnight flight and arrive in Delhi the following evening. The Oberoi

Day 3 — Delhi

This morning, head into Old Delhi, where ancient, twisting alleyways bustle with life and colorful bazaars showcase the traditional crafts for which Delhi is famous. Trace the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi on a visit to his final home—the site of his assassination in January 1948. Continue to Raj Ghat, a memorial located on Gandhi's cremation grounds. Then climb into bicycle rickshaws and delve into the heart of the Chandni Chowk market, where silver merchants hawk their wares. Emerge from its narrow lanes at the Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, built by Shah Jahan in the 17th-century. After lunch, visit Humayun's Tomb, a prime example of early Mughal architecture, and explore the sights of New Delhi. Tonight, join Indian professionals and academics for a special welcome reception and dinner at a family home. The Oberoi (B,L,D)

Day 4 — Delhi/Jaipur

Experience the quintessential Indian mode of transportation on an early morning train ride to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Built in 1727 by the warrior-astronomer Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur is known as the "pink city" for the rose-colored stucco buildings that fill this walled city. Wander through the vibrant markets of the old city and visit the Palace of the Winds. At the City Palace, where the present maharaja resides, examine a collection of Rajasthani and Mughal miniature paintings. Stroll through the 18th-century astronomical observatory Jantar Mantar to see a variety of impressive sundials and modern astronomical measures. Jai Mahal Palace (B,L,D)

Day 5 — Jaipur

Experience the thrill of the annual Kite Festival,* in which townspeople of all ages participate in a kite flying competition. Set out for the stunning Amber Fort, a 16th-century complex of well-preserved palaces, temples, and gardens. Spend the morning discovering jewel-like mosaics, inlay, and sculptures throughout the fort. Head to the polo grounds this afternoon to try your hand at "fighting kites." Tonight we dine with members of Jaipur's noble family at the beautiful Sankotra Haveli mansion. Jai Mahal Palace (B,L,D)

Day 6 — Fatehpur Sikri/Agra

Travel overland to Agra early this morning. Stop on the way to visit Fatehpur Sikri, named one of National Geographic Traveler's "50 Places of a Lifetime" in 2009. Capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585, Fatehpur Sikri was built by Emperor Akbar to celebrate the birth of an heir. Thanks to arid conditions, the city's elegant carved sandstone palaces remain perfectly preserved. Arrive in Agra and settle into our spectacular hotel, where all rooms overlook the Taj Mahal. On our first visit to the Taj Mahal, step inside the inner chambers, and watch the setting sun light up this magnificent Mughal icon. This evening, head to the home of a local family for a cooking demonstration and a delicious dinner featuring the cuisine of North India. The Oberoi Amarvilas (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Agra/Varanasi

Rise early to witness the sunrise on the majestic white marble of the Taj Mahal. After breakfast, drive to Delhi to catch our afternoon flight to the ancient city of Varanasi, the center of Hindu culture. A holy city dedicated to Shiva, Varanasi has survived the centuries because of its sanctified place in Indian religious life. Late this afternoon, take a walking tour of the city's famous ghats. Then cruise the Ganges River at sunset to witness the evening aarti prayer ritual. The Gateway Hotel Ganges (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Varanasi

Take an early morning boat ride to see pilgrims gathering on the ghats to bathe in the sacred Ganges as the city begins to come alive in the misty light of dawn. After a late breakfast, pay a visit to a school for underprivileged children and meet with the students and teachers during their class sessions. Varanasi is also known for its rich weaving tradition, known as Banarasi brocade. This afternoon, learn about the craft by visiting an artisan family that has been weaving brocade for generations. At tonight's special farewell dinner, Bharat Natyam dancers and musicians join us for a private performance. The Gateway Hotel Ganges (B,L,D)

Days 9 & 10 — Varanasi/Delhi/U.S.

Take an excursion to the Buddhist pilgrimage site of Sarnath. At the museum, see excavated pillars from the Maurya dynasty (323-185 B.C.) and ancient stupas. This afternoon, fly to Delhi. After dinner, return to the airport for your overnight flight, arriving home the following day. (B,L,D)

Inside China

Expedition Details

From the winding Great Wall to the dramatic landscapes of the Three Gorges, experience the timeless beauty of a changing China. Beginning in Beijing, venture to the ancient capital of Xi'an, cruise the Yangtze, and discover cosmopolitan Shanghai. Immerse yourself in Chinese culture through discussions with local experts, and catch a glimpse of old China in traditional neighborhoods off the beaten track.

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Trip Highlights

• Meet a leading archaeologist and enjoy VIP access to Xi'an's astonishing terra-cotta warrior dig on a private tour.
• Hike along an isolated section of the Great Wall.
• Witness the new landscapes created by the Three Gorges Dam and attend a talk by a head engineer from the project.
• Glide on canals lined with beautifully preserved Ming dynasty buildings in the water village of Xitang.

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Itinerary - 14 Days

Days 1 & 2 — U.S./Beijing

Fly to Beijing, crossing the international date line, and arrive the evening of Day 2. The Peninsula Beijing

Day 3 — Beijing

Spend the day exploring the imperial monuments of the city. Begin at the Temple of Heaven, a Ming dynasty temple complex where emperors held their prayer ceremonies. Then stroll across Tiananmen Square, the stage for many turning points in modern Chinese history — from the start of the Cultural Revolution to the demonstrations of 1989. Continue to the Forbidden City, home to the Ming and Qing dynasty emperors and some of the finest imperial architecture in China. View a collection of royal treasures and meander through the stunning Imperial Gardens. Gather for a welcome dinner at an elegant restaurant overlooking Beihai Park. The Peninsula Beijing (B,L,D)

Day 4 — Beijing

Visit an organization dedicated to the restoration and preservation of thehutong, Beijing's traditional neighborhoods. Then follow an expert into hidden alleyways to see courtyard-style homes, and learn about the principles of feng shui. Explore the Lama Temple, one of the largest centers of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. Tonight, savor a Peking duck dinner at a popular local restaurant. The Peninsula Beijing (B,L,D)

Day 5 — Beijing

Set off on an excursion to a serpentine section of the Great Wall not seen by many visitors. Here, the wall follows the hillcrest, providing excellent views of the surrounding countryside. Stroll along the top of the wall, or go on an invigorating hike along the wall's unrestored section. After lunch, return to Beijing by way of the Olympic Park. The Peninsula Beijing (B,L)

Day 6 — Beijing/Xi'an

Fly to Xi'an, China's capital for more than 1,000 years and once the eastern terminus of the Silk Road. After a lunch of local specialties, check in to our hotel. This afternoon, experience Xi'an from a unique perspective on a bike or golf cart ride atop the massive Ming Dynasty city wall. Hyatt Regency (B,L)

Day 7 — Xi'an

Meet a leading archaeologist to learn about the excavation of one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century: the life-size terra-cotta army that stands guard at the tomb of China's First Emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Enjoy special access to the VIP platform at the site. Later, meander through Xi'an's lively Muslim quarter and enjoy an insider's perspective on a tour of the Great Mosque. Tonight, gather for a 16-course dumpling feast at a renowned restaurant. Hyatt Regency (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Xi'an/Chongqing

Stop at the tomb of the Han emperor Jing Di to view thousands of funerary figurines. The statues, depict all walks of life—a contrast to the martial figures of Qin Shi Huang's tomb. Fly to Chongqing, the most populous city in the world. At the Chongqing Zoo, observe pandas and learn about efforts to conserve them. This evening, board the ship and glide down the river toward the famed Three Gorges. M.S. Victoria Anna or M.S. Yangzi Explorer* (B,L,D)

Days 9 & 10 — Yangtze River

Cruise past reconstructed villages and modern cities, witnessing life along the Yangtze—and the ways that the new dam has changed it. Dock in the town of Fengdu, and meet some of its residents this afternoon. The next day, awaken early to witness our approach to the first of the spectacular Three Gorges. Board smaller boats to travel up a narrow tributary, passing terraced hillsides and traditional fishing boats. This evening, arrive at the Three Gorges Dam and enter its intricate locks system. M.S. Victoria Anna or M.S. Yangzi Explorer* (B,L,D daily)

Day 11 — Yichang/Shanghai

Disembark in Yichang and meet an engineer from the Three Gorges Dam project for a talk on the construction of the world's largest hydroelectric dam. After lunch, fly to Shanghai. Check into our historic hotel, located in the elegant French Concession. Enjoy an evening discovering the city's great restaurants on your own. Garden Hotel (B,L)

Day 12 — Shanghai

Browse stunning collections of bronze, jades, and ceramics at the Shanghai Museum. Then visit the Urban Planning Exhibition Hall to learn about the city-wide projects that are transforming Shanghai. After lunch overlooking the lively walking streets of Old Shanghai, stroll along the winding paths of Yu Yuan, a 16th-century classical garden in the heart of the city. Enjoy time on your own this afternoon to explore Shanghai's markets and historic districts. Garden Hotel (B,L)

Day 13 — Xitang/Shanghai

Take an excursion to the water village of Xitang, built on a web of canals linked by 100 bridges. On a boat ride, view beautifully preserved homes dating to the Ming Dynasty. Or you may choose to spend today exploring Shanghai on your own. Gather this evening for a festive farewell dinner. Garden Hotel (B,D)

Day 14 — Shanghai/U.S.

Transfer to the airport for your return flight, arriving home the same day. (B)