China Focus Tours

Is anyone familiar with this company? I am looking at a 20 day trip this fall, and I am hoping some of you can give me feedback if you have traveled with them. I appreciate any and all assistance. Also, if any of you have had a great experience with a different comapny, would you let me know?

Thank you!

Susan

China Focus Tours

Please do a forum search with appropriate keywords eg ';China Focus'; and ';tour';.

China Focus Tours

I went with China Focus in October for a 10 day trip and no special interest in Asia. It was so wonderful, I%26#39;m returning in May for a 19 day trip with China Focus this time including Tibet, if we%26#39;re allowed in, and 3 River Gorges. All hotels were very good and the meals more than adequate (a certain repetitiveness sets in, but it%26#39;s all good and healthy) -- especially when nearly every day breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided.

The Chinese are bending over backwards to make a good impression and outdo everyone on earth in hospitality. Every guide was really good -- only one filled time with jokes, but he was very organized. Since you%26#39;ll be flying internally, being organized is an absolute requirement. You will be taken to required tourist showrooms - jade, pearls, silk factory, rugs, lacquers, etc. Very little is a ';bagain'; and filling your time during these shopping stops may be the low point for you. Take a book. Otherwise, get ready for a fabulous tour that will more than fulfill your desire to see the great attractions, as well as the beautiful shows and scores of friendly people who will want to practice their English. Children are much adored. Use your digital camera to take their photos, then show them the back of your camera and they%26#39;ll reward you with their satisfaction!

By the way -- there are NO bargains in China. I found that to be true and it was confirmed by a friend who sells Chinese are (mostly to Chinese people living here!) The only bargains I found were the Olympic t-shirts and hats being hawked on the street. Ballcaps are 3 for $5 and shirts can be had for $2 or $3. The watches (';Rolex, lady?';) will be run down before the sellers have left you.

What I did find as a bargain were paintings. The Buddhist Garden in Guilim run by the University has wonderful works, the Pagoda in Xian is good, the best was at The HOuse of the Humble Fisherman, a State run consortium -- no haggling -- with wonderful prints and wood cuts. I%26#39;ll certainly buy more on my trip in May.

One thing I really enjoyed in Shanghai at the end of our trip, was going to an internationally known gourmet restaurant. It%26#39;s pricey, but worth it if you like that sort of thing. And by then you%26#39;re ready for some Western food. A group of us went to Loris, although we tried to go to Jean George in the same building-- 3 On The Bund. This is mentioned in guide books.

A friend of mine named Mary from Alabama is taking the same trip and may be in your group. Hers is as long as yours and she%26#39;ll be going in September.

Have fun,

Linda