Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
Supporting...
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
2: CONTENTS
Summary
Fact file
Itinerary
Passport
Visa
Vaccinations
Spending money
Drinking water
Insurance
Pre-departure form
Social media
Contact details
Training
Kit list
Packing for the flight
Packing for trekking
Booking your own flights
Changes to your booking
Travel assistance
What to do in the event of an incident
Medical form
ATOL bonding
Before you go checklist
Frequently asked questions
Epic Add-ons
Why book with Rare?
China’s Golden Triangle: The Pearl
China’s Golden Triangle: The Pearl
The Turtle
How to book
Doing it yourself
Independent travel checklist
Useful phrases
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
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Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
3: SUMMARY
Experience one of the wonders of the world on this
breath-taking, 10-day tour of the Great Wall of China. Immerse
yourself in the vibrant culture and scenery of the most
spectacular sections of the Great Wall, from the popular tourist
hotspots to the quieter, less frequented areas. This trek will
prove a physical challenge, rewarding you with an insight into the
rich tapestry of Chinese life on your journey through history and
culture.
You are about to embark on the trip of a lifetime, where you will
experience new things, meet new people, and come home with
memories that will stay with you forever.
Familiarising yourself with the contents of this information pack
will help you to prepare for what lies ahead. This will not only give
you the best chance of completing the trek safely, but of having
the time of your life on the way there and back.
Adventure Fact File:
Country:
Distance:
Duration:
Registration fee:
Fundraising target:
China
70 km
10 / 16 days
345 ( 295 student price)
Confirmed by charity
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
4: FACT FILE
China Fact File:
Country:
Capital:
Population:
Currency:
Exchange rate:
Language:
The People’s Republic of China
Beijing
1.3 billion
Renminbi (yuan) CNY
£1 / 9 CNY*
Standard Chinese
* at time of writing
The Chinese civilisation has endured over 5,000 years of upheaval, revolution, golden ages and
dark times. A recent period of incredible economic growth has seen China once again become one
of the world’s leading nations.
Chinese exports, both physical and cultural, were once carried to the West along the famous Silk
Road. These days, China exerts influence on the world through its financial institutions and
powerhouses of production.
The climate in China, especially the area around Beijing where this trek focuses, can vary from
month to month. The summer months of June-August are characterised by high temperatures and
humidity, with sporadic rain showers and storms. It always pays to pack for both warm and wet
weather.
The Chinese mains electricity supply is generally 220 V, 50 Hz, AC. This should suit most
devices you use in the UK, which runs on a 240 V supply. Check your own devices to
make sure they will be compatible, and bring a transformer if necessary. While some larger
hotels offer the UK-style 3-pin wall socket, remember to also bring a travel adaptor for the
Chinese 3-pin style.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
5: ITINERARY
The itinerary for your event is below. This is based on the flights-inclusive package, with DAY 1 being the
date of your arrival into China.
Itinerary
0: DEPARTURE
Meals
Depart UK
Arrive in Beijing. Collection from airport & transfer to team hotel.
Dinner in the evening
D
Depart Beijing & transfer to Huangyaguan Great Wall.
Trek from Taipingzhai to Huangyaguan. Overnight at Gubeikou village
BLD
Trek from Gubeikou to Jinshanling.
Dumpling-making session in the late afternoon
BLD
Trek from Jinshanling to Simatai West.
Overnight in farmer's guesthouse
BLD
Trek from Jiankou to Mutianyu.
Camping & barbecue in the evening
BLD
Morning Tai Chi. Trek from Xishuiyu to Huanghuacheng.
Overnight in courtyard hotel next to the Great Wall
BLD
Trek to Daheigiu to Chengjiapu.
Overnight at local hotel in Yanqing
BLD
8: OLD BADALING
Trek from Shixiaguan to Old Badaling.
Transfer back to Beijing for celebratory dinner
BLD
9: INDEPENDENT
TRAVEL
Independent travel
B
15: RETURN TO UK
Return flight to UK
1: BEIJING
2: HUANGYAGUAN
3: GUBEIKOU
4: JINSHANLING
5: JIANKOU
6: HUANGHUACHENG
7: CHENGJIAPU
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
RARE ADVENTURES’ RESPONSIBILITY
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
6: ITINERARY
BEIJING
You will be met at the airport by our guide, and transferred
to the team hotel in Beijing, the former seat of the Ming
and Qing dynasties, and China’s bustling capital. A city of
contrasts, in Beijing you will find quaint hidden alleyways in
the shadow of gleaming skyscrapers.
Depending on your arrival time, you can visit nearby
Jingshan Park. Here you can climb Coal Hill for a
sweeping view of the Forbidden City as the sun sets.
HUANGYAGUAN
After breakfast, we will transfer to Taipingzhai, meaning
“village of peace and prosperity”. We start our hike with a
steep climb to the tallest watchtower on the section, taking
in the stunning panoramic scenery, before descending to
the bottom. If you aren’t feeling sufficiently warmed up after
that, you can climb to the top of the Heaven Ladder of
Huangya - a steep climb of around 600 m. After the
trekking day is complete, you will have lunch nearby,
before transferring to Gubeikou and our lodge for the
evening.
GUBEIKOU
After a traditional breakfast including congee and steamed
rolls, we begin our hike along the Gubeikou Great Wall. On
a clear day, you can see the wall stretch over rolling hills to
the horizon in each direction. In the early afternoon, we will
leave the wall and follow a winding path through corn
fields. In the crook of a small valley you will arrive at this
evening’s camp, with a local farmer and his family. Here
you can help to make dumplings for tonight’s dinner,
before relaxing under a clear night sky.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
7: ITINERARY
JINSHANLING
After an early start, we bid farewell to our host family before
joining the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall - one of
the best preserved parts, with many original features. We
will hike for around 5 hours along an extremely photogenic
section with over 15 watch towers, steep climbs & wide
open views. This section is both ruined, preserved and
original and it’s difficult to not take a great picture at any
point. After reaching the Kylin Tower, we leave the wall for
Jiankou village where will spend the night.
JIANKOU
The Jiankou to Mutianyu section is one of the most
satisfying days of hiking on the wall. Superb scenery,
dense vegetation and many fine watch towers line the
route. We will spend large sections of the day trekking with
nobody else around, along a wild wall comprised of original
Ming Dynasty stonework. As we approach Zhengbeilou
Tower, you will have a breath-taking view of the Jiankou
section, sitting in stark contract to the well-restored
Mutianyu section ahead. We will spend tonight at a camp
by the wall, with a BBQ dinner.
HUANGHUACHENG
We will get up before sunrise and climb to a nearby
watchtower for a Tai Chi lesson as the sun rises - the
perfect way to bid farewell to the Wall. Leaving camp, we
continue to the Huanghuacheng Great Wall.
Huanghuacheng literally means “Yellow
Flower”, and is
known as the only Great Wall section that is submerged in
water. Having hiked west, past several fruit yards and
bushes towards Yaoziyu Village, we will finish the day in a
nearby village, enjoying some traditional food and drinks.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
8: ITINERARY
CHENGJIAPU
There are almost no other people on today’s section.
Starting from Daheigou (literally “Grand Black Valley”), the
first 2 hours of hiking will be all uphill. We will pass a
section known as the U-Wall, where the wall was
constructed around on a U-shaped cliff to remove a
possible hiding place for enemies. After a picnic lunch, we
will descend for around 4.5 hours over rolling sections of
wall, eventually reaching Chengjiapu village and transferring
to our accommodation for the night for a hotpot dinner.
OLD BADALING
Today we trek from Old Badaling to the Shixiaguan section
- often seen as the most iconic section of the entire Great
Wall. We will trek the abandoned Badaling wall for around
4 hours before reaching Shixiaguan. This section gained
fame due to a legendary rebel farmer named Li Zicheng,
who overthrew the Ming Dynasty, in part due to using a
secret valley to move his forces through the wall and attack
the soldiers at Shixiaguan. After 4.5 hours of hiking, we will
transfer back to Beijing for showers and a celebratory
meal.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
9: PASSPORT
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your visa application.
Please check this in advance, and if you do need to apply for a new passport, please do
so as soon as possible in order to avoid delays and the possibility of missing your trip.
Make sure you have at least 2 blank pages left in your passport. This is for your
Chinese visa and your entry stamps at border control. You should also take a
photocopy of your passport picture page with you and keep this separate to your
passport.
VISA
You should apply for your visa n later than 8 weeks before your departure date. The
application process for a Chinese visa can be prolonged and complicated. We
STRONGLY advise you start this process as soon as you can, as any delays could
result in you losing your place on the trip.
Be sure to take a photocopy of your visa with you.
APPLYING FOR YOUR VISA
You can start the application process for your visa by visiting the China Visa Application Service Centre.
Follow the step-by-step guidance notes, which will vary depending on whether you are going to apply in person
at one of the visa application centres (there are centres in London, Manchester & Edinburgh).
To complete your application you will need the following documents:





Your passport (with 6 months’ validity)
A completed visa application form (this can also be completed online). See overleaf for guidance notes
A signed declaration form
A photocopy of your previous Chinese visa (if you have been granted one before)
Supporting documents (these will be provided by Rare Adventures):

Letter of invitation

Itinerary document

Booking confirmation - flight & accommodation
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
10: VISA
Please see the notes below for guidance on completing the visa application form:
Attach a passport photo
Refers to a Chinese
citizenship / ID number.
Leave blank unless you
have one.
Select your occupation
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Ordinary (unless you have
a non-standard passport)
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
11: VISA
Please see the notes below for guidance on completing the visa application form:
Your next of kin
Select tourism
One entry (if you are
booking your own flights,
please select the
appropriate option)
Check your flight itinerary.
Usually this is +1 from
your departure date
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
12: VISA
Please see the notes below for guidance on completing the visa application form:
We will send out your
confirmed dates from
January 2015
Upon arrival, you will be
staying at:
Red Wall Hotel
No. 31 ShaTan North
Street
Dongcheng District
Beijing City, 100009
Rare Adventures, c/o
Great Wall Charity Trek
5 F, Building 6, Xindadu
Hotel
Xicheng District
Beijing, China 100061
+86 139 1136 1359
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
13: VISA
Please see the notes below for guidance on completing the visa application form:
Leave blank
(unless required to
declare anything)
Sign & date
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
14: VACCINATIONS
Current NHS advice is to update primary courses & boosters required for life in
Britain. Hepatitis A is also advised, while cholera, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis,
rabies, tick-borne encephalitis & typhoid are also recommended.
Please refer to NHS Fit for Travel for more information: http://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk.
SPENDING MONEY
All meals, transfers and accommodation required as part of your Great Wall trek are
included. You will need to bring spending money to cover any additional travel you
choose to undertake, souvenirs, alcoholic drinks and other expenses such as tips.
You can buy Chinese yuan in the UK before you leave at most currency exchange offices, and these will
offer favourable rates of exchange. Alternatively, you can bring cash with you, which can be exchanged for
yuan at the airport or the hotel. Make a note of the exchange rate before you leave in order to ensure you get
the best deal. You can also use a cash card to withdraw money from an ATM (bear in mind your bank may
charge for this service). Be sure to inform your bank you are travelling before leaving the UK to avoid any
issues.
Please bear the following costs in mind when planning how much spending money to bring:

£30 ($45) recommended tip for your guides & drivers

£30 ($45) for souvenirs and mementoes - this depends on how much you want to bring home!

£50-100 ($80-150) per day for independent travel
We recommend budgeting between £250-500 ($400-800), depending on what activities you have planned
for independent travel time.
DRINKING WATER
Safe drinking water is provided throughout your time on the trek. To help reduce waste and the environmental
impact of running our treks in China, all drinking water will be supplied from large, sanitary containers. Please
bring a water bottle (see kit list) for this purpose.
While staying in lodges and hotels, avoid drinking the tap water. While some locals in China do drink the tap
water, we do not recommend this. However, the tap water is perfectly safe to use for washing and brushing
your teeth.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
15: INSURANCE
All participants must have valid travel insurance cover in place before departure.
We will ask you to provide your policy number and other details when completing the
pre-departure form, which is due no later than 8 weeks before departure.
All policies need to cover a minimum of:



Helicopter rescue
Medical repatriation
Cover for personal items such as MP3 players and cameras
We strongly recommend that you take out an insurance policy as early as possible. While you need cover during
your time on the trip, taking out a policy early will also protect you against early cancellation due to illness or
other circumstances. If you are fundraising for your trip, this will help ensure that your hard work will not be
wasted should you have to drop out.
RARE CARE
Rare adventures is proud to offer an insurance policy that has been tailored to the needs of
clients trekking the Great Wall of China.
By matching the level of cover to the trek itinerary, we ensure that you only pay for the required level of cover.
We have also worked directly with our underwriters to negotiate a package of cover that suits your needs.
WHAT WE COVER
Our Rare Care policy covers all of the above requirements, plus:





Emergency & medical expenses of up to £10,000,000
Cancellation & curtailment of up to £5,000
Personal accident of up to £30,000
Loss, theft or damage to personal money, passport & documents of up to £500
Loss, theft or damage to baggage of up to £2,500
PRICE & HOW TO BOOK
The Rare Care policy is priced at £60, with an excess of £50. It covers up to 3 weeks in China. We also offer
a 15% student discount.
To book your cover and get peace of mind today, please call us on +44(0)20 347 55009, quoting “Rare
Care”.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
16: PRE-DEPARTURE FORM
Before we can confirm your place on the trip, we will need to
collect some additional information. You can submit this at any
time through our online portal, but we will send you a reminder
around 2 months before the start of your trip if you haven’t yet
completed it.
We will need you to tell us your:
passport details

travel insurance details

next of kin contact details

dietary requirements

flight details (if you are booking your own)
IMPORTANT
Submitting this information is very important; without it, we cannot confirm your place on the trip.
Providing these details will take just 5 minutes, and allows us to confirm your flight and
accommodation bookings, plus secure any necessary permits. If we don't receive this information
at least 35 working days before your trip start date, you may have to pay additional fees.
PLEASE NOTE
It's also important that you make sure the details you give us are correct. If we make a booking based on
incorrect information you have provided, you may need to pay a changing fee. Always check your
confirmation emails, and get in touch with us if you are unsure.
SOCIAL MEDIA
If you have family and friends back at home who would like to keep track of your
progress on the wall, we can post daily updates tracking your climb on our
social media accounts. This is a great way for those who can’t be with you to
follow you every step of the way.
We will set up a hashtag for your group, and post the updates to our @RareTracker
Twitter:
Facebook:
@RareTracker (for daily trip updates)
@RareAdventures
Rare Adventures
Instagram:
Website:
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Rare.Adventures
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
17: CONTACT DETAILS
Make sure you save our contact details in your phone, and add our email addresses to your safe sender list.
This will help make sure you don’t miss out on any key messages.
Telephone: +44(0)20 347 55009
24 hour assistance: +44(0)20 347 53216 (only available when on your trip)
Email: [email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected]
TRAINING
The nutrition provided, route and expert guides will help to ensure you have the best possible time out in China.
Before you leave, you can significantly improve your chances by training in advance. Everyone who takes part
in the Great Wall of China trek should be comfortable walking for long periods. Preferably, you should be able
to walk for 6 hours at a moderate pace while carrying a 5-10 kg pack.
WALKING TRAINING
Each day you will trek from your starting point to the end point, over uneven, steep terrain. This trek is like a
marathon, not a sprint! It’s about endurance, and you must be comfortable walking for 6 hours at a moderate
pace while carrying a 5-10 kg pack. By preparing the muscles used for trekking, you will recover more quickly
at the end of each day, and wake up with fewer aches and pains.
RESISTANCE TRAINING
While cardio training and preparing your body for the rigours of prolonged periods of trekking are essential,
some resistance training will also prove useful. Hiking can place strain on your knees and back, so it is a good
idea to focus on these areas. When training, it’s not about lifting the heaviest weight you can. Do exercises in
sets, starting with lighter weights, as this will build up endurance rather than bulk.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
18: KIT LIST
Essential?
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Item
1 set of clothing to travel in
1 warm hat
Hiking boots
Long sleeved trekking shirts
Long trekking trousers
Mid-layers
Sun hat
Trainers
Trekking shorts / zip-off trousers
T-shirts
Underwear
Waterproof shell trousers
Waterproof, hooded jacket
Lightweight gloves
Day pack (30-35 litre capacity)
Sunglasses
Head-torch
Large rucksack / duffel w. shoulder straps
Travel towel
Water bottle(s)
Dry bags / plastic bags
Personal electronic devices
Stay-behind bag & padlock
Travel power adaptor
Trekking poles
Waterproof bag cover
Flight e-ticket print-outs
Key documents
Travel insurance documents
Blister kit
Insect repellent
Painkillers
Personal medicines
Plasters
Sunblock
Toothbrush & toothpaste
Water purification tablets
Antibacterial gel
Deodorant
Diarrhoea tablets
Lip salve
Oral rehydration sachets
Snacks
Soap / shower gel / shampoo
Wet wipes
Notes
Lightweight shirt, long trousers, trekking socks
Worn in, waterproof. Wear these for the flight
2 or 3. Windproof
2 pairs
Fleece or warm jumpers – for both top & bottom
With wide brim
To wear in the evenings
1 pair
Inc. heavy trekking socks & liner socks. Enough to last the itinerary
Essential. Gore-Tex recommended.
Essential. Gore-Tex recommended.
Used to carry daily supplies & provisions. With waterproof cover
100% UV protection
With spare batteries
60-80 litre capacity. Must be soft, not hard case
Fast-drying microfibre or similar
3 litre capacity (2 x 1.5 litre / 3 x 1 litre / 3 litre Camelbak etc.)
To keep clothes dry, & dirty clothes separate
Mobile phone, MP3 player, camera
Large bag to leave any clothes for extended travel at the hotel
Suitable for Tanzanian plug sockets
These will be emailed to you after your final fundraising deadline
Passport, travel insurance and visa, plus photocopies
Compeed or similar
With DEET
Paracetamol, ibuprofen etc. Rare Adventures cannot provide this
Waterproof. Factor 50 recommended for summit day
Ensure toothpaste is 100 ml or under
Essential
Ensure under 100 ml if taking as carry-on
Ensure under 100 ml if taking as carry-on
Optional
With sun protection
Ensure under 100 ml if taking as carry-on
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Packed?
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
19: PACKING
19: KIT
FOR
LIST
THE FLIGHT
We recommend that you pack following the guidelines below. Travelling with your most
essential bits of kit in your hand luggage means you will still be able to take part in the trek if your luggage is
delayed on the flight.
Item
Day pack (30-35 litre capacity)
Hiking boots
Head-torch
Sunglasses
Toiletry bag
Flight e-ticket print-outs
Travel insurance documents
1 set of clothing to travel in
Personal electronic devices
Key documents
Item
Large rucksack / duffel w. shoulder straps
Mid-layers
Waterproof, hooded jacket
Waterproof shell trousers
T-shirts
Long sleeved trekking shirts
Long trekking trousers
Trekking shorts / zip-off trousers
Underwear
Trainers
Lightweight gloves
Trekking poles
Water bottle(s)
Sun hat
1 warm hat
Travel towel
Dry bags / plastic bags
Snacks
Travel power adaptor
Stay-behind bag & padlock
Packed?
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Packed?
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
20: PACKING FOR TREKKING
We recommend that you pack following the guidelines below, checking your kit at the hotel before you start the
day’s trekking. All other essential kit should be in your main bag, which will be carried in the support vehicle.
Item
1 warm hat
Day pack (30-35 litre capacity)
Dry bags / plastic bags
Sunglasses
Head-torch
Key documents
Long sleeved trekking shirts
Mid-layers
Personal electronic devices
Snacks
Sun hat
Trekking poles
Water bottle(s)
Waterproof bag cover
Waterproof shell trousers
Waterproof, hooded jacket
Packed?
Dress to impress…
the layering system
Item
Antibacterial gel
Diarrhoea tablets
Insect repellent
Lip salve
Oral rehydration sachets
Painkillers
Personal medicines
Plasters
Sunblock
Water purification tablets
Wet wipes
Blister kit
Packed?
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
When dressing for each day of trekking,
follow the 3-layer rule:
1.
2.
3.
Base layer: The base layer mops up
damp and sweat (thermal base layer,
t-shirts etc)
Mid layer: Traps in heat to keep you
warm. This can be a synthetic, wool
or down layer (long sleeved trekking
shirts, jumpers, fleece)
Outer layer: The outer is your 'shell'
shield against wind, rain and abrasion
(down jacket, waterproof shell)
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
21: BOOKING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS
FLIGHTS INTO BEIJING
Beijing Capital International Airport is the main hub serving Beijing. It’s the
world’s second busiest airport, and is comprised of three terminals.
There are direct flights to Beijing from the UK, the majority of which depart from
London Heathrow. Many carriers also offer through tickets with a transfer at a
hub in Europe or the Middle East.
Expected flight cost: £600-1,100
GETTING TO THE HOTEL
Taxi: The team hotel is in Central Beijing, around 28 km from the airport. The trip will cost around RMB 70-120
(£7-12). Make sure the driver uses the meter, as that is the fare you will pay, plus an RMB 10 toll for using the
airport expressway. Traffic jams occur regularly on this stretch, so be prepared for delays.
BE AWARE OF SCAMS! From the airport, only use taxis from the stand at the queue on the ground level. Don’t
buy from touts or desks inside the airport. All official taxis in Beijing have licence plates beginning with the letter
“B”, as in “京B”. Another scam involves imposters who pretend to work for the taxi company, and lead you to a
“taxi” with a fake meter which runs at a much faster rate (RMB 200-300 to the city).
Airport Express: The Airport Express train runs in a loop from Terminal 3 to Terminals 1 and 2, then on to
Sanyuanqiao Station (Line 10) and Dongzhimen Station (Lines 2 and 13). A one-way journey to the city will cost
RMB 25. The trains used are often small, meaning they can get very busy at peak times, with very
little space for luggage. The queue to buy tickets can be quite ramshackle and fast-moving at times. This can
be a shock to the system after a long journey, so the best approach is to go with the flow!
PLEASE NOTE
If you are booking your own flights, your services with Rare Adventures will start when you arrive at the team
hotel on the first day of the itinerary, and end on Day 9. You are responsible for making your own way to the
hotel, and to the airport to catch your flight home.
Rare Adventures will not be able to offer support outside of this period of service, and it is your responsibility to
ensure you have correctly booked flights and transfers.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
22: CHANGES TO YOUR BOOKING
Please ensure the information you provide to us during registration is accurate. If, for any reason, you need to
update your booking, please contact us on:
EMAIL: [email protected]
TELEPHONE: +44(0)20 347 55009 (Monday-Friday, 0900-1730)
CHANGES TO YOUR FLIGHT OPTION
When signing up, you can choose our flights-inclusive package, or you can choose to book your own flights.
You can change this option within 7 days of registration, free of charge.
For changes requested after 7 days, the fees below will apply:
Within 7 days of registration
After 7 days of registration
Change to flights-inclusive
Change to book-your-own flights
FREE
FREE
If a change is possible, a minimum fee of £95 + any additional costs will apply
CHANGING FLIGHT DATES
For all of our charity challenge events, we book flights under a group ticket. This helps to minimise costs to the
charity, and ensure the maximum amount of fundraising goes to the cause you want to support.
Passengers travelling on a group ticket must all depart and return on the same date. If you wish to stay in China
for longer, return early, or arrive early, then you should opt to book your own flights.
SWITCHING GROUPS
In some circumstances, it may be necessary for you to switch groups. We will always try to minimise any costs
incurred as a result of this, however if we need to secure extra flights or additional accommodation there may be
unavoidable fees.
Also, please note that if you switch groups, your original flight preference will be carried over unless you request
to change this option.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
23: TRAVEL ASSISTANCE
Whether it’s a lost passport or illness, sometimes things happen during travel that are out
of your control. For emergencies like this, Rare Adventures runs an assistance line that is
open 24/7. One of our team will always be on standby to help coordinate a response to
any emergency incidents and manage communications with your next of kin and
insurance company back in the UK. Such incidents include, but aren’t limited to:



missed flights
illness or injury
crime
In cases of emergency, call our Rare Care support line.
PLEASE SAVE THIS NUMBER IN YOUR CONTACTS, FOR USE IN EMERGENCIES ONLY:
+44(0)20 347 53216
If your group has a team leader, they will be issued with a Rare Connect mobile phone, to be used in
emergencies.
WHAT TO DO IN THE EVENT OF AN INCIDENT
In the event of an emergency incident, you should always refer to your team guide or a member of our team.
As the staff members on the ground with your team, they are in the best position to offer assistance and help
when needed.
Our guides and in-country team will also be on hand to help coordinate any response.
In the event of an emergency, think RARE:
Review. Assess the situation. Make sure it is safe to continue and you are not in danger
Act. Make sure you & others are safe. Make a note of what happened, who was affected, and where
Reach Out. Tell a guide. Speak to your team leader. Call the emergency line. Make sure someone knows
Easy. Take it easy – you’re in good hands. Our team will work to resolve your issue and keep you updated
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
24: MEDICAL FORM
When you sign up to the event, you will be asked if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. If you select
yes, you will be sent a medical form to complete with your doctor. Medical conditions that could affect your
participation include, but aren’t limited to:






allergies
breathing and circulation issues
metabolic and dietary disorders
neurological conditions
mental health issues
physical or learning disabilities
past injuries or surgeries.
If you are unsure, please speak to your doctor.
ATOL BONDING
Rare Adventures is acting as agent for Travelpack Marketing and Leisure Services Ltd (ATOL No: 2866). All the
flight-inclusive tours offered are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied
with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and
other services) is listed on it. Please see booking conditions for further information or for more information about
financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
25: BEFORE YOU GO CHECKLIST
Preparing for the Great Wall trek can be a daunting task. With so much to prepare
before the day that you finally board that flight, where do you start?
The checklist below will help you to organise yourself ahead of the big day. Please
read the section relating to each item. In brackets is how long before departure you
should aim to complete each item.
PRE-DEPARTURE CHECKLIST
SHARE A COPY OF THIS PACK WITH YOUR NEXT OF KIN (now)
EMERGENCY PROCEDURE – ADD NUMBER TO CONTACTS (now)
ARRANGE INDEPENDENT TRAVEL (3-6 months)
CHECK KIT LIST (5 months)
PASSPORT (3 months)
COMPLETE PRE-DEPARTURE FORM (10 weeks)
INSURANCE (2 months)
VACCINATIONS (2 months)
VISA (2 months)
CHANGE MONEY (2 weeks)
INFORM BANK YOU ARE TRAVELLING (1 week)
SHARE SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS (1 week)
MAKE PHOTOCOPIES OF PASSPORT, INSURANCE & VISA (1 week)
Last-minute delays can be costly, and could risk your place on the trip. Plan ahead,
and make sure you have a great time out in China!
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
26: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT LEVEL OF EXPERIENCE DO I NEED?
This is a non-technical trek, which doesn't require any specialist skills
or equipment. Our team will follow an established trekking route, and our
guides will take the lead. We advise that all clients have experience of hill
walking in the UK, and are comfortable hiking for up to 6 hours per day with a
5-10 kg pack.
HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE?
All participants should be in very good physical condition, preferably able to walk for 6 hours at a reasonable
pace. The route will take you up and down some steep sections of the wall, over uneven and rocky steps. This
can place some strain on the knees and legs, so we recommend training on some similar hikes before you
leave the UK.
All participants with pre-existing medical conditions will be asked to complete a medical questionnaire
with their GP.
DO I NEED ANY SPECIALIST KIT?
The right kit can be the difference between a successful trek and one that ends early. Take a look at the kit list
in this information pack for more details on the gear we recommend.
WILL I NEED ANY VACCINATIONS?
Current NHS advice is to update primary courses & boosters required for life in Britain.
Hepatitis A is also advised, while cholera, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies,
tick-borne encephalitis & typhoid are also recommended. Please refer to the NHS Fit
for Travel website for more information: http://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk.
HOW MUCH SHOULD I BUDGET FOR THIS EXPEDITION?
All transfers and accommodation in the itinerary are included, along with all meals on Days 1-9 and
breakfast on Day 10. You will need personal spending money for souvenirs & alcoholic drinks, plus your tips for
the guides, extra snacks, and any additional travel you choose to undertake. We recommend an amount
between £250-500 ($385-770).
CAN I BOOK MY OWN FLIGHTS?
You are able to book a land-only expedition through Rare Adventures, and meet the
team in Beijing before the trek. You can fly directly to Beijing Capital International
Airport (PEK) and transfer to the hotel. Please see the Booking Your Own Flights
section for more information.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
27: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE FOOD LIKE?
All food is included during the trekking days, and during Days 1 and 9 in Beijing. All meals will be freshly cooked
and prepared for you by our team, or by our hosts in farmhouses and lodges. Evening meals will give you a taste
of some local delicacies, with some more familiar options also on offer. During our trekking days, you will prepare
your own packed lunches each morning, with a selection of Chinese snacks and Western-style meats and
cheeses offered.
If you have any specific dietary requirements, our team can make reasonable adjustments to cater for this. When
signing up, please specify your individual needs.
After the trek, we will be treated to a celebratory meal in one of Beijing’s famous Peking duck restaurants - this
delicacy is something every visitor to China should try at least once. A vegetarian option will be available.
WHAT WEATHER SHOULD I EXPECT?
During summer months, Beijing and the surrounding areas can be very hot
and humid, with temperatures as high as 40°C, and humidity around 75%. The
weather is mostly sunny, with patches of occasional rain during the day and
thunderstorms in the evening. Between September and November, things
are generally cooler.
HOW MANY GUIDES AND CREW WILL THERE BE?
The group will be accompanied at all times by our head guide, who will have overall command of the expedition.
There will also be a team of assistant guides, porters and the team cook.
At all times on the trek, we ensure a minimum ratio of 1 crew member to every 15 clients, along with a dedicated
driver and support vehicle.
WHAT PAPERWORK DO I NEED?
You will need to obtain the following documents in order to travel to take part in the
Great Wall of China trek:



A Chinese visa
A valid travel insurance certificate
A completed medical form (if you have declared any medical conditions during registration)
We can provide you with the required documentation for your visa application. If you declare during registration
for the trip that you have a pre-existing medical condition, you will automatically be emailed a medical form to
complete.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
28: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
CAN I RECHARGE MY PHONE / MP3 PLAYER DURING THE TREK?
At the lodges and farmhouses, there will be some limited power outlets where you can charge
personal electronic devices. Chinese mains electricity supply is generally 220 V, 50 Hz, AC. This should
suit most devices you use in the UK, which runs on a 240 V supply. Check your own devices to make
sure they will be compatible, and bring a transformer if necessary. While some larger hotels offer the
UK-style 3-pin wall socket, remember to also bring a travel adaptor for the Chinese 3-pin style.
CAN I SHOWER OR WASH CLOTHES DURING THE TREK?
During the trek we will stay in a mixture of farmhouses, lodges and campsites. With
the exception of our campsites, showers and washing facilities will be available
on each day. Hot water may not always be available, as some farmhouses rely
on solar heating for water. Laundry facilities will be available at the team hotel
in Beijing after the trek.
WHERE CAN I GET CASH OR CHANGE MONEY?
You can withdraw cash from one of the many ATMs in Beijing, or some of the towns we visit during the trek.
Please remember that your bank may charge a transaction fee on this, sometimes as much as 5%. If you bring
pounds sterling or American dollars, these can be changed into Chinese yuan at one of the exchange offices in
Beijing or at the hotel. You can also buy Chinese currency in the UK before you fly out.
HOW MUCH BAGGAGE CAN I TAKE ON THE TREK?
The support vehicle will carry our luggage, delivering it to the accommodation each night ahead of your arrival.
During the day, you will carry your own day pack, with water, packed lunch, camera and other personal items.
Your day pack should weigh between 5-10 kg.
IF WE ARE STAYING IN LODGES, CAN I DRINK THE TAP WATER?
You will be provided with a bottle of fresh, clean drinking water every day, or you can fill up your personal bottle
from our supply. While some locals in China do drink the tap water, we do not recommend this. The tap water is
OK to use for washing and brushing your teeth.
IS CHINA SAFE?
China is safe for travellers, with serious crime against foreigners rare. Travellers can be
targeted by thieves for passports, laptops, mobile phones and purses. Be aware of
your surroundings at major tourist sites and busy areas frequented by foreigners, as
these attract pickpockets. Some vendors may attempt to switch genuine notes for
counterfeits, especially RMB 100. Check any change you receive before leaving a
shop or café. Avoid travelling on your own, or at night in larger cities. Don’t accept
drinks from strangers in bars, and only use official taxis and bus services.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
29: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT TRAVEL INSURANCE DO I NEED?
All clients taking part in the Great Wall of China trek must provide a copy of their
travel insurance certificate to Rare Adventures. Each policy must cover:



Helicopter evacuation
Medical expenses
Injury, death & repatriation
Rare adventures is able to offer a competitively priced insurance policy which is suitable for the Great Wall of
China trek. Contact us for more details. For more details, contact us on +44(0)20 347 55009, quoting Rare
Care, or see the Insurance section of this information pack.
WHAT ARE COMMUNICATIONS LIKE DURING THE TREK?
Most areas we will trek through have excellent mobile phone coverage. In Beijing and some of the bigger towns
there is also data coverage for internet usage. As with all foreign travel, please be aware of the potential costs
of roaming when making and receiving calls, especially when using data services. Some lodges and
farmhouses will have Wi-Fi available for you to use.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
Included:

International return flights to China (excluding selffunded option)

Experienced English-speaking guides

All meals, transfers & accommodation as outlined
above

Bottled or purified water during the trek

All park fees, taxes & permits as required for the
above itinerary

Camping equipment where required

Hotel accommodation on twin shared room basis,
where specified

Fully supported emergency procedures & 24/7
support line

First Aid kit

All porter services
Not included:

Chinese visa

Personal expenditure (telephone, laundry, shopping
and so on)

Tips for guides & drivers. We recommend you budget
£50 ($80) per person

Beverages & alcoholic drinks

Personal camping equipment, including sleeping bag

Additional hotel stays in-country & extra travel

Equipment hire

Any other service not clearly mentioned on the
itinerary & trip-inclusive portion

Activities undertaken as part of independent travel
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
30: EPIC ADD-ONS
China offers a range of attractions for any visitor. Whether you want to explore
Beijing, or look beyond China's capital to the Silk road city of Xi'an, or the glass and
steel metropolis of Shanghai - we have a package for you.
The Golden Triangle combines the best of Chinese traditions with the fast-paced
modernity of the country’s bigger cities. This 6-day tour will allow you to experience
the full palette of Chinese culture and tradition, taking you from the capital city of
Beijing to the famed Silk Road city of Xi’an, home of the Terracotta Army, and on to
the futuristic steel and glass metropolis of Shanghai.
In Beijing, history awaits at every turn. You can visit the grand remnants of China’s
Imperial past - the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace and Tiananmen Square.
Exploring the secretive hutong alleyways by day, and enjoy the best of local cuisine
and entertainment by night.
Next stop is Xi’an. The roots of Chinese culture can be traced back to this former
capital city, home of the famous Terracotta Warriors. As the eastern terminus of the
Silk Road, Xi’an is also home to a pulsating mix of cultures from across the orient.
The tour ends in Shanghai, where East meets West in a head-on explosion of
architecture, food and culture.
The Dragon includes all meals, entrance tickets to attractions & transfers. Because
navigating China can be daunting to the first-time visitor, we also include the
services of an English-speaking guide in each city. The Tiger is perfect for those
who want to arrange everything themselves. We take care of your B&B
accommodation and transport between cities, and the rest is up to you. Finally, the
Turtle is for those who want to dig deep into the city of Beijing, and explore its
secretive alleyways and more modern sights.
WHY BOOK WITH RARE?
We live and breathe adventure travel. We know that there are plenty of options out there when it comes to
arranging some R&R after your trek, and we know that it’s possible to save some cash by cutting a deal with a
local operator. While we may not be the cheapest when it comes to arranging a little you-time after the trek, we
guarantee that by booking with us, you won’t be left with any extra hassle or worries.
If you only have a short time to spend exploring China after you get off the Wall, we strongly believe that you
deserve to spend every second of it enjoying some of the finest culture and attractions in the world. You can
queue at a train station and run round town haggling for a bargain, but that’s time we know you want to spend
marvelling at an ancient wonder, or experiencing modern China in all its glory.
Our extensive network in China means that you will never be left in the lurch, should anything unexpected
happen, and we can always work to rearrange plans for you. This means that you are free to kick back, relax
and enjoy your Rare Adventure.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
31: THE DRAGON
DAY 1
Today we explore Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the
world and a culturally significant public space in Beijing and beyond.
From here, we will pass through the Forbidden City, a walled palace
that was the home of China’s emperors for nearly 500 years. In the
afternoon, we will explore the Temple of Heaven, and maybe even join
the locals in the park for a spot of tai chi. In the evening, we will take in
one of Beijing's impressive kung fu shows before heading our separate
ways for dinner.
Meals: BL
DAY 2
Early in the morning, we will visit the Summer Palace, an expansive
complex of lakes, gardens and palaces. We then move to modern-day
Beijing, and explore Olympic Green, the Olympic park that hosted the
2008 games. In the afternoon we take a tour of Beijing secretive
hutong alleyways, one of the few remaining links to Beijing’s
pre-industrial past. We will so have the opportunity to pick up some
bargains at Beijing's famed Silk Street market. In the evening we will
board an overnight train to Xi’an.
Meals: BL
DAY 3
After checking into our hotel and freshening up, we will spend the
morning exploring the archaeological treasure trove of the Terracotta
Army. This world-famous collection of terracotta sculptures represents
the armies of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, and is a must-see
for any visitor to Xi’an. Afterwards, we will visit the Big Wild Goose
Pagoda, a 1,300-year-old Buddhist pagoda, and one of Xi’an’s most
famous landmarks., before checking in to our hotel for the night.
Meals: L
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
32: THE DRAGON
DAY 4
A real highlight of any trip to Xi’an is exploring the city walls by bike. We
will ride along these ancient fortifications, viewing the city from above
and learning about the significance of Xi’an as the starting point of the
famed Silk Road trading route. Afterwards, we will tour the Muslim
Quarter by foot, soaking up the atmosphere and sampling some of the
great street food on offer.
In the late evening, we will board our sleeper train to Shanghai.
Meals: L
DAY 5
After an early arrival, we will transfer to our hotel to freshen up. In the
late morning, we visit the Yuyuan Garden and bazaar in the old city.
The centrepiece of the lush Chinese garden is an exquisite 5-tonne
Jade Rock. Next we pay a visit to the Shanghai Museum and tour
People’s Square & Nanjing Road. In the evening, we cap off the day
with a cruise on the Huangpu River. Here you can take in the sights
and sounds of Shanghai from the river, which flows through the centre
of Shanghai, and was the lifeblood of this city’s early shipping trade.
Afterwards we will transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay.
Meals: L
DAY 6
After breakfast, we will take a trip up the Jin Mao Tower, the third
tallest building in China. The views from the observation deck here are
simply stunning, and a great way to finish a packed 6-day tour of
China’s Golden Triangle.
After lunch, we will board an afternoon train to Beijing, where we will
transfer to our hotel for dinner.
After an overnight stop, we’ll catch out flight home.
Meals: B
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
33: THE DRAGON
PRICE
“A company that always employs the
local community in your destination
country, feels safe and well organised
and is good value for money.”
Based on a minimum group of 10. Please contact us
to discuss pricing for smaller groups.
Per person:
Kate, The University of Edinburgh
WHAT IS INCLUDED
WHAT IS INCLUDED








Meals as stated
Hotel accommodation where specified
All train tickets & transfers where specified
Use of air-conditioned vehicle for transfers and
sight-seeing
All entrance fees, attraction tickets & permits as
specified
Professional, English-speaking guides throughout




Tips & gratuities
Personal items such as souvenirs & telephone
calls
Alcoholic / soft drinks outside of mealtimes
Optional activities outside of the itinerary
Domestic flights
Dinner
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
34: THE TIGER
Explore the Golden Triangle on your own terms. Take our flexible accommodation and transport only option and
you can chose how to spend your time in each city, safe in the knowledge that your travel and accommodation
are sorted. Perfect for the independent traveller
Day in Beijing, and overnight stay in our hotel
Day in Beijing followed by overnight train to Xi’an
Train arrives into Xi’an early in the morning. Day in Xi’an followed by overnight in the hotel.
Day in Xi’an, followed by overnight train to Shanghai.
Train arrives early in Shanghai. Day in Shanghai and overnight stay in hotel
Morning in Shanghai before boarding the afternoon train to Beijing. Overnight stay in hotel before flying home the
following day.
PRICE
Based on a minimum group of 10. Please contact us to discuss pricing for smaller groups.
Per person:
WHAT IS INCLUDED
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED









Hotel accommodation where specified
All train tickets & transfers where specified
Airport transfers
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Tips & gratuities
Personal items such as souvenirs & telephone calls
Alcoholic / soft drinks outside of mealtimes
Optional activities outside of the itinerary
Domestic flights
Meals
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
35: THE TURTLE
If you’re on a tighter budget or feel like a more leisurely approach to your remaining time in China, our third add-on option,
The Turtle, may be the one for you. The add on gives you the peace of mind of having your Beijing accommodation sorted,
giving you a base to use when exploring China’s famed capital.
Hotel and transfers are sorted for you, but to get you started, here are some suggestions for making the most of your time in
magical Beijing.

Explore Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world and a culturally significant public space in Beijing and
beyond.
Check out the Forbidden City, a spectacular walled palace that was the home of China’s emperors for nearly 500 years
Explore the Temple of Heaven, visited by the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Take in the beautiful Summer Palace, with it’s acres of gardens.
Do a spot of Tai Chi in the park or take in one of Beijing’s impressive Kung fu shows at night.
Check out the Olympic park, the setting of the 2008 games.





PRICE
“A company that always employs the
local community in your destination
country, feels safe and well organised
and is good value for money.”
Prices are based on a minimum group of 10. Please
contact us to discuss pricing for smaller groups.
Price per person:
Kate, The University of Edinburgh
WHAT IS INCLUDED
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED







Accommodation in Beijing.
Airport transfers.
Meals.
Activities and entry to parks
Domestic flights
Travel such as train tickets.
Personal items such as souvenirs and telephone
calls.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
36: HOW TO BOOK
If you would like to book an Epic Add-on, please email [email protected] or call us on +44(0)20 347
55009. One of our team will be happy to talk you through your options.
FINAL PAYMENT
We believe that our clients should have flexible payment terms for their add-ons. Quite often, you will be
focused on hitting your fundraising target, and we don’t want to distract you from that.
To help support this, we do not require final payment for add-ons until 4 weeks before the start of your Epic
Add-on. You can hold your place on the trip for a deposit, and we will contact you when the final
payment is due. You can also pay for your Epic Add-on in instalments if you prefer.
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
37: DOING IT YOURSELF
As the departure date for your trip draws nearer, we know that you may be looking for advice on many aspects of
the trip, among them independent travel and where to go. With so many options out there, it can be difficult to
know where to get the best deal and which is the best option. If you have decided to book your own independent
travel, we’re not trying to change your mind. However, since your safety and wellbeing are our number one priority,
we do want to share some guidance with you.
We want you to have a hassle-free and enjoyable experience in China. Standards vary hugely, and each year we
hear horror stories of trips going badly wrong. Don’t be afraid to ask questions of tour operators - if you choose not
to book your independent travel with a licenced tour operator, you will take on full responsibility for your own
wellbeing during the trip. It pays to be careful and check up on who you are handing your money to!
Whether you chose to book with Rare Adventures or not, we want to make sure that every single person who
travels to the Great Wall on one of our trips has a positive experience in China. We recommend that everyone
booking independent travel does so with a UK registered tour operator. This protects your booking.
If you do want to talk further about choosing a reliable operator and booking your independent travel, whether you
are booking with us or not, our team are only too happy to help.
CHECKLIST FOR INDEPENDENT TRAVEL
Please refer to the following checklist if you decide to work directly with local tour operators
INSURED:
If you are using a local operator, make sure they are fully licenced and registered with the
Chinese government. Ask to see certificates
Make sure they are insured - this includes insurance for all vehicles used and public
liability insurance
FIRST AID:
Check if all guides and crew are certified and trained in first aid
LIVING WAGE:
Try to check if staff are treated well and paid a living wage. Low cost can mean low welfare
REGISTERED:
ACCOUNTABLE:
Make sure all vehicles used are licenced to take tourists, and come equipped with
seatbelts
Ask what will happen if the tour operator doesn’t provide the services you have paid for.
Will you be able to get your money back if something falls through?
REFERENCES:
Are they able to provide you with references from other UK clients for their services?
ACCOMMODATION:
Do they use secure, clean and hygienic accommodation? Cheap can often mean unsafe
NO HIDDEN COSTS:
Make sure everything you need is included. Things such as transfers, extra
accommodation, meals and taxes can soon add up
LICENCED:
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Information Pack 2016
Great Wall of China
A Modern Wonder of the World
38: USEFUL PHRASES
Useful phrases:
Hello
How are you?
Fine, thank you
What is your name?
My name is …
Nice to meet you
Please
Thank you
You're welcome
I'm sorry
Goodbye
你好
你好吗？
很好, 谢谢
你叫什么名字？
我叫 ...
很高兴认识你
请
谢谢
不气
对不起
再见
Nǐ hǎo
Nǐ hǎo ma?
Hěn hǎo, xièxie
Nǐ jiào shénme míngzi?
Wǒ jiào …
Hěn gāoxìng rènshì nǐ
Qǐng
Xièxiè
Bú kèqi
Duìbùqǐ
Zàijiàn
I can't speak Chinese
Do you speak English?
Is there someone here who speaks English?
I don't understand
我不会说中文
你会说英语吗？
这里有人会说英语吗?
我听不懂
Wǒ bú huì shuō zhōngwén
Nǐ huì shuō Yīngyǔ ma?
Zhèlĭ yǒu rén hùi shuō Yīngyǔ ma?
Wǒ tīng bù dǒng
Do you have an English menu?
I'm a vegetarian
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
A beer/two beers, please
你有没有英文菜谱？
我吃素的
早饭
午饭
晚饭
请给我一杯/两杯啤酒
nǐ yŏu méi yǒu yīngwén càipǔ?
wǒ chī sù de
zǎofàn
wǔfàn
wǎnfàn
qǐng gěiwǒ yìbēi / liǎngbēi píjiǔ
How much is this?
That's too expensive
Would you take … (amount) ?
expensive
cheap
I can't afford it
I don't want it
OK, I'll take it
这个多少钱？
太贵了
… 元可以吗？
贵
便宜
我带的钱不够
我不要
我要买这个
zhège duōshǎo qián?
tài guì le
... yuán kěyǐ ma?
guì
piányi
wǒ dài de qián búgòu
wǒ bù yào
wǒ yào mǎi zhège
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 2-3, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009
Explore the world,
discover yourself
Rare Adventures Ltd
www.rareadventures.co.uk
Unit 15, City Business Centre [email protected]
London SE16 2XB
+44(0)20 347 55009