The cruise began in Shanghai, moved to the Viking Emerald in Wuhan, disembarking in Chongqing and then Beijing. We took the Hong Kong extension via Guilin and ending in Hong Kong. We took four Chinese flights and stayed in five five-star hotels. The flights were excellent without exception, the planes clean and the crews attentive. Snacks were served on every flight even the short ones. The Viking Emerald accomodations were also five star.

"Larry" our guide for the Chinese portion spoke excellent English, was very familiar with Chinese history and politics and didn't hesitate to answer almost all our questions. He had all our bags in the right place at the right time and went out of his way to get us early entry to the Terra Cotta Army and the Chongqing panda exhibit. His personality and experience made this trip a huge success.

Meals in the hotels were served buffet style with a variety of food from Chinese to American. If you didn't like Chinese food this was the time to fill up on eggs and pancakes etc. Restaurant meals were served family style from a Lazy Susan in the center of the table and often consisted of as many as 15 or more different Chinese dishes and soups. We like Chinese food so were pleased with the quality and variety although we were happy to taste Western dishes at the end of the trip. Read more