My 76-year old lady-friend's husband did not want to fly from Florida to China, so this 70-year old accompanied her friend who wanted to see the terra cotta soldiers near Xi'an. Both of us had been flight attendants for many years in our former lives, and we retain the adventuresome spirit. Viking's excursions were top notch, and the entire trip exceeded our expectations. Our warm and caring Chinese tour guide for 13 days, RAY, spoke excellent English and went way above and beyond to make sure all 36 people in his diverse group were happy. The seven days on the ship were glorious, thanks to restaurant manager, Dominick, and awesome program director, Wilhelm, as well as all the staff. The selection of food onboard was unparalleled, and the "lazy Susan" Chinese meals onshore while at three different five-star hotels were fabulous. Oh, yes, and the three intra-China flights went smoothly. A rickshaw ride through Beijing hutong was one of the best experiences because we were able to see how older families live in contrast to the current ultra-modern cities. I was most impressed by the overall infrastructure -- many gorgeous new suspension bridges and, of course, the Three Gorges Dam that is able to supply water and power to many people, while, unfortunately its creation displaced many others. The locals were exceptionally friendly -- in the Chingqing zoo near the panda exhibits, in the elementary school, and on the Great Wall. GO GO GO!!!