Following in a friend's footsteps we chose Viking Emerald to China because all the reviews looked so great and the trip came highly recommended. Could barely fault anything for the whole two weeks. Logistics were superb, our luggage simply appeared outside our room and was collected everywhere we went. 7 flights in 2 weeks and hardly a delay anywhere. From day 1 we were looked after by the amazing Jimmy, not a single thing escaped his notice and he was an absolute mine of information. The small groups we were divided up into had their own guide and a local guide where needed on the excursions . Westin Bund hotel in Shanghai excellent hotel to start the trip followed by six luxurious nights on the ship. My wife is a vegetarian and the m'aitre d came to our breakfast every morning to discuss what she wanted to eat for lunch and dinner, when out at restaurants Jimmy made sure the staff new her dietary requirements. Any of the group needing a wheelchair got one complete with pusher, even on the Great Wall! Crew on the boat superbly trained and very talented providing the evening entertainment, every where we went there was a smiling cheerful helpful face.

Excursions off the boat were great and some very informative talks on the ship along with a variety of activities, early morning tai chi puts you in good stead for the early starts once you leave the ship. The trip is very busy once you disembark

Xian hotel was better than Shanghai, the city is a real eye opener. Terracotta warriors were fantastic, one of several highlights. Read more