Overview: The first time I went to China, it changed my life. Seriously! I've been back six times and always feel the same. Nothing in the kite world compares. It isn't just a trip; it's an adventure!

Highlights: A comprehensive tour of China designed for kite fliers and kite buyers. Join the world famous Weifang International Kite Festival. Fly kites at the Great Wall and Tiananmen Square. Cruise up the Yangtze River. Tour the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven. Visit kite factories, museums, and craftsman. And all the while, get the "VIP" treatment from our Chinese hosts.

For more information, check our China Festivals Overview or the Weekly Update of our last trip.

Date: April, 2003

Schedule: Thirteen days in China with stops in Shanghai, Weifang, Quindao, and Beijing. The proposed itinerary includes arrival in Shanghai and two days touring. Plans are to take a sight-seeing cruise upriver and visit the famous Chinese Acrobats in the evening..

We will then connect to Weifang by plane. The festival includes opening ceremonies, several banquets, a good solid day of flying, and a closing event. There is plenty of time for shopping, to visit kite makers, tour kite factories, and visit a local village.

Following Weifang, we will vist the less formal Quindao Kite Festival and fly kites on the beach. This is a good chance to mix with local fliers.

Finally, we will connect to Beijing by train (just for the experience!). The trip will definitely be in First Class "soft" berths. In Beijing, we will stay near Tiananmen Square and adjacent to the Forbidden City. Side trips include the Great Wall and Summer Palace. We'll attend the Beijing Opera and enjoy a farewell Peking Duck banquet.

Special Events: Parading in the opening ceremonies of the Weifang festival is like appearing at the Olympics. A hundred thousand spectators cheer as you march around the stadium. Thousands of performers create a musical field show. And then they finish-up with the biggest fireworks show you will ever see.

Side Trips: Additional travel to Hong Kong or Xian (site of the terracotte warriors) is available after the main tour.

Price: $1285 for all in-country expenses. The tour includes modern hotels, all meals, and all international and domestic transportation. Chinese guides will accompany us throughout the tour.

Air tickets are running about $1000. However, prices will vary depending on your location. We plan to use United Airlines. You are free to make you own air travel plans and meet us in Shanghai.

Additional Information: Track down "Two Visitors to New China" by Skye Morrison and Tal Streeter (KiteLines Magazine, Winter 1989-90). Rent "The Last Emperor". Ask for our China Troopers Guide to be emailed to you.

Trip Minutiae: We are making every effort to provide a comprehensive kite flying and tourist experience while minimizing costs.

Costs and itineraries are subject to change. Some details are still being finalized and suggestions are welcome. Email us for the latest update.

Disclaimer: We are not travel agents and make no profit on these trips other than a portion of our own cost. While we are willing to organize and coordinate tours for our friends, we cannot be liable for problems that may arise. However, you have the comfort of knowing that we will be right there to enjoy any unexpected developments right along with you.

If you're interested in this trip and would like us to keep you updated on developments, email us your name, address and phone number.

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