☆ Grand Canal
☆ Suzhou Classical Garden
☆ Lingshan Buddhist Scenic Spot
☆ Hangzhou West Lake
☆ The Bund
☆ The Majestic Red Fort of Mughal
☆ The Grand Chandni Chowk Bazaar
☆ The final resting place of Mahatma Gandhi the Jama Masjid mosque
☆ The spirals of the Qutb Minar minaret
☆ Glorious Taj Mahal
☆ Ranthambore National Park
Tour Code: USIC17
Duration: 17 Days
Optional Features and Upgrades: Since the seats are limited, we recommend you to choose optional and extension programs at the time of booking:
Service Language: English
Extra Service: Travel Insurance Visa Service
1) Round-trip international flight from New York City / Los Angeles / San Francisco to India and China
【San Jose/ Washington / Boston/ Las Vegas / Chicago / Houston / Seattle --Depart Need USD 300 More】
【Atlanta / Austin / Charlotte / Dallas / Denver / Detroit / Memphis / Miami / Milwaukee--Depart Need USD 500 More】
【Oklahoma City / Philadelphia / Phoenix / Portland / Sacramento / San Antonio / San Diego--Depart Need USD 500 More】
【Toronto / Vancouver /Montreal --Depart Need USD 700 More】
Land tour Only without round trip air ticket: 【-USD200 Minus】
2) Ground transportation between the cities ( BY BUS )
3) Hand-picked 4 star hotel accommodations with daily ABF
4) Sightseeing admission fees as listed on the agenda
5) Food as specified on the itinerary (B-breakfast L-lunch D-dinner X-no meal)
Please note that if the flight for your tour is during the lunch or dinner time, your meal will be served on board by the airline.
6) Special cultural programs as specified in the schedule
7) Professional English speaking local tour expert
8) All tax and fuel surcharge
1) Travel insurance
2) Any personal expenses
3) Tour Extensions and Optional programs
4) A Mandatory Service Charge & Tipping USD 290/person is required and payable by Credit Card Before Depart.
5) India visa fee.
6) China visa fee.
7) Single Supplement Fee (Our tour price is based on double occupancy. If a single passenger is traveling alone and not sharing a room for the entire trip, the tour price charged to the single traveler will be double the standard tour price.)
8) A no-show fee of $100 per person, per day will be issued if, for any reason, a customer does not attend the daily scheduled activities. This applies to all sponsored tours, packages and all discounted China tours, including this product.
UTOvacation prioritizes the safety and well-being of our customers. We do not oblige our customers to travel to destinations still impacted by Covid-19, force majeure, natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, and more), political change, war, riots, and more. We believe in transparency and providing our customers with all the information they need to make informed decisions. Therefore, we kindly ask our customers to review our terms and conditions carefully and take full responsibility for their purchasing and travel decisions.
ALL PRICES ARE IN USD
DEPOSIT POLICY:
Full Payment is Required at the Time of Booking.
Optional program and Upgrades:
* Since the seats are limited, we recommend you to choose optional and extension programs at the time of booking.
Group Size:
☆ 10 - 40 Each Departure Date.
Upgrade To Business Class:( Before Final Payment)
☆ (Only Available For USA -- Asia International Round Trip) Cost Extra USD$4000/per person.
Begin your adventure with UTOvacation by heading to the airport and departing towards Shanghai.
*Note: Depending on your departure city, you may need to depart one day earlier than the itinerary departure date. Your flight schedule will be provided once your ticket is issued.
Upon arriving at Shanghai International Airport, you will be greeted by your tour guide and then transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax.
Enjoy a morning city tour of Shanghai, the country"s biggest city and a global financial hub. Explore 【The People’s Square】 and 【Nanjing Road】, the main shopping street of Shanghai and is one of the world"s busiest shopping streets. Transfer to Suzhou, referred to as the "Venice of the East". Visit 【Lanli Garden】 where you could treasure the exotic silk embroidery history. Explore 【The Garden of Master of the Nets】, among the finest gardens in China and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visit the 【Silk Spinning Factory】 for a silk making demonstration. Transfer to Wuxi, an ancient city richly endowed with nature due to its pleasantly warm and moist climate – it boasts a reputation of being the “Land of Fish and Rice”. Explore the 【Lingshan Grand Buddha and Mt. Lingshan Scenic Area】 – a Buddhist paradise area of 30 hectares (74 acres). The park is famous for the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue and other attractions including the Brahma Palace, Five Mudra Mandala, Nine Dragons Bathing Sakyamuni, Xiangfu Temple and many other Buddhist sites. Visit the 【Teapot Museum】 and famous 【Nanchang Street】.
(Recommended Options:)
Boat ride on the Grand Canal with walk around the local market. USD 30
After breakfast, enjoy the scenery as we pass by 【Lake Tai】, the third-largest freshwater lake in China. Visit the 【Lihu Park】, and the largest Fresh Water Pearl Center. After lunch, transfer to Hangzhou, one of China"s seven ancient capitals. With its beautiful lakes, mountains and many attractions, it has become a world-famous tourist destination and one of China’s top attractions. Marco Polo once called Hangzhou the most enchanting city in the world. Take a 【boat tour of West Lake】, the most famous attraction in Hangzhou. Last stop, 【Liuhe Pagoda】, Hangzhou Six Harmonies Pagoda, on the foot of 【Yuelun Hill】, facing the 【Qiantang River】.
Morning educational stop for a taste of Dragon Well Tea at the 【Meijiawu Tea Village】. Later drive back to Shanghai on China’s central coast, the country"s biggest city and a global financial hub. Appreciate scenery by walking along【the Bund】, a mile-long stretch along the 【Huangpu River】. This area is the best place to capture the western influences of the old days.
(Recommended Options:)
Cruise on the 【Huangpu River】, while on the cruise, you can take an outside view of the 【Oriental Pearl Tower】, the modern symbol of Shanghai City. USD 45
Enjoy a day of leisure or you may choose an optional day-tour of Shanghai highlights.
(Recommended Options:)
【Shanghai maglev train】is the fastest train in the world with the unbelievable top speed of 431km per hour. It is the only super high-speed bullet train with Magnetic technology in operation all over the world. Take in some last minute shopping at the【Knock-off Market】before exploring the famous【Xintiandi】, a stylish pedestrian street made up of Shikumen and modern architecture. Explore 【Tianzifang】, a touristic arts and crafts area that has developed from a renovated traditional residential area in the French Concession area of Shanghai, into an area of boutique shops, bars and restaurants. Explore【Jin Mao Tower】, an 88-story landmark skyscraper, standing at 420.5 metres tall it’s one of the tallest buildings in the world. USD 100
(Recommended Options:)
Shanghai Permanent Show-【ERA-Intersection of Time】USD 45
Fly to Delhi, Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be met by your Tour Guide and transferred to your initial hotel situated in Delhi and welcomed with a complimentary celebratory beverage. Delhi is one of the world’s most famous cities which contains New Delhi, the capital of India and Old Delhi. The combination of old tradition with modern growth has made Delhi a must-see for any tourist.
Your first day of site seeing in India will commence shortly after your breakfast buffet at the Hotel. The first stop will be in Old Delhi, the Mughal capital where you will visit the Red Fort which was built by the legendary Emperor Shahjahan of the 17th century. The second stop will be a visit to one of India’s oldest shopping markets, the bustling Chandni Chowk Bazaar. The next stop will be to visit the cremation site of India’s most famous civil rights leader Mahatma Gandhi, and the enormous Jama Masjid mosque. The final stop of your busy day will be at the Qutb Minar, a minaret that forms part of the Qutb complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Mehrauli area, Qutb Minar is a 239.5 feet tall tapering tower of five storeys, with a 47 feet base diameter, reducing to 9 feet at the top of the peak. It contains a spiral staircase of 379 steps.
Day 10 begins with a journey to the city of Agra. Agra is a city on the banks of the Yamuna river in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is 378 kilometres (235 mi) west of the state capital.
Agra is a major tourist destination because of its many Mughal-era buildings, most notably the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time or adventure with us on an optional tour to the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah.
OPTIONAL: VISIT Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daula: USD 45:
Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daula is a Mughal mausoleum in the city of Agra in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Often described as a "jewel box", sometimes called the "Bacha Taj", the tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daula is often regarded as a draft of the Taj Mahal. This optional tour also consists of a visit to the villa and garden of Sikandra.
Your day in Agra begins with a visit to the glorious Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal is also known as the “Crown of Palaces” is an ivory-white marble mausoleum on the south bank of the Yamuna river. The Taj Mahal was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan. The Taj Mahal was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 for being “the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage”. After your visit to the Taj Mahal return to the hotel for breakfast and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Optional Tour – Agra Fort: USD 45:
Agra Fort is a historical fort in the city of Agra and located 2.5 km from the Taj Mahal. It was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638 when the capital was moved from Agra to Delhi. In 1983, the Agra Fort has declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. The 94-acre fort has a semicircular plan and built from red sandstone. The monumental Delhi Gate faces the city on the western side of the fort and is known as the grandest of the four gates and a masterpiece of Akbar’s time. This magnificent attraction is a must-see for historians and tourists who appreciate progressive architecture.
Your 12th day begins with a trip to Ranthambore National Park. The Government of India established Ranthambore as the Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary in 1955. The Ranthambore wildlife sanctuary is known for its Bengal tigers and is a popular tourist attraction to a variety of animals in their natural habitat. The park’s forests are examples of the type of jungle found in Central India, which is home to Leopard, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear and other unique and fascinating Indian wildlife including other birds and reptiles.
Optional: Half Day Tour of the Amer Fort - USD 60:
Amer Fort, located in Amer, Rajasthan India is a small town of 4 kilometers and the principal tourist attraction of Jaipur. The town of Amer was originally built by the Meenas and eventually ruled by Raja Man Singh I. The Amer Fort is known for its artistic style elements. With its large ramparts and series of gates and cobbled paths, the fort overlooks Maota Lake, which is the main source of water for the Amer Palace.
The Amer Palace is constructed with red sandstone and marble, the beautiful palace is constructed with four levels, each with its own courtyard. The Amer Fort, along with five other forts of Rajasthan, was declared UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the group Hills Forts of Rajasthan.
Our day will begin with pre-dawn coffee and refreshments before setting off on an early morning game drive with a park guide in search of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Return to the hotel for lunch and enjoy your remaining day at leisure or perhaps return to the park for an optional afternoon game drive in Ranthambore Canter Safari.
Optional: Ranthambore Canter Safari – USD 75:
This optional 3-hour tour will bring you through Ranthambore National Park and the various native wildlife will be clearly on display during this tour.
After breakfast, journey to Jaipur-Rajasthan also known as the “Pink City” which is the capital and the largest city of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Jaipur was founded in 1727 by the Rajput ruler Jai Singh II the ruler of Amer. Jaipur is part of the Indian Golden Triangle along with Delhi and Agra. It is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Jantar Mantar, and the Amer Fort.
The dominant color scheme of the buildings of Jaipur is pink, and its also home to one of the worlds most dynamic marketplaces. Included in your tour of Jaipur will be an exciting Saree Draping demonstration followed by an intricate Turban Dying demonstration.
After breakfast, you will embark on the city tour of Jaipur which will include a visit to the City Palace of Jaipur. Originally built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, the City Palace is the location of numerous religious and cultural events, as well as a patron of arts, commerce, and industry. As part of your trip, you will visit the Mubarak Mahal, the Diwan-e-Khas, Diwan-e-am and the Museums of Textiles.
After your tour of Jaipur, you will embark to Hawa Mahal also known as the “Palace of Winds” Much like many of India’s most famous landmarks is built on red and pink sandstone. The structure was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. The rest of the day will be left at your leisure or you can take one of our popular optional tours.
OPTIONAL: Elephant Discovery Tour with Lunch: USD 90
UTOvacation is proud to present the Elephant Discovery Tour. Travelers are can get up close and personal with these storybook creatures. Visitors can meet and feed the elephants, paint them with non-toxic colors, learn about their daily habits, and wash them (not in winter though). Enjoy the delicious home-cooked food as your lunch.
On your final day, before breakfast, you may enjoy our optional Hot Air Balloon ride over the picturesque Jaipur. After breakfast, the tour heads back Delhi for departure home.
Note: *Depending on the air availability, we might【90%】 take the flight back to USA/Canada which departure in the early morning (00:00am-03: 00 am) on the next day.
Optional: Hot Air Ballooning over Jaipur - USD 270:
This final optional tour is an ideal way to end your adventure in India. The Balloon ride provides you with an incredible view of many of the attractions you visited in the past few days. The hour-long tour provides glorious photo opportunities and life-long memories. Some attractions you will fly over include, Amer Fort, Shiv Vilas, Jal Mahal, and Delhi-Jaipur Road.
Tour is arranged in the morning at around 5:45 AM - 6:45 AM and subject to availability.
Early morning catch your flight back home.
*Please note: Depending on the air scheduling and availability, your flight back to USA/Canada may depart in the very early morning the next day (00:00 am-03: 00 am).
Optional Program (BOOK ONSITE):
☆ Suzhou "Boat ride on the Grand Canal with walk around the local market" ($30)
☆ Shanghai "Huangpu River Night Cruise" ($45)
☆ Shanghai "Shanghai maglev train & knock-off market & Xintiandi & Tianzifang & Jinmao Tower." ($100)
☆ Shanghai "ERA Show-The intersection of Time."($45)
☆ Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daula:USD 45
☆ Agra Fort:USD 45
☆ Amber Fort:USD 60
☆ Ranthambore Canter Safari:USD 75
☆ Elephant Discovery Tour with Lunch:USD 90
☆ Hot Air Ballooning over Jaipur:USD 270
Stay Like A Local-Extensions:-(Choose before the trip):
1) Return Flight Extension-3 DAYS
Price: USD$1299
Included:
*Air Ticket change fee & fare difference from the original itinerary
2) Return Flight Extension-5 DAYS
Price: USD$1399
Included:
*Air Ticket change fee & fare difference from the original itinerary
4 Star Hotels:
☆ Suzhou: Holiday Inn Suzhou Huirong Plaza / similar
☆ Hangzhou: Merchant Marco Garden Hotel / similar
☆ Wuxi: Swiss-Bel Hotel Liyuan / similar
☆ Shanghai: Shanghai Koyal International Hotel / similar
☆ Delhi: Radisson Blu Kaushambi / Similar
☆ Agra: Crystal Sarovar Premiere / Similar
☆ Ranthambore: Ranthambore Regency / Similar
☆ Jaipur: Lemon Tree Premier / Similar
International Air:
(*UTOvacation reserve the right to confirm the airlines below)
☆ United Airline:
☆ American Airline:
☆ Delta Airline:
☆ Singapore Airlines:
☆ Air China:
☆ Air Canada:
☆ Hainan Airlines:
☆ China Eastern Airlines:
☆ Cathy Pacific Airlines;
☆ China Southern Airlines;
☆ Xiamen Airlines;
☆ Beijing Capital Airlines;
☆ Sichuan Airlines;
☆ Hongkong Airline:
☆ Eva Air:
Remark:
1) We reserve the right to modify the itinerary if necessary subject to the local conditions.
2) Guaranteed departure with minimum of 10 travelers.
3) Price subject to change at the time of reservation.
4) For travelers under 12 years old are as follow:
Child between 2-11 years old with bed | Infant under 2 years old |
100% of adult tour fare | We don"t suggest people bring Infants under 2 years old to participate on this tour |
5) Tour fare is based on American/Canadian adults (non-student group), twin share.
6) As this is a sight-seeing and shopping tour, there are designated local shopping stops on this tour, and a minimum amount of time (60 mins) must be spent at each shopping site. However, there is no obligation to purchase anything. For those who are not very keen on shopping, visits to shopping sites should be treated as cultural learning experiences as all the products including jade, silk, tea, etc are deeply ingrained in the Chinese culture and well worth learning.
7)The hotels listed in the itinerary are subject to change and may be substituted with a similar category hotel without prior notice, if unavailable. Multi-carriers/airlines are used for the group tour airfare. Once the group tickets are issued the airline information may be released by the group ticketing department about 30 days prior to trip departure. Uto vacation can reserve the right to issue tickets without prior notice.
8) For Travel Visa service:
* If you choose UTO’s Visa Application Service with your booking, we will contact you by email about 60-120 days prior to trip departure for your visa application. Please call 1-855-526-1286 for more information.
* Please note: A final trip confirmation will be sent to the main contact passenger via email one month prior to departure that includes a day-by-day itinerary, hotel information, and flight information. If acquiring a visa on your own, the supporting documents will be provided from UTO Vacation one month prior to the trip departure date. Supporting documents requested early are subject to a $50 administration fee.
9) Any deviations to other destinations and/or extensions are subject to a $150 change fee, plus any air fare difference---please call 1-855-526-1286 for detail information.
10) Reservation changes: changes to an existing reservation, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person charge plus any additional supplier fees. This includes name changes* and removal of any services such as optional tours and transfers. *Please note that name changes to airline reservations are subject to full cancellation and re-booking. See airline name changes section for specific information. Replacing a traveling passenger with another traveling passenger constitutes a cancellation, subject to cancellation penalties, and is not covered by this reservation changes policy. Changes or additions after departure are subject to local rates at the time of amendment and must be paid directly by the passenger to the service provider. There are no refunds for unused services.
11) If for any reason, a passenger does not attend the scheduled daily activities during the tour, an additional supplement fee of $100 per person per day has to be paid.
12) Please note that if the flight for your tour is during the lunch or dinner time, your meal will be served on board by the airline.
13) All tour extension & optional programs require a minimum of 10 participants to commence. UTOvacation reserve the rights to cancel the tour extension without prior notice. In the instance of cancellation, the tour extension or optional tours shall be refunded.
14) This tour requires some walking during sightseeing. Handicap facilities are not up to the North American standard. We ask all passengers to be careful of the small steps in the old shrines and temples.
Meals:
Visa:
India REQUIRES A VISA FOR USA & CANADA PASSPORT HOLDERS.
* UTOvaction"s India E-visa Service Option (Multiple entry, 30 days stay): U$189/person
【 Please Click Here To Read The detailed information and requirements for India Visa 】
This trip requires a Chinese Visa for USA & Canada passport holders.
* UTOvaction"s China Visa Service Options:
1: Group visa ( Single entry valid for 1 month from the date issue. At Least 2 People Travel Together. For less than 79 years old ): $398pp
2: Individual visa ( Multiple entries valid for up to 10 years ): $484pp
* A final trip confirmation will be sent to the main contact passenger via email one month prior to departure that includes a day-by-day itinerary, hotel information, and flight information.
* If acquiring a visa on your own, the supporting documents will be provided from UTOvacation one month prior to the trip departure date. Supporting documents requested early are subject to a $100pp administration fee.
*International Travellers having Pakistani Passport or Pakistani origin may please apply for regular Visa at Indian Mission.
Visit the "IATA Travel Centre" for detailed information on country-specific passport, visa and health requirements:
https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/passport-visa-health-travel-document-requirements.htm
Please call 1-855-526-1286 or email [email protected] for any inquiry about travel visa.
More about Travel Documents
*It is your responsibility to ensure that you- and any child travelling with you- have all the valid travel documents necessary to enter in, exit from or transit through, each country/region on your itinerary. Note that the documents required for the outbound portion of your travel may differ from those required for the return.
*Your passport should be valid for six months beyond your date of return. Passport must be in good condition: passport damaged beyond normal wear and tear will not be accepted.
*Consult with the appropriate embassy, high commission or consulate about the travel document requirement for any country that you plan to enter in, exit from or transit through.
*Some country no longer issue paper visas but rather electronic visas. E-Visa holders must present the printed e-Visa and valid passport at the checkpoint.
*International travel with infants and children may be required to show documentary evidence of your relationship and a Letter Consent or permission for the child’s travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present.
*Americans holding dual citizenship must travel to the United States with a valid U.S. passport. American permanent residents returning to the United States from abroad must carry a valid passport and a valid U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
*Canadians holding dual citizenship must travel to Canada with a valid Canadian passport. Canadian permanent residents returning Canada from abroad must carry a valid passport and a valid Canadian Permanent Resident Card (PR Card).
India, also known as the Republic of India, is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by area, the second-most populous country, and the most populous democracy in the world.
U.S. citizens /Canadians travelling to India need a visa.
U.S. citizens /Canadians need more than just a passport to be granted entry into India. A travel visa must be obtained prior to your arrival, accompanied by a passport that’s valid for a further 180 days. The good news is, applying for an Indian travel visa is fairly easy (it can be done online), and visas can be granted within a matter of days.
IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required.
There are several things to know before you go:
Hotel Preferred Bedding Configuration
- Twin Room (two separate beds)
- Double Room (one bed)
*Requests are not guaranteed and are subject to each hotel's discretion and availability.
Climate & Clothing
India has three seasons. November through March is generally pleasant, with warm, sunny days. It is hot in May and June. Monsoon season usually begins around June on the west coast and slightly later elsewhere. Southern India receives rainfall between mid-October and December.
The casual outdoor clothes are highly recommended. A pair of comfortable walking shoes. Socks, pants, and underwear. Bring clothes according to in which season you are traveling.
India Average Temperatures: https://www.currentresults.com/Weather/India/average-annual-temperatures.php
High °F | Low °F | Place | State | High °C | Low °C |
91 | 67 | Agra | Uttar Pradesh | 33 | 19 |
88 | 66 | New Delhi | Delhi | 31 | 19 |
90 | 67 | Jaipur | Rajasthan | 32 | 19 |
China is an exciting and thrilling tourist destination. There are a few key things you need to keep in mind when traveling in China.
Before Packing
Check the weather of your destination a week before your trip and get a sense of the clothes you'll need to pack. Determine the purpose of your trip and decide what to pack. Make a packing list and mark the number according to the importance. Leave keys, your contact information and a copy of your travel itinerary to family or friends.
China Picking List
We suggest travelers pack as light as possible. Pack smart ! Leave more space to make your tour comfortable and pleasant.
Essential Items
Passport, Visa, Insurance Policy and other necessary travel documents. Air, cruise or train tickets. A guide book or phrasebook with English. Map of places you are going to visit. Emergency card with your detailed contact information including full name, address, phone number. Credit card, Traveler's checks, and cash. First-aid kit. Your medical record and medicines like vitamins, Pepto Bismol and Imodium chew-able. Toiletries. Alarm clock or watch with an alarm. Pocket tissues. As most public bathrooms in China do not offer toilet paper, and you'll be glad that you have some when you need it.
Clothing/\Weather
The casual outdoor clothes are highly recommended. A pair of comfortable walking shoes. Socks, pants, and underwear. An umbrella and waterproof. Laundry bag. Bring clothes according to what season you are traveling.If you are going to board the Yangtze River Cruise on your trip, make sure to bring along one or two sets of smart causal dress for evening banquets.
Spring (Mar - May): Western suites, sports coats, jackets, sweater, long sleeve shirts. Summer (Jun - Aug): T-shirts, short sleeve shirts, skirts, sandals, caps, rain wear. Autumn (Sep - Nov): Western suits, jackets, sports coats, light woolen sweaters, rain wear. Winter (Dec - Feb): Down garment, overcoat, thick woolen sweaters, lined coats, cap, gloves and cotton-padded shoes.
Other Items/Electricity
Camera and batteries. Camcorder. Mobile phone. Chargers of your cell phone, digital camera, etc. The electricity used in China is 220 volt AC. Wash rooms in many middle and high-class hotels are equipped with transformer plugs for electric shavers and hair dryers. For safety purpose, preparing an adapter is a much better idea.
Currency Exchange
China's legal currency is Renminbi, shortened as CNY. Also known as Chinese Yuan. When you purchase small items such as bottle water, snacks, small souvenir, use cash is more convenient. We recommend you exchange Chinese cash at the front desk in the hotels you stay. 300 -500 CAD or USD /person is enough to start off. Airport is usually not a good place for exchanging money as the rate is not the best.
China Packing Tips
Make copies for all your necessary materials and keep the copied items separately from the original one. Store a backup of your information in your email account or on a USB thumb drive. Do not carry too much cash. Do not carry expensive jewelry and watches. Do not keep your credit card and identification card together. Do not pack excessive quantities of drugs as you may have problems at China Customs. Rolling your clothes together instead of folding them one by one to save space. Put the items you regularly use at the top of your carry on. Leave some room in your bags for gifts and souvenirs. Always put the valuables in the hotel safe and clear your safe when checking out.
Travel Safety & Security
China is relatively a safe country to travel around compared with some other countries.
Hotel Preferred Bedding Configuration
- Twin Room (two separate beds)
- Double Room (one bed)
*Requests are not guaranteed and are subject to each hotel's discretion and availability.
During The Tour
Never drink the tap water in the hotels. Never let the stranger come into your room. If someone is knocking at your door, never open the door until his identity is verified. If your passport is not needed, never carry it along with you all the time just in case. Keeping a photo copy of your passport is a wise choice. When hanging out in the bustling places like open markets and busy streets, be care of your belongings in case of theft, especially camera, purse, and so on. Avoid traveling alone since you are not familiar with the places. Ask the policemen or seniors for help in case you are lost and they would be of great help for you. Never return back to the hotel too late when you are alone. Always exchange money at the Bank of China or at the hotel counters. Never exchange money in the black market. Get small bills prepared before getting out since street vendors, taxi, restaurants, convenience stores only take RMB cash and major credit cards are widely accepted in big shopping malls.
China Washrooms
In China, most of the toilets are squatting ones. Clean sit-down toilets are commonly available in hotels. If you want to find a bathroom on the street, just look for the sign of "WC" Since paper tissue is rarely provided in a washroom, always carry yours.
What Vaccines Do I Need To Travel In China?
Based on personal medical history and advice from the Public Health Agency of Canada, the following vaccinations are recommended for travel to China:
- Japanese Encephalitis: This virus occurs in almost all Asian countries, including parts of China. Vaccination is recommended for those spending extended periods of time outside and in parts of southern China where irrigation is done through flooding.
- Rabies: Rabies is spread through the saliva or scratch of an infected animal. China has the one of the highest number of reported Rabies cases in the world, and vaccination is recommended for travel.
- Polio: Though the last Polio case was reported in China in 1994, the country borders Afghanistan and Pakistan, two countries where the virus is still an endemic. Ensure your vaccination is up-to-date.
- Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A is spread to humans through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. This shot is recommended especially if you plan to sample some of China’s many street food offerings
- Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B is a serious liver disease commonly spread through sexual intercourse, exchange of body fluids, use of an infected needle, or piercing tools.
“These conditions apply to all travel booked on or after August 22, 2024. For all travel booked prior to August 22, 2024, the applicable conditions are outlined on your invoice and booking confirmation email. ”
Your agreement with UTOvacation is subject to the terms and conditions outlined below.
Please read them careful prior to deciding whether to enter into this agreement. Do not hesitate to ask a UTOvacation staff member of any questions you may have in respect to these conditions before booking your travel. They are required to answer any questions you may arising from the information provided during the booking process and these terms and conditions. These terms and conditions can also be found on UTOvacation’s website at utovacation.com.
By booking your tour online with UTOvacation.com you acknowledge and agree to all terms and conditions herein.
Online Reservations
Step 1. Visit UTOvacation website: www.utovacation.com, login or register your account. (Learn how to book online Click Here)
Step 2. Choose your desired departure date and departure city
Step 3. Please identify and provide the contact information for the main passenger. All communication from UTOvacation will be sent to the main passenger only.
Step 4. Review the required documents page, provide the requested passport information for each traveller, and upload the requested passport information for each traveller.
Step 5. Read these terms and conditions and, if agreeable, indicate that you agree to abide by them.
Step 6. Make a deposit online. A Non-refundable, non-transferable payment is required to secure the space. The specific deposit amount is determined by the requirements specified on the product pages and the amount indicated during the enrollment process for each respective product.
Step 5. Finalize the booking.
Final Payment
Balance payment of any regular products or services is due 180 days prior to departure unless specified. If the full payment is not obtained by the due date, UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel such reservation and retain the pre-paid deposit to cover any expenses occurred.
Step 6. Trip Confirmation.
A final trip confirmation by email including day by day itinerary, hotel information, and flight information will be sent to the main contact passenger approximately one month before departure.
UTOvacation notice
Generally
If UTOvacation becomes aware of a change to any matter that might have affected your decision to purchase this travel, they will promptly advise you of this change.
Such notices may include doubt as to your tour meeting minimum attendant requirements thereby threatening cancellation or alteration of your tour. In either such circumstances UTOvacation will offer the customer the choice of a travel credit acceptable to you, comparable re-scheduled travel acceptable to you, or reimburse you the amounts paid to UTOvacation minus such amounts already received by you directly from or on behalf of the relevant travel supplier.
Specifically
If UTOvacation becomes aware of the following events, it will promptly notify you and offer you the choice of a full and immediate refund or comparable alternative travel acceptable to you:
1. Transportation that forms part of your travel is delayed or advanced by at least 24 hours, unless caused by mechanical problems, safety considerations, weather conditions, a strike or lockout, or force majeure.
2. A different cruise ship is substituted (if applicable)
3. An accommodation is changed, or the standard of the accommodation is changed.
4. The contract permits price increases by more than 7%, except any increase resulting from an increase in sales tax.
5. The documents needed for the trip have changed because of changed transportation routing and there is not enough time for you to obtain the documents before departure.
Travel Outside Canada
You will require your passport and, depending on your destination, a travel visa, to travel to your destination. The entry to a stopover country or your final destination may be refused if the required information and travel documents are incomplete or even if they are complete.
UTOvacation is not responsible in either circumstance for denial of entry to a country by their relevant officials.
Before entering into an agreement with a customer for travel services and taking payment, UTOvacation will advise you of the typical information and travel documents, such as passports, visas, affidavits, and notarized consent letters, that will be needed for each person whom travel services are being purchased. Please utilize the IATA as a resource - https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/passport-visa-health-travel-document-requirements.htm
The living standards and practices at your destination in respect to the provision of utilities, services, and accommodation may differ from those found in Canada.
Travel Visa
The following documents from the passenger are required if travel visa is applied through UTOvacation’s Visa Center:
• Original Passport (Make sure your actual passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date of your expected departure time)
• Recent passport size photo with white background. Please note, each countries requirement may differ, please check requirement click here
• Visa Application Form (Complete with signature and date)
*Remarks: If acquiring a visa on your own, the supporting documents will be provided from UTOvacation One Month prior to the trip departure date. Supporting documents requested early are subject to a $100 per person administration fee.
Visit the “IATA Travel Centre” for detailed information on country-specific passport, visa and health requirements: click here
Payment Info
Payment amounts and due date shall be outlined on your invoice. Kindly be advised that you will receive our emails before the set payment due dates. The first notice will be within two weeks following your initial deposit. The second notices will be 180 days before the tour departure date and will remind you to settle your 2nd deposit and final payment respectively for the tour package you have reserved. Please check your email regularly, including your junk box, to ensure you don’t miss a notice.
Please note: Your timely payment is important to guarantee your seat/cabin and ensure the overall tour package price. Your balance or final payment will NOT be charged automatically by UTOvacation.
Full or final payment is due 180 days before tour departure date. Travel documents, including but not limited to, a valid Passport copy shall be collected prior to booking.
Trip Cancellation and Eligible Refunds
UTOvacation Cancellations or Modifications
UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel or reschedule a tour prior to departure date. The travel provider may also be unable to provide the travel services you contracted for. In either such circumstances UTOvacation will offer the customer the choice of a travel credit acceptable to you, comparable re-scheduled travel acceptable to you, or reimburse you the amounts paid to UTOvacation minus such amounts already received by you directly from or on behalf of the relevant travel supplier.
Refunds may take up to 6 to 8 weeks to process but UTOvacation will make best efforts to provide a refund as soon as possible.
Please note, any refundable amount will not include fees associated with Travel Visas already been issued, any services that have already been delivered, or any incurred fees already charged by suppliers when such amounts will be returned directly to you from the supplier.
Customer Cancellations and Modifications
Subject to these terms and conditions, if a customer cancels their travel before or during their travel, any and all payments made to UTOvacation are non-refundable. This includes cancellation due to denial and/or rejected by relevant immigration and/or customs department, cruise port terminal officer, inability to obtain necessary visas and/or passports, or any other reason outside UTOvacation’s control, other than cancellation by a travel provider.
Cancellation or change requests must be confirmed in writing by email including your reservation number, full name and date of travel. Cancellations will only be accepted in writing.
No refund or reimbursement will be available to passengers who voluntarily forego meals, cruise, tours and/or accommodations for which they specifically paid for. A surcharge may apply should there be any additional fees occurred from services refused by the passengers.
Optional programs
In order to secure your spot and price for any of the early bird deals or promotional packages, a full payment or deposit may be required at UTOvacation’s discretion.
No Show- Sponsored Tour
If your travel is a sponsored tour and the sponsor requires that all passengers attend all the included activities during the trip, “No Show” fees will apply. Each and any no show in this instance will incur a penalty of $100 per person, per day. If the traveller does not attend daily activities, payment will be immediately collected for the day missed. This penalty applies no matter the cause (including illness, flight/cruise delays, quarantines, and etc). If passengers do not attend the activities or pay associated penalties for missing scheduled activities, the sponsoring associations will cancel remaining hotels and flights.
Liability
The customer shall hold UTOvacation harmless for all damages incurred and harm suffered as a result of actions or inaction of an another out of its control. Furthermore, should the traveller violate any local/provincial or national laws during their travels, UTOvacation is not responsible or liable for any damages or harm suffered.
No children under 2 years old
UTOvacation does not allow travel of children less than 2 years old.
Price Adjustments
You agreement permits price increases. After the booking is confirmed, if the total price and the cumulative increase, except any increase result from increase in sales tax, is more than 7%, the customer has the right to cancel the contract and obtain a full refund. You are responsible for paying for the increase if 1) the increase is less than 7% for reasons other than increase of sales tax, 2) the increase is more than 7% as a result from increase in sales tax, or 3) the increase is more than 7% for reasons other than increase in sales tax and you wish to proceed with the travel.
No price increases are permitted after you have paid UTOvacation in full
UTOvacation reserves the right to impose relevant fuel/inflation surcharge if Crude Oil Price Index or US/Canada Official CPI has increases by 4% or more between your booking date and tour departure date.
Tour Adjustments
UTOvacation retains the right to modify tours, if deemed in the best interest of its passengers, including in cases that involve the health and safety. UTOvacation will do its best to notify you of any such changes before your departure, or as soon as possible if you have already departed. If the adjustment is due to the supplier failing to provide travel services paid for by you at your desired time, UTOvacation will offer the customer the choice of a travel credit acceptable to you, comparable re-scheduled travel acceptable to you, or reimburse you the amounts paid to UTOvacation.
Travel Seat Arrangements
Seating/Cabin assignment
The customer understands and accepts that UTOvacation has no power to control the seating selection on the aircraft or cabin location on the cruise (unless where specified). All seating is arranged by the airline or cruise line. UTO vacation cannot help customer change pre-assigned seats/cabins.
Preferred Seat Upgrade: UTOvacation will not be responsible for any preferred seat upgrade on aircraft (except for business or first class seats). Some cruise packages allow the selection of cabins at the time of booking for an upgraded price; please refer to the product page for details.
Reservation Adjustments
Changes to an existing reservation by the passenger for whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person charge plus any additional supplier fees. This includes name changes and removal of any
services such as optional tours and transfers. The deposit and/or full payment for any optional feature that is on an early bird or special sale promotion is non-refundable and non-transferable.
*Please note that name changes to airline or cruise line reservations are subject to full cancellation or re-booking. Replacing a travelling passenger or is subject the cancellation conditions outlined in these terms and conditions.
Changes or additional requests after departure are subject to local rates at the time of amendment and must be paid directly by the passenger to the service provider. UTOvacation will make its best effort to minimize these costs, however, all payment will be payable by request of the local service providers.
There are no refunds for unused services.
Travel Insurance
UTOvacation strongly recommends all tour members to purchase trip cancellation and health insurance at the time of booking, including health insurance. UTOvacation does not directly offer such insurance. The Travel Insurance recommended by UTOvacation are facilitated and owned by third party operators. Any Travel Insurance purchased by the passenger is governed by the third party and UTOvacation is not liable or responsible for said insurance.
Baggage
Each airline company has its own rules and regulations with the baggage weight, size, and number. The best way to find out the rules and regulations is to go visit the airline company official website.
Please note that for some destinations, baggage is not included in your package. Refer to your specific tour product page’s terms & conditions for specific baggage allowances.
Tour Fare Includes
Please refer to your tour itinerary for the most updated information.
Tour Fare Excludes
• Visa Application Fee
• Any personal charges, such as phone bills, laundry, postage, and baggage over-weight charge, insurance, beverages, water, etc
• Optional Tours
• Any other charges or incremental costs caused by the acts of God, Force Majeure, natural disasters, fires, weather, governmental and local authority’s order, political change, strikes, war, riots, quarantine, custom regulations, damages or inquiry caused by the accident beyond the responsibilities of UTOvacation or incurred due to the tourist action violating any law.
o If such events lead to the travel supplier failing to provide your travel services UTOvacation will offer you the choice of a travel credit acceptable to you, comparable re-scheduled travel acceptable to you, or reimburse you the amounts paid to UTOvacation
Flight Package Description
Silver Flight Package (Guaranteed maximum of one-stop/layover to your destination country gateway ). If your departure city has indirect flight(s) with only one stop/layover to connect your destination country gateway, we guarantee to provide you with flight with only one stop/layover to your destination country gateway if you select such package early enough before we issue the tickets. (Option and flight itinerary are subject to availability)
Gold Flight Package (Guaranteed non-stop flight to your destination country gateway )
If your departure city has regular direct flight(s) to connect your destination country gateway, we guarantee to provide you with a non-stop flight to your destination country gateway if you select
such package early enough before we issue the tickets. (Option and flight itinerary are subject to availability)
UTOvacation’s Affiliate Program
Customers who book via the Affiliate link may not switch tours or reschedule and apply the previous amount or percentage of discount/commission to future trips. Discounts that are offered are only applicable to initial tour purchase and non-transferable.
Please note, for customers who have booked via the Affiliate program, tour change fees will be applicable should you decide to reschedule originally purchased tours. Please refer to the terms and conditions on the Product Page.
UTOvacation’s Affiliate discounts/commissions are not redeemable for cash or future travel credit regardless of circumstances. The value of the Affiliate will be deducted from your final payment if applicable.
Please note, the Affiliate commission is only applicable to the initial purchase. Future additional purchases are not applicable to the Affiliate discount/Commission.
UTOvacation’s Assurance
UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance program enables passengers to be able to change participants’ name(s) or tour departure date one time for free without any administration fees up to 180 days prior to trip departure date.
• UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance Program must be purchased within 14 days of initial booking.
• UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance Program: reschedule/rebook up to 180 days before departure $ 99 - $ 399
• UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance Program: reschedule/rebook up to 120 days before departure $ 199 - $ 499
• UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance Program: reschedule/rebook up to 90 days before departure $ 299 - $ 599
• Please note, upon purchasing UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance program, you understand that this program is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Please note, when UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance program is purchased, payments made by the customer will first be applied to the UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance program and then to the remainder of the tour package.
Additional Conditions
During the tour or cruise, you will be considered have automatically abandoned your trip if you do not attend the pre-arranged tour or check in the prearranged hotel or cruise.
All the extra cost will be undertaken by the client voluntarily. UTOvacation reserves the right to abandon any clients if such clients violate the law or damage the interest of tour groups.
UTOvacation is not responsible for any denied Travel Visa application and will not be offering a refund of received by you.
If a child- 18 years old or younger- is travelling abroad with only one parent/guardian, children must carry a notarized consent letter signed by non-accompanying parent/guardian. If a child is travelling alone they children must carry a notarized consent letter signed by both parents/guardian. Such a consent letter may be requested by immigration authorities when entering or leaving from a foreign country or by North American officials when re-entering into USA or Canada. Failure of presenting such document may result in the rejection of boarding aircraft or vessel for the children concerned.
If a cruise line substitutes ships or changes its sailing by more than 24 hours, UTOvacation will advise you immediately and offer your choice of a full and immediate refund or a comparable alternate travel service acceptable to you. UTOvacation will not do so for scheduling alterations over 24 hours, if they are the result of mechanical problems with the ship, safety considerations, weather conditions, a strike or lock-out, or force majeure.
The credits in the Affiliate Program cannot be combined with any other promotions or coupons and redeemed in the same booking.
Any promotional coupons cannot be applied to any extra items including but not limited to visa service fees, gratuities, sightseeing, admission ticket fares, meal plans, single supplement charges, airport transfers, travel insurance, any taxes/surcharges and optional tours.
UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel or modify a tour any time prior to departure date if the group has less than ten passengers, subject to these terms and conditions.
All upgrade packages are 100% non-refundable, items including flight package, hotel, cruise cabin, meal package and etc.
UTOvacation usually sends out important notifications including but not limited to destination health protocols, travel industry policies, tour updates and safety alerts to our agents/customers by newsletter through email. UTOvacation is not responsible for trip delay, service cancellation, price increase or any other types of loss caused by unsubscribing from our email list, wrong email address or a lack of checking email box/spam folder/junk folder on a regular basis. If you have not received our newsletter for a long time, make sure your email address is effective/valid and you are on our email list or contact us immediately at [email protected] for assistance.
Dispute Penalty
Please note, if a customer requires cancellation of a product or service, kindly reach out to UTOvcation customer service. If a customer files a dispute/chargeback directly with their bank, the order will be automatically canceled and suspended in your account. If a customer wishes to reinstate their purchase or credit, they must pay a disputed penalty of $299 per transaction if the total payment amount exceeds $299; 50% of the total invoice amount if the amount is less than
$299; all dispute penalties are per transaction. Chargeback fees, transaction fees, administration expenses, marketing/acquisition costs, and operations charges are all part of the disputed penalty. After you have reinstated your order and paid the disputed penalty, you will receive the travel credit. The travel credit can be used to book the same or different tours on our website. You will not be reinstated to your original order, and the amount you paid for that excursion will not be guaranteed.
Ensuring Secure Payments
Safeguarding your payment(s) is our top priority. In order to prevent fraud, we ask our customers to settle payment(s) through your account on UTOvacation official website at www.utovacation.com. Should you choose offline payment submission, Cheque/Money order/Bank draft/Credit card (with credit card authorization form filled out and signed) are accepted and the payee must be UTOvacation. Please be advised that UTOvacation has never been allowing Bank transfer/Email transfer for transactions and Cash is not recommended. If you find something suspicious regarding your payment, please call 1-855.526.1286 before any further actions.
Tipping
For the on-tour convenience of some itineraries, we will collect all gratuities which is to be shared by our local team. This may include tour leaders, guides, drivers, baggage porters, airport coordinators, restaurant waiters for all included meals and other staff in the team behind the scenes.
These gratuities are not mandatory but are appreciated as recognition for excellent service and we thank you for your encouragement and generosity.
Shopping
Although we would be happy to assist your shopping needs, UTOvacation would not be responsible for price, quality, and service of any goods purchased during the tour.
Special Notes for Middle Eastern packages:
Please be advised that traveling in the Middle East requires open-mind and willingness to respect the local culture, religion and tradition.
1. It is highly recommended that women wear tops covering shoulders and skirts falling below the knee in public. Knee-length shorts are allowed for men. It is customary for women to cover their shoulders and hair and men to have shirts and long pants when visiting a mosque or temple. More conservative dress is expected during the Ramadan or Jewish holiday period.
2. Non-Muslims above the age of 21 are only allowed to consume alcohol in licensed hotels,
clubs and restaurants, never in public open areas.
3. Taking photographs of individuals, especially females, needs a permission first. Do not take any pictures with military facilities, borders and airports.
4. Horse carts and camel rides at tourist sites are mostly not included in the entrance fees. We suggest that you negotiate ride fare and tips with the merchant beforehand in order to avoid any unexpected situation at the end of the ride. Keep the exact change in local currency handy.
5. Ramadan is the holy month for the Islamic world and all Muslims have to fast from dawn to dusk without eating, drinking or smoking. Alcohol is available in licensed bars and restaurants after sunset for non-Muslims. Tourist hotels usually keep one restaurant open during the day catering to resident guests. Also during Ramadan month, live performance, certain music and dancing are prohibited. Shops are open after sunset.
6. Most hotels and restaurants provide kosher foods with no pork or shellfish in Israel.
7. Shabbat is the Jewish holy-day and day of rest of the week. It starts on every Friday after sunset and ends on Saturday evening. Offices, public transportation (except for taxi), private businesses are closed (i.e., stores and restaurants) and reopen after the Shabbat.
Specific requirements for cruise passengers
*Guests are not allowed to sail if entering the 24th week of pregnancy before or any time during cruising. A physician’s “Fit to cruise” note is required if a customer is pregnant 23 weeks or less at the time of debarkation. Please keep in mind that not every vessel has a doctor/nurse or facilities/equipment to accommodate the special need. Please be advised to also check with the insurance company for pregnancy-related care.
*Infants must be at least 6 months of age at the time of embarkation for any itineraries under 7 nights and 12 months of age for any itineraries more than 8 nights.
*Passengers above the age of 21 are permitted to cruise alone. Anyone under such age should get onboard and share a cabin with a parent or legal guardian with a proof. Such clients are forbidden to attend any gambling activities or consume any alcohol beverages. Parent(s) or legal guardian(s) shall be in full responsibility for the minors regarding their conducts and behaviors subject to the terms and conditions of cruise lines.
*Each traveler above the age of 80 shall represent and warrant that he/she is physically fit to
travel on the voyage. Contact the cruise line of any existing physical health issues or any other conditions you may require medical attention/special care during the whole journey.
*We request all travelers to provide the accurate information for cruise reservation including name, age, gender, tour dates, nationality, passport number etc. Any change of the above will result in a one time $150USD/$200CAD penalty/surcharge per change within 110 days prior to the sailing. All name changes within the same stateroom will result in applicable cancellation.
*Gender X or any other identifications other than M or F might be prevented from going through the security checkpoint at the pier.
*When boarding, all passengers must be responsible for presenting passports valid for at least 6 months upon the end of the international travel date as well as any necessary immunizations and visas required for cruise itinerary. EVUS must be updated in a timely manner and we also strongly encourage our customers to visit the government foreign affairs website for any up to date travel advisories and safety recommendations.
*UTOvacation highly recommends guests to obtain travel/health insurance against any possible or potential issues related to any emergencies, delays, interruptions, cancellations or losses.
Any one who violates the above regulations or fails to provide the required travel documents will be denied for boarding the vessel at any time. UTOvacation shall not be entitled to have any further liability or offer any remedy whatsoever in this circumstance.
UTOvacation strongly recommends that you purchase travel insurance for any future travel plans.
We have curated two reputable partners one in the USA and one for Canada. Once you have made your trip selection, please select the option of purchasing travel insurance.
For USA patrons, in order to qualify for the “Cancel For Any Reason” Option offered by John Hancock, you will need to purchase your insurance within 14 days of your initial deposit. Other insurance policies may be purchased later.
Please note, the travel insurance that is available for purchase is with our affiliate partners and not a direct product or offering of UTOvacation. For any questions or concerns, please contact the vendor directly.
American Travel Insurance (click for more details)
Canadian Travel Insurance (click for more details)