Sep 1,2009

We enjoyed all the meals we were served during the whole of our trip, and appreciated the rich variety offered. It is therefore difficult to select any single meal over any other. We will never forget the opportunity to try 'Hot Pot' in Chongqing, nor the delicious Yak meat in the mountains. The meals at Guilin were tasty, as was the Teddy Bear Hotel at Mt. Emei, Sharon enjoyed the Shanghai & Cantonese food, and John the chance to try some of the spicy dishes. Overall it was the wide variety which we really appreciated as there were only a few dishes repeated during the whole of our trip.

All the guides were courteous and hard working and were always available for our needs, including giving a contact number incase of emergency. The guides all had a good command of English but were also keen to improve their phraseology. Pronunciation allowed for normal conversation and was rarely a problem once one had tuned in to the accent with which they had learned English. We were always impressed with the extent of their knowledge about their local area, and the historical background. This was conveyed in an informative & manageable way for us hearing it for the first time, and information was repeated as appropriate during our visits to places & in response to our questions.

We were impressed with the driving abilities and safety shown by all the drivers, and their courtesy of opening doors and stowing our luggage. The cars were always clean both inside and out which made it pleasant for us. Even the new driver was seen to be quickly learning his duties.

All of the guides were excellent at their job and we appreciated each for this and their personal qualities. Chris gave us a perfect start in Shanghai, informing us of Chinese culture that would remain helpful throughout and Ian delivered us promptly to the airport. We were grateful to David for delivering us to the boat and he was informative in the short length of time that we were with him. Judy really used her initiative and sorted out both the best way for us to see Chongquing in the few hours, and how to cope with a change of schedule.

Jerry as well as being informative was excellent at judging our abilities to cope at altitude and pacing things accordingly. It was unfortunate that the extensive roadworks limited our time at Huanglong. Linda was outstanding (Chengdu). Not only did she manage the itinery adjustments but went out of her way to fulfill our requests, showing us many aspects of Chengdu and the recognition of John's brithday with a cake must be one of the most memorable highlights of the trip. Her enthusiam and that of the driver too, greeting us on our return at the airport and in the surprise with the cake was typical of her delightful manner which made her engaging company. Michael was a perfect host and we enjoyed every moment of being with him and the choices of his meals. Helen was efficient and informative but ensured that we saw the best and used the timings well. In Lhasa we appreciated Bemba's enthusiasm but also his care as we adjusted to altitude. He wisely re-negociated our timings to ensure that we saw everything but also rested enough. Linda (Beijing) completed our trip with finesse and ensured that it was brilliant right to the end. Her dedication in waiting with us until the computer left at the hotel reached us safely at the airport was greatly appreciated.

TCG not only offers an excellent service during the preparation of a trip, but also ensures that the daily supervision is of equally high standard. The excursions with the local guides are informative and well planned and their care of daily needs is comprehensive.

We will try to forward some photos soon. We would be happy for our comments and photographs to be used but request that you withold and do not publish our email address.

Perhaps we could offer some advice that may be useful to you in the future.
The long journey (146kms) from the Airport to Gesang Hotel at altitude is not specified in the itinery. For those who would usually take travel sickness medication for winding roads the length and nature of this journey needs to be specified, (especially as it is at high altitude). In the same way, although a shorter journey, medication may be required for the journey into Lhasa.

A further area for local guides to become competant in would be the knowledge of the common trees, plants and birds of their region.

Overall we wish to thank you for a wonderful trip, an excellent selection of places to visit and the opportunity to see so many traditional shows around China. We appreciate the superb service that the company has given us.