Travel Leaders Exclusive Space Travel Leaders Exclusive Space | Page 15

Day 9 – Three Gorges Dam, China This morning, disembark for a tour of the Three Gorges Dam. The world’s largest hydroelectric power project took almost 20 years to build. During your visit, you will see the inner workings of this massive structure up close. Learn how the dam controls flooding and how it led to the relocation of 1.25 million people. Lunch and dinner are served on board while you cruise through Xiling Gorge, the longest of the Three Gorges. Day 10 – Jingzhou, China This morning, arrive in Jingzhou, the seat of 20 emperors during the Zhou Dynasty, from 1046 BC to 256 BC. As you approach, remarkably preserved city walls, gates and watchtowers emerge on the river’s banks, legacies of Jingzhou’s days as an important military outpost. During your visit, you will stop by an elementary school sponsored by Viking. The children will greet you with a charming song and dance. Then spend time amid their contagious enthusiasm, perhaps getting to know a little about them and their lesson plans. Return to your ship for scenic cruising. Day 11 – Wuhan, China Ancient and modern intermingle in Wuhan, capital of Hubei province. Former cradle of the brilliant Chu Civilization, Wuhan was an important commercial hub, as its merchants set out on the Yangtze on trade missions. It remains a central economic presence today. Visit the Hubei Provincial Museum, where you can hear the music of ancient bronze bells and view relics from 400 BC. Return to your ship for dinner on your final night on board. Day 12 – Shanghai, China After breakfast, disembark in Wuhan. Fly to Shanghai, the “Paris of the East,” China’s largest city and one of the world’s most important ports. An intoxicating city of paradoxes, Shanghai is celebrated for both its colonial-era architecture along the famous Bund promenade and the futuristic skyline of its glittering Pudong district. British, French and American traders were granted parcels of land here known as concessions in the 19th century; today, their influences blend with a distinct Chinese sensibility. Shanghai remains one of China’s most open and welcoming cities. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. Day 13 – Shanghai, China This morning, see Old Shanghai and travel along the elegant Bund, stopping to admire historic banks and customs houses and breathtaking city views. At the Shanghai Museum, one of China’s finest collections, admire decorative ceramics, bronzes, calligraphy and paintings from the region’s past. After lunch, stroll the pathways of the exquisite Yuyuan Garden. Dating to the Ming Dynasty, this oasis was specially built by Pan Yunduan, a 16th-century governor of Sichuan, for his aging father. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before seeing the world-famous Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe from the best seats in the house. Day 14 – Shanghai, China After breakfast, check out of your hotel and proceed to the airport for your return flight. Consider extending your China journey with 2 extra nights in Shanghai to further explore this fascinating city. Shore Excursions One shore excursion included per port as indicated (included); all others available at an extra charge. Depending on your stateroom category, shore excursions may be reserved beginning 90 days before your cruise sails.