After 18 months of planning and anticipation, 40 members of U3A Moraira–Teulada finally set off on our China and Yangtze River Cruise adventure — and what an unforgettable journey it proved to be!
From the moment we arrived in Beijing, we were immersed in a country full of contrasts, where ancient history sits alongside futuristic skylines and bustling modern cities. Throughout the trip we shared wonderful experiences, plenty of laughter, and many memorable moments together.
Special thanks go to Coral, our tour leader, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to keep everything running as smoothly as possible, and to Ray, our “group sweeper,” who made sure nobody was accidentally left behind! We were also incredibly fortunate to have our permanent guide Carol with us throughout the journey. Her knowledge, patience, and organisation added enormously to everyone’s enjoyment of the trip.
Beijing and the Great Wall
Beijing was a fascinating introduction to China. Visits to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and especially the Great Wall were unforgettable highlights for many of us.
Standing and walking on the Great Wall itself was certainly a real “pinch me” moment.
Food, Fun and Surprises
Part of travelling is embracing local culture — including the food! Chinese meals were certainly plentiful, and on some days we found ourselves enjoying (or maybe not) two traditional Chinese banquets in one day.
While much of the food was delicious, some of us quietly admitted that by the end of the trip we were beginning to dream about toast, mashed potato sausages and gravy, or even beans on toast!
We also discovered that finding an evening glass of wine or beer was a challenge but it become part of the adventure too. Before the trip, we had carefully asked our Spanish travel agents whether alcohol would be available in each hotel. Looking back, we realised we probably sounded like a group of hardened alcoholics! In reality, it was simply our usual social time together before and after dinner — chatting about the day’s adventures and comparing photos.
Xi’an, Pandas and Bullet Trains
The Terracotta Army in Xi’an was absolutely breathtaking, while Chengdu’s famous pandas brought smiles to everyone’s faces.
One of the unexpected highlights of the holiday was travelling on China’s famous bullet trains — three times in total. The trains were smooth, modern, comfortable, and amazingly punctual. Not being able to take hairspray in a pressurized can was a new one on us and they were confiscated.
We also flew from the Yangtze River area to Shanghai, which really showed us the enormous scale of China.
Yangtze River Cruise
Cruising through the spectacular Three Gorges surrounded by misty mountains and dramatic scenery was unforgettable.
Getting onboard the ship became a small adventure in itself after a very early start and a long wait before boarding officially began at 6pm. Many of us agreed that an earlier embarkation time would have been very welcome!
Thankfully, once onboard, the scenery and comfortable surroundings quickly made up for it.
Shanghai – A Wonderful Finale
Shanghai provided a perfect ending to the trip. Walking along The Bund at night with the illuminated skyline across the river was simply magical. The Tower with the fastest lift in the World was ear popping for some and the beautiful Yu Garden were a sight to behold.
A Trip to Remember
What made the holiday especially enjoyable was the wonderful atmosphere throughout the group. Everyone looked after one another, shared experiences, and embraced the adventure with enthusiasm and good humour.
We have all made new friends for life and that is such a bonus. China surprised many of us in the very best way — modern, welcoming, fascinating, and full of unforgettable experiences.
It was certainly a trip we will remember for a very long time!
Report by Coral Guise-Smith