My Review on trip to Beijing, Pingyao, Shanxi, Xian, Shaanxi, Yangtze River, Chengdu, Sichuan, Zhangjiajie, Hunan, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, Lijiang, Kunming, Yunnan, Guilin, Guangxi with China Discovery

Thank you Rita.

We are very sad that our trip is coming to an end. So far we have had a fantastic time and seen and done some amazing things.

I had a bit of spare time on the high-speed train so came up with this to help your customers. Up to you if you want to use it or make any adjustments (but I think it would be most helpful once people have booked) it reads as follows...

As part of your journey around fascinating and spectacular China, you will most likely take one or more of China Railways High Speed Trains.

These trains are both fast and efficient, enabling you to cover great distances quickly and in comfort.

You may be required to board the train without the assistance of a guide. This may occur depending on station regulations.

The following is suggested as information for travelers. Please note that this is not a definitive guide, as there may be differences depending on station and location, and may be subject to change.

First and most importantly, there are plenty of clean toilets at the stations, and the trains also have Western toilets in each carriage.

Whether you travel First or Second Class is up to you, but there is plenty of leg room in both classes. All trains are non smoking.

AT THE STATION.

Once at the station you will be required to go through security. You will need your passport for this. Your passport is linked to your ticket. We recommend wheeled suitcases or suchlike as luggage trolleys are not provided. Please note that your main bag will travel with you on the train. Unlike a plane where certain items can travel in the hold, prohibited items will be confiscated. Eg. Knives or souvenir swords.Check ahead for prohibited items to avoid disappointment.

You will need your passport, the train number, carriage number and seat allocation for your journey. This will be provided by your guide or on your itinerary. It will also pay to know your departure time.

There are departure boards in multiple places in the stations. These will link your train number with a boarding gate.

Your trains details will be in one of 3 colours.

Yellow: information stage

Green: boarding stage

Red: departure stage.

In order to run efficiently the trains do not wait. Please be in the correct place ready to board. Depending on the number of train carriages, there may be 2 boarding gates. Eg. 4A and 4B. These will correspond to the carriage number. Don't panic if you get it wrong, but it may result in having to walk a little further on the platform to get to your carriage.

You will need your passport to leave the station to go to the platform. There are lines for self check-in and another for passports/ assisted check-in. This may be detailed overhead, or look for the person manning the assisted check-in line. Use this line to proceed to the platform.

PLATFORM / TRAIN

If no train in platform: There are markings on the ground showing the approximate carriage location. You should wait there. If in doubt you can ask for help.

If train is at platform: Check the train number on the side of carriage.(in case two trains either side of platform)

Find your carriage number and board. Seat numbers are clearly labeled. Place your big luggage overhead. Some trains have additional storage at carriage end. Do not store drink bottles overhead as they may leak, due to cabin pressure.

Depending on the length of your journey some basic food may be available (cashless transactions.) You can take your own food if you wish. Hot water is also available on board.

Enjoy your safe and comfortable journey. Be sure to take in the scenery as you travel.

ARRIVAL

Not all train services may terminate at your destination. The next station is shown on a display at both carriage ends (in English also) . Knowing your arrival time will further assist you in getting off at the correct station.

If you are being met at the station your previous guide should give you directions where to meet, as the stations are normally large with multiple exits. You can also have your next guides name and phone number if you wish. You will need your passport again to exit the station terminal, at the manned checkout line.

Depending on the station layout you will be met at the terminal exit, or the arranged location. Your happy, smiling guide will have your name on a signboard to welcome you, and be ready to assist as required.

Dave