Shanghai, Suzhou, Shaoxing, Hangzhou & The Yangtze River
15 – 25 October 2027
When people think of China, they often think of Beijing, the Great Wall, giant cities and crowds and crowds. And of course, Panda’s. But this journey is something quite different. It’s a China of elegant Art Deco buildings, leafy avenues, classical gardens, tea plantations, canal towns and slow moments. A China that surprises.
We’ll begin in Shanghai, a city I think many Glam Girls will absolutely fall in love with. During the 1920s and 30s, Shanghai was known as the “Paris of the East” and today it still retains that sense of glamour. Think beautiful Art Deco architecture, grand old hotels, tree-lined boulevards and rooftop bars overlooking one of the world’s most spectacular skylines. We’ll wander through the French Concession, where locals walk their dogs beneath enormous plane trees and stylish cafés spill onto the pavement. We’ll learn to make Shanghai’s famous soup dumplings, explore hidden laneways and enjoy sunset cocktails overlooking The Bund as the city begins to sparkle.
Then the pace changes.
We leave behind the energy of Shanghai and head into a softer, more traditional China.
Suzhou is often called the Venice of the East, and it’s easy to see why. Classical gardens, tranquil canals and centuries-old bridges create a city that feels designed for wandering. Here we’ll discover China’s silk heritage and explore some of the most beautiful gardens in the country.
From Suzhou we continue to Shaoxing, one of those places most international visitors have never heard of—and that’s exactly why I love it. Black-awning boats glide along narrow canals, old stone bridges connect neighborhoods, and daily life unfolds much as it has for generations. It’s authentic, atmospheric and endlessly photogenic.
Next comes Hangzhou.
If there is one place in China that has inspired poets, painters and dreamers for centuries, this is it. We’ll cruise across the famous West Lake, wander through tea plantations and learn about Longjing tea directly from local farmers. It’s a beautiful part of the country, green, peaceful and a world away from the China many people imagine.
And then, just when you think you’ve experienced every side of China, we’ll fly to Chongqing and board our luxury Yangtze River cruise.
For three days we’ll drift through some of the most dramatic scenery in Asia. Towering cliffs rise above the river, mist hangs over the mountains and villages appear along the shoreline. Cruising through the Three Gorges is one of those travel experiences that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
What I love most about this itinerary is that it reveals a China many travelers never see.
- It’s stylish without being flashy.
- Cultural without feeling academic.
- Beautiful without being crowded.
- And full of those wonderful moments that happen when you slow down enough to really experience a place.
- I can’t wait to share it with you.
Journey Highlights
- Discover Shanghai’s remarkable Art Deco heritage
- Explore the glamorous former “Paris of the East”
- Welcome dinner overlooking the iconic Bund skyline
- Wander the elegant Former French Concession
- Learn to make authentic Xiaolongbao soup dumplings
- Tai Chi with local residents in a Shanghai park
- Visit Suzhou’s magnificent classical gardens
- Discover China’s legendary silk heritage
- Cruise Shaoxing’s ancient canals by traditional black-awning boat
- Experience Longjing tea country and a Song Dynasty tea ceremony
- Sail across beautiful West Lake in Hangzhou
- Explore China’s innovation and technology hubs
- Board a luxury Yangtze River cruise
- Journey through the breathtaking Three Gorges
Our Accommodation
As always with Glam Girls Lux Travels, where we stay is every bit as important as where we go. For this journey, we’ve selected a collection of character-filled hotels that reflect the spirit of each destination — stylish, authentic and memorable.
Shanghai | Hengshan Picardie Hotel
A Shanghai landmark and one of the city’s most iconic Art Deco hotels, the Hengshan Picardie perfectly captures the glamour of old Shanghai. Located in the leafy Former French Concession, this elegant heritage hotel places us amongst beautiful tree-lined avenues, historic architecture, cafés and boutiques. A wonderful introduction to the sophisticated charm of the “Paris of the East.”
Suzhou | Hanyu Garden Reserve
A true hidden gem, Hanyu Garden Reserve offers an intimate and peaceful retreat inspired by the classical gardens for which Suzhou is famous. Elegant design, tranquil courtyards and thoughtful service create a sense of serenity that feels worlds away from the bustle of modern life. A beautiful place to slow down and soak up the atmosphere of this remarkable city.
Shaoxing | Mumian Shaoxing, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
One of China’s most exciting new boutique hotels, Mumian beautifully blends contemporary luxury with the city’s rich cultural heritage. Stylish interiors, exceptional comfort and a strong sense of place make this an ideal base for exploring Shaoxing’s ancient canals, historic streets and literary traditions.
Hangzhou | Chaptel Hangzhou – Relais & Chateaux Hotel
Without question one of the most special hotels on this journey. Tucked away within a beautifully restored historic neighbourhood near West Lake, Chaptel offers a rare combination of heritage, elegance and intimacy. With its beautifully restored residences, refined design and peaceful atmosphere, staying here feels less like a hotel and more like being welcomed into a private Hangzhou residence.
Yangtze River Cruise | Victoria Cruise Lines – Executive Cabins
Our final three nights are spent cruising one of the world’s great waterways in the comfort of Executive Cabins aboard Victoria Cruise Lines. Spacious, comfortable and featuring private balconies, these cabins provide the perfect vantage point from which to admire the ever-changing landscapes of the Yangtze. Relax with a cup of tea, watch the scenery glide by and enjoy the experience of travelling through the heart of China in comfort and style.
Together, these properties have been chosen not simply for luxury, but for character, location and atmosphere — creating a journey that feels authentic, elegant and distinctly Glam Girls Lux Travels.
Twin Share – Usd$4643 each
Single Supplement – Usd$1970
Ask for your stunning copy of this fabulous tour – to see what’s included.
Only 10 places available!
Nothing to pay until 15 April’27 (20%) and then finals – 3 Sept’27.
