Despite its wonderful reputation among walkers, Himalayan holidays aren’t reserved for those who enjoy a hearty hike. Slicing its way through six countries, this mountain range is home to rich cultures that don’t require walking boots to be explored. From ancient temples in Tibet to Buddhism in Bhutan, spirituality and culture in the Himalayas are carved into the landscape itself. Leave hiking behind and read on to discover where to find some of the region’s richest cultural and spiritual experiences.
15th November 2024 - China Culture
To the 80% of the planet's population that aren't Chinese, the celebration practices of Chinese New Year are still shrouded in relative mystery, save for abstract flashes of association: the colour red! Dancing dragons! Paper lanterns! Thus, we shed light on how some of China's big cities celebrate the Spring Festival, as it's also known. Beijing New Year's celebrations date back hundreds of years in China's capital, Beijing, which is buzzing at this time of year.
1st February 2022 - China Culture
China is a fascinating country in which to travel. However, I am not going to lie and say it will ever be my favourite destination; it is a tough country to travel in. There were times that I absolutely loved it and others when I was wondering what on earth I was doing there. However, I do think it is somewhere that everyone should travel to at least once. As one of the world's largest countries, it isn't somewhere that you can see all in one trip, but you should go soon as some of the history and culture is being lost to Western modernisation.
28th June 2021 - China Travel Inspiration
Aman Summer Palace The Summer Palace, located in the less frenetic outskirts of the bustling capital city of Beijing, housed the pleasure gardens of the dynastic emperors. They are still an oasis (metaphorical and literal) of calm, with beautiful parkland, pagodas and even an enormous marble barge in one of the many lakes that dot the landscape. That Aman managed to get permission to build a hotel adjoining the palace walls is impressive enough, but the no-expense-spared attention to detail makes this a serious - if seriously expensive - contender as the city's best hotel.
28th June 2021 - China Hotels
It's the most populous country on earth, so it's no surprise that before visiting China for the first time, our resident expert Rachel felt a little daunted and overwhelmed. However, it swiftly established itself as one of her favorite countries - and this is her introduction to it. Read on for an insight into luxury travel around the 5,000 year old nation... China: daunting and overwhelming? When I first went to China in 2008 to visit a friend living in Beijing, I wasn't sure what to expect and thought the whole experience of Chinese culture was going to be overwhelming and daunting.
28th June 2021 - China Culture
Sofitel Xian Opened in 2005, this is the most luxurious hotel in Xian, and until the Chinese cotton on to the concept of top quality boutique hotels, the best bet in town. There are a distinctly un-boutiquey 414 rooms and suites here, but with all the mod cons you would expect in a five star hotel. The restaurants serve Mediterranean, Moroccan, Cantonese and Japanese meals and there is also a slick spa and fitness centre.
28th June 2021 - China Hotels
The massed ranks of humanity that inhabit China's cities now number a staggering 622 million people. Venture on to the streets of Beijing at rush hour and it can feel like the vast majority of them are out and about at the same time. People's Parks It all goes a long way towards explaining the special place that Renmin (People's) Parks hold in the hearts of urban Chinese. These tranquil oases act as the lungs of China's increasingly polluted metropoli, but serve a more important function still, best viewed - and understood - at dawn.
28th June 2021 - China Travel Inspiration
Capella Shanghai Located in the cultural preservation zone of Shanghai's upmarket Xuhui District, Capella Shanghai offers a unique location, nestled away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This is a soulful heritage retreat that is still close enough to still experience all the urban action. The villas - 55 in total - are serene and stylish with a muted colour palette, custom-designed furniture and a spacious marble bathroom.
28th June 2021 - China Hotels
Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
