China???

Hi- I am hoping to head to Beijing the last week in July (still waiting to be awarded vacation time). I have read the article (thank you, good read) and was wondering if anyone had anything to add...

I am going to try to travel on United direct flight from SFO or maybe through ORD. My back up plans are to go through NRT with NW, ANA, or JAL. I am also looking at ICN on Asiana or Korean. Any other suggestion for other ways to get there and home? I appreciate any suggestions or help. Thanks.

Sounds like you've got your bases covered with backups. Don't forget the AC option thru YVR. Pick up a couple of good guidebooks like Frommers and Lonely Planet. A week in Beijing is about the only way to do it justice. you can do it in less time but you'll be disappointed that you didn't take more time. You really should try to go beyond Beijing and see 1 or 2 other cities. A good guidebook should help you decide. Once you have an itinerary mapped out I may be able to offer suggestions. Happy Travelling! p.s. can I go with you? http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emotic...on_biggrin.gif

I think Continental just started non stop service from EWR.

As for China, know it will be difficult and enjoy the process. It is a very crowded city with lots of traffic and everything takes longer than you think. I agree with the guide books take at least 7 days. See one or two sites at most or else you WILL be overloaded. I do not agree about going to see other cities. Beijing is enough for your first trip.

Save the others for a different trip.
It's not a trip of a life time, if you like it... you WILL be back.

Stopher

Got the time off, got the visa, now what should I pack? I hear some advice of buying most of everything needed once I arrive. Anybody done this? Also, any advice on what to see and do that is not in the guide books? Thanks again, I am looking forward to it.