TripADeal 16 Day China & Yangtze Cruise

Question

Hi, just looking for more recent feedback, reviews on this tour. So far there’s not alot of positives and my bad, I’ve already booked in my haste of excitement. I’m fit, like to be busy and can haggle with anyone, but I’m nervous about quality of hotels, pre determined dinner options by tour guides and no or little choice and bad food. A lot of waiting around for trains and long times in buses. You do pay for what you get and I’ve never been to China and my husband can’t wait to see Terracotta Warriors. I just don’t like the thought of being in a herd of tourists. Have done TripADeal to South Africa and it was fabulous. Undecided whether to loose a 10% deposit (need to make decision in next 4 weeks) or get a credit and organise a totally different travel package to somewhere else in the world. Looking forward to feedback.

Answer

TripADeal’s 16-Day China & Yangtze Cruise tour is a typical guided group tour covering major highlights like Beijing, Xi’an (Terracotta Warriors), Shanghai, and a Yangtze River cruise. Experiences can vary widely depending on the guide, group dynamics, and personal expectations.

Here’s a breakdown based on recent traveler feedback:

Hotels: Accommodation is usually mid-range and functional rather than luxury. Some hotels are centrally located, others slightly out of main tourist areas. Rooms are generally clean but may be smaller than expected.
Meals: Most dinners are pre-arranged at local restaurants or included in the package. Choices may be limited, and while food quality is generally acceptable, it may not always match Western tastes. Buffet breakfasts are more flexible.
Transport: Expect long bus journeys between cities and sites. High-speed trains are often used, which are efficient, but there is still waiting time for station transfers and boarding.
Guided tours: Guides manage schedules tightly. Some travelers feel rushed with limited time at attractions. If you enjoy flexibility or spontaneous exploration, this can feel restrictive.
Group dynamics: Group tours mean traveling with people of various ages and preferences. Busy itineraries and large groups can feel crowded at popular sites.

Advantages:

All major highlights are covered, including Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai, and the Yangtze Cruise.
Convenience of pre-arranged hotels, transport, and guided tours—good for first-time visitors to China.
Opportunity to see iconic sites like the Terracotta Warriors without navigating the logistics yourself.

Potential downsides:

Less freedom for personal exploration or extended time at favorite sites.
Limited meal options and pre-set menus.
Long travel days and bus/train transfers can be tiring.
Herding effect—can feel like traveling with a “tourist bubble” rather than immersive travel.

Tips if you stay with this tour:

Bring snacks or small items if you are particular about meals.
Plan optional activities independently where possible.
Be prepared for early starts and long days; comfortable shoes and patience are key.
Interact with your guide about preferences—they can sometimes adjust minor elements to suit the group.

Conclusion: If you are eager to see China’s highlights, especially on a first visit, and don’t mind some structured travel and compromises, this tour delivers a safe and convenient overview. If you prefer more independence, flexibility, or culinary variety, you might consider alternative packages or arranging your own itinerary, though this requires more planning and potentially higher costs.