National Parks
A region unrivalled by few in the world for its striking natural beauty, Guilin – unsurprisingly – is in close proximity to a variety of National Parks. Named after the eight stone peaks that lie near the border, Bajiaozhai National Geopark’s trail meanders past steep cliffs, dramatic gorges, bamboo forests and collapsed boulders. Hike through Tianmen Mountain National Park - or take a relaxed boat ride down the pretty Zi River - absorbing panoramic views of proud cliffs, enchanting waterfalls, sharp ravines and lush sub-tropical greenery.
Culture
Just a short drive north of Guilin and nestled among picturesque farmland, discover the ancient, 1000-year-old village of Jiangtouzhou and its indisputable rustic charm. Stroll down the pretty cobblestone alleys past ancient homes from the Ming and Qing dynasties, encountering the village’s fascinating residents – descendants of the 11th century philosopher, Zhou Dunyi, whose essay on virtue, ‘Love of the Water-Lily’, made the flower a decorative symbol throughout the village.
temples
Gracefully embellishing the scenery of Shan Lake, the Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas are striking octagonal structures that combine Guilin’s beguiling culture, art, religion, architecture, technology and natural landscape. Walk along the lake shore at night and prepare to be mesmerised by the reflection of the Pagodas’ dazzling lights and beautiful colours, before entering the buildings, discovering various statues of Buddhist and other fascinating historical and cultural symbols. Climb – or take the lift – to the top of these fabulous structures for a breathtaking, peaceful and moonlit view of downtown Guilin.
Lakes
Providing an oasis of tranquillity among the urban hub of the city, Guilin houses two captivating lakes that once made up a vital city moat. Rong (Banyan) Lake, named after an ancient Chinese banyan tree on its shore, includes the iconic South Gate, the only surviving section of the original Song-dynasty city wall; illuminated at night, the vibrant area is often alive with locals going about their various pastimes - including Tai chi, calligraphy and traditional dancing. Shan Lake, named after the beautiful surrounding cedar trees, boasts the striking twin pagodas.
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Travelling With Children or Without an Adult
Children travelling without both parents should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. Please contact the relevant Embassy for the county you are travelling to for further information.
Visa and Advance Passenger Information
All passengers must ensure they have a valid, acceptable passport, any required visa and any other documentation for both the final destination and any stop-off points en route. Please make sure that Advance Passenger Information is submitted in advance to travel for all destinations. Failure to hold correct documentation or submitting incorrect details with Advance Passenger Information or Visa applications may result in refusal of carriage or entry into a country. Please check with the relevant Embassy regarding visa requirements well in advance of your travel date. Charges may apply for some visas.
Passengers not travelling on a British Passport are advised to contact their relevant Foreign & Commonwealth office for individual Visa requirements.
For up-to-date resort information, visit www.fco.gov.uk
Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide and you should take health advice about your specific needs from your general practitioner or a specialist clinic as early as possible before travel. Those planning to become pregnant should discuss their travel plans with their healthcare provider to assess their risk of infection with Zika. For information about Zika, other mosquito-borne diseases (such as Dengue fever and Chikungunya), Lyme Disease (caused by tick bites), and to receive advice on mosquito bite avoidance measures, please visit http://travelhealthpro.org.uk/insect-tick-bite-avoidance/
In addition, we highly recommend that you seek specialist advice from your doctor and, where recommended, obtain vaccinations or tablets for protection against, for example: Malaria, Hepatitis A, Polio and Typhoid. In some cases, treatments for Malaria should begin well in advance of travel. Travellers may also be required to show Yellow Fever Certificates on arrival in certain destinations ie, some African countries. Please note that you are strongly advised against scuba-diving for 24 hours before travelling by air. We would also like to draw your attention to the risk of DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) and recommend that you consult with your doctor before travelling.
Visit the FCO website and select your destination country for the very latest travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
Additional sources of information include: www.hpa.org.uk, http://nathnac.net,
www.fco.gov.uk, www.hpa.org.uk and www.nathnac.org, your General Practitioner or a specialised clinic.