China

Vast, diverse, and full of rich culture, China is an extraordinary destination. From its glittering megacities to pristine wildernesses, China is a land of contrasts and incredible history, where ancient and modern worlds collide.

Capital city Beijing is known for its vibrant arts scene, and historic buildings such as the Forbidden City, the biggest palace complex anywhere in the world, which rub shoulders with gleaming modern buildings. It’s also home to Tiananmen Square. Head to the glitzy financial centre of Shanghai for glittering skyscrapers, the romantic streets of its French Concession, and a stroll down the grand promenade of the Bund. The monumental, iconic Great Wall of China stretches across the country’s north for thousands of kilometres. Head to Xi’an for the awe-inspiring Army of Terracotta Warriors, one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. More than 2,000 years old, these warriors were created from clay in their thousands, to guard the tomb of ruler Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. China is full of dramatic valley vistas, and incredible hiking trails such as Tiger Leaping Gorge in the country’s southwest. Mountainous, spiritual Tibet is known for its spectacular peaks, and Mount Everest straddles its borders. For beach life and a holiday mood, head to the tropical island of Hainan.