Shanghai is the largest and most prosperous city in China, often called the 'Paris of the Orient' or the 'Pearl of China'. Shanghai is one of the most important economic, financial and cultural centers in all of Asia. In recent years, its pace of development has been astounding. Even if you visited Shanghai only a few years ago, the changes are impressive.

The tour starts with the Oriental TV Tower, the unmistakable symbol of modern Shanghai. Standing in Pudong Park in the new and developing Lujiazui District, it overlooks the industry and commerce quickly developing on the banks of the Huangpu River. You will enjoy a panoramic view of Shanghai from the main observatory and have the opportunity to orient yourself to the thriving metropolis you're about to discover.

A cruise on Huang River gives you another way to see the Bund, the cultural district along the river. From this floating vantage point, you'll see 80-100 year old buildings with diverse architectural styles: Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque. After a photo stop at People's Square, the picturesque green space surrounded by buildings on all sides, you visit the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. Here you?ll see the vision for the new Shanghai, complete with exhibits and an impressive scale model of the city planned for the future.

Your final stop is Nanjing Road, the first commercial street in Shanghai. It is pedestrian friendly, with no cars allowed, and is the popular shopping center of the city. It is always bustling with excitement, with locals, business people and tourists alike. You'll likely want to return in the evening to get a taste of Shanghai nightlife.

Highlights:

• Oriental Pearl TV Tower
• River Cruise
• People?s Square
• Urban Planning Exhibition
• Nanjing Road

Beijing is an enormous city of nearly 15 million people, with one of the oldest cultures on Earth. So it's no wonder this Beijing operator has divided the city's vast history into two tours.

This tour is the Historic Beijing II (Tour Two)

Tour Two of Historic Beijing begins at the Yonghe Lamasery and one of the best examples of the region's many sacred temples. Lama Temple reveals diverse architectural styles from Han, Mongolia, Manchuria and Tibet, and the impressive 60-foot Maitreya Buddha, carved form a single sandalwood tree.

Then it's on to one of the highpoints of anyone visiting Beijing, a trip to the zoo to see the frolicking Pandas, a living Chinese treasure. After a stop for lunch, you'll then visit the emperor's retreat, the historic Summer Palace. Used for eight centuries, the Empress Dowager Cixi had the estate renovated in the 19th century, including the manmade lake we see today.

Besides touring the ornate palace, you'll stroll through one of Beijing's favorite parks. During the day, we will also go on a shopping excursion to the White Peacock Silk Carpet Factory.

Historic Beijing II Tour Highlights:

• Lama Temple
• White Peacock Silk Carpet Factory
• Panda Garden at Beijing Zoo
• Lunch
• Summer Palace