Elisha Burberry is an online, freelance journalist and keen traveller and watersports enthusiast. Originally from Scotland, she now resides in London. These days it's almost impossible to open a newspaper or turn on the news without hearing some mention of China. This vast, spectacular and very beautiful country is already playing a huge part in global markets and interest in China as a tourist destination is mirroring its economic growth.
One of the dilemmas that face travellers wanting to visit China is its vast scale. China is the 4th largest country in the world, and has huge diversity; from high-tech skyscraper cities like Shanghai, to the snow capped mountains of Tibet; from the 'wild west' of Xingjian province with its shifting sands and desert outposts, to tropical bamboo forests of the Sichuan - where giant pandas roam - the choice of locations may seem bewildering.
With this in mind, it's little wonder that escorted tours to China are one of the most popular ways to enjoy the country. These touring holidays offer visitors an opportunity to see the best parts of the country and really get the most out of the China experience. A wide range of escorted tour holidays are on offer to suit all types of traveller, from the adrenaline seeker who wants activity and adventure in remote parts of the country, to those who'd prefer to explore the history and culture of China.
There is also the choice of opting for a private guide, or joining a group tour. If you already have a group of friends who intend to travel together, a private tour might be preferable. However, group tours are very popular with small groups, single travellers or couples, as it is a great way to meet others with similar interests and also share the camaraderie of your trip.
Another massive advantage of joining an escorted tour group is that it removes the headaches of travelling in an unfamiliar place. China can be a tricky country to navigate for the foreigner who doesn't speak Chinese and is unfamiliar with the culture. A tour holiday means that all accommodation and travel is already arranged, leaving visitors free to enjoy their trip; while having an English speaking guide who also speaks the local language, on hand to answer any questions and attend to any problems, not only provides peace of mind for travellers but also means that you can learn much more about the people and places you visit.
It's worth taking your time when choosing China tours that are most suited to your tastes; do you want an urban experience, or an outback adventure? Are you a culture vulture or are you more interested in China's history? Whatever you're looking for in China, with an escorted tour group you're certain to find plenty of eastern promise in this huge, diverse and fascinating country that offers so much for visitors.