Hi Ed,

I can relate to issues regarding winding roads. I always take a marezine or bonine when I'm going to go on that type of driving trip/airplane/boat, etc.

There really wasn't much on the way... very rural, farming land with buildings few and far between. We did pass a tea plantation somewhere (that was our bathroom stop per Lilly's recommendation.) We didn't do the tour or look at the tea, because by then we had enough tea. It's a fun place because there's a giant teapot on the hillside, so that might be worthwhile. On the other hand, if you do go to Long Ji, by the time you drive there and back and walk up and down, there isn't really any time for longer stops unless you want a very short visit up on top (which is the reason you're going there in the first place!)

There are also hot springs in the area. We didn't go there because it would have necessitated more driving in another direction. Again, Lilly would be your best resource on that idea since we discussed the Springs and she has brought people there.

Best regards,
Linda

Ed,
If you're planning on going to the rice fields in October, Lilly told us that the 2007 harvest was over on Oct.7th & therefore, not a recommended time to visit. We're 6 using Lilly as our guide from Oct.17-20. She'll hire a van for us as Mr.Tang's car is too small for 6 (as you stated, Linda).

Syl,

Did Lilly send you the images of the fields throughout the year? It looks beautiful in all the seasons. There wasn't much to look at in terms of rice plants when we were there in April, but the terraces themselves were beautiful and the views from the top were terrific and very atmospheric.

Linda

Lilly didn't send us pictures but I've seen fall pictures elsewhere. It's just not as picturesque when barren.And to drive 3 hrs there & 3 hrs back the scenery has to be spectacular.

Sorry, Linda, I have to agree with Syl, after several years of backbreaking work in rice fields in all seasons, barren fields are not the most scenic sight even terraced.

OK, Shanghainese and Syl, in that case, more time for Yangshuo/Guilen sights! The other advantage is you get to miss all the hairpin turns and the hike up the mountain!

Linda

Hi Linda,

you have already helped me regarding some info on rice terraces and I was hoping if you could help me again.
I'm pleased to say that my husband and I are booked to go to China this October! We would like to stay at the Li River Retreat hotel as well. We sent them an email last week if they have any available accommodation, to which they replied. I then confirmed the accommodation but I haven't heard from them since. What was your communication with Li River Retreat like? Should I call them to confirm?

Also how far is the hotel from the shops/restaurants?

Many thanks.

Katerina

Katerina,
We got an email confirmation immediately upon booking with the Li River Retreat. Before we leave for China I'll email them again just to re-confirm.What dates are you planning to be there?

Hi Katerina,

I corresponded by email with Alf and if you email him with a question about confirmation, you'll get something back that will reassure you. He didn't require any credit card information from us... said people are usually responsible and reliable, and if we needed to cancel, to please do so a few days before. Everyone at Li River Retreat is very friendly and helpful, so if you email them, you should get an answer that will confirm your booking.

The Retreat truly is a retreat. It's a good way out of town and you reach it via the road the vendors use for their street market for the visitors arriving on the boats. That's why it's blocked to traffic from about 1:30 until 4:30 every afternoon. We simply used Mr. Tang's taxi service and arranged our schedule around the market. It's a good 20-30 minute walk to the shops and restaurants in town if you want to do that.

I hope you enjoy it.

Linda

Thank you Syl and Linda for your reassurance, however I have now re-sent my email 3x and no response ... not sure if they acknowledged the confirmation or not ...

We are supposed to be there from 4th - 9th October, I have also asked them to book 1 night at Longji. The first email from them was very prompt and helpful but I haven't heard from Alf since last Friday (11th July)... oh well I know he might be busy but I just don't want to lose the booking as it's the holiday season at that time...

Katerina

Kacenka,

Any reply from Li River Retreat? I'm at the beach, but will get in touch with Jasmine to check for you if you haven't yet herd from Alf.

Please let me know the latest.

Linda

Linda, you're very kind, thank you for all your help.

In the end we just called them and arranged everything via the phone with a lady called Luna (she was very helpful) - we received the confirmation immediately after our conversation. I found out that I can book the transfer via their website - so we're set to go!

Only 2 months (and 1 week) to go LOL! I will print off your trip report, especially the restaurant tips. Can't wait.

Enjoy your beach time! (anywhere nice?)

Katerina

Katerina - Luna is wonderful. She is one of the very special people we met at the Li River Retreat.

I'm glad you got everything straightened out.

We were at Virginia Beach for two weeks -- beautiful beach, great weather, large and happy family - a terrific break. Thanks for asking.

Linda

Just starting my research on a trip in early Nov. That is short for me as I usually start this at least 6 months ahead but your report is so full of helpful information that I may be ok!

Thank you so much for all the contacts and travel hints that can save the rest of us (hopefully) from disasters.

I am sure I will have more questions as I reread and study your report and actually try to plan my trip. You have definitely built up my enthusiasm and excitement for our trip to China.

Barb,

Thanks for your kind words. It's my pleasure to be of whatever assistance I can and I look forward to hearing from you as you plan your trip.

Is this your first trip to China? At this point where do you plan to travel?

Best regards,
Linda

Sorry for the long time in responding. Been trying to find out just what we are doing.

Linda, I have never been to mainland China but have been to Hong Kong and Taiwan about 4 years ago. We have been waiting to see mainland China for some time now.

My husband has a business trip to Nanning the first week in Nov so I will meet him there. Then we will be traveling with another couple to Guilin, Yangshuo, Xian and Beijing.

Turns out the other couple may be making most of the arrangements as they have a Chinese niece by marriage who will help with that. I have put in my comments as I read and learn from all the great posters here! But will just have to wait and see.

As I have more questions come to me I will keep reading and asking.

Should we plan for fairly cool or even cold weather in Beijing by Nov 13 to 18?

Thanks to all who ask the questions I don't even know I have yet!

Barb,

Good luck with the trip. I don't think I could go on a trip to China planned by someone else... I enjoy the planning and research too much. I hope the connections will prove helpful/useful to you.

As for November weather, since I was there in April, I can't help much. It was unseasonably warm when we were there... hot even in Shanghai, which I didn't expect. Although it was cool and damp when we arrived in Beijing, it quickly turned warm. Historically, the average for Beijing for the month of November is in the 30's F. so I would plan on cold weather, but pack layers since you're going to be in the South also.

I'll look forward to hearing about your trip when you return.

Best regards,
Linda

It seems like ages since I first posted this report. Several travelers who asked questions and with whom I have been corresponding about China have departed for their October visits and at least one - NY Woman - is now writing her own trip report. So far her report is amazing and while virtual travel certainly isn't like the real thing, it is fun.

I'm still hoping to return to China. Discussions with a potential corporate sponsor for our proposed educational project in Shanghai (and maybe Beijing, too!) are still taking place, so I am still optimistic that I'll get to return this year or next.

Linda

Linda -- If you return to China in Nov, check out my 4 GTGs info there, will see nywoman in Lijiang, staying at the same inn.

Shanghainese

So sorry I haven't gotten back to China yet, although the possibility is still there via work and certainly I will return for pleasure. I have been inspired by your visit to Lijiang and NY Woman's wonderful trip reports. If for no other reason, I must return to buy some gorgeous cashmere jackets and silk blouses in the Art Alley!

Linda