China in October 2013
 

Would anyone be willing to recommend a travel agent or guide to assist a lone traveler while in China this Autumn? I will have completed a trek in Nepal. Thanks!!

Are you fully committed to using a travel agent or guide? Many of us have travelled to China independently. You might want to read some of our trip reports before making a decision.

I have never used an agent, and agree that independent travel is quite easy is most all parts of china. I but only wanted to comment that you may want to avoid the PRC for about 2 days before and about 5 days after Oct 1. Oct 1 is National Day, and many Chinese have 3 to 7 days off. Sites and public transport can be very crowded. Hong Kong is OK, while we have Oct 1 off, the rest of the time are work days and it is pretty much normal (other than things like the big Buddha which is usually crowded.

kja: Thank you and I have spent sometime reading and enjoying the threads. Although I have journeyed around diff areas of China in the past, I would like to relax and follow this time. I would love to arrange a private guide as I will be rather fit after several weeks in Nepal and can see enjoying a brisk experience. If you do not think that I will find such, I value your opinion.

Cicerone: Thank you for the heads-up. I expect to be back in China from 10/22 - 10/29. Alternately I would be open to another country if suggested. I have read about Kathie's journeys while she was in Myanmar.

We just got back from a trip where we were on our own for the cities (Beijing and Shanghai) and put together a package through China Advocates for a week outside the cities - guide & driver, flights, trains, hotels, some meals, sightseeing fees. I thought they did a great job of taking two usually independent travelers and tailoring what we wanted to do and see with things that we are very glad that THEY suggested we do and see. We were extremely happy with the itinerary they put together, the knowledge of the guides, and the restaurants and hotels they chose for us. I've just started a trip report if you'd like to see more details.