mary_m - Longsheng is a comfortable, but full day trip from Guilin ( about 2 hours each way - very scenic landscapes/ethnic villages, etc). Don't miss it; make sure you go ALL the way to the top ( many steps) - the view is well worth it. If I knew how to attach pictures here I would do so - amazing shots of the rice terraces. Look up my post from 5/3 in Asia: Guilin vs Hangzhou for my travel contacts in Guilin.

The YMCA is really a hidden gem of Hong Kong. It is not the hostel-like experience you might expect from the name. It is located right next to the Peninsula and offers arguably the best views in HK from the Kowloon side (if you can get a Harbor view room). Also, if you'd prefer to be on HK island, I recommend the Conrad - which also has great Harbor views.


No guide needed for forbidden city. You can rent the Roger Moore narrated walking tour if you want more historical depth.

Kempinski is very nice


Soft sleeper is fine for most. Just be aware that there are 4 beds per compartment. So it's the luck of the draw who you'll be partnered with, but I would still highly recommend it for the experience. Remember that the soft sleeper has a different waiting room, so you don't wont to trade elbows with the masses when boarding (or at least less of them).

The Westin is very nice and you can walk to the Bund from there. Located in Hunangpu distict - still has the old shanghai feel to it.

a good day trip from Shanghai would be Suzhou, or an alternative water city. There is another very nice one, but the name escapes me. I'd recommend that you ask around though.

On tour guides - it is probably better to wait. Also, if possible, try to pay at least a portion of the fee at the end of the service or tour provided. Note that this is not the standard, but many operators will agree when pressed. This makes it much more difficult for them to tack on additional charges and holds them to the standard of service offered when you sign up. Also be wary of any shops your tour operator takes you. The same goods are likely available elsewhere for 10% of the price.