We are going to Shanghai to visit a relative and see the nearby sights, then want to make a second stop for fun. We have been to HK, Macau, Beijing, and Guilin before. My husband would love to make the stop Singapore, but your advice on more reasonable or convenient stops would be appreciated. He doesn't want to go to Xian for some reason. <BR> <BR>We will only have 7-10 days total whenever we go. We know Nov or Dec would be cold (our visit to Beijing was in late Nov) but we must match a work schedule. <BR> <BR>We love the outdoors, seeing nature sights, cultural events, and just exploring. No serious shopping or dining destinations needed. <BR> <BR>Thanks

You could go to Hangzhou and/or Suzhou -- two of the most beautiful towns in China, and both 50-100 miles from Shanghai. You can get to either by train. Suzhou has the Grand Canal and Hangzhou has the West Lake; and both are of great cultural and historical interest. (I've been teasing my husband for years to take me back to Hangzhou for a second honeymoon!)

Hi Kay, <BR> <BR>I agree with the Hangzhou and Suzhou suggestions. Also, another place that is beautiful, offers lots of wonderful scenery and history is the Mountain Resort in Chengde. Chengde is about 180 km. northeast of Beijing. The old Qing dynasty mountain resort is huge and contains replicas of many cultures from China. It takes about 3 days to see all of it! Also, there are many large and beautiful temples set in a forest/farmland area. There are some wonderful places to eat there. Also, it is not well known by the western world and is not expensive at all. One must take a train, bus or hire a car and driver from Beijing to get there. <BR> <BR>I've traveled all over China on business and on personal trips over the last several years and enjoyed trips to Chengde and Beidaihe/Nandaihe (summer coastal resort areas) as much or more than any other part of China I have seen.

Emily, Any suggestions on the hotels in Suzhou & Hangzhou with reasonable price (but with lake view)? thanks. <BR>

In Hangzhou, we stayed at the Shangri-La Hangzhou Hotel. It had quite a bit of character and was right on the lake. As to the price, it was included in our tour so I can't tell you the exact amount, but I suspect it was on the high side.

why doesn't want to go to xi'an?