Expert: Jay - 5/10/2008

Question
My wife and I will be taking a Grand Circle trip to China June 3-23.  The itinerary includes Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing, Xian, Guilin, Hong Kong, and a Yangtze cruise.  What kind of clothing would you advise us to take on a trip like this during June?

Answer
Thank you for your question.

It is a lovely time of year to be travelling in China.  Weather wise you will be looking between 25C and 30C.  I suggest mainly light clothes and maybe a slightly heavier jacket for night time and the cruise.  If your Guilin part of the trip includes a trip to Yangshuo then maybe some clothes you don't mind getting dirty just in case you visit the natural mud bath.
It is not usually a part of your tour but in Xi'An ask your guide about getting you tickets to the Tang Imperial Dance Theatre Show.  It is a fantastic show which displays dance, tradition and clothing from the Tang Dynasty (618AD - 907AD).  I have been to Xi'An 3 times and I have been to this show 3 times.  I can't get enough of it.  Also make sure your tour includes going to BanPo which is an ancient village with remains dating back 6000 years.
In Shanghai ask your guide if you can try Xiao Long Bao.  It is a kind of steamed dumpling which is famous in Shanghai.
I hope this helps.  Have a great time,


Jay