During these most uncertain times of Covid, many of our partner schools in China are still wanting to take school trips but are opting for itineraries which don’t include flights. We have prepared this blog for schools based in Southern China, in cities such as Guangzhou and Shenzhen, to give you ideas of what regions it may be possible for you to take your students to:
Guizhou:
Shenzhen to Guiyang: 5-hour bullet train
Guangzhou to Guiyang: 4.5-hour bullet train
Asia’s largest waterfall, stunning mountainous scenery and time spent getting to know the rich culture of the Miao minority people living in quaint hilltop villages is a major draw from many schools seeking trips with an element of CAS (creativity, activity & service). Service options take place in communities deep in the countryside outside of Guiyang, the “activity or active” requirements are fulfilled with hikes from village to village, and creative aspects involve learning crafting techniques from the Miao people such as during the batik making and lusheng musical workshops.
Xiamen and the Fujian Tulou Region:
Xiamen is a favourite city in China for many a traveller. There are so many things to love about it: its blue, clear skies free of any pollution, miles of beaches surrounding the island, rich culture and history and so on. Spend a day exploring the small museums and varied colonial architecture on Gulangyu Island, or explore the thriving commerce scene in the city centre. Head inland and hop on bikes to cycle through the rolling countryside from tulou to tulou, the unique earthen round houses built to protect communities in the Qing and Ming dynasties.
Shenzhen to Xiamen: 3-hour bullet train
Guangzhou to Xiamen: 4-hour bullet train
Yangshuo:
It’s a popular destination you have probably heard of, and maybe your school already runs lots of trips there, but there is a reason why: it’s simply an incredible part of the world for a school trip. The karst mountain scenery, gently winding rivers and excellent weather provide the perfect backdrop for a host of outdoor activities, such as service work in the communities deep in the mountains, kayaking on the Li River, bamboo rafting on the Yulong River, hiking, biking, scavenger hunts on West Street and so much more. Whilst the bullet train is faster, you may find a coach from your school direct to your accommodation is a little easier with luggage.
Shenzhen to Yangshuo: 3-hour bullet train or 6.5-hour coach
Guangzhou to Yangshuo: 2.5-hour bullet train or 5.5-hour coach
Zhangjiajie:
Achieving world-wide fame as a result of the movie Avatar, this destination is ajam packed with jaw dropping views, exhilarating hikes and adrenalin inducing experiences. Just within the limit of an overland journey from South China, your group will need to hop on a train to Changsha and from there it’s a 4-hour private coach ride. This destination is ideal for geography, culture, Duke of Edinburgh, International Award and outward-bound groups.
Shenzhen to Zhangjiajie: 3.5-hour bullet train then 4-hour coach
Guangzhou to Zhangjiajie: 3-hour bullet train then 4-hour coach
Organizing a school trip during Covid can be a daunting task, but if you work with The Learning Adventure we are here to guide you through each step, and do remember that all of our domestic trips in China are fully refundable right up until day of departure. If you are considering a trip to the above regions, or anywhere else, then please don’t hesitate to reach out to us so that we can prepare some itinerary options
