8 Tips for Travel Couples

Someone joked that a man and a woman can be husband and wife provided they can travel together, which in some ways really make sense. Travel with your partner can be more intensive and stressful than life at home, yet the payoff is also huge with delight and romantic affection when heading the same direction. These expert tips from seasoned travel couples will help you overcome the difficulties and ensure a funny and comfortable journey.

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1. Start small. The length of your travel time depends on the amount time that you have been dating. Therefore, start small and plan long-term trips only if you have been together for years. If you have been seeing each other less than 12 months, consider trips limited to 10 days.

2. Plan ahead and talk about the budget. Trips without planning ahead may result in adventures. so take the time to master your budget, assemble the perfect itinerary, and of course make the important decisions together.

3. Communicate and be humble. Always remember that you are not travelling alone, hence, communicating is the most important thing. It is great to hear opinions from your partner and also share yours. In case that you are annoyed by each other, try best to cool off and let it go.



4. Respect and take care of each other. Respect your partner’s opinion, decision and most import – habits and privacy, especially when you are sharing a bathroom. Meanwhile, don’t forget you are a team. Watch each other's back, as you two are travelling in the wild world. And your partner is coming home with you.

5. Be flexible. Even if you have made all arrangements for this trip, still things can change. That might be food, transport or hotels. If something unexpected happens to you, work together to find the solution, as we say hope for the best, but expect the worst.

6. Find time to travel separately. Spending that much time with anyone is tough, even though it is the one you love. Both of you will need a break and venture out on your own. That can be one or two hours, or half of day, which is likely to make you more appreciate the time you spend together.



7. Keep it Romantic. A trip between couples should be romantic. Pick the right location (for older couples, go back to places you love) and prepare a romantic surprise. On even the most budget trip, use your imagination to do something special for your partner.

8. Don’t Talk About Work. Travel couples are suggested not to talk about work or any serious topics, for those can lead to stress and frustration. Just keep a sense of humor and enjoy your journey with your partner.

The Great Wall of China – Ancient Legacy for Kids

Travelling is an excellent way to experience life, by broadening your horizons and learning things, which applies to both adults and kids. Therefore, at the rest of year, why not thoroughly plan and take your kids on a vacation they'll never forget? The Great Wall of China, known as one of the Seven World Wonders bearing exceptional testimony to the ancient Chinese civilizations is always considered as the essential of the best family tour to China. Surely, its grandness and magnificence will impress everyone upon first glance, and furthermore, show children an unparalleled achievement in human history!

Recommended China Great Wall Tours

The Great Wall is a series of defensive fortifications built against the nomadic groups from the north, some of which can be traced back to the 7th century BC during the Spring and Autumn, and Warring States Periods. Later Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, had these earlier walls joined together and extended. At this point, the Great Wall made its debut as a whole. Ever since then, it has on and off been rebuilt and enhanced, until to the Ming dynasty (1368–1644), when the Great Wall became the world's largest military structure. When facing a great defensive structure like the Great Wall, Children will be excited to learn about its function, military strategy status and the legendary history, as well as be marveled at the building and engineering skills 2000 years ago.

The Great Wall is indeed an architecture of curiosities. The children may wonder how this great project was built? Who built it? And many more interesting questions. The Great Wall stretches 21,196 km (13,171 mi) through deserts, grasslands, mountains and plateaus from east to west of China (some walls are now in ruins or have disappeared). It is mainly made of rammed earth, stones and wood in the early times, and adopted bricks in the Ming Dynasty. The construction demonstrates the wisdom and perseverance of the ancient Chinese. However, to build it, the human cost was huge, as hundreds of thousands of workers died.

Strolling on the Great Wall, the horse tracks, watch towers, garrison stations, shelters, and fortresses and passes along the Wall can still remind us the cries of battle. When children are encouraged to explore it, what is likely to come to their mind?

The Wall better preserved and most famous were mainly built in Ming Dynasty, many of which are located in the north of Beijing including Juyongguan Pass, Badaling, Mutianyu, Jinshanling and Simatai. Badaling Great Wall is the most well-preserved but with daunting crowds. So we suggest the family with kids go to the remote Jinshanling section with striking mountain views, or Mutianyu section, an hour north of Beijing, featuring delightful pastoral scenery. Simatai section is more authentic, as It reminds what it looked like 500 years ago. Consider visiting the Great Wall in winter, Children will definitely love this magnificent construction in snow!

15 Chinese Members of Small Luxury Hotels of the World (Part II)

Tengchong Hot Spring Spa Villas ResortLocation: Tengchong, YunnanTengchong in Yunnan province is a true oasis of hot springs, embraced by stunning volcanoes and volcanic lakes, where there stands Tengchong Hot Spring Spa Villas Resort. Guests will be revived by a superb selection of spa villas complete with rejuvenating hot spring pools. This exclusive retreat also offers two restaurants, therapeutic spa treatments, a fitness centre, 24-hour butler service and Chinese medical consultations. You might as well visit the National Geological Park with over 90 volcanoes, hot pools and lakes, or Heshun old town nearby.

  (Tengchong Hot Spring Spa Villas Resort)

Sheng He ClubLocation: Nantong, Jiangsu
Sheng He Club is a small boutique hotel on the northern banks of the scenic Hao River in central Nantong city. Sheng He Club distinguishes itself by focusing on elegance and tranquil atmosphere. Here, contemporary designs blends beautifully with stylish chinoiserie. With 20 striking rooms and suites each featuring panoramic river views, all-day dining, nine private dining rooms, a cinema room, a bar and butler service, and a superb collection of art works, Sheng He Club offers a highly appealing base for guests seeking a more personal and sophisticated urban hideaway.

  (Sheng He Club)

Regalia Resort & Spa NanjingLocation: Nanjing, Jiangsu
Regalia Resort & Spa Nanjing is designed with a fusion of traditional Chinese style and Asian Concept in mind. With a Zen-like Thai spa, restaurant with Western and Thai fusion cuisine, fabulous suites and magnificent villas with Jacuzzis or a private pool , amazing views of Qinhuai River and other contemporary luxurious amenities, Regalia Resort & Spa Nanjin will make your stay an exclusive one. Located along Qinhuai River and close to the ancient Zhonghua Gate, the boutique hotel is just a place full of romance.

  (Regalia Resort & Spa Nanjin)

Pudi Boutique Hotel Fuxing ParkLocation: ShanghaiPudi Boutique Hotel Shanghai is ideally located in the heart of the former French Concession area, near Xintiandi and Fuxing Park, and just a few minutes walking distance to Huihai Road, busting with shopping malls, boutiques and bars. This magnificent 5-star hotel is regarded as a perfect combination of contemporary European and Chinese styling, creating an calm and peaceful atmosphere. It provides 52 spacious rooms (the smallest is over 50 square meters), round-the-clock butler service, in-room spa services, an inviting roof terrace and a gourmet restaurant.

  (Pudi Boutique Hotel Shanghai)

Pingjiangfu Suzhou HotelLocation: Suzhou, Jiangsu
Situated in the beautiful water town of Suzhou famous for its serene canals and numerous beautiful ancient gardens, Pingjiangfu Suzhou Hotel is a traditionally styled courtyard building with smart and elegant amenities including comfortable rooms, a health club, a sauna, a fitness facility, tennis courts, two pools and a great choice for your stay. Nearby points of interest include Lion Grove Garden, Humble Administrators Garden, Suzhou Museum, canals and Xuanmiao Temple.

  (Pingjiangfu Suzhou Hotel)

Lanson Place HotelLocation: Hong KongLocated at 133 Leighton Road in the Causeway Bay, the Lanson Place Hotel is the heart of Hong Kong, but a really tranquil urban hideway as well. This boutique hotel combines a classic 19th-century Parisian style and modern interior design to create a sophisticated and elegant ambience. Lanson Place Hotel welcomes guests with 194 rooms, each with a kitchenette, an elegant lounge and cocktail bar, fully-equipped gym and full business services. Have a visit to the nearby exclusive designer shopping centers and experience Hong Kong’s vibrant nightlife.

  (Lanson Place Hotel)

Hotel Éclat BeijingLocation: BeijingWith a gleaming glass pyramid envelopes appearance, Hotel Éclat Beijing is an essential part of Beijing’s Parkview Green teeming with designer boutiques, restaurants and cinemas. This 100-room boutique hotel features 26 luxurious rooms and suites with Jacuzzis in bathroom, of which 20 suites boast private outdoor pool, fabulous works of contemporary art, and personal and friendly service. Hotel Éclat Beijing is close to Ritan Park, Wangfujing Street and Dong Yue Miao and Silk Street Market.

  (Hotel Éclat Beijing)

15 Chinese Members of Small Luxury Hotels of the World (Part I)

There are totally 15 Chinese member-hotels of SLH in China, including Hotel Éclat Beijing, The Luxe Manor Hong Kong, WH Ming Hotel Shanghai etc. which ensure guests highly appealing experience around beautiful landscapes such as the forbidden city and the Great Wall.

Pins De La Brume HotelLocation: Hangzhou, Zhejiang
Pins de la Brume is a supreme boutique hotel, located in the tranquil West Lake area of Hangzhou, just a few steps away from Lingyin Temple and charming West Lake. The 42 elegant rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, two restaurants, a fabulous spa and the gorgeous glass-fronted outer wall are embraced by a lovely tea garden dotted with lush pines and cherry trees. Complimentary bicycles are offered for guests’ own exploration. It is a place of comfort, perfect rest and great beauty, and a perfect getaway from bustling city life.

  (Pins de la Brume)

Brilliant Resorts and Spa KunmingLocation: Kunming, Yunnan
Standing at the bank of rippling Yang Zong Lake on the highlands of Yunnan, Brilliant Resorts and Spa Kunming is an ideal retreat set in Zen gardens and the perfect place to admire the stunning Emerald Hill. Each of the 23 spacious villas offers unobstructed lake views and an outdoor pool or hot spring pool. Here, you should not omit the brilliant Spa, 25 themed hot spring pools, private pool, Jacuzzi, Yoga, Tai-chi, banqueting, and its Pu’er Tea Club.

  (Brilliant Resorts and Spa Kunming)

Brilliant Resort & Spa ChongqingLocation: ChongqingThe Brilliant Resort & Spa Chongqing locates within the 1600-year-old North Hot Springs Park of Chongqing, surrounded by green mountains and facing the Jialing River. The designing principles reflect the ideas of harmony among traditional aesthetics, man and nature, ensuring guests serenity and peace. Guests are coming here for 31 spa suites and villas endowed with private plunge pools, hot spring gardens and private terraces, Chinese and Japanese restaurants and bars, tea house, gym, yoga and so much more.

  (Brilliant Resort & Spa Chongqing)

Beijing Han's Royal Garden HotelLocation: Beijing
If you search for a true oasis of peace in the noisy downtown Beijing, consider Han's Royal Garden Hotel. Built based on the residence of an historical Chinese noble’s family home, blending modern glamour with deco chic, Han's Royal Garden Hotel, with its traditional Chinese Suites and European style Deluxe rooms and comfortable modern amenities embodies elegance and luxury. Why not take a Beijing tour to the surrounding famous hutongs and Tiananmen Square nearby?

  (Han's Royal Garden Hotel)

Wuzhen ClubhouseLocation: Tongxiang City, Zhejiang
In Wuzhen, China’s most beautiful water town, alongside the river, stands Wuzhen Clubhouse. It consists of three separate ancient timber manor houses set in ornamental courtyards first built in the Ming and Qing dynasties. This stunning boutique hotel welcome guests with elegant architecture, striking rooms, cosy services, various activities, as well as peaceful surroundings, and traditional Chinese culture. Try wandering through the delightful town and have fun with the waters.

  (Wuzhen Clubhouse)

WH Ming Hotel ShanghaiLocation: ShanghaiTo find a place of both tranquility and elegance in bustling Shanghai, you would like to visit WH Ming Hotel Shanghai. It is located in the center of Yangpu district, just overlooking the green areas of Huangxing Park. This luxury hotel ensure guests a unique and extraordinary experience here, by offering 188 Art-deco-inspired rooms and suites endowed with sweeping park and river views, luxury amenities, innovative Spa experience, romantic stylish chapel…For a memorable Shanghai tour, visit some Shanghai highlights, among which, Yu Garden in the Old City of Shanghai are the most engaging ones.

  (WH Ming Hotel Shanghai)

The Luxe Manor Hong KongLocation: Hong KongThe Luxe Manor Hong Kong -  it is an outstanding design hotel in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, full of the charm of character. Here, visitors will be seduced by its delightful surreal twist perfectly reflected in the imaginatively themed suites, Dalinesque décor, a striking collection of art, odd bar…it is indeed a highly appealing base for both leisure and business travelers. Make time for the myriad of boutiques, museums, restaurants, markets nearby, immerse yourself in Hong Kong's vibrant lifestyle.

  (The Luxe Manor Hong Kong)

The EmperorLocation: BeijingThe Emperor Beijing is ideally located on the eastern side of the Forbidden City, the city’s most striking historic landmark. The Emperor offers 55 rooms and suites integrating traditional cultural quintessence with modern glamour of minimalist chic and a range of cosy services and facilities to make your stay truly memorable and distinct. Be sure to visit the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Tiananmen Square, Beihai Park, as well as Wangfujing Street providing you would like to go shopping.

  (The Emperor)

Fujian Tulou: China’s Ancient Earthen Castles

China has been experiencing a dramatic change, unfortunately to be followed by the gradually disappearing of some traditional Chinese heritages. Many sniff at the increasingly numerous tall buildings and the pale Western style imitations, instead, searching for the oldest surviving architecture representations, and longing for the haunting oriental flavor. For this kind of person, Tulou buildings unique in China and mainly dotting in southern China’s Fujian province indeed make a compelling case. Make time for Tulou cluster when you are in China, which has become a growing cultural treasure.

Discover Fujian Tulou with Tour Options

(Ancient Fujian Tulou)

Outsiders are most likely marveled at Tulou’s odd-looking appearance and sophisticated structure. A Tulou is usually large, round or square, built into three to five stories (measuring 70 meters), housing for up to 80 families. The load-bearing rammed earth walls are as thick as 1.8m, enclosing smaller interior structures for storing items and raise livestock. With such a rigorous setting, this special building is like “a little kingdom for the family” or “bustling small city.”

(The fortified structures of Tulou)

Why a Tulou is built in this way? Tulou date back between the 12th and the 20th centuries when outlaws and bandits roam freely in the mountainous areas, forcing Hakka people to create Tulou - as unbreakable as castle, to defense against the bad people and help keep out big wild animals. One the one hand, the fortified outer structures are made of compacting earth, mixed with stone, granite, bamboo, wood and other readily available materials. One the other hand, there is only one iron-coated central entrance, along with narrow windows and gun holes. Tulou interiors are primarily constructed of wood. All of these result in a well-lit, well-ventilated, windproof, fireproof, quakeproof building which is warm in winter and cool in summer.

(King of Tulou- Chengqi lou)

Tulou can be found in Jiangxi, Fujian and Guangdong provinces, yet the most famous ones are mainly in Fujian’s Yongding, Zhangzhou and Hua'an, including Chengqi lou - "the king of earth buildings", Zhengcheng Tulou - "the prince of earth buildings", Yijing Tulou - the largest square earth building, Chuxi Tulou cluster and Tianluokeng Tulou cluster. Wandering through the Tulou villiages, admiring the old architectural works, you can also enjoy the peaceful farm life here.

(Tulou interiors )

In 1998, 46 Fujian Tulou buildings were declared UNESCO World Heritage, and said, “They are inscribed as exceptional examples of a building tradition and function exemplifying a particular type of communal living and defensive organization, and, in terms of their harmonious relationship with their environment, an outstanding example of human settlement.”

(Tulou cluster)

5 Must-See Places When Touring Shanxi, China

Yearning to explore the time-honor province of Shanxi in China , but not sure where to start and what are most rewarding? Travel experts from easytourchina.com would like to give you some practical advices. For most travelers and culture fanatics, Shanxi boasts much to see. Do your interests lie in folk houses of old Chinese style? Then Pingyao Ancient Town is the place you are most likely love. While if you are a Buddhist or a Buddhism admirers, consider exploring Yungang Grottoes. For both amazing mountain views and Buddhist culture, Mount Wutai is your number one choice.

Discover Shanxi with Tour Options

Yungang Grottoes

Yungang Grottoes in Datong, Shanxi is one of the four famous grotto complexes in China (the other three are the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang, the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang and the Maijishan Grottoes in Tianshui). Built during Northern Wei Dynasty (386-557), Yungang Grottoes were carved out of the north cliff of Wuzhou Mountain and stretch 1,000 meters continuously from east to west. It now boasts 45 major grottoes and 51,000 stone Buddha statues, which are the finest example of Chinese Buddhist grotto art, and are on par with the exquisite Buddha sculptures in the world. Yungang Grottoes was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001.

Hanging Temple

Located near Yungang Grottoes, the 1400- year-old Hanging Temple is unique for the mix of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism, and famed as an architectural wonder. The temple surprisingly hangs on a near-vertical mountain cliff over 50 meters above the ground, and is supported by crossbeams half-inserted into the rock. This dangerous air castle refelcts the superior accomplishment of mechanical method, aesthetics, religion and culture of Chinese people. Hanging Temple has a total of 40 halls and pavilions, with more than 80 vivid sculptures made of iron, stone, mud, copper and terracotta.

Yingxian Wooden Pagoda

Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, short for The Sakyamuni Pagoda of Fogong Temple, is located 70 kilometers south of Datong. It is the oldest and highest all-wood Buddhist pagoda in the world, and a gem of Chinese architecture. This sophisticated wooden building is crowned as Three Wonders of Towers together with Italia’s Leaning Tower of Pisa, and France’s the Eiffel Tower.

First built during Liao Dynasty (about 1056), the wooden pagoda measures 67.31 m high and 30.27 m in base diameter, with a total of 9 floors but reveals only 5 floors from the outside. The 11-meter-tall statue of Sakyamuni standing at the 1st floor, together with other exquisite Buddha statues and fantastic murals showcase the typical Liao Dynasty art style.

Pingyao Ancient Town

Pianyao in central Shanxi Province is a well-preserved ancient town that showcases the  authentic past of China 2700 years ago. At that time, it was the country’s leading financial center. It is home to the first Chinese exchange shop and a series of grand residences. Nowadays, Pingyao has been emerged as a hot destination with its old city walls, buildings, streets, fork residences, temples and unique lifestyle.

When declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, it was said "The Old Town of Pingyao is an outstanding example of the Han cities in the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, and it retains the traditional features of these periods. Pingyao presents a picture of unusual cultural, social, economic, and religious development in Chinese history. "

Mountain Wutai

Mountain Wutai is one of the four sacred Buddhist mountains in China, and known as the dojo of the Bodhisattva Manjusri. It is home to China’s earliest Buddhist monasteries and earliest surviving timber buildings of the Tang dynasty. The overall 41 surviving monasteries, with its Buddhist architecture, statues and pagodas reflect profound Buddhist culture and make it the focus of pilgrimages. Mountain Wutai also features spectacular mountain views and beautiful natural landscape (it is the highest in Northern China).

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