Dear Cheryl,
Everything worked—the guides, rides, hotels--everything was where it should be and when it should be there. The sites matched what I asked for in mix of inside and outside activities. The guides were good. Dram was outstanding on all counts; Joe gave us exactly what we wanted at a moment's notice; Hedy was helpful, organized, friendly; David was informative. Cheryl was flexible and helped us put together the trip we really wanted.

My suggestion to other travelers:
When you get to Tibet, listen to your guide. The guides know about altitude and environment. Let them help you. We did and we were well, safe, and happy the whole time. We had no problems with the altitude and never had any ill effects.

Ask questions discretely and don't put your guides in difficult situations. Go see the farms and farmers if possible. We did in Tibet and in Yichang. We had a wonderful time eating tsampa and drinking chang, tea, and butter tea while visiting with our hosts.

Ask your hotel and guides for local specialty dishes and try them. Walk around and talk to people, even if you can only say a few words. Learn to bargain and have fun with it.

I was scolded by two elderly people (one man, one woman) in Old Town Shanghai for not holding my bag in front of me and keeping it zipped. Listen to them, they are right and just trying to help you. Beware of people who pace you and move as you move. You're going to get ripped off unless you change something you are doing.

• Client's Information: Debra Maye, Seattle, United States
• Tour Starting Dates: April 29, 2007
• Tour Itinerary: 14 Days Shanghai,Chengdu,Tibet,Yangtze Cruise,Beijing Tour
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