From China, With Love
I have arrived in China, and I am instantly reminded why I love coming here.
The majority of people who I've spoken with who have had the best experience in China have gone as part of gay group tour. I think there are destinations where it doesn't matter as much if you go as part of a group or if you go on your own, and there are destinations where (especially if you are gay) going as part of a gay group really makes a difference.
Also, this is simply a destination where heavily-vetted guides and accommodations truly make a difference, and where there are so many things to see and do, that it is great to have a seasoned expert lead you, who can show you the best that there is to see and do in a short period of time.
While there is also a decent sized gay community in Beijing and in Shanghai, it is certainly not what we would experience elsewhere in the world. This is another reason why going as part of a gay group makes this whole experience so much more fun. You truly kind of have an instant gay bar every time the group is together. The camaraderie that inevitably develops is engaging, lively, healthy, supportive, and so much fun.
China has much to offer, especially if going on a luxury group trip. For instance, the hotels on our trip are so state-of-the-art, well-appointed, and beautiful. We have also curated the restaurants throughout our trip, and our guests are consistently amazed and delighted at the quality of the cuisine. Then, there is just so much to do. The Great Wall of China is spectacular, and the Terra-cotta Warriors certainly never disappoint. Beijing is fascinating, and Shanghai is so vibrant that sometimes people wish they had extended their stay there a few more nights. Our time spent on the Li River is provincial, organic, and lovely; everything you want rural China to be.
Definitely come to China, and even if you don't come with Zoom Vacations, find a reputable group with whom you're comfortable, and make the trip. You won’t be disappointed.