Daily Mail

See pandas then join ultimate resort ship!

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CHINA’S famed pandas are among the world’s rarest animals, but these cuddly creatures can be seen thriving in surroundin­gs that mirror their natural habitat at the Panda Conservati­on Centre in Chengdu.

They are a joy to behold as they chew bamboo, loll in trees and toddle around the nursery — and the star turn of an amazing itinerary from experts Cruise1st.co.uk.

This amazing adventure combines a seven-day tour of China’s ancient culture with the excitement, luxury and indulgence of a Far East cruise on the magnificen­t Quantum of the Seas, the ultimate resort ship.

Meet the pandas at the first stop on this exclusive holiday after flying into Chengdu.

Then, under the wing of partner and renowned specialist Wendy Wu Tours, you’ll take a bullet train to historic Xi’an for a two-night stay to see the undergroun­d army of 8,000 terracotta warriors and hundreds of horses created to stand guard near the emperor’s tomb, having been interred some 2,000 years ago.

Walk Xi’an’s 14th-century city walls and enjoy the Tang Dynasty Show.

Beijing’s many wonders await, and during a three-night exploratio­n of the city’s finest sights you’ll see the Forbidden City, ride a trishaw through the ancient hutong alleys and eat the Qing emperors’ favourite dish — Peking duck. Stroll on the Great Wall of China and visit the Ming tombs on your last full day of this fantastic land tour.

Then it’s time to transfer to Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas to begin your 12-night cruise, calling at Fukuoka in Japan, Taipei in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Singapore.

Step aboard this amazing ship and embrace the next generation of technology at sea.

With nine onboard bars, countless great restaurant­s and entertainm­ent venues, surf simulators, spas and pools — and even interior cabins that boast a ‘virtual balcony’ view — this is a cruise ship that you’ll never forget! At charming Fukuoka, visit the castle and the city’s excellent museums and art galleries. Or enjoy the scenic coastal views, shrines and great shopping and dining.

In Taipei, browse the street food stalls near the water at Miaokou night market and view a choice of forts that offer beautiful harbour views.

Fabulous Hong Kong is full of delights. Visit Victoria Peak, Temple Street night market, the Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery and so much more.

Cruise onwards to beautiful central Vietnam to visit the incredible temples, pagodas and palaces of imperial Hue. Or head south to Da Nang to admire magnificen­t sandy beaches fringing turquoise waters or walk to Buddhist temples, before exploring Ho Chi Minh City, a dynamic and fascinatin­g metropolis of ageless beauty.

Then arrive in Singapore and either finish your fantastic holiday by flying back overnight to the UK, or tailor your trip with an extra couple of nights to explore this cultural melting pot and shopping hotspot.

With five-star hotel stays from £69pp, you can always find the perfect excuse to delay that homeward flight a little longer!

 ??  ?? Bucket list: See the pandas and Great Wall, then cruise on the incredible Quantum of the Seas (top)
Bucket list: See the pandas and Great Wall, then cruise on the incredible Quantum of the Seas (top)
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