Anyone who is planning a trip to China will be glad to know that the Chinese National Tourism Administration is building 13,000 new (western style) toilets and upgrading 10,000 more at tourist sites and restaurants. Their goal is to upgrade 24,000 toilets and build 33,000 by 2017.
In many foreign countries, public toilets are not like the ones we are accustomed to using over here. “Squatty potties” can be quite challenging for American’s to use. For those of you who are planning to travel abroad for the first time, be sure to read my best selling book, “Senior Travel Guide: How to Survive Squatty Potties and More!”
Caves of the Thousand Buddhas- Magao Visitors Center
When visiting China’s Gansu Province, be sure to visit the new Magao Visitors Center. This digital exhibition center which opened in 2014 is located in the Gobi desert. It dates back 1600 years and had around 500 caves with buddhist murals and thousands of sculptures. You’ll find beautiful grottoes, too. There is an IMAX movie that explains the history of the caves to tourists.
Because of the popularity, they limit the daily attendance to 6,000 tourist a day, with tours lasting around 75 minutes.
My experiences as a senior traveling in China:
The history and culture of China will provide many wonderful memories. However, this is no place to go on a budget or unescorted. Do not just buy your travel package online! Make your travel plans with the assistance of an experienced travel consultant who can arrange for you to travel with a well known company that specializes in small group travel (8-15 people). Such companies will be able to help you avoid the crowds, and provide a safe and hassle free trip. I always enjoy traveling with National Geographic. They’re my favorite!
Peace of mind: Priceless
Travel Concierge, Sara Raney, is an Alaska and Antarctica Specialist. Having traveled to over 100 countries herself, Sara has the knowledge and experience to make travel plans and special arrangements for her clients (things you wouldn’t even think of) so that you can relax and enjoy a wonderful, memorable, hassle-free vacation!
Join Sara on one of her escorted cruises to
Alaska, Panama, Canada/New England, and more!
Sara is the author of the Amazon best-seller: “Senior Travel Guide: How to Survive Squatty Potties and More!” (available on Amazon and on major cruise lines).