China tour reviews by real customers from Canada, USA, Australia, the UK and elsewhere. Please go to Google and TripAdvisor for most recent reviews on our China tours.
- “We had a wonderful trip and were very impressed with all the Laurus travel arrangements and guides” – Google reviews
- “…exceeding my expectations in every way” – TripAdvisor
- “We could not believe the extraordinary value of this tour…” – Vancouver Sun
What Travel Can and Should Be!!!
May 2025 • Family
I cannot say enough about Laurus Travel!!! Our trip to China was magical!!! Our guides were PHENOMENAL and I can’t fathom our trip without them. I think they really showed us some of the most important things about China that you can’t find in any guide book. We got to experience the Chinese love of beauty, balance, harmony, and longevity.
This is only the first of our trips to China and our experiences with Laurus. We will ONLY book our trips to Asia with you in the future. We are quite well traveled, but the trip you arranged was blue ribbon …top notch…excellence in travel like we have never seen before. You have our profound gratitude!!!
I came to China knowing only what I had seen on tv. I leave China after witnessing its beating heart. We saw it in every person we interacted with from the older people that had never seen a May-gwo-ren with blue eyes, to the children that always wanted to practice their english with us.
We leave China as changed people. Not only were we changed, but I feel like China got to experience our family as well. This trip was TRUE diplomacy. I always tell my kids that “we can’t change the world, we can only change our piece of the garden.” My friend, the garden is much more beautiful today than it was 10 days ago.
Thank you Laurus!!
See original post on TripAdvisor
From: gh***@telus.net
Sent: April 30, 2025 4:33 PM
To: Laurus Travel
Subject: 16 -Day China Discovery. Apr 03 – Apr 18, 2025
We had a fascinating 16-day China Discovery tour with Laurus Travel. Laurus did a marvellous job in coordinating all of the intricate details: accommodations, train tickets, attractions, transportation, various checkpoints, food choices etc. The guides were knowledgable, experienced and personable. The itinerary was well-designed and the transition of tour guides and train-rides from city to city was orchestrated smoothly. When we emailed them of a possible delay in the disembarkation time of our Yangtze Cruise, Heidi responded immediately and Julius also did a follow-up email the next morning. It was reassuring to know that Laurus Travel was cognizant of our concerns and was able to address them with no delays. We strongly recommend Laurus Travel as the best route to navigating China. Trying to organize a trip on your own is otherwise simply too daunting. From the first moment that we were picked up at the Beijing Airport to the day when
our guide personally chaperoned us to the Shanghai Airport for our departure back to North America, we always felt secured knowing that we were always taken care of.
This is our first tour with Laurus Travel and we will not hesitate to plan another tour with them in the future. It was a memorable experience.
Geoffrey & Juvena H
Vancouver, BC
From: mtxxxxx83@hotmail.com
Sent: December 2, 2024 10:05 PM
“We had a wonderful and memorable China trip with Laurus Travel. Laurus Travel was able to customize the trip according to our needs, and made timely adjustments to our trip according our requests. The service, the food and the stays were all exceptional. We will definitely travel with Laurus again! ”
Mark & Michelle T
Vancouver, BC
From: Ivi <ixxxxxxx@gmail.com>
Sent: November 2, 2024 3:04 PM
Hello Laurus Travel:
We really enjoyed our trip China Odyssey in 19 days departing Oct 11.
It was very organized and we always felt taken care of. We loved that we took a plane to Shanghai on the afternoon in Guilin and we got an extra day in Shanghai.
All the guides were very good but the ones that come to mind are : Jacob, the best guide we ever had in all our many years of travel, he was caring, sweet and knowledgeable, everyone loved him. David in Guilin reads “The Economy “ magazine and was smart and very informative.
Paul in Xi’an, his views were only one sided with how great the government is, so he was not the most liked.
I got WeChat app with wexin pay in the US and it said it was ready to use but when I tried to use it like 3 times it said “this is not available for this region” in Shanghai we tried again at a movie theater and it went through after 2 tries. Other people had better luck with Alipay. Thank God my husband got some Chinese currency before leaving home.
The hotels were very good but none but the Shanghai hotel paid attention to the “do not disturb sign” and they entered anyways to clean the room.
The restaurants and food selected were excellent and delicious.
All tours were great, a few of us that wanted to take the optional tour to the dam’s lift were disappointed because the guide said there was not enough time to take it.
I know this takes a lot of work to coordinate this trip with many people from different tours coming and leaving so we really appreciate your efforts and it was done with excellence.
I wish I would have known about your company before we went to other Asian countries we would have taken all the ones you offer. But we will tell many people to go with you if they are going to Asia.
Many blessings and thank you!
Ivi S and Ray B
Willis, TX
From: ixxxxxr@q.com <ixxxxx@q.com>
Sent: November 2, 2024 3:26 PM
To: Laurus Travel
Subject: China Tour
Laurus Travel is a surprising find among other tour agencies. Our tour with them was positively wonderful. Five stars all the way. We plan to use them again.
The tour guide (Steven) in Shanghai, (Jacob) in Beijing, (Paul) in Xian, and (David) in Guilin were outstanding. We have traveled extensively around the world over the past several years and these four were the most outstanding tour guides we have encountered anywhere we have gone.
Alton & Clara I,
New Mexico
Sent: October 17, 2024 7:51 PM
From the moment we met Jacob, we knew that we were in excellent hands. Every one of our local guides exceeded our expectations. Their ability to communicate with us was flawless. We learned more about the specific city/area that we were in than we expected. Each one of the guides demonstrated their experience in being through their in depth explanations about culture, the people in the area, the history. When I asked them a question about the subject, they quickly answered and usually extended the conversation with additional information. Every evening, we were asked if meeting in the AM would work with us, very courteous and kind. Every morning we were greeted with a smiling guide and “Good Morning”.
When we had to cancel our trip in 2020, we were very depressed. I have been wanting to go to China for about 30+ years. So, when this trip came up, we jumped on it. Seeing the Great Wall of China was bucket list item for me. The weather was perfect, kind of misty, clouds hanging low. It was perfect for picture taking. The Terracotta warriors and the explanations that Paul afforded us were incredible. Explaining to us why they archeologists are not uncovering more of the warriors was very understandable and appreciated. Tibet was my personal bucket list place. Walking up Potala palace was the highlight for me. The drive to Shigatsi was beautiful. Being given the ability to stop and take pictures with explanations of what we were seeing, was appreciated. The highlight for my husband was the Li River cruise. He had been quietly doing research on the Li River, and was very impressed with the cruise and of course the scenery. Our stop at the Tea Plantation was a bonus. We learned more about tea, how to pick it and the importance of tea in the Chinese culture.
Len & Beckie M
Nordland, Washington
Date: September 14, 2024 at 1:08:05 PM PDT
I did a lot of research before choosing Laurus Travel for my first trip to China in 2024, the 19-day China Odyssey. They exceeded expectations in every way. They answered questions before we left promptly and thoroughly, and helped with Visa, insurance, and flight arrangements. Hotels lived up to their 5-star ratings and were located in great spots for exploring on your own. Meals were delicious and often our group of 8 had a private dining room. The itinerary was top notch and the local guides were knowledgeable and personable. At the end of each day, I thought to myself, how can the rest of the tour compete with that?! And yet, every day was filled with more incredible sights and experiences. I would recommend Laurus to anyone considering a trip to China.
Michelle P
Columbia, Missouri
Google review posted in July 2024 by Mr. & Mrs. Echternach:
“Our family of five adults just returned from the 12 day China Delight Tour to Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, and Shanghai. This is the first touring vacation we’ve done, and I would highly recommend it. One perk was that we were the only ones for half of our tour, a single traveler joined us for the first half then we had a private tour the rest of the way.
Each city tour guide was fantastic and personable. They shared their city’s history in interesting ways, taught us Chinese phrases, and made sure we were well taken care of at each delicious restaurant (there was always plenty of variety of dishes). The sites were iconic, and just as described in the Laurus literature. We actually asked to do some shopping and received good recommendations on where to go and how to bargain.
The hotels were all high quality with amenities like fitness rooms and pools, and massive breakfast buffets with eastern and western choices. One little quirk is that none of the beds came with a top sheet, just a comforter. So, if you prefer a thin top sheet for sleeping, bring your own. Also, it is hot in China in June, temps were in the 90s and humid each day. But, this is the timing that worked best for our group so we dressed lightly and made the best of the weather.
Travel by bullet train and plane between cities went smoothly, our guides helped us get to the correct gates and lines. They’ve been leading groups for years and know how to make things go smoothly for guests. We can’t say enough great things about our trip and Laurus Travel.”
Read original post on Google
From: fairycxxxx@aol.com
Sent: Sunday, May 19, 2024 5:33AM
To: Laurus Travel
Subject: Trip to China
It has been a lifelong dream of ours to visit the Great Wall of China, and Jacob did a great job vividly explaining it’s history and construction.
The terracotta army in Xi’an is a great archaeological find and Paul made sure we got to see all of it. He is a teacher who loves his work.
Steven also showed great enthusiasm and practical knowledge. Indeed, all of our guides were wizards at finding clever and practiced ways of expediting our fascinating journeys.
The hotels in which we stayed were first-rate. The one we had in Xi’an was perhaps the nicest hotel I have ever visited, and I have stayed in a lot of hotels. Our guides took us to many wonderful restaurants and there was always an abundance of food, fun and culture.
This was an amazing trip! Thank you for providing a wonderful experience for us. We will certainly be using Laurus Travel for our future adventures, and we will recommend your company without qualification.
Thank you again for a wonderful vacation,
Leslie F & Raymond S
Platte City, Missouri
From: Paul D [mailto:pdcxxxxx@sympatico.ca]
Sent: November 3, 2019 2:35 PM
To: Laurus Travel
Subject: Re: China Tour Review
Hi Heather & Laurus Team:
AWESOME is how I would describe my 14 day Essential China Tour. Tour content, accommodations, meals, & domestic travel all met high standards.
Heather, you run a first class organization. Your representatives – Jacob, Elaine, Paul, David, Alex – were very professional, well informed, congenial & engaged, providing extraordinary service & engagement throughout the trip. Also, internal support staff – Yuki, Adrianne – were very helpful.
Despite this being my first experience with Laurus, I can comfortably recommend you to friends & colleagues & would confidently consider Laurus first in my future travels.
A sincere thank you,
Paul D
Oakville, Ontario
From: Jack M [mailto:sfsxxxx@aol.com]
Sent: October 12, 2019 5:55 PM
To: info@laurustravel.com
Subject: Jack and Carol Tour Review
We recently returned from a fabulous 21-day tour of China led by Jacob from Laurus Travel. This tour more than met our expectations and that all began with our initial phone calls to Laurus. Heather, Yuki, and Heidi answered all of our questions and helped us customize our trip. Their input was invaluable.
Jacob was so informative! He shared his personal stories about life in China, he made us feel welcomed and safe, he made us laugh, and he took very good care of us. We hated to say good-bye to him.
We loved the small travel group, the additional local guides, no “forced” shopping, and the optional evening activities that highlighted the cultural aspects of each province. The hotels were luxurious, the morning breakfast buffets were delicious,, and the high-speed trains were the perfect way to travel between cities. We avoided the long lines at each venue which allowed us to fully enjoy our visits to the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Rice Fields, the Tea Farm, the Panda Preserve, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing and Guilin. In addition, we enjoyed cruises down the Yangtze and Li Rivers.
We had never heard of Laurus Travel before last year, but we haven’t stopped bragging about them since our return!
Thank you for providing us with such a memorable experience!
Jack and Carol M
N. Venice, Florida
From: Nicholi J [mailto:spexxxxx@comcast.net]
Sent: October 8, 2019 3:56 PM
To: info@laurustravel.com
Subject: Review of China/Tibet Trip
Hi Heather and all of Laurus Travel,
My husband and I cannot say enough good things about Laurus Travel. This was the first time that we had used your company and you more than exceeded our expectations, from the initial booking (thank you Heather), to the completion of the trip. Our 26 day tour of China and Tibet was without a doubt an incredible adventure thanks to all of the tour guides who were very knowledgeable, personable, and professional. The trip ran smoothly from start to finish which is not an easy thing to accomplish. A special heartfelt thanks goes to Jacob and Bella. We couldn’t have done it without you. We are glad to have met you and glad that you stuck with us like “sticky rice”! The itinerary was exceptional, the accommodations were 5 star, and the massive amount of food was delicious. Your company’s attention to detail was outstanding and we hope to use you again in the future.
Sincerely,
Nicki and Ed J
Houston, Texas
From: Trey M [mailto:treyxxxxx@gmail.com]
Sent: October 6, 2019 10:28 AM
As a travel agent and tour group leader, I can wholehearted say that a Laurus trip will exceed your expectations! Their tour itineraries [25-day China by Bullet Train] and their local guides are excellent, and you will have memories of a lifetime.
Trey M & James G
Austin, Texas
From: Michael M MXXXXX@yahoo.com
Date: Thu, Oct 3, 2019 at 5:29 AM
Laurus is without a doubt the premier tour group conducting superior educational and cultural visits to the Middle Kingdom. The tour groups are deliberately small and hands on and employ local group leaders immersed in their respective specialties and regions. Laurus’ group tours are fairly inclusive with absolutely no surprises. In my experience they are simply the best option for anyone wishing to see China as it is and will be.
Michael M
Antrim, New Hampshire
From: S M [mailto:smxxxxx@gmail.com]
Sent: September 29, 2019 3:50 AM
Hi Heather and Yuki,
First of all, I can’t express how much we have enjoyed this trip [26-day Imperial China and Tibet] to China. It has been everything we expected plus much, much, much more!
Jacob, Paul, Helen, Bella, Joy, David and Steven have been the best tour guides we have ever had. And, it was our sincere pleasure and honor to meet Julius in Beijing.
Again, thanks to everyone at Laurus Travel for an unforgettable experience. The Chinese people are wonderfully friendly. The other night on the boat in Shanghai, a six year old girl had asked her mother to bring her to me so she could practice her English. She was adorable and we conversed back and forth a bit. It is an encounter I will treasure forever!
Julie M
Green Valley, Arizona
From: Craig R raxxxxxxxxxx@yahoo.com
Date: Thu, Sep 26, 2019 at 5:47 AM
Laurus travel is by far one of the best tour operators I’ve had the pleasure of working with. Their knowledge of the Asian continent is astounding complemented by their tour guides and operators. Their planning and organizational structure is near perfection.
Craig R
Toronto, Ontario
From: Christine C [mailto:yxxxxxbest@gmail.com]
Sent: September 24, 2019 4:56 PM
This tour [16-day China Discovery] covered all the well known sites and unexpected treasures also. The food varied from old favorites to local specialties, which made for memorable meals through out the whole trip. Professional and knowledge guides were always on hand so the trip was worry free. Small tour group size made you feel like you were traveling with friends. Exceeded my expectations.
Christine C
Lacombe, Alberta
From: ssxxxxxx@icloud.com
Sent: Sun 2019-07-28 8:00 PM
Hi Julius and others,
Just back and the trip [18-day Treasures of China] was really excellent in all facets.
The guides were professional, engaging and doting. (They were all terrific but Jacob and David were world class). The food was amazing and plentiful. I was very happy to go first class flights with the good pricing that you sourced. Everything seemed to go like clockwork which is really complimentary in a crowded, bustling country such as China. You guys did a great job. If you have particular web sites in which you would like me to review the trip let me know. I’m not a Facebook user much but I regularly review in Trip Advisor and occasionally Google but if there are others of value to you let me know.
Steve S
Mercer Island, Washington
From: SpXXXXX@yahoo.com
Sent: Fri, Jue 21, 2019 at 10:42AM
Liked entire trip! Guides superior. Accommodations superior. Well-planned. Excellent company. Reliable and delivered everything promised.
Susan D
Redington Shores, Florida
From: MargaretXXXXX@gmail.com
Sent: Wed 2019-06-12 4:35pm
I found Laurus online and chose it because it fit our time frame and they promised to go regardless of numbers (7) in the group. They surpassed all our hopes. The guides are excellent, the program fantastic, the hotels perfect, the food exceptional. Laurus really knows China and knows how to show it to tourists. Thank you, Laurus for a fabulous trip.
Margaret J. M
Cincinnati, Ohio
From: Martha D [mailto:marthxxxxx@pacbell.net]
Sent: June 11, 2019 7:27 AM
We are now home and over the jet lag and wanted to let you all know how we felt about our trip. Please feel free to add our comments to your testimonials section of the website.
Our 25 day Bullet Train tour was a wonderful and educational experience. The itinerary was very well thought out and gave us the opportunity to see and experience a great deal of China. The hotels were all very good, the included meals were wonderful and gave us a culinary view of the various regions but the guides are what make the trip unique. Our tour leader, Howard, gave us background information and personal insights into China and he chose great city guides who also shared their knowledge and stories. Having a variety of city guides really gives you a better understanding of each area’s culture and history. We especially liked Steven in Shanghai, Tony in Beijing and David in Guilin. All the guides were good, but those three stood out for us. We can’t say enough about Howard and his expertise. He coordinated things so that we were always on schedule, knew what to expect and what things to take note of. Howard goes beyond his duties, taking care to get to know everyone and making sure that we all had the best experience possible. He became a valued friend to us during our time in China and added to our overall experience.
Sincerely,
Martha and Al D
Rancho Santa Margarita, California
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