Below is the trip report from the Jones family currently on a month-long China trip organized by Laurus Travel. Their first trip to China was in July of 2008 when they were part of a Laurus group. This is their second China trip in three years. The current itinerary includes Qufu, Tai'an, Jinan, Xi'an, Dunhuang, Turpan, Kashgar, Lake Karakul, Urumqi, Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-la (zhongdian), and Shanghai where they will take in the World Expo. Scroll down for a map of their itinerary. 

-----Original Message-----
From: Linda Jones [mailto:hycrxxxxx@gmail.com]
Sent: Tuesday, August 17, 2010 12:55 AM
To: <info@laurustravel.com>
Subject: China trip

Hi again Julius,

Taking this opportunity to email you while we are flying to Shanghai. We have learned much more of China's culture and the many facets of both people and land. China is indeed a beautiful and diverse country. We find that having knowledgeable, flexible, patient, courteous English speaking local guides has enhanced our understanding of history, today's rapid economic development and hopes for the future for all Chinese and especially minority groups. Indeed China's development, just in two years from our last trip is clearly amazing. The rise of middle class and Chinese travelers within China has greatly increased. National pride is very evident. As well, there are many challenges such as preserving old homes while considering safety measures. In every area there is new developments or restorations. Caring for the environment is also a major concern as China moves forward. We were pleasantly surprised with the comfortable weather of the southwest. Dali is an especially quaint and beautiful place. Shangri-la - very much Tibetan, was filled with wildflowers as we traveled in the mountains. China is a place that draws us in to continue to learn more and watch it as it grows as a super power. Thank you again for all arrangements. All itinerary was impeccable.... It has been great traveling on our own. We feel like explorers discovering an ever changing world. Thank you for making this happen for us.

Linda, Larry, Tiffany and Carlos

-----Original Message-----
From: Linda Jones [mailto:hycrxxxxx@gmail.com]
Sent: Sunday, August 08, 2010 9:17 PM
To: <info@laurustravel.com>
Subject: China trip

Hi Julius

What a beautiful and interesting vacation. Thank you very much. We especially loved Kashgar and surroundings. Our guide Eckert ( not sure of spelling) was an outstanding guide. His historical knowledge and also courtesy greatly enhanced our time there. Some of us have colds but has not deterred us. We are very excited about being here.

Thank you. Linda
Sent from my iPhone