*A Note on China's Climate: China, a large northern country with a range in latitude slightly larger than the USA, has an extremely diverse climate. A subtropical climate rules in the south while a subarctic climate prevails in the north. However, this tour will journey to locations in eastern China during mid-summer with a latitude range from about 25°N (similar to Miami) to 40°N (similar to New York City).

Therefore, like the eastern USA, China weather in summer can be very hot and humid so guests should take precautions to avoid dehydration and heat stroke. Daytime high temperatures are typically 88–95ºF (30–35ºC) with humidity 60–70%. Typical lows are in the low 70s F (20s C). This weather is not unlike what the northeast and midwestern sections of the USA may experience in summer during a "heat wave" and similar to the Southeast, especially Florida, during summer months. (Floridians have learned to adapt!) Finally, air pollution can be severe in some locations, especially in larger metropolitan China areas, and can cause respiratory and eye discomfort.

Note: The 2009 solar eclipse occurs July 22 so our trip itinerary is obviously constrained by this special event!