China Highlights (CH) arranged a private tour of the Silk Road for us in September 2025. The tour duration was 17 days, and we extended the tour by going to China a few days earlier and leaving a few days later. Overall, the private tour experience was positive. We stayed at a few excellent hotels, and a couple of noticeably bad ones. We requested some free days for self-exploring, and some of the places we visited on our own were better than the ones arranged by CH. We requested non-smoking cars, and one of the cars that picked us up at the railroad station was literally full of disgusting cigarette smell, which we complained immediately to CH and had the problem corrected. In all, we had an excellent time despite some of the unpleasant experiences. We wished we had another two weeks to experience more of the Silk Road. We do want to specifically mention a tour guide we met. All the tour guides were sufficiently professional and knowledgeable. However, a tour guide named Nur was the only one who gave us outstanding service throughout his portion of responsibility. He came into the train station and waited at the rail car door to greet us and help with our luggage. None others did that. He got with the locals during the tour and gave us special treatments such as picking fresh grapes from the grapevine! He even had his wife help us buy some groceries. He was the only tour guide who provided the concierge-level service we were expecting from a private tour. Thus to grade this private tour experience, we would give Nur a five-star and China Highlights a 4.5 star.
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Since 1998, China Highlights has been a trusted expert in crafting private, tailor-made journeys across China. We go beyond sightseeing — helping travelers connect more deeply with China's nature, culture, and people. Our belief, “Highlights happen when we get closer,” reflects our commitment to creating meaningful, authentic experiences. From Beijing's Great Wall to the rivers of Guilin and the heritage of Xi'an, our dedicated travel designers and local hosts ensure every trip is personalized, stress-free, and inspiring. China Highlights is part of Highlights Travel, offering private journeys across Asia, including Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and India. Here's to more moments that bring us closer. See more
