Where Cultures Shift and Landscapes Rise
We invite you to discover —
one of The New York Times’ “52 Places to Go in 2026,”
and the only destination from China on the list: Yunnan.
Hong Kong · Macau · Yunnan
A Premium Small Group Journey · 20–22 Guests Only
Travel Dates：1 March – 22 March 2026 (20 days)
This journey moves beyond a single destination, tracing a thoughtful transition from the coastal rhythm of Hong Kong and Macau to the highland landscapes of Yunnan. It is designed as a gradual shift — from modern harbour cities shaped by global exchange, to mountain regions where nature, history, and tradition remain closely intertwined.
Rather than focusing on distance or speed, the route is curated to reveal contrast and continuity: urban life and quiet villages, contemporary culture and ancient heritage, refined city comforts and raw natural beauty. Each stop is chosen not for how much it offers, but for how it deepens the story of the journey.
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Professional Tour Leader
Steingrímur Þorbjarnarson
This journey is led by Steingrímur Þorbjarnarson, a highly respected China specialist, cultural interpreter, and senior tour leader with decades of academic and on-the-ground experience.
Steingrímur studied in China from 1985 to 1988, during which time he travelled extensively across the country, gaining first-hand insight into its regions, cultures, and everyday life. Since then, he has led seven study and cultural groups to China, combining deep cultural understanding with practical travel leadership.
He has worked extensively as a guide and interpreter for Chinese-speaking travellers in Iceland, and has served as interpreter and tour guide for numerous official delegations. His experiences travelling throughout China have been widely shared through radio programmes and podcasts, and he is also the author of a Chinese-language travel guidebook on Iceland.
In addition, Steingrímur has:
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Conducted a wide range of lectures and professional training courses
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Translated dozens of television programmes and films between Chinese and Icelandic
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Taught Chinese-speaking tour guides at the Icelandic Tourism School
Academically, he holds:
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A BA in Anthropology from the University of Iceland
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A BSc in Geology from the University of Iceland
He has also worked as a teacher across all educational levels, bringing clarity, structure, and strong storytelling ability into every journey he leads.
With a lifelong passion for Chinese culture, language, literature, and writing, Steingrímur does not simply guide travellers through destinations — he connects places with context, landscapes with history, and travel with understanding.
• Twin Room (per person): 1,485,000 ISK
• Single Room (per person): 1,628,000 ISK
Price includes round-trip domestic flights within China to/from Hong Kong.
International flights between Iceland and China are not included.
Journey Investment
Hong Kong & Macau – Inclusions
• Fully escorted service with a professional tour leader throughout this segment
• English-speaking local guide services
• Private touring vehicle
• Full-day admission to Hong Kong Ocean Park, including meals
• Round-trip Peak Tram ticket
• Ferry transfer from Macau to Hong Kong
• 4 lunches and 4 dinners arranged
• Two-hour ride on the historic “Ding Ding” tram across Hong Kong Island, including catered meal and beverages
• Evening experience: A Symphony of Lights – A Taste of the Harbour, including semi-buffet dinner
Yunnan – Inclusions
• English-speaking guide services throughout the Yunnan segment
• Full-time travel concierge service
• On-the-ground coordination and operations team
• Private transportation for the entire Yunnan journey
• All staff gratuities
• 22 lunches and dinners
• Visits to Dali Ancient Town and Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas
• Visits to Xizhou traditional residences and Shaxi historic trade town
• Visits to Shuhe Ancient Town and Lijiang Old Town
• Jade Dragon Snow Mountain access, including shuttle transportation through Blue Moon Valley
• Visits to Lashihai Lake wetlands and Shuanglang lakeside village
• Visits to Stone Forest, Yiliang Cherry Blossom Valley, terraced fields, and Swallow Cave
• Cultural performance: Dynamic Yunnan
• Visits to Golden Temple Park, Bisezhai, Zhu Family Garden, Shuanglong Bridge, and Mingxing Fish Cave
• Visit to Xishan Forest Park
• All entrance fees to listed attractions
• Scenic buses and electric sightseeing vehicles where required
Exclusions
• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Visa fees
• Personal expenses
• Optional activities not listed under Inclusions
• Any services not expressly stated under “Inclusions”
Day 1 – March 1: The Journey Begins
Departure from Iceland. Overnight flight en route. Arrival at Hong Kong International Airport on the following day.
Day 2 – March 2: Arrival in Hong Kong – Transfer to Macau
Arrive in Hong Kong in the afternoon, meet the guide and transfer to Macau via the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge by bus.
The bridge connects Hong Kong, Zhuhai, and Macau — a massive cross-sea project 55 km long, with a total investment of RMB 126.9 billion. Opened on October 24, 2018, it is the world’s longest sea-crossing bridge, hailed as one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World.”
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are at guests’ own expense.
Accommodation: Broadway Macau Hotel or a hotel of equivalent class (Macau).
Day 3 – March 3: Full-Day Macau Sightseeing
After breakfast, begin a full-day tour of Macau’s historic and cultural landmarks.
Visits include:
Ruins of St. Paul’s and Senado Square – Iconic landmarks of Macau, showcasing distinctive Portuguese colonial architecture and vibrant historic streetscapes.
A-Ma Temple – One of the oldest existing temples in Macau, reflecting the city’s deep maritime and spiritual heritage.
Taipa Houses–Museum – A preserved cultural site known for its elegant Portuguese-style residential buildings.
Mandarin’s House – The former residence of renowned Chinese thinker Zheng Guanying, featuring a unique blend of Chinese and Western architectural styles.
St. Dominic’s Church and Dom Pedro V Theatre – Important historical buildings located within Macau’s UNESCO-listed Historic Centre.
Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch and dinner at local restaurants (typical Cantonese
and Macanese dishes).
Accommodation: Broadway Macau Hotel or a hotel of equivalent class (Macau).
Day 4 – March 4: Macau – Hong Kong
In the morning, visit The Venetian Macao, one of Macau’s most iconic integrated resorts.
After lunch, transfer by ferry back to Hong Kong.
Ferry schedule: 17:00 departure from Taipa Ferry Terminal or Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal, arriving at Hong Kong Sheung Wan.
Upon arrival in Hong Kong, proceed to Avenue of Stars, Tsim Sha Tsui, where guests can view the Bruce Lee Statue, a tribute to the legendary martial artist and cultural icon.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at local restaurants.
Accommodation: The Royal Pacific Hotel & Towers (Hong Kong).
Day 5 – March 5: Hong Kong
After breakfast, depart at 09:30 for a full day of sightseeing.
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Visit Golden Bauhinia Square, located along the Victoria Harbour waterfront, a symbolic landmark of Hong Kong.
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Midday ascent to Victoria Peak via the iconic Peak Tram, offering panoramic views over the city and harbour.
Lunch will be arranged at a local café-style restaurant at the Peak or at another selected restaurant. -
In the afternoon, visit Repulse Bay and Stanley, well known for their seaside scenery and relaxed coastal atmosphere.
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Experience one of Hong Kong’s oldest modes of transportation with a tram ride across Hong Kong Island, offering a unique perspective on the city. In the evening, enjoy a two-hour Hong Kong Island tram experience, accompanied by catered meal service and beverages.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at local restaurants.
Accommodation: The Royal Pacific Hotel & Towers (Hong Kong).
Day 6 – March 6: Hong Kong Ocean Park – Victoria Harbour Night
Cruise
After breakfast, depart at 09:30 for a full day at Hong Kong Ocean Park.
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Full-day visit to Hong Kong Ocean Park, combining marine life exhibits, themed attractions, and scenic views.
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Lunch will be served inside the park.
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Ocean Park admission ticket and premium set lunch included.
At 18:30, depart Ocean Park by local Hong Kong touring coach, accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
In the evening, enjoy a special dining experience during “A Symphony of Lights – A Taste of the Harbour”, featuring a semi-buffet dinner from 19:30 to 21:00, set against Victoria Harbour’s iconic night skyline.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at local restaurants (dinner featuring local specialities).
Accommodation: The Royal Pacific Hotel & Towers (Hong Kong).
Day 7 – March 7: Hong Kong – Kunming
Reference Flight (Charter / Group Airfare): MU9624 | 05 MAR | HKG → KMG | 12:05 – 14:50
After breakfast, depart the hotel at 08:00 and transfer to Hong Kong International Airport by touring coach with guide assistance.
Today, take a flight to Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, often referred to as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its pleasant climate and scenic surroundings.
Arrival in Kunming, meet the local guide and transfer to visit the Golden Temple Scenic Area, a significant cultural and religious landmark. Continue with a walk through Kunming Old Street, offering insight into local daily life and the traditional urban atmosphere of the city.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at own expense.
Overnight: Kunming
Day 8 – March 8｜ Into Yunnan: Kunming to Lijiang
(Official Yunnan Itinerary Begins)
The group assembles in Kunming. After breakfast, transfer to Lijiang by high-speed train or private coach, subject to final transportation arrangements.
Upon arrival, visit Lijiang Old Town, renowned for its well-preserved architecture and waterways. The town is especially atmospheric in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at local restaurants.
Overnight: Lijiang
Day 9 – March 9｜ From Lijiang to Dali
After breakfast, drive to Dali. Visit the Dali Cultural & Literary District (Famous State of Literature).
Enjoy views of Erhai Lake. After lunch, explore Dali Old Town, including the Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas, as well as historical sites such as Wuhua Tower, sections of the ancient city walls, and traditional alleyways.
Stroll along Huguo Road, also known as “Foreigner Street.”
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at local restaurants.
Overnight: Dali
Day 10 – March 10｜ Dali to Xizhou to Shaxi
After breakfast, travel to Xizhou, known for its well-preserved traditional residences and historic architectural complexes.
After lunch, continue by private coach to Shaxi Ancient Town (Shaxi), one of the best-preserved historic market towns along the former Tea Horse Road. Enjoy time to experience the town’s atmosphere and traditional courtyard houses.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at local restaurants.
Overnight: Shaxi Ancient Town
Day 11 – March 11｜ Shaxi Sunrise to Lijiang
Early in the morning, enjoy sunrise in Shaxi. Afterwards, travel across the highland landscape toward Lijiang, with the journey including entry into the UNESCO World Heritage area.
Upon arrival, explore Lijiang Old Town, renowned for its distinctive water system and traditional architecture. Small canals often run alongside residences, framed by trees and stone lanes, giving the town its unique character. The historic urban fabric has been exceptionally well preserved.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at local restaurants.
Overnight: Lijiang
Day 12 – March 12｜ Lijiang Old Town & Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Surroundings
After breakfast, explore the historic streets and traditional residences of Lijiang Old Town.
In the afternoon, drive toward Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, enjoying distant views of the snow-capped peaks. Continue through the mountain foothills and valleys, where meltwater and alpine streams shape a dramatic highland landscape.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at local restaurants.
Overnight: Lijiang
Day 13 – March 13｜ From Lijiang to Shuanglang via Lashi Lake
In the morning, depart Lijiang and travel to the Lashi Lake Wetland Nature Reserve, an ecologically important area known for its diverse vegetation and rich aquatic ecosystems.
After lunch, continue to Shuanglang, located along the shores of Erhai Lake near Dali. Upon arrival, check in and enjoy time exploring the old town, local shops, and Yuji Island. Shuanglang, together with the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake, is renowned for its picturesque scenery and is a favourite vantage point for photography.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at local restaurants.
Overnight: Shuanglang
Day 14 – March 14｜ Around Erhai Lake to Kunming
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive around Erhai Lake, taking in the lakeside landscapes, with seasonal flowers especially abundant in spring.
Afterwards, transfer back to Kunming. Upon arrival, visit the Golden Temple Scenic Area or the surrounding Golden Temple precinct, depending on time and local arrangements.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at local restaurants.
Overnight: Kunming
Day 15 – March 15｜ Kunming to Mile – Stone Forest Landscapes
Depart Kunming by private coach to Mile. Visit Yiling to enjoy seasonal cherry blossoms or local flower fields (springtime viewing).
After lunch, continue to the renowned Stone Forest Scenic Area, a dramatic karst landscape recognised as part of the UNESCO Global Geopark (Shilin). The area is famed for its striking limestone pillars and unique geological formations.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at local restaurants.
Overnight: Mile
Day 16 – March 16｜ From Mile to Yuanyang via Mengzi
Travel by private coach to Mengzi, with a stop at Bisezhai, one of the historic railway stations connected to the development of modern railways in China. The visit offers insight into the region’s railway heritage and its role in early transportation history.
Upon arrival in Mengzi, visit Nanhu Park and Yingzhou Island, an area traditionally regarded as a centre of learning and cultural life, often referred to as the “Sea of Learning.”
After lunch, continue by coach to Yuanyang to witness the Hani Rice Terraces at sunset. Especially striking in winter and spring, the layered terraces form a painterly landscape shaped by centuries of agricultural tradition. The Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces are listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Landscape.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at local restaurants.
Overnight: Yuanyang
Day 17 – March 17｜ From Yuanyang to Jianshui via Duoyishu
After breakfast, travel to the Duoyishu Viewpoint to overlook the Hani Rice Terraces and the surrounding sea of clouds.
In the afternoon, continue to Jianshui. Visit Swallow Cave in the Lujang Valley, renowned for its dramatic stalactites and stone columns. The cave is explored in both upper and lower sections, featuring extensive karst formations.
Continue sightseeing in Jianshui, including an exterior view of Chaoyang Tower, the historic city gate complex originally built in 1389, Jianshui Confucius Temple, and Zhu Family Garden.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at local restaurants.
Overnight: Jianshui
Day 18 – March 18｜ From Jianshui to Kunming via Fuxian Lake
After breakfast, depart Jianshui and travel to Fuxian Lake, located in the Yuxi region. Renowned for its exceptionally clear water and great depth, Fuxian Lake is the third-largest lake in Yunnan and the deepest plateau freshwater lake in China, with a maximum depth of approximately 155 metres.
Visit the Mingxing Fishing Caves, a group of caves located beneath the lakeside cliffs, historically used by local fishermen. The site offers insight into traditional fishing practices, including ancient methods using bamboo tools and enclosure nets passed down through generations.
In the late afternoon, return to Kunming.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch and dinner at local restaurants.
Overnight: Kunming
Day 19 – March 19｜ Kunming → Hong Kong
Reference Flight: MU9657 | 17 MAR | KMG → HKG | 17:55 – 20:15
After breakfast at the hotel, visit Dounan Flower Market, the largest flower trading market in Asia, known for its scale and vibrant local trading atmosphere.
After the visit, transfer to Kunming Changshui International Airport for the return flight to Hong Kong (flight schedule subject to final booking).
Arrive at Hong Kong International Airport at approximately 20:15. Upon arrival, transfer by touring coach with guide assistance to the Hong Kong hotel for check-in.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch, and dinner at own expense.
Accommodation: The Royal Pacific Hotel & Towers (Hong Kong).
Day 20 – March 20｜ Free Day / Optional Excursions
Today is at leisure in Hong Kong.
You may choose to enjoy free time independently or participate in an optional full-day excursion, such as:
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A shopping visit to Shenzhen electronics markets, or
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Independent sightseeing and shopping in Hong Kong.
Meals: Breakfast at hotel; lunch, and dinner at own expense.
Accommodation: The Royal Pacific Hotel & Towers (Hong Kong).
Day 21 – March 21｜ Hong Kong → London Heathrow → Keflavík
Reference Flights:
CX239 | 19 MAR | HKG → LHR | 10:40 – 17:20
FI455 | 19 MAR | LHR → KEF | 20:35 – 23:55
Early morning transfer from the Hong Kong hotel to Hong Kong International Airport by touring coach with guide assistance.
Estimated departure time: 06:00 (subject to final flight schedule).
Today, take international flights via London Heathrow and return to Keflavík, concluding the journey.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at own expense.
Overnight flight.
Day 22 – March 22｜ Journey’s End
Arrival home ICELAND at 23:55, bringing the journey to a warm and memorable close.
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