China tourism is rooted strongly in the belief that travelers should be taken to tourist factory shops where they will drop lots of cash on overpriced goods, providing commissions to guides and travel agents. The China Guide (http://www.TheChinaGuide.com), a trend-focused travel company, is working to re-design China tourism for a more travel-friendly experience without hidden costs or unplanned excursions. Mainland travelers are looking for companies who will provide tours and transportation to China destinations without these common hassles and The China Guide is providing the right solution with its strict ‘No Shopping Policy’.

Often not listed on itineraries, factory shopping stops are unexpected detours which take time away from the actual sights and cause tours to have a rushed feeling. If tour providers offer an especially low price, they will undoubtedly have shopping stops to make up for the costs. Tour companies lure clients with low prices and then expect them to spend hundreds of dollars in tourist shops making up the difference with commission earnings for the guide and company.

Peter Danford, Managing Director of The China Guide explains, “With our No Shopping Tour policy, our guides are paid a fair wage, and we charge our guests accordingly. We don’t need our guests to buy souvenirs in factories that are ripping them off. It is our goal to provide western-style service with no hidden agenda or cost, showing our guests the true sights, culture and heritage of China. “

Along with their ‘No Shopping Policy’, The China Guide is also offering flexible customized itineraries to create a better experience for China travel-goers. Clients can work with their international team to create a custom itinerary that matches individual interests and budgets, with flexibility to make changes before and during tours.
The China Guide will still take guests shopping if they wish, but to non-commission local markets where purchases are a fraction of the price. An English-speaking guide will help travelers find and bargain for desired items at a fair price. See here for a Beijing Shopping Tour: http://www.chinatourbuilder.com/tour/itinerary_out.php?id=407