A Memorable 9-Day Chengdu & Guilin Journey for a 14-Person Philippine Group

In the spring of 2025, I received an inquiry from a group of 15 travelers from the Philippines. Their leader told me they were looking for a journey that would combine cultural immersion with natural beauty - a trip where they could both see giant pandas and capture photos amid Guilin’s dreamlike landscapes.

“We need flexible room arrangements for a large group, and we’d love to include some unique cultural experiences,” the leader wrote in the very first email.

After several rounds of discussion, I learned that they were especially interested in Sichuan cuisine, Guilin’s mountain-and-river scenery, and traditional Chinese crafts. I designed a 9-day Chengdu + Guilin itinerary, and prepared a personal surprise: 15 hand-embroidered Shu brocade fans, each stitched with pandas and bamboo, symbolizing unity and good fortune.

Chengdu: Culture and Warmth at the Start

On their first day in Chengdu, our guide and I prepared a small welcome ceremony at the hotel lobby. When each guest received their delicate Shu embroidery fan, their faces lit up with delight. The leader exclaimed: “Betty, you’ve already made this trip unforgettable from the very beginning.”

At the Chengdu Panda Base, the group eagerly watched the pandas in the morning when they were most active. Young members posed with their fans in front of panda sculptures, laughing and snapping photos.

Later, in Jinli Ancient Street, I arranged a private tea-tasting session with traditional guzheng music. Sitting together, sipping fragrant tea, they all sighed with contentment: “This is even more relaxed than we imagined Chengdu would be.”

Dujiangyan & Mount Qingcheng: A Harmony of Culture and Nature

On the third day, the group visited Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Mount Qingcheng, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Since some members were older, I designed a gentler walking route and provided hiking sticks. Our guide slowed the pace, explaining Daoist legends along the way, while the group enjoyed both the history and the scenery.

For lunch, I had coordinated in advance with a local restaurant to prepare a Sichuan set menu adapted to Southeast Asian tastes — authentic but with moderated spice levels. Everyone gave a thumbs-up and said, “Perfect balance!”

Guilin & Yangshuo: Living Inside a Painting

The excitement reached a peak when they arrived in Guilin. The next morning, they boarded a Li River cruise, seated by the windows I had reserved specially for them. As karst peaks glided past like an endless ink painting, I distributed bilingual guides explaining each scenic spot.

When the boat reached Huangbu Reflection, tour guide reminded them to look out — it’s the very scene printed on China’s 20-yuan banknote. Immediately, everyone pulled out bills to compare, exclaiming:“Exactly the same!” Laughter filled the boat.

In Yangshuo, I arranged a combination of countryside biking and electric carts. The younger travelers pedaled through rice paddies and stone bridges, while the older ones enjoyed the ride from electric buggies. At a farmhouse rest stop, we served chilled osmanthus plum tea and local fruits. One guest whispered:“This is the China we always imagined.”

They also enjoyed a bamboo raft ride on the Yulong River, choosing a calm and safe section. Younger guests splashed each other playfully, while the older ones quietly soaked in the serenity of mountains mirrored on the water.

A Night in West Street: Culture and Surprise

As night fell, West Street in Yangshuo sparkled with lights. I had reserved a riverside restaurant in advance and secretly worked with the leader to arrange a birthday surprise for one member. When the cake arrived, the entire group sang in unison, raising their embroidered fans for a group photo.

After dinner, I took them to watch the spectacular “Impression Liu Sanjie” outdoor show. Against the backdrop of the Li River and karst peaks, performers sang and danced with lights shimmering on the water.

Thoughtful Care Throughout

Behind every smooth day was constant care and attention. For example:

One guest had mild motion sickness — I prepared ginger tea and patches in the coach.

To ensure comfort during transfers, I upgraded the bus for extra luggage space and legroom.

At hotels, I coordinated with the front desk to arrange connecting rooms, making it easier for families to look after elderly members.

A Perfect Farewell

The nine days passed quickly. On their last morning in Guilin, the group boarded a high-speed train to Hong Kong. As we said goodbye, the leader handed me a letter:

“Betty, you gave us more than just China’s mountains and culture — you gave us the warmth of home. Those 15 Shu embroidery fans will forever be our most precious souvenir. We will definitely recommend Asia Odyssey Travel to our friends back home.”

My Reflection

As a travel consultant, I believe true service is not defined by luxury or price, but by the details of care and thoughtfulness.

For this 15-person group, Chengdu and Guilin became more than destinations — they became a stage for friendship, joy, and lifelong memories. And for me, knowing I helped weave those moments with professionalism and heart is my proudest achievement.