I don't know that I would waste so much time shopping if I was traveling all the way to China even for that price. I went on a 9 day approx. tour of Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai with airfare, internal transportation (train, air) for about $1200 with almost all meals included and admission to the sites. 4-5 star hotels and we did not get fined for leaving the tour! There was shopping time, too, but not so much that I got aggravated by it. Shopping is part of every bus tour I have been on. That trip is probably $200 more now but still a fantastic bargain.
So, with airfare as expensive as it is, and all the other mandatory costs (English speaking guide if necessary, tips), a regular tour comes close without the hassles.
Just my 2 cents.
Last edited by jennj99738; Mar 9, 2012 at 9:15 pm
Reason: spelling mistakes