Originally Posted by
jiejie
Yes, Xi'an airport is quite far from the central city, even by Chinese standards. Even with a lead foot driver and little traffic at midnight, it takes a full hour.
Economy plane ticket:
--Full price with tax, RMB 1230. (USD195)
--Typical discounted price with tax, RMB 600-900. (USD 95-140). Sometimes you can do a bit better, depends on exact travel date. Assumes purchase about 4-6 weeks ahead of travel on ctrip, elong, travelzen.
And I want to amend my post #25 above. Arrival on Bullet trains from Xi'an will be at Beijing West Station, not Beijing South.
G Bullet Train ticket:
--First class, RMB 825 (USD 135).
--Second class, RMB 515 (USD 85).
I found some photos online of the Xi'an North train station and the G-class carriages. Looks really nice. I am now warming up to taking the train
Do you think first class is worth the $50 difference? In Europe I always travel first class on AVE/ICE/TGV because I like the quietness and service compared to the overcrowded and noisy 2nd class.
Edit to add: There also seem to be "business class" seats on G-trains.