Hi all,

As long as it seems until I go home, I also realize that with my work commitments I only have a couple more chances to take a weekend away from Suzhou (though I still have a lot to see here!).

I am looking for suggestions for 1-3 nights away (Thursday or Friday-Sunday). I'd prefer to go by train just to avoid the hassles of air travel and getting to airports (I know - it is FT, but not a lot of points to be earned here!), though might consider it.

I have some 'free' hotel options including 2 free Omni nights which I can for a limited time use at Kempinski in some Chinese locations (a break from my apartment even in Suzhou might be nice since I won't have a chance to use them when I get back and there are a few Kempinskis on Taihu), 1 Marriott Cat-5 plus some points, 20k+ SPG points and for just the right Hilton I'd pay cash with my soon-to-be-gone Diamond benefits .

Hangzhou is often listed alongside Suzhou as being beautiful to visit, so that is definitely an option and a nice direct HSR trip. Where would be the best place to stay to see sights?

I am not sure about Shanghai though I keep hearing that I should go. GREAT hotel options right on the Bund (and off) but I'm not really sure what I would see. Maybe the luxury of the Kempinski or Conrad would be worth a getaway even if I didn't get out much . I have no interest in clubs or shopping or office buildings (though there are some pretty cool ones!). I will also spend my last night on this China trip in December and then don't leave PVG until 8pm so I have a day to explore.

One option that I have considered is Xi'an. When I talk to people at home they ask what I have seen - the Great Wall? The Terracotta Warriors? But I have asked a couple of colleagues and they say that it is more famous among foreigners and the city isn't what it used to be. I could fly from SHA and have a few nights there but it is it really the best use of limited time?

Somewhere with a 'Beijing Hikers' type option for a day trip would be great.

If there is a FT 'Do' somewhere then maybe that would be the best option!

Sorry for rambling. I spent a while after work today looking through my guidebooks and there are SO many places that I want to see and won't get the chance!!

Dr. PITUK