So mrs m3red and I are planning a trip to China and would like some inputs from the experts on here please.

5 nights 4 days tour in Beijing - thinking of using these guys: http://catherinelutours.com/itinerar...-4-day-tour-2/

Fly to xian - 2 days - is two days enough? Is a guide needed?

Fly to chengdu 2 days for the panda sanctuary

Fly to Shanghai for 3 nights

I'm slightly worried about flight delays given some of the other threads - anyone out my mind at ease? The dates are 11-24 sept... Is ctrip the best place to book first/business class seats and how far out do you need to book?

Thanks for any help/guidance

M3red