Travel Curriculum – WildChina

Overview | Structure | Certificate & Awards | FAQs

Overview

In the tapestry of human experience, few threads are as rich and vibrant as the story of China. A land where ancient wisdom meets modern dynamism, where bustling metropolises rise alongside serene landscapes, China beckons with a symphony of sights, sounds, and emotions. However, navigating its vastness can be daunting, as the plethora of choices leaves travelers wondering where to begin their exploration.

WildChina’s travel curriculum is a roadmap to your China journey. It offers travelers a panorama of China, not merely a guide on how to tour the country, but rather a catalyst for personal growth and a bridge to fostering meaningful connections with the land and its people. With our program as a compass, we invite you to navigate China’s vastness with confidence, discovering hidden gems, connecting with local communities, and gaining profound insights into this incredible country we call home.

Prepare to be captivated, to be challenged, to be transformed.

Structure

WildChina’s travel curriculum moves beyond conventional tours, it offers a tiered cultural immersion program for all levels of China experience, from first-timers to seasoned visitors, to deepen the engagement with this rich land.

101 journeys serve as an introduction to China. They are ideal for first-time visitors or those seeking to learn the basics of China, from the most iconic historical landmarks to the country’s beloved national treasure, the giant panda.
201 journeys venture beyond the familiar, delving deeper into China’s diverse cultures, histories and landscapes. A specialization module of 201 features a collection of China’s ancient trade routes.

301 is for the aspiring China hands, the traveling Sinophiles, those who seek to uncover a lesser-known China. A specialization module of 301 features expert-led affinity groups, focusing on a specific study of China, from cuisine to archaeology.

While progressing through the curriculum, travelers reach milestones – marks of distinction recognizing your adventurous spirit – which acknowledge growing China travel. These milestones unlock certificates and exclusive rewards.

101: An Introduction to China, Past and Present

Ideal for discerning first-time visitors or those seeking a curated experience of China’s iconic historical landmarks alongside modern marvels. From the Forbidden City in Beijing to the vibrant cityscape of Hong Kong, each step offers an enriching experience of China’s millennia-old civilization, seamlessly blending history with the vibrancy of modernity.

Chinese Treasures

The Pearl River: Guangzhou’s Trade Past and Present

Dunhuang Discovery: Desertscapes and Grottoes

WINTER SPECIAL

Winter in the North: Harbin Ice Lanterns and Skiing

See All 101 Tours

201: An Exploration of China’s Cultures, Histories and Landscapes

For the intrepid traveler yearning to transcend the familiar. Venture off the beaten path and experience the diverse culture of China firsthand, perhaps trekking through grandiose mountains and rivers or navigating the bustling markets. Direct observation and meaningful human connections reveal the soul of China, fostering a genuine understanding.

Ancient Trade Routes (Breakout Specialization Module)

For millennia, China was connected to itself and the world beyond by ancient trails. Thisspecialized module provides you a chance to retrace the footsteps of traders on the Silk Roadand other legendary routes, connect with people and cultures along the road, and experiencethe exchange of goods, ideas, and beliefs that have profoundly shaped the nation we know today.

Kaiyuan Temple in the old town of Quzhou

Zayton Rediscovered: A Weekend in Historic Quanzhou

Karst landscape around Mingshi, Chongzuo

Chongzuo: Toeing the China-Vietnam Border Line

Travels Through Dali With a Leg of Ham

Dreaming of Shangri-La: Yunnan’s Tibetan Valleys

See All 201 Tours

301: China Hand Apprenticeship

This is where passions take center stage. Whether captivated by culinary secrets, ancient dynasties, or natural wonders, this tier unveils a personalized China, curated for similar interests. Through intimate encounters with local communities and expert guides, gain powerful insights into the nation’s cultural heritage, its breathtaking landscapes, and the soul of its people. This is where the bespoke China journey truly begins.

Expert-Led Affinity Study (Breakout Specialization Module)

Centered on a detailed exploration of China, this specialized module delves into the seldom- discussed experiences under the guidance of seasoned experts. From food lovers to history buffs, traverse diverse landscapes, unearth profound insights, and bond with like-minded fellow travelers who share your interests.

Xishuangbanna

Dali Food Tour: Artisanal Eats and Traditional Drinks

Ningxia: Through the Vineyards

Summer Departure

Garze Grasslands: Sichuan’s Tibetan Plateau

See All 301 Tours

Certificate & Awards

The curriculum is focused and flexible, allowing you to have a basic knowledge of China while having electives to suit your own interests. By completing tours across tiers and earning Wild Points that signify personal growth and cultural understanding, you’ll reach exciting milestones marked by the awarding of certificates:

Discoverer

Completion of 101 journeys that cover

4 provinces

6 different cities

Explorer

Completion of 201 journeys that cover

6 provinces

10 different cities

including at least 1 Ancient Trade Route

Adventurer

Completion of 301 journeys that cover

10 provinces

20 different cities

including at least 1 Expert-Led Affinity Study

Bachelor of China Travel Diploma

Completion of Discoverer, Explorer, and Adventurer

These certificates are more than just documents; they validate the knowledge and skills you’ve gained, acknowledging your dedication and mastery of Chinese culture, history, and customs.

Embrace the adventure, embark on the journey, and enjoy the many sides of China few have the chance to see!

* Provinces and cities are defined based on China’s administrative divisions.

* Our system accumulates all the places you’ve visited across Discoverer, Explorer, and Adventurer levels, advancing your overall progress towards the diploma.

FAQs

Who is this program for?

This program is for anyone and everyone who wants to learn more about China through seeing it themselves.

How long does it take to complete the program?

There is no time limit for this program, so completion time completely depends on you. As we say though, travel isn’t a race to the finish, it’s about the journey you take to get there!

How much does the program cost?

Beyond the costs of your trip, the program is free!

How do I choose my journeys?

Travel is personal, and we want it to stay that way. You tell us where you want to go or what your interests are, and we’ll propose an itinerary that’s tailored specifically to you!

What are the next steps to enroll in the program?

Reach out to a WildChina travel designer to get started planning your first (or next) WildChina journey! Our team will keep track of your progress through the curriculum and update you as you progress through different levels.

What are the definitions of provinces and cities in the Travel Curriculum?

In the Travel Curriculum, we define provinces and cities based on China’s administrative divisions. Provinces refer to provincial-level administrative units including provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities (which also function as cities). Examples are Shaanxi, Sichuan, Tibet, Xinjiang, Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. Cities refer to prefecture-level cities ranking below provinces and above counties. Examples include Xi’an, Chengdu, Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong.

Will the provinces and cities I visit be reset after completing each level?

No, they will not be reset at any time. Our system operates cumulatively, meaning all your travel experiences and achievements within the Discoverer, Explorer, and Adventurer levels will contribute to your overall progress towards the diploma.

Can my previous travels to China be counted towards the Travel Curriculum?

Sorry, no. Only travel experiences with WildChina are considered valid tours for the Travel Curriculum.

How will I receive the certificate?

You will receive your certificate electronically via email within 14 days of completing the program.