Operation Shangri-la 2008

A TRAVEL & SERVICE PROGRAMME IN NAPA LAKE (3270M) SHANGRI-LA YUNNAN, CHINA

INTRODUCTION
Operation Shangri-la is an extraordinary experience incorporating elements of adventure travel with community service.
The expedition is carried out to provide further enrichment to a traveller’s experience.
It is planned with the following aims:
• To provide an opportunity for participants to extend a helping hand to the less fortunate and at the same time, have fun visiting and learning new cultures with local friends;
• To minimize damage and ensure protection of the places we’re traveling to;
• To encourage sustainable tourism and balance the benefits among the individual traveller, the local communities and attractions.
This is part of a wholesome experience we hope to encourage amongst travellers.

WHERE
Napa Hai, Shangri-La County (3270 meters above sea level and covers 660 square kilometers; it is approximately 8 kilometers northwest of Zhongdian town in Yunnan Province)

WHEN
ADULT GROUP: 24 MAY (12-Day)/ 10 June (11-day)/ 23 Aug (12-Day)/ 30 Aug (12-Day)
FAMILY GROUP: 10-Day 24 MAY/ 23 Aug/ 30 Aug
Dates are subject to changes
Dates are scheduled based on flying by China Eastern Airlines.
We can customize based on other Airlines or dates.

PARTNER
• Shangri-La Nature Protection Society
Aided by Shambala Pte Ltd (Villages are shareholders)

OBJECTIVES
• To provide the farmers with an alternative to generate income through tourism instead of their usual dependency on woodcutting which depletes their natural resources at a rapid rate and causes harmful environmental effects.
• To promote cultural and lifestyle awareness for both parties as well as helping the villages to cultivate a sense of self-confidence & the need to improve oneself.
• To assist in building the “Napa Education Centre” which functions as classrooms as well as for other various purposes. Eg. Provide an opportunity for the young adults (who do not have the chance to study before the school was set up in the village) to attend night classes.
• Improve the hygiene level by constructing a drainage system for the village wastewater and garbage (depending on availability of funds).

HIGHLIGHTS
• Enjoy local Tibetan fare and experience their hospitality and colourful culture through traditional home stays and working side by side with the locals.
• Plan games and activities
• A night of cultural performance by the villagers and children.

Land Cost Excludes:
• Airfare + taxes (by China Eastern: about $650 + taxes $217)
Children below 12 years old - airfares about 75% of cost
• visa (if applicable)
• AIG insurance classic plan for 12 days/ family plan for 10 days
• tips for local guide & driver
• sleeping bag
• personal expenses
Donation to support the children is on self-voluntary basis.
Flight schedule by China Eastern (Subject to changes)
MU 750 SINKMG 0210 0610 MU2571 KMGLJG 0910 1000
MU5838 DIGKMG 1500 1600 MU 749 KMGSIN 2110 0110 +1

RESERVATION
A deposit of $ 400 per person is required upon confirmation and the balance
must be paid in full 30 days prior to the departure date. Non-payment by
required date may result in the cancellation of your booking and subjected to
cancellation charges.

Our previous operation photos/blog can be found at:
Blog: http://wastenotears.multiply.com/ (by leader of OSL07 – Eileen)
Photos: http://wastenotears.multiply.com/photos/album/8 (by leader of OSL07 – Eileen)

WHO TO CONTACT
Email: info@x-trekkers.com
Hotline: 65- 9487 6198