What’s New in China for 2010 Nancy Kim and Guy Rubin are two of our top tried-and-tested China outfitters. As the heads of Imperial Tours (888-888-1970; imperialtours.net), this Beijing power couple creates itineraries for first-time visitors and committed Sino-philes who seek to understand the country’s complex cultures.  Their inside track includes a little black book of must-visit hotels, restaurants, spas, and everything in between, plus an impressive Rolodex of specialists. (New for 2010: Randall Peerenboom,  » Read more »

Imperial Tours is offering an eight night luxury Culinary Tour of China, covering Beijing, Hangzhou and Shanghai. Highlights include a white linen banquet atop a little known section of the Great Wall, an exclusive meal in the home of Chairman Mao's personal chef, a private cooking lesson given by the Executive Chef of the prestigious Whampoa Club, a traditional tea ceremony and tasting, a visit to one of China's largest seafood markets, amazing meals at world class restaurants,  » Read more »

reported by Maria Shollenbarger We know what you’re thinking: with flights and hotels just a click away, it’s never been easier to plan your own trip. But at the moment when your time and money matter more than ever, a trusted travel expert can take all the hassle out of travel planning-whether you’re looking to snag that seat on a sold-out flight, book that elusive corner room with a view,  » Read more »

by Wendy Perrin Twenty years of interviewing travel agents and tour operators for “The Perrin Report” and other Condé Nast Traveler articles has given me a well-thumbed directory of the most trusted insiders – people who offer the best combination of specialized knowledge (based on firsthand travel experience), local connections, user-friendliness, and value for your dollar. Each year my team and I evaluate hundreds of new applicants to this list,  » Read more »

reported by Scott Goetz There are far more than seven potential wonders of the world for elite travelers. Ancient as well  as modern sites, natural as well as man-made creations—they all hold appeal. But how do you  decide which seven are must-visits? Our list of top wonders not only takes into account the spot’s  beauty and rarity, but also the level of opulence and exclusivity.  » Read more »