A group of 10 travel agents and travel writers from Western Australia recently experienced why China's Sichuan Province is such a hot new destination.

The group was hosted by China Southern Airlines and the Sichuan National Tourism and Development Commission in what is the China Australia Year of Tourism.

Participant Janine Pittaway said the group learnt quickly that nothing was done by halves in Sichuan.

“From its Giant Pandas to its spicy food and enormous ancient Buddhas, temples and mountains – the region provides an impressive array of adventures and experiences," she said.

“Highlights of our week-long visit included a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding; hiking through the stunning tranquil Bamboo Sea forest; witnessing the Unesco World Heritage-listed Leshan Giant Buddha; taking in the Emei Mountain region; visiting the Jinsha Site Museum to see the archaeological digs; enjoying traditional Sichuan Opera; and of course, the hot and spicy Sichuan food!

“The mountainous countryside made for spectacular hikes and photos, and Sichuan's capital, Chengdu, provided all the excitement a big city offers. A great range of shopping experiences includes an amazing array of luxury brands as well as accessible high street retail, and the charming Jingli Old Street – the perfect spot for quality gifts and souvenirs. 

“Public open spaces like the People's Park make for wonderful people watching as locals go about their daily routine of tai chi, mahjong, taking tea and even square dancing!

“Eating out is an experience in itself with Sichuan peppers and chilli taking Chinese food to a whole new level. We tried regional specialties, hot pot and many tasty snacks along the way.

“Another surprise were the expansive Buddhist temples – the perfect place for a breather and some quiet contemplation.”

The group finished the week-long tour with a full day's adventure in Guangzhou – a city of both historic and modern contrasts and China Southern Airline's hub. The city is perfect for stopovers and city adventures. Every visit to Guangzhou must include sampling the food that makes the region famous -  traditional dim sum. Before flying back to Perth, they enjoyed the stunning Guangzhou International Lights Festival, an annual event taking place over almost a month.

China Southern now flies five days a week from Perth to Guangzhou (7.5 hours flying time) thanks to a new A330-300 just added to the route, with good connections to Chengdu which is just an additional 2-hour flight.  Perth travellers can now also enjoy China Southern's new Premium Economy Class to Guangzhou.