Our experiences attract curious, adventurous, open-hearted types who see travel as a way to connect. Guests join us ready to shake up their routine with a trip that’s immersive and full of life. Others simply want to deepen their understanding of an extraordinary place beyond the usual stereotypes.

We stay comfortably, but not always conventionally: Our accommodations are chosen for their character and connection to place. Charming, low-key boutique hotels are what we prefer, although we can’t always guarantee these at every destination for practical reasons.

In China, the beauty can be raw. From ancient cobblestoned villages to bustling wet markets where locals jostle over live fish and poultry, China has an unvarnished side. There are some squat toilets. Local eateries might have wobbly tables. Maybe floors and surfaces aren’t exactly pristine. You won’t always have the personal space you’re used to. We’ll be right in the thick of things and we respectfully roll with it all; it’s part of an unforgettable experience.

We embrace local flavours: Expect everything from polished, modern restaurants, to hole-in-the-wall canteens where the chef might light up a cigarette after cooking your meal. We’ll snack from street vendors, we’ll perch on low stools, and we may even raise a toast with baijiu (a potent grain spirit) or smooth plum wine. Expect deliciousness across the gamut, all prepared with pride, a nod to the season and respect for tradition.

We value connection over luxury: Whether that’s sharing a laugh with a farmer, learning the art of haggling at a market, or practising a little Mandarin on a street vendor, you’ll go home with stories and a heightened sense of connection.

We travel with respect and curiosity, stepping out of comfort zones to better appreciate other ways of life. What we learn is that despite cultural differences, we all share the same basic humanity.

We pack lightly, opting for luggage we can manage ourselves, practical outfits and comfortable shoes fit for exploring. We like having one dressier outfit for a finer dinner, but we’re more focussed on getting amongst it all than on preening.

We like to chat and laugh: Sharing moments of awe and cultural discovery leads to newly minted friendships, and our fellow travellers may well turn into lifelong pals. Judgemental, contentious discussions are never our vibe.