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Latest Updates from the UK's leading Specialist Tour Operator
9 April 2024
Everyone's favourite travel programme is back and we couldn't be more excited as this time it's in Wendy Wu Tours' backyard - Asia!
The first show airs on Wed 10 April on BBC1 so join the Wu Crew weekly on Thursday afternoons for the gossipy lowdown on the previous night's Race across the World episode. Our panel of fans, will take a fun look at what went on, what places made them go OMG and which racers made them say Oh Dear God No!
15 March 2024
We'll be hosting our first ever megafam for 100 agents to China in May! The group will be made up of agents from across all of our markets - UK, Australia and New Zealand. The trip will take the group to the stunning Zhingjiajie region - the famous backdrop for the film Avatar.
Learn More28 February 2024
Wendy was Simon’s special guest on ‘Simon Calder’s Independent Travel Podcast’ where Wendy gave a fascinating insight into the world of specialist travel with Wendy Wu Tours. For those who don’t know, Simon Calder is the UK’s leading travel journalist, his podcast is in Apple’s Top 10 travel podcasts, with an audience reach of 8 million listeners. In addition the podcast features on Simon’s weekly ‘Independent Travel Newsletter’, with over 6 million subscribers, as well as going out on Simon’s Twitter X to over 202.1k followers. At the end of the podcast, Simon personally endorses our new rail collection, priceless.
Click 'Learn More' to listen to the podcast!
Learn More9th February 2024
It's Chinese New Year, and in true Wendy Wu Tours style we're celebrating with a collection of incredible offers! Our customers can choosue from FREE flights on selected China tours, business class upgrades and FREE and HALF-PRICE single supplements. What's more, our Partner Flies Free/50% off solo airfares offer is now available on ALL of our China tours.
Learn More5th February 2024
Our stand at the London Destinations Travel show was once again packed for the full weekend! Whilst our team chatted to our customers and booked many of them onto their next Wendy Wu tour, Wendy was taking the 'Meet the Experts' stage by storm!
She also stole the airwaves at Times Radio chatting on the fantastic Jane Garvey and Fi Glover afternoon news show, broadcasting live from the Destinations: The Holiday & Travel Show. Wendy had Jane and Fi captivated by Wendy Wu Tours' take on specialist touring and just why specialist touring is the future. If you haven’t listed, do, it’ll change everything you thought you knew about touring.
Click 'Learn More' to listen to the interview.
Learn More15th January 2024
A huge thank you to all those who came along to see us at the Manchester Destinations Travel and Leisure Show, we ended up with a record-breaking number of visitors at our stand. It's always a privilege to meet our customers (as well as our future customers!) face-to-face. Wendy's talk went down a storm on the 'Meet the Experts' stage...AND, as if that wasn't enough, we were paid a visit by travel journalist royality - none other than Simon Calder.
Come and see us at the London Destinations Show from the 1st - 4th Februrary and have two complimentary tickets on us - just head over to https://www.destinationsshow.com/ and use code XBWENDY.
Learn More13th January 2024
We did it again!
For the 14th consecutive year, Wendy Wu Tours has won 'Best Long Haul Specialist Operator' at the Globes Travel Awards - the most prestigious awards in the UK travel industry.
A huge well done to our incredible team for making this happen, and a massive thank you to our customers, agents and industry partners for your continued support!
Learn More9th January 2024
We've got not just one, but two amazing FREE flight upgrade offers available until the end of the month
We have FREE two-way Premium Economy upgrades with British Airways available on a selection of our China 2024 spring departures.
And for those thinking about India in 2024 - you'll be able to upgrade to Business Class with Etihad on your return leg for FREE on selected tours and departures! Want to go all out? Upgrade both ways from £699pp.
8th January 2024
Wendy Wu chats to Lucy Huxley at Travel Weekly UK about our 2023 successes, even higher expectations for 2024 and the comeback of our first and historically biggest destination - China!
Wendy told the Travel Weekly webcast that last year was one our strongest ever, but the next 12 months look set to rival it. She said: “We had a very strong peaks in 2023, but for the last few days our growth has been 13% above 2023 so that’s very good.”
We can't wait to see what's in store in the next 12 months!
26th December 2023
Our New Year Sale is here! We have a range of amazing offers including 'Partner Flies Free' and FREE single supplements on offer across most of our tours and destinations. Head over to our offers page to browse our amazing New Year Sale deals - available until 31st January 2023!
Learn More2nd January 2024
16 December 2023
We have a brand-new collection of Christmas tours on offer for 2024-25
Why celebrate Christmas the same old way when you can make it one to remember? Let us deliver the gift of an unforgettable travel experience with our sensational, once-in-a-lifetime Christmas tours. We are delighted to have added five brand new festive itineraries for Christmas 2024 and 2025.
Departing throughout December, our Christmas tour collection will not only see you exploring incredible sites, from South Africa and Turkey, to Vietnam and China, at the most magical time of year but you'll be treated to a host of wonderful festive experiences which are completely exclusive to these tours.
15th December 2023
Our Head of Trade Sales Gary King takes on a customer brief in this fantastic Travel Weekly UK China feature. He discusses why our China & Tibet Discovery tour is the ideal choice for a young couple looking to experience China for the first time, and why China is THE destination for 2024!
Learn More9th December 2023
8th December 2023
7th December 2023
Introducing something new and quite special!
The winds of change are blowing through Saudi Arabia, which only recently opened to non-pilgrims. Discover ancient fortresses, camel markets and UNESCO World Heritage Sites in its vast deserts, then experience the cosmopolitan comforts of its cities and high-speed bullet trains.
On the final night of this 9-day tour, enjoy a farewell dinner with a Saudi businesswoman and her family, and reflect on how this intriguing country is looking ahead to a new vision of the future.
Learn More6th December 2023
6th December 2023
The inimitable Wendy Wu has been named the most powerful woman in the Australian travel industry at the 2023 Women In Tourism Awards. Presented by Travel Weekly Australia and held at Sydney’s Doltone House, the prestigious awards event honoured Wendy with this very special accolade.
Learn More1st December 2023
Announcing our brand new Latin America 2024-25 brochure!
Save up to £500pp across all Latin America tours with our launch offer. This beautiful brochure is packed with exciting itineraries, travel information and several new tours for 2024.
We're very excited to include Columbia in our collection once again with our Colombia Discovery tour. A country well and truly rejuvenated after years of turbulence, Colombia has gone from under the radar to firmly on the map! One of South America’s most rewarding destinations, Colombia is an equatorial gold mine of spectacular landscapes, dotted with the remains of mysterious ancient civilisations and charming colonial pueblos.
29th November 2023
14th November 2023
On our recent 25th anniversary Mekong tour, Wendy announced a new ‘Wendy Wu Tours Cambodia Scholarship Fund.’ which will finance a scholarship programme for 25 underprivileged children in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
"Education is very close to my heart, a factor that has always and will always continue to guide and steer me in my lifelong journey. Our commitment to the children in Siem Reap is a lifelong commitment and we hope we’ll be able to develop the programme and help more children through education." - Wendy Wu
10th November 2023
In this amazing double-page interview in November's TTG Media magazine, Wendy talks about the origins of Wendy Wu Tours, and the resilience and dynamic thinking that allowed the business to endure the pandemic - and rise like a phoenix in its wake.
Learn More8th November 2023
In this Travel Weekly UK piece, our Head of Trade Sales Gary King addresses some of the preconceptions around solo travel.
“Solo travel is booming at Wendy Wu and is undoubtedly one of the most significant travel trends of the past two years." - Gary King
Learn More1st November 2023
Our incredible product team have managed to pull off the impossible - new dates for the 2024 Japan cherry blossom season. This time of year has notoriously difficult availability - so we're delighted that we can offer more of our customers the chance to see the splendour of Japan's incredible cherry blossoms.
Learn More19th October 2023
17 October 2023
After a three-year-long wait, China travel is well and truly back - so the launch of our 2024-25 brochure is a particularly special one. We have a whole season of adventures ahead of us and we can't wait for our customers to experience this incredible country once again.
We'll be continuing our 'partner flies free' offers for this brochure launch, where customers can take advantage of either a free companion flight or solo travellers can save 50% on airfares. With these offers, our customers can save up to £400 per person.
Learn More16th October 2023
13th October 2023
We've moved! After saying goodbye to the many fond memories created in our old Cotton Centre offices, a new chapter begins in Newmans Yard - just a 10 minute stroll from London Bridge station. This beautiful, brand-new office space has been created with our new hybrid working culture in mind - with lots of hot desks, cosy meeting booths and a fantastic kitchen/social area.
Learn More12th October 2023
Discussing the crucial role our amazing travel agent partners play in inspiring our customers to travel with us, Wendy highlighted that now, more than ever, clients are looking for unique and immersive experiences - and that's what Wendy Tu Tours do best!
Learn More5th October 2023
Our new cruise and beach collection is featured in UK trade publication Travel Weekly. This new collection will allow our customers to sail on the deluxe, state-of-the-art, Asian inspired ‘Victoria Mekong’ ship, and round off with a fantastic beach stay on the island of Phu Quoc.
Learn More05 October 2023
12 September 2023
To celebrate the launch of our new Southeast Asia brochure, we're offering our customers the chance to take their travel partner to fly for FREE on selected Southeast Asia tours, and solo travellers can save 50% on their airfare.
Those who book before 16th October 2023 can save up to £400 per person with this offer.
Learn More01 August 2023
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14 July 2022
In time for Japan re-opening, we are excited to announce the launch of our 2023/24 Japan Brochure.
The brand-new brochure is out now and showcases a range of award-winning itineraries, with new and improved experiences for next year and beyond.
Cherry blossom 2023 is selling fast, but not to worry, we have added more departures for 2023 so you don’t miss out on witnessing this beautiful season Order your free copy here
04 Jul 2022
10 June 2022
Japan has today reopened to international tourists, the first time since the pandemic, and Wendy Wu Tours are the first tour operator back in this July! Wendy Wu, founder Wendy Wu Tours, announced the news on the BBC today.
Be part of the first UK tour to Japan for nearly 3 years on our Jewels of Japan Tour
Learn More31 May 2022
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26 Dec 2021
We ‘re delighted to reveal that all three of our incredible New Zealand tours were selected for The Times ‘100 Ultimate Trips for 2022’ announced today.
Picked by the expert travel editors at The Times and Sunday Times, they were particular fans of the all encompassing 23 day Hidden Treasures of New Zealand.
Learn More13 Dec 2021
Great News from Laos The Lao Government has announced their plan to re-open the country to vaccinated tourists in January of 2022 under the "Lao Travel Green Zone" program.
More detail is expected in the coming days but this is welcome positive news as Laos joins Thailand and Cambodia in the region opening up to travellers once again.
Learn More
9 Dec 2021
We were delighted to Win Best Specialist Tour Operator at last night's SPA Centenary Awards.
The Scottish Passenger Association are celebrating their centenary this year and we were honoured to celebrate with such a prestigious organisation. Thank you to everyone who voted for us.
8 Dec 2021
Japan has just been voted best long-haul destination and top wish-list destination at National Geographic Traveller UK's Reader Awards 2021!
If only there was a brand new Japan brochure out there so people could realise their dreams...Wait a minute our brand new Japan Brochure IS out now. Order your copy
Book your Japan tour now and your partner flies FREE or receive a 50% flight discount if you are travelling Solo saving up to £400pp.
Learn More5 Dec 2021
Our brand NEW Japan Brochure is out now – the indispensable guide to Japan Travel in 2022 and beyond.
One of the only Japan brochures to be printed this year, order your FREE copy now to discover:
3 Dec 2021
Our brand new Southeast Asia & New Zealand brochure is out now.
Want to see the best sights, experience the best culture, eat the best food and do it all with the best guides on the planet? Then this is the brochure for you
Order your free copy today
1 Dec 2021
Our new Christmas in Scotland tour is confirmed to depart on 19 December and our lucky customers are so excited at the opportunity to put two years of Christmas lockdowns behind them and embark on a fun-filled yuletide journey in bonny Scotland.
We are also delighted to announce that they will be joined for Christmas Day by company owner Wendy Wu herself and her 13 year old son Alexander.
Learn More15 Nov 2021
Prime Minister Hun Sen made an unexpected announcement on Sunday night that all fully vaccinated international travellers, tourists and business people could visit the whole of Cambodia freely without quarantine.
The country has won praise for its swift vaccination programme -- 88 per cent of its more than 16 million population have been fully jabbed.
Book your 2022 Around Cambodia tour this month and your Partner Flies FREE. Solos save 50% off your airfare saving £300 per person.
Explore the tour
1 Nov 2021
The world is opening!
Finally the borders are opening on some truly exotic destinations meaning we can start dreaming of proper travel adventuers once again.
To celebrate we are delighted to bring you an exceptional offer to each and every one. Book any Green list destination this month and save up to £450 per person. On all flight inclusive tours your Partner Flies FREE! Solos save 50% off your airfare.
Learn More19 Oct 2021
It was wonderful to hear from the customers travelling on our inaugural Spirit of Scotland Tour.
Not just the first people to travel on this brand new tour but also the first to travel anywhere with Wendy Wu Tours in over 18 months. Here's just a few quotes from the group:
"It was absolutely perfect...the whole tour has been really well thought out."
"Jenny the guide was absolutely fantastic, top class...and the food was delicious."
"My friend has always called Scotland 'God's Country' and now I can see why."
In our constant desire to keep on improving the tour, the group were joined by Wendy Wu herself to get their thoughts on what they loved and what they thought we could do better.
Get the lowdown on the tour highlights, from the Royal Yacht Britannia to a possible spotting of Loch Ness's most famous inhabitant, and hear fascinating insights into what it has been like travelling again after so long.
Learn More15 Oct 2021
Ready for a taste of the Dolce Vita?
Let us show you Italy the way only Wendy Wu Tours can. Discover a spectacular mix of romantic cities and charming villages, historic wonders that span over two thousand years and breath-taking landscapes that range from snow-capped mountains to aquamarine fringed coastal cliffs.
Learn More10 Oct 2021
We're thrilled to bring you another new destination for Wendy Wu tours - Greece!
Immerse yourself in the very place western civilisation was born as you discover the classical highlights and hidden gems of the Peleponnese and mainland Greece.
Be enthralled by a dazzling array of ancient sites and be captivated by their timeless stories, myths and legends.
Learn More8 Oct 2021
The latest changes to the government's Green list and FCDO advice have opened the door to some exciting Wendy Wu Tours destinations
The following countries are all now free for holiday travel with no quarantine at the destination or on your return to the UK. The are also no FCDO advisories against travel due to COVID.
Learn More6 Oct 2021
Dreaming of escaping to a destination filled with history, culture and romance? Join the Wendy Wu Tours experts on Wed 13 Octber st 3pm for a fun, interactive virtual journey through Italy & Greece - our hot new destinations for 2022.
Entrance is FREE but places are limited so don't miss out.
Learn More1 Oct 2021
It's back - the famous and Exclusive Wendy Wu Tours Free Business class Offer!
We like to think you’ll feel like a VIP whenever you travel on a Wendy Wu Tour. Now you can fly like one too with our exclusive Business Class Upgrade offer on tours to Japan.
Simply book one of our selected tours to Japan and you can upgrade to Business Class for Free saving you up to £800 per person. Upgrade both ways from just £999 per person.
This offer is valid for all travel in 2022 AND 2023 including the incredibly popular Cherry Blossom Season, but seats are going fast so don't delay.
Discover our award winning Japan Holidays
Learn More30 Sep 2021
Japan will lift emergency coronavirus measures from 1 October, following a dramatic fall in cases and rapid progress in its vaccination rollout.
Japan’s vaccination programme has gathered pace in recent months. Almost 60% of the population has received two jabs, while the government has said all those who want to be inoculated will receive shots by November.
Japan is also starting to ease quarantine rules for travellers from abroad who have been fully vaccinated, reducing the required 14 days of self-isolating at home after arrival to 10 days from Friday. Japan’s vaccine minister has also said the government will consider relaxing its entry ban on foreigners.
Explore our Japan Tours
17 Sep 2021
Dreaming of an unforgettable Christmas or a spring getaway full of culture and natural beauty?
Join the Wendy Wu Tours experts on Wednesday 29 September for a fun, interactive virtual journey through Scotland and Portugal.
-Discover charming Christmas markets, dazzling cities, snow-dusted scenery and famous hospitality in Scotland at Christmas.
-Explore the unique charm of Portugal's historic cities, dramatic parks, lush vineyards and enchanting rivers.
-Speak to the experts live and chat to fellow travellers in the Party Room.
-Enjoy exclusive offers, only available to party attendees.
Entrance is FREE but places are limited so don't miss out. Register
17 Sep 2021
The Cambodian tourism ministry recently announced that fully vaccinated international tourists with proof of their inoculation could be allowed into Cambodia as soon as November 2021 and it is also considering the removal of quarantine for fully vaccinated tourists.
Cambodia is currently the second most vaccinated country in Southeast Asia after Singapore with over 60% of its population vaccinated and over 95% of residents in the capital Phnom Penh.
You can save £200 per person on 2022 departures of Around Cambodia in our Summer Sale
Learn More13 Sep 2021
Celebrate Christmas in Scotland with our Brand New Tour!
From paired whisky and chocolate tastings to Christmas markets and a performance of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker, we invite you to eat, drink and be merry on our brand new 9-day all-inclusive tour encompassing Glasgow, Edinburgh, and the idyllic southern Highlands.
Discover soaring pine trees, majestic snow-dusted mountains, cosy firesides and fairy-tale cityscapes on this unforgettable festive adventure. Don't miss out - this tour is sure to sell out fast.
Learn More10 Sep 2021
Renowned consumer champion Which? have recommended Wendy Wu Tours as one a select few tour companies offering the best Covid-19 flexible bookings.
Wendy Wu Tours were rated Green in every category including for our refunds and free amendment policies when government advice or quarantine restrictions prevent you from travelling.
Which? also highlighted our low £99 deposits and late final booking policy.
Learn More7 Sep 2021
We're delighted to extend our hugely popular Summer Sale
Our Worldwide summer sale has been so popular we just had to extend it to give more of you the chance to spread your wings and start planning for a truly exotic holiday full of culture and adventure.
We are delighted to extend our Summer Sale to 30 September. Now including Japan you can save up to £750 per person on tours worldwide for every departure in 2022 & 2023.
Simply book any of our group tours with just a £99 deposit per person to enjoy the following sensational savings:
16 Aug 2021
Following the highly successful Tokyo Olympic, with Japan hitting an all-time high of third place in the medal table, the country has now hit a new and highly important milestone.
After a slower than expected start to their Covid-19 vaccination programme, Japan has picked up the pace, with 50% of those eligible to be vaccinating having now received their first dose. The rate of second doses is not far behind at 37%. With 364 million doses of Astrazenica, Pfizer and Moderna jabs secured, most over 65’s were vaccinated by the end of July. Schoolchildren between the ages of 12 to 15 will be vaccinated during the summer break, a measure aimed at further slowing the spread of Covid when schools return. The government plans to have all vaccination completed by the end of October 2021.
For our latest Customer News & Travel Update, tune in to our new episode of WuTV, focusing on all things Japanese right here.
Learn More20 July 2021
Showing on BBC 2 on Thursday nights at 7pm, Monty Don guides us through the history and spectacular seasons of Japanese gardens, from the famous cherry blossom celebration hanami to the autumnal crimson magnificence of momijigari.
Monty also explores the creative forms uniquely associated with Japanese gardens, from stone-masonry and ikebana to the intricate skill of bonsai.
Looking for your own slice of Japanese garden heaven? All of our tours to Japan feature at least a few classic gardens but it we were to plump for one we'd go for our Jewels of Japan that features the following beautiful gardens and parks
26 Jul 2021
Japan comes to London!
With the starting gun finally fired on the Tokyo Olympics , we were delighted to bring a taste of Japan to the capital with our Tokyo on Thames Treasure Trail this weekend. Our fun-seekers were treated to a wonderful day out discovering the hidden Japanese gems of London, learnt fascinating facts from Wendy and the team and even got to have their photo taken with an original Olympic torch and our own torch-bearer, John Warr!
Thank you to everyone who came along, it was pleasure to meet so many of you and to share our love of both great cities with you.
15 July 2021
Countdown to two weeks of exceptional sporting endeavour with two world-beating Japan offers. We are so excited.
We are so excited that one of our favourite cities in the world will soon be welcoming the greatest sporting event on earth - the Olympics. To celebrate we are delighted to bring you, not one, but two gold medal standard offers on our tours to Japan.
Choose from FREE flights or FREE single supplements on every Japan group tour for every 2022 & 2023 departure saving up to £1,940pp. Explore the offer
We know you can't be there this year so why not join us on Wednesday 28 July at 3pm for a FREE virtual party. Let us bring you all of the the buzz of the games and showcase everything that is wonderful about this unique country. We also have some hot tips for 2021 travel for you too. Sign up for free
13 July 2021
Go Wild for China! Don't miss Ray Mears tonight at 7:30pm for a brand new series on ITV on a journey of discovery among the landscapes and wildlife of China.
Starting in the capital Beijing, and taking in wonders of the world like the Great Wall of China, Ray walks with elephants in the country's tropical rainforest, joins rangers rewilding the nation's giant pandas, searches for the elusive snow leopard, explores one of its most famous landscapes in Karst country, comes face to face with a brown bear, and treks in the foothills of the Himalayas alongside herbal medicine experts, uncovering secrets of its plants.
Across the seven episodes, the bushcraft specialist travels across the vast country, aiming to provide a vivid insight into the diverse flora and fauna populating some of the wildest places on earth.
If the wild side of China calls to you our Dreams of Nature Tour will be the perfect choice, an epic journey that encompasses some of China's most impressive UNESCO World. Heritage sites and most incredible natural landscapes. Explore the tour
Explore our award-winning China tours
1 July 2021
It's back for just two weeks only. Discover your dream destination with your travel companion or experience the extraordinary on a solo adventure throughout 2022 & 2023 to all corners of the world
Travel Partner Flies Free
Save up to £900 per couple on every tour worldwide for 2022 and 2023
Solo Travellers save 50% off your airfare
Save up to £450 per person with a half price airfare on every tour. Discover why so many Solos travel with us
Learn More29 June 2021
Celebrate the start of the Tokyo Olympics and all things Japanese with our new and unique treasure trail of Japan in London. A totally different type of experience from our fully inclusive guided tours, Tokyo on Thames, is a fun, self-guided tour where you are in the "driving seat" as you solve clues to navigate your way through our adventure trail.
A leisurely day, with an air of discovery and mystery, as you solve our tricky (and not so tricky) clues whilst experiencing many Japanese delights along the way. A great day out for all the family, from grandparents to grandchildren, or as group of friends, team up and enjoy the highlights of Japan and London rolled into one.
Learn More25 June 2021
Dreaming of visiting Japan? The Tokyo Olympics will live in the history as one of a kind with no international spectators present! Let Wendy Wu Tours, the UK’s #1 Japan Specialist tour operator, and the exclusive official tour operator for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, bring you your own piece of Olympic fun to remember.
Join us on a fun filled afternoon of Japanese culture, Tokyo anecdotes and best-selling Japan tours.
Entrance is FREE but places are limited so don't miss out.
Learn More21 June 2021
Encouraging news in the fight against Covid.
21.5% of the world population has now received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. 2.6 billion doses have been administered globally, and 36.1 million are now administered each day.
Among countries with more than 1 million people, South Korea is currently vaccinating faster than any other, administering a daily average of 1,317 doses per 100,000.
In the world of Wendy Wu Tours the following countries are performing particularly well
Country |
Population with at least 1 dose |
Our Top Tour |
---|---|---|
Chile | 62% | Chile: Top to Toe |
Israel | 60% | Ancient Israel |
Mongolia | 57% | Mongolia and the Naadam Festival |
South Korea | 27% | Scenic South Korea |
Cambodia | 19% | Angkor to the Bay |
18 June 2021
The Japan cherry blossom,or Sakura, season is famous the world over for its fleeting beauty so it's hardly surprising that after two years with no visitors, tours for the 2022 season are selling out fast.
With many departures full already we are delighted to announce new tours dates for 2022 and that 2023 is also now on sale.
Don't miss out. Explore our incredible new Japan brochure launch offers.
17 June 2021
Georgia has thrown its borders open to UK travellers arriving who have received both doses of a vaccine. Those who are fully vaccinated do not need to get tested prior to arrival or quarantine when they get there.
Our partners in Georgia tell us tour groups from Germany and the US are already travelling in the country so once the UK government gives the country the Green light we hope to resume touring there from October.
16 June 2021
China is on track to administer an astonishing 1bn vaccine doses by the end of this week, after bolstering production and distribution networks in an ambitious drive to vaccinate 40% of the population by this month.
Encouraging people to take the free and voluntary doses with cash incentives and gifts, China’s daily rate of injections has increased to about 20m a day.
Chian has had great success battling the Covid with just 24 new cases reported yesterday giving us great optimism that borders will soon be open and we can start exploring our favourite destination once again.
Explore China
Explore our most popular tour - Wonders of China
4 June 2021
Still on the Green lists and still with FREE flights.
Now one of only 11 destinations on the Green list and with one of the highest vaccination rates in the world, likely to stay there, Israel is still the best bet for a 2021 escape packed with history, culture and adventure.
Save over £200opp. Book our Ancient Israel tour this month and your partner flies FREE. 50% flight discount for solo travellers.
The first group of foreign tourists in more than a year touched down in Israel on Thursday after the government began opening its borders following a hugely successful vaccination programme.
Small groups of vaccinated foreign tourists — up to 30 people — have been allowed to enter as of last Sunday and the Tourism Ministry expects to welcome more groups from the United States, Britain and Germany in the coming weeks.
The lucky visitors arrived shortly after 4pm from Newark, New Jersey and were welcomed by Tourism Minister Orit Farkash-Hakohen, who said: "You are the first of what I am sure will be many tourists returning to the Holy Land… "Israel is healthy and vaccinated. Everything is now safely open”
Pack your bags for October 2021 with our Ancient Israel tour. Save £200 per person if you book by 31 May. Explore the tour.
Learn More19 May 2021
Konichi...wow! Say hello to these incredible offers to celebrate the launch of our Japan 2022 & 2023 Brochure.
Choose from Free Flights, a FREE Business Class Upgrade or FREE Single Supplements for solos - saving up to £1,900 per person.
Book by 10 June. Valid on all of our Japan group tours throughout 2022 & 2023. Book with just a £99 deposit and enjoy the peace of mind of our flexible booking guarantee.
Learn More13 May 2021
Forget the year of being stuck at home, the wait is over. Join the travel party at 3pm Wed 26 May and enjoy the iconic sights, cultural highlights and unique experiences with Wendy Wu Tours.
Founder and Owner Wendy Wu shared her excitement to be travelling again soon
I’ve been so happy to host many virtual parties over the last 12 months and they have been a hugely popular way for our customers to look to the future with optimism. But this party is different. Now I can say with confidence... come with us in autumn 2021. Let’s escape a year of lockdown and experience all the colour, culture, history and excitement of travel with Wendy Wu Tours again.
Attendance is FREE but places are limited. Sign up.
7 May 2021
Wendy Wu Tours today reported a surge in demand for Israel as the country was the standout cultural destination announced on the government's Green Lists today.
Head of Global Product Peter Crane commented "With unrivalled historical treasures, a unique cultural legacy that spans some of the world's great religions, stunning scenery and beautiful beaches, Israel is absolutely going to be the best choice for that first escape we've all been waiting for".
To learn more about this fascinating destination - join us for our 2021 Escapes Hotlist Party - Sign up.
Save £200 per person if you book our Ancient Israel tour by 30 May. Explore the tour.
5 May 2021
China has started clinical trials for a Covid-19 vaccine that is administered through inhalation. There are high hopes that an inhaled vaccine could be more effective than those injected given that the coronavirus enters the human body through the airways.
Introduction of this new method of vaccination is likely to speed up the vaccine programme in China – who have already administered more jabs than any other country – and advance the date the Chinese borders are likely to re-open.
In the world of Wendy Wu Tours, the countries below are currently the safest with very low rates of new infections which makes us optimistic that we will return to life as normal and be able to enjoy our dream holidays soon. We’ve also included our most popular tour to each destination so you can stop dreaming and start planning!
Country | Daily New Cases** | Vaccine Doses per 100 people | Our Top Tour |
---|---|---|---|
Israel | 76 | 121 | Ancient Israel |
China | 17 | 19 | Wonders of China |
Japan | 4,764 | 3 | Japan Uncovered |
Vietnam | 15 | 0.5 | Classic Mekong |
Cambodia | 938 | 15 | Angkor to the Bay |
Thailand | 1,763 | 2 | Thailand Highlights |
Taiwan | 8 | 0.3 | Treasures of Taiwan |
Mongolia | 1,015 | 47 | Mongolia and the Naadam Festival |
Bhutan | 16 | 62 | Himalayan Kingdoms |
Sri Lanka | 1,914 | 5 | Highlights of Sri Lanka |
Laos | 60 | 2.5 | Highlights of Laos |
South Korea | 541 | 7.3 | Scenic South Korea |
New Zealand | 1 | 4.8 | Hidden Treasures of New Zealand |
Uzbekistan | 314 | 1.8 | Ultimate Uzbekistan |
**Figures correct as of 5 May 2021
13 May 2021
It was so wonderful to see so many excited faces at our 2021 Escapes Hotlist Virtual Party yesterday. After a joyous journey around our hot picks for 2021 and early 2022 we were delighted to catch up with you all in our party rooms after the presentation. Here's just a few of the comments:
"Thanks so much, wonderful presentation"
"Thank you all so much for today. It's actually left me quite emotional that we can start to travel again"
"Thank you...so very informative, I am going to go and book my Israel tour now!"
It was clear from chatting to you that you are all so thrilled to be contemplating an imminent escape and we were delighted to finally be able to say..."Come with us this year".
If you want the inside track on the best places to go and to enjoy an incredible exclusive special offer, you can still catch a recording of the presentation here
Learn More12 Apr 2021
We like to think you’ll feel like a VIP whenever you travel on a Wendy Wu Tour.
Now you can fly like one too with our exclusive Business Class Upgrade offer on Finnair. If you've ever dreamt of turning left as you enter the plane, sipping on champagne as you prepare for take off and enjoying the finest dining, entertainment and comfort so you arrive feeling like a million dollars then now's your chance.
Simply book one of our selected tours to Japan by Monday 17 May and you can upgrade to Business Class from just £199 per person saving you up to £800 per person. Upgrade both ways from just £1,199 per person.
Learn More7 Apr 2021
As spring blossoms all over the Northern Hemisphere, join the Wendy Wu Tours experts for a fun, imaginative Journey through Asia.
Meet our travel experts and passionate fellow travellers in our lively virtual party room, find out more about this incredible region and our award-winning tours.
Explore the bucket list icons and hidden gems on some of our most popular and unique tours for 2021 and beyond and enjoy and an incredible exclusive offer.
Hit the button below to watch the show at 3pm on Wednesday 7 April.
19 Mar 2021
Eleven days of incredible Earlybird discounts - Save up to £1,045pp
With lockdown easing all over the country, we’ll soon be able to spread our wings, meet friends and family and start dreaming about travelling again
To celebrate and help turn your dreams into reality, we’re delighted to bring your our Lockdown Lift Off Sale with huge discounts on tours worldwide for every departure in 2022 & 2023.
Simply book any of our group tours with just a £99 deposit per person.
Learn More10 Mar 2021
As Japan bursts into bloom with the world famous Cherry Blossom Season, join the Wendy Wu Tours experts for a fun, imaginative festival of parties on a journey through Asia.
Meet our travel experts and passionate fellow travellers in our lively virtual party room, find out more about this incredible region and our award-winning tours.
Explore the bucket list icons and hidden gems on some of our most popular and unique tours for 2021 and beyond.
Enjoy an Incredible exclusive Business Class upgrade offer.
Attendance is FREE but places are limited. Hit the Learn More button below to sign up.
10-19 Feb 2021
We wished good riddance to the terrible year of the Rat and celebrated a return to exploring, in the upcoming year of the Ox, with our wonderful online parties celebrating the Lunar New Year.
So many past customers and new friends joined us for a series of online events over 10 days to look forward with renewed hope and optimism. Our experts journeyed virtually to Japan, Indochina, China, India, Bhutan, Central Asia and South America showcasing the best places to travel in the year of the Ox and beyond.
The enthusiasm of attendees to get travelling again was palpable and our panels had a great time chatting with all who came along. We were so glad so many of you also took advantage of the exclusive show offer too.
Read what they had to say and how our other online parties have been proving so popular in the latest edition of our Whispers magazine
To watch any of the presentations just click on the button.
Learn More9 Mar 2020
China has launched a health certificate programme for domestic travellers, showing a user’s vaccination status and virus test results, thought to be the world’s first known “virus passport”.
Available just for Chinese citizens at present, the certificate has been launched “to help promote world economic recovery and facilitate cross-border travel.”
4 Mar 2020
Read our brand new interactive online magazine. Full of wonderful stories from our customers and staff, incredible special offers and unique insights into what's hot right now - it's the must read to inspire your travels for 2021 and beyond
Highlights
Plus much much more…
Learn More1 Mar 2021
It’s back...Wendy Wu Tours’ famous Business Class Upgrade Offer
We like to think you’ll feel like a VIP whenever you travel on a Wendy Wu Tour. Now you can fly like one too with our fabulous Business Class Upgrade offer.
Simply book one of our selected India, Japan, China, Vietnam or Peru tours by 31 March and you can upgrade your flights to Business Class for next to nothing. Including India for FREE!
24 Feb 2021
Wendy Wu Tours fully supports the ongoing COVID-19 vaccination process and urges all of its customers and the wider community to embrace it. As a company we fully support the concept and implementation of a ‘vaccine passport’ and, following a recent poll of our customers, found the concept of a vaccination passport was also fully supported by our passengers. We know that people are desperate to get away travelling again and if a vaccine passport is what is needed then it has our full consent. We will be encouraging everyone to be fully vaccinated before they can travel and will be finalising protocols around this in advance of the borders reopening across our wonderful destinations.
Please continue to monitor our website, Facebook, emails and newsletters for all the latest news on this plus our updates on the reopening of borders, our safety protocols as well as everything you need to know about our fantastic touring, immersive and authentic experiences.
28 Feb 2020
With the hugely encouraging news last night that the government hopes to resume international travel from May and is actively looking into ways to facilitate travel we are hugely optimistic about travel in 2021.
With so much pent up demand, capacity likely to be limited and special offers at rates we are unlikely to see again for a very long time, we are already seeing a huge surge in bookings.
Our Free flights and No Single Supplement offers end on 28 Feb. Don’t miss out.
Learn More9 Feb 2021
Great news this morning suggests that the Oxford-AstraZenenca vaccine may have a "substantial" effect on reducing the transmission of the virus.
It means the jab could have a greater impact on the pandemic, as each person who is vaccinated will indirectly protect other people too.
Nearly 10 Million people have already been vaccinated in the UK.
2 Feb 2021
Due to popular demand we are delighted to extend and expand our New Sale. Adding New Zealand to our free flights offer and more south America and Central Asia tours to our incredible No Single Supplement offer you can now save up to £2,090 per person.
Choose FREE flights or No Single Supplement on our best-selling tours worldwide.
This offer is exclusive to Wendy Wu Tours and valid for 2021 & 2022 departures.
Learn More2 Feb 2021
Say good riddance to a terrible year of locked down travel and celebrate a return to exploring in the upcoming year of the Ox with our wonderful online parties celebrating the Lunar New Year.
So join our panel of experts for the inside track on Japan, Indochina, China, South America, India, Central Asia and travelling solo in style. Using the best tours in the market we'll showcase the best places to travel in the year of the Ox and beyond. Discover the iconic highlights and get insider tips on authentic experiences and the lesser-known gems. We also have an exclusive show offer for all attendees.
Chat with the expert panellists at our party room to find out even more about these dream destinations and tours.
Attendance is free but places are limited so don't miss out
Learn More29 Jan 2021
A new coronavirus vaccine has been shown to be 89% effective in large-scale UK trials and the jab is the first shown to be effective against the new UK variant
The UK has secured 60 million doses of the jab which are expected to be delivered in the second half of this year, if approved for use by MHRA.
11 Jan 2021
We may be locked down but that isn't stopping people booking their travel. Japan departures are already selling out in 2021 and 2022 and we've had to add more departures on two of our most popular tours.
The brand new, all-encompassing Japan by Rail tour takes you to the highlights of all three islands: Kyushu, Honshu and Hokkaido, travelling mainly by bullet train.
Japan Uncovered is one of our most popular tours of the stunning country. Featuring modern cities, historical sights and beautiful landscapes, Japan Uncovered ensures you get the most out of your trip.
Both tours are included in the Free Flights Offer and Solo Sale. Save up to £800 per person on Free Return Flights or up to £1,890 per person with No Single Supplement for solo travellers.
30 Dec 2020
Fantastic news for the UK - Oxford AstraZeneca Covid Vaccine approved for use.
This will lead to a massive expansion in the UK's immunisation campaign.
The UK has already ordered 100 million doses - enough to vaccinate 50 million people.
14 Dec 2020
Wendy Wu Tours are thrilled to announce that we won three Gold awards at the prestigious British Travel Awards today
Over 250,000 votes were cast so thank you so much to everyone who voted for us.
11 Dec 2020
To kick off the festive season in style and end our FREE flights offer with bang we are delighted to offer you Free flights and Free airport lounge access for one weekend only on our best-selling tours in Asia, India, South America, Central Asia, the Middle East and New Zealand.
Saving you up to £800 per person this offer is exclusive to Wendy Wu Tours and must end Monday 14 December.
Learn More8 Dec 2020
4 Dec 2020
To celebrate 26 years since our very own Wendy Wu organised her first group tour we are offering FREE flights on our 29 most popular tours.
Save up to £800 per person on tours to China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Japan, South America, India, the Middle East and Central Asia.
This offer is exclusive to Wendy Wu Tours and must be booked by 14 December.
Learn More2 Dec 2020
Wonderful news - The UK has become the first country in the world to approve the Pfizer/BioNTech coronavirus vaccine for widespread use.
British regulator, the MHRA, says the jab, which offers up to 95% protection against Covid-19 illness, is safe for rollout next week.
Immunisations could start within days for those who need it the most. Around 10m doses should be available soon, with the first 800,000 arriving in the UK in the coming days.
23 Nov 2020
News outlets are reporting that not only is the new vaccine effective, it is far cheaper, and is easier to store and get to every corner of the world than the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines announced last week.
The UK government has pre-ordered 100 million doses of the Oxford vaccine, and AstraZeneca says it will make three billion doses for the world next year.
21 Nov 2020
More great news – from 4am 21st November, the UK government has included Israel and Jerusalem, and Sri Lanka to the list of countries where you will no longer have to self-isolate on arrival in England. adding them to growing list of Wendy Wu favourites:
Country | Our Top Tour |
---|---|
Japan | Japan Uncovered |
Vietnam | Classic Mekong |
Cambodia | Angkor to the Bay |
Laos | Grand Tour of Indochina |
Thailand | Thailand Highlights |
Taiwan | Treasures of Taiwan |
South Korea | Scenic South Korea |
Malaysia | Best of Borneo |
Chile | Chile: Top to Toe |
Sri Lanka | Highlights of Sri Lanka |
Israel & Jerusalem | Ancient Israel |
16 Nov 2020
News of a new vaccine has been released from Moderna in the US with early data showing that it is nearly 95% effective.
The results come hot on the heels of similar results from Pfizer last week and the UK government has ordered 5 million doses.
More great news – from 4am 14th November, the UK government has included Cambodia, Laos and Chile to the list of countries where you will no longer have to self-isolate on arrival in England. adding them to growing list of Wendy Wu favourites:
Country | Our Top Tour |
---|---|
Japan | Japan Uncovered |
Vietnam | Classic Mekong |
Cambodia | Angkor to the Bay |
Laos | Grand Tour of Indochina |
Thailand | Thailand Highlights |
Taiwan | Treasures of Taiwan |
South Korea | Scenic South Korea |
Malaysia | Best of Borneo |
Chile | Chile: Top to Toe |
9 November 2020
Reports in this morning are that the first coronavirus vaccine can prevent more than 90% of people from getting Covid-19.
The developers - Pfizer and BioNTech - described it as a "great day for science and humanity". Their vaccine has been tested on 43,500 people in six countries and no safety concerns have been raised.
The companies plan to apply for emergency approval to use the vaccine by the end of the month.
1 Nov 2021
While many parts of the world are still struggling with the virus, there are many places in the world that are winning the fight.
China, of course is the most well known example, with new infections almost totally confined to imported cases and great strides being made in the developments of treatments and a vaccine.
China and South Korea have shown that we will beat the virus. In the world of Wendy Wu Tours, the countries below are currently the safest with very low rates of new infections which makes us optimistic that we will return to life as normal and be able to enjoy our dream holidays soon. We’ve also included our most popular tour to each destination so you can stop dreaming and start planning!
Country | New Cases** | Our Top Tour |
---|---|---|
China | 53 | Wonders of China |
Japan* | 6,076 | Japan Uncovered |
Vietnam* | 4 | Classic Mekong |
Cambodia* | 2 | Angkor to the Bay |
Thailand* | 305 | Thailand Highlights |
Taiwan* | 3 | Treasures of Taiwan |
Mongolia* | 13 | Mongolia and the Naadam Festival |
Bhutan* | 12 | Himalayan Kingdoms |
Sri Lanka* | 532 | Highlights of Sri Lanka |
Laos* | 0 | Highlights of Laos |
South Korea* | 868 | Scenic South Korea |
Malaysia* | 3,027 | Best of Borneo |
Chile* | 3,693 | Chile: Top to Toe |
Israel* | 7,600 | Ancient Israel |
*On the UK government safe list meaning you will no longer have to self-isolate on arrival in England
**Figures correct as of 8 January 2021
6 Nov 2020
Read our brand new interactive online magazine. Full of wonderful stories from our customers and staff and unique insights into what's hot right now - it's the must read to inspire your travels for 2021 and beyond
Highlights
Plus much much more…
Learn More28 Oct 2020
We are delighted to tell you, for next year we have reserved selected departures of some of our most popular tours exclusively for customers who prefer to share their wonderful holiday experiences with a readymade group of like-minded solo travellers.
Enjoy:
23 October 2020
Your safety and well-being will always be our Number 1 priority and with that in mind we are delighted to offer Staysure's award winning travel insurance with every tour booked by 31 December.
Including COVID-19 cover for cancellations, medical expenses and repatriation if you or a family member are diagnosed with coronavirus, Staysure has been voted the UK’s Best Travel Insurance Provider in the British Travel Awards, four years in a row.
They’ve also got more 5 star reviews on Trustpilot than any other Travel Insurer.
Learn More21 October 2020
The Japanese government is considering opening its borders for foreign tourists in time for the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics next year, according to Economic Revitalisation Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura.
Nishimura said that as the government considers how it should relax strict travel bans on foreign visitors in time for next summer, it will also strengthen its airport quarantine and coronavirus testing measures.
Rumours from sources close to the Japanese government are that such a roadmap may include a trial period which could begin in April 2021.
.8 October 2020
Simply book a group tour to Japan in 2021 or 2022 and your flights are FREE saving you up to £800 per person! This even includes the hugely popular Cherry Blossom and Autumn Leaves seasons.
1 October 2020
Dr. Josef Penninger, a University of British Columbia Life Sciences Institute Director who helped discover an enzyme and develop a drug to stop the spread of SARS more than 20 years ago, is using that knowledge to fight COVID-19.
The promising findings of his first clinical trial of his new treatment were recently released in the Lancet Medical Journal.
The patient, a 45-year-old woman in Vienna who was on a ventilator due to severe COVID-19 symptoms, showed improvement shortly after receiving the drug known as APN01.
In one or two days, the virus disappeared in her blood system and also in her lungs. She developed perfect immunity from the virus.
She is now back home and healthy.
This encouraging news comes on top of a recent WHO report that announced that there are now 7 COVID-19 vaccines in the final stage of trials before approval for general use, including 4 in China which hopes to officially launch the vaccine at the end of December 2020. Read more.
1 October 2020
We’re delighted to tell you that Wendy Wu Tours has been nominated in this year’s Times and Sunday Times Travel Awards!
We’d love your support once again and kindly ask you to please vote for Wendy Wu Tours in this year’s awards. We are shortlisted for Best Specialist Tour Operator
Click here to vote - and for a chance to win one of 8 amazing luxury holidays in Barbados, the Maldives, St Moritz, Tuscany, Mexico, Chicago and Puglia.
20 Sep 2020
Over the next few weeks we’re hosting some very special online events where you can gain a wonderful insight into in our fabulous brochures for 2021 & 2020.
We have some exciting new destinations, new tours and new experiences to tell you about. Just click on the link at 3pm to join
Don't worry if you missed out Just click on the presentation you are interested in to see a recording of the event
26 Sep 2020
Encouraging news from India.
The incredible UNESCO world heritage site had been closed down for visitors since 17th March but has now re-opened. Robust new measures are now in place to ensure everyone's safety including limiting daily visitors to just 5,000. You could expect 70,000 a day pre lockdown!
Order you copy of our new India, Sri Lanka and Bhutan Brochure
17 Sep 2020
More great news - the UK government has included Thailand on the list of countries where you will no longer have to self-isolate on arrival in England adding it to the list of following countries:
Country | Our Top Tour |
---|---|
Japan | Japan Uncovered |
Vietnam | Classic Mekong |
Thailand | Thailand Highlights |
Taiwan | Treasures of Taiwan |
South Korea | Scenic South Korea |
Malaysia | Best of Borneo |
15 Sep 2020
Drumroll please. The prestigious Silver Traveller Awards for 2020 have just been held virtually and the winners announced and we were delighted to win ‘Best Destination Specialist Company’
These awards are voted for by the general public, with over 225,000 voting this year, and recognise the travel companies that have delivered the very best service and most outstanding experiences for the over 50s traveller in the last 12 months.
Thank you to everyone who voted for us and we look forward to making 2021 an award winning year too
14 Sep 2020
Our eagerly anticipated brochures for 2021 and beyond are out now
If you have a hankering to discover incredible new destinations, journey on wonderful new tours and learn about the must see sights and must do experiences for 2021 and 2022, then these are the brochures for you.
Order your copies here or discover what’s new in each edition below.
9 Sep 2020
The Vice President of the International Olympic Committee, John Coates, confirmed that the postponed Tokyo 2020 Olympics will definitely go ahead next year. A resounding endorsement of the influential committee's confidence that the country will be safe in 2021.
He said "These will be the Games that conquered Covid, the light at the end of the tunnel."
7 Sep 2020
We were delighted our Road to Samarkand tour made Wanderlust's shortlist of inspirational trips for 2021 this weekend.
Wanderlust said "The nomads of the Central Asian steppe have long been training golden eagles; to watch these horsemen hunt with their massive, majestic birds, before a backdrop of soaring mountains, is like travelling back millennia."
Experience it for yourself on our Road to Samarkand tour.
Pre-order your copy of our new Central Asia & Middle East brochure here
3 September 2020
We're delighted to offer you our exclusive and exceptional Partner flies Free sale to a host of our favourite destinations. Whether you've always dreamt of exploring Mount Fuji, Angkor Wat, Machu Picchu, the Great Wall of China or the Taj Mahal, now's the time to turn those dreams into reality.
Simply book one of our wonderful fully inclusive tours to Asia or Latin America and your travel partner flies free, saving up to £800 per couple.
Travelling solo? We've got you covered too. Independent travellers also receive a 50% discount off their economy flight, saving up to £400 per person and with our Happy to Share option there are no compulsory single supplements to pay either.
Discover your dream destination with your travel companion or experience the extraordinary on a solo adventure to the following destinations:
Call our travel experts on 0808 274 8594 to book. This offer is not available to book online.
21 August 2020
Your safety and well-being will always be our Number 1 priority which is why we’ve instituted the most stringent Covid health and safety protocols on all of our tours.
Here are some of the many steps we are taking to ensure you will be safe, secure and satisfied when you travel with us.
See our Travel with Confidence page for more information.
Learn More20 August 2020
The World Health Organisation (WHO) have announced that there are now 7 COVID-19 vaccines in Phase 3, the final stage before approval for general use.
The UK, US and Germany have 1 vaccine trial each at Phase 3, whilst the other 4 are all being developed in China.
On March 16, one particular COVID-19 vaccine, developed by Major General Chen Wei and her team, became the first to be approved by China for the first stage of clinical trials, and then the second stage domestically and internationally.
“A large amount of research needs to be done before we start clinical trials so as to minimize risks,” Dr Chen commented. "What you see is that we have one vaccine undergoing clinical trials, but behind that we have about 30 candidates."
The team led by Dr Chen have also announced that it hopes to officially launch the vaccine at the end of December 2020, with an annual output of 200 million doses. An initial dose of the vaccine is anticipated to provide a 97% antibody rate, with a second shot reaching 100%. The cost of the two-dose regime is estimated to be low, at around £130.
The vaccine is also in popular demand for large scale trials in Russia, Saudi Arabia, Brazil and Chile, due to its reputation as a successful vaccine against strands of SARS and Ebola.
Early on in the fight against COVID-19, Dr Chen led a team to Wuhan in the Hubei Province of China to combat the pandemic on the frontline. After arriving in Wuhan, Chen's team started building a portable testing lab, which started operation on January 30. The lab fast achieved a capability of testing 1,000 people per day.
In other news, Russia has recently announced production of a vaccine after having only gone through the 2nd stage of clinical testing, due to the country’s eagerness in controlling the virus.
6 August 2020
Great news - the UK government has included Malaysia on the list of countries where you will no longer have to self-isolate on arrival in England adding it to the list of following countries:
This makes us optimistic that we will return to life as normal and be able to enjoy our dream holidays soon.
28 July 2020
Our favourite travel companion is back! Don’t miss Joanna Lumley’s Unseen Adventures on ITV featuring unseen footage and outtakes from Lumley’s many memorable trips across the globe.
If you’d love to follow in Joanna’s footsteps around the globe read our brand new article.
20 July 2020
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office has changed its advice around the ban on cruise ships, allowing us to now take river cruises.
This is a sensible course of action. River cruise ships, like our very own Victoria Mekong, are far smaller than ocean going liners, carry a fraction of the passengers, and are always in close proximity to the shore, and therefore to local healthcare.
The Victoria Mekong also exclusively cruises a quieter stretch of the Mekong Delta with small group excursions to destinations firmly off the beaten track. Explore the ship
Experience our brand new state of the art ship on our most popular tour of Vietnam and Cambodia Classic Mekong
27 July 2020
When spring arrives in Japan, so does the highly anticipated bloom of the beautiful cherry blossoms. For a brief time the country is awash with delicate, pink blossoms and the whole population celebrates the technicolour arrival of Spring.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year to experience Japan and its fleeting passage make it the most popular time to visit. So we’re delighted to announce our exclusive 2021 Cherry Blossom Sale. Choose from a FREE return Premium Economy upgrade with British Airways, savings of up to £500 or No Single Supplement for solo travellers.
Don’t delay, this offer will be extremely popular and departures are very limited.
15 July 2020
03 July 2020
Great news - the UK government has decreed that from today you will no longer have to self-isolate on arrival in England from the following countries:
This makes us optimistic that we will return to life as normal and be able to enjoy our dream holidays soon.
1 July 2020
We're delighted to announce our Solo Traveller Sale featuring no single supplements for a room of your own on a host of tours to: Japan - Vietnam - China - Cambodia - India - Sri Lanka - Myanmar - Peru - Colombia
This exceptional offer will save you up to £1,790 and what's more even includes free return UK airport chauffeur transfers and lounge access.
Incredibly you can also upgrade to Business Class to Japan or China from just £899 or Premium Economy to India from just £199.
Rooms are limited on every departure and we know from experience this offer will be hugely popular so don't delay.
Learn More30 June 2020
"We were so lucky to go on this holiday, the positives far outweighed the negatives”
"To visit major attractions with so few people is something that can never be matched”
Our customers Lisa & Nick travelled with us through Vietnam & Cambodia at the height of the Coronavirus in March and had a wonderful time. Attractions were so quiet it was like travelling thirty years ago and the warmth of the welcome was incredible. Read their fascinating tale
Lisa and Nick travelled on our Classic Mekong Tour, a glorious adventure starting amongst the magnificence of the temples of Angkor before boarding a three-night deluxe river cruise down the Mekong. Explore vibrant Saigon, charming Hoi An and historic Hanoi and sail the waters of Halong Bay. Explore the tour
28 June 2020
We were delighted to talk to Central Asia expert Bradley Mayhew, co-author of the Odyssey Guide to Uzbekistan, as well as the Lonely Planet guide to Central Asia and the Insight Guide to the Silk Road, on why this region is so close to his heart.
Learn More15 June 2020
Reports from China suggest that they are just about to move into the third phase of clinical testing on a new Coronavirus vaccine developed by a team headed up by Dr Chen Wei - China's top epidemiologist and virologist, building on the knowledge and skills she gained fighting Sars and Ebola.
Employees of state owned companies are volunteering to test the vaccine when travelling overseas – having beaten the virus in China, there are insufficient numbers of cases to test efficacy of the vaccine in China itself.
Work is continuing apace to produce the vaccine once it is finally approved with one high tech factory completed already and another due to open shortly. Together they will have the capacity to produce 200 million vaccines a year.
The Telegraph's Adrian Bridge talks to founder Wendy Wu about the high and lows of over 25 years' tour operating, the impact of the Coronavirus, where she will travel first after lockdown and why Central Asia is going to be the next hot destination.
"China will be one of the safest places on earth. It has made itself a fortress against the virus. Countries like South Korea and Taiwan have also had very few cases and dealt with the virus very effectively"
"Central Asia is like China in the Nineties, little-known and seen as difficult and challenging. As with China, we will make them more mainstream and accessible."
"Where will you go first after this? - One hundred per cent China. This will be a brilliant time to see sights without the crowds. The panda sanctuary in Chengdu, for example, used to get 45,000 visitors a day; now it is restricted to 5,000. It will be like travelling there 35 years ago."
For a great insight into what holidays in China are like right now take a look at this video report about a visit to Chengdu's famous Panda Research Centre
You can see giant pandas for yourself on a number of our tours to China, the two most popular being In Pursuit of Pandas and Majestic Yangtze
Read the full article about how China is getting back to better than normal here
As Wendy mentions, Central Asia is also proving very popular right now. Take a look at our Road to Samarkand and Journey through Central Asia Tours.
If you want to explore two of Asia's undiscovered gems that have both been hugely successful in defeating the Coronavirus, check out our Scenic South Korea and Treasures of Taiwan Tours.
8 June 2020
Read our brand new interactive online magazine. Full of wonderful stories from our customers and staff, incredible special offers and unique insights into what's hot right now - it's the must read to inspire your travels for 2021
Highlights
Plus much much more…
Learn More26 May 2020
Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told the nation on Monday that the "Japan model" has effectively beaten coronavirus as he lifted a nationwide state of emergency after seven weeks.
Mr Abe said the "uniquely Japanese way" in which the country had confronted the pandemic – which, unusually, did not include a strict lockdown – had allowed it to escape the large outbreaks and devastating death tolls seen in several European countries and the United States.
Japan has had about 17,000 confirmed coronavirus cases and just 850 deaths
12 May 2020
" When China unlocks its doors, I think travellers will be rushing back to China because it will be the safest country in the world to visit, free of Covid-19"
" The jewels of their tourism offering have already reopened as the Chinese government deems Covid-19 sufficiently under control. The Great Wall reopened on March 24 and Xian’s terracotta warriors a day later"
" International travellers who head to China when it opens will experience its most famous sights without the crowds"
Read the full article about how China is getting back to better than normal here
We have some fabulous offers for China tours right now saving up to £500pp with our flexible booking guarantee and 12 months free Netflix, Amazon Prime or Audible. See the Sale or start exploring our fabulous choice of China tours here
13 May 2020
The recent re-opening of the Forbidden City is just one high profile example that China’s attractions are opening their doors once again following the country’s defeat of the Coronavirus.
Crowds are so small that it feels like travelling in China 30 years ago. Once we are allowed to travel again, this will be a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience the country in a way that’s not been possible for decades and won’t be the same again in the future.Here's a snapshot of some of most famous attractions that have recently re-opened.
For a great report about what holidays in China are like right now view our video report from Chengdu’s famous Panda Research Centre
1 Apr 2020
Over the next few weeks we're hosting some very special online events where you can take a virtual trip to some of our best-loved destinations.
Our Wendy Wu travel experts will take you on a journey to the must-see attractions, showcase our newest and most popular tours, and will even be there to answer your questions with a live Q&A session! Just click on the link at 3pm to join
Don't worry if you missed out Just click on the presentation you are interested in to see a recording of the event
If you are using a mobile phone or Apple device you will need to download the free Microsoft Teams app.
28 April 2020
Thanks Louise for the insight on your travelling experience with Wendy Wu during the recent Covid disruption.
“Having returned from Vietnam & Cambodia my first tour with Wendy Wu I could not have imagined being away during the outbreak of Covid-19!"
"The tour was amazing, the guides Thang & Sokly were fantastic while we were away and I have never been so well looked after by a company during a very uncertain time !" The places we visited, the things we saw and witnessed will stay with me hopefully for a very long time."
"I would only now tour with Wendy Wu as I feel their service throughout this whole experience was truly professional....I’ve already booked another tour going to Peru and can’t wait to experience more with a company that I trust!”
Learn More28 April 2020
With the Coronovirus almost defeated in China our colleagues there, who are worried about their friends in the UK, have very kindly sent us their supply of brand new face masks. As they are not surgical grade, and therefore not suitable for front-line NHS workers, we would like to share this generous gift with the Wendy Wu community – our wonderful customers. Keep an eye on your inbox in the coming days.
26 April 2020
We are so proud of the wonderful Wendy Wu Tours team who together with friends and family, embarked on a whole host of challenges to raise money for the NHS, MIND and Alzheimer’s over the weekend.
They raised over £2,500 smashing an eclectic variety of activities including, cycling, running, walking, karaoke marathons, marathon relay, wheel barrow runs around the garden, skipping, planks, sit ups, press ups, keep it uppie etc.
15 Apr 2020
15 Apr 2020
As part of our promise to keep you entertained during these uncertain times, we figured this could be the perfect opportunity to test your travel knowledge! The Big Quiz takes you on an adventure around the world from your armchair whilst working your brain along the way! Are you a genius of geography or do your destination facts leave a lot to be desired?
Take The Big Quiz to find out!Click here to take The Big Quiz
We’ll be posting the answers on Facebook soon so make sure you follow us and keep your eyes peeled. You can find us on Facebook here.
23 Mar 2020
Our customers’ safety and wellbeing is our number one priority, therefore effective from 23 March, Wendy Wu Tours is deferring tours and tailormade holidays until after 31 May 2020. If you have booked a group tour or tailor-made holiday departing between 23 March and 31 May 2020 you will receive a travel credit of 100% of monies paid, for you to use towards an alternative holiday with a departure date before 31 December 2021.
We are happy to amend your booking free of charge to a departure later in 2020 or in 2021. Airfares held in credit are bound by different terms and conditions and we will be in contact to discuss these options with you, should they apply.
We have been working hard behind the scenes negotiating the best rates for your next holiday and we are seeing strong demand already for 2021 holidays which will be bookable at 2020 prices with us.
Please note - our operations team are extremely busy calling all passengers, in departure date order, to discuss travel options.
Please do not call us unless you are due to travel in the next 5 days.
Learn More19 Feb 2020
Wendy is invited by the BBC to speak on BBC1 News, BBC World News and BBC News Channel about the impact of coronavirus on the tourism industry.
Hear how Wendy Wu Tours are responding to this, the measures China are taking to beat the virus and reopen its doors again for tourism.
15 Jan 2020
Results are in, Wendy Wu Tours have won ‘Best Long-Haul Specialist Operator’ at the Globe Travel Awards for the 10th year running.
Nominated by travel agents throughout the UK and Ireland, Wendy Wu and her team are thrilled to have remained the number one choice for specialist tours.
Learn More02 Jan 2020
We recently posted a series of polls on our Facebook Page where you all voted for your favourite extraordinary experience for 2020, and here are the results.
Learn More11 Dec 2019
The newest and greenest ship on the Mekong sets sail on her maiden voyage today. Offering an authentic insight into a little visited stretch of the delta, combined with four star comfort and superior service she'll offer unforgettable voyages between the green landscapes of Vietnam and Cambodia's enchanting capital Phnom Penh.
Learn More10 Dec 2019
We are delighted to be attending the Destinations Holiday and Travel show in Manchester from 16-19 Jan and London from 30 jan - 2 Feb.
Packed with cultural entertainment, world flavours, travel celebrities and more – the Wendy Wu Tours Team will also be on hand to chat to you about your travel dreams.
28 Nov 2019
"We're so excited to announce the launch of our new 'Sichuan & Yangtze Delights' tour.
Discover spectacular national parks, ancient rock carvings, adorable pandas and the mouth-watering cuisine the region is famous for before embarking on a magnificent journey on to China’s iconic highlights.
You’ll also be able to benefit from our brand new hassle-free China Visa."
Learn More