Wednesday, April 2
Beijing, China
Beijing’s long and illustrious history started some 500,000 years ago. It is here that the ancestors of modern Homo sapiens, Peking men, lived in caves. Records show that Beijing has been an inhabited city for more than three thousand years. It has endured invasions by warlords, foreign powers, devastating fires, the rise and fall of several imperial dynasties, and has emerged each time as a strong and vibrant city. Thirty-four emperors have ruled the nation from Beijing, the capital of the present-day People’s Republic of China. The city has served as a strategic regional trading and military center. It is not only the nation’s political center, but also its cultural, scientific, and educational heart as well as a key transportation hub. The city has served as a capital of the country for more than 800 years. Though rich in tradition, strolling around Beijing, you’ll find it has much in common with other great metropolises of today’s world. Nowhere else will you find such a variety of gourmet Chinese restaurants offering the very best of the eight different styles of Chinese cuisine as well as Western-style dishes.

Thursday, April 3
Dalian, China

The world’s powers have been wrestling over the city of Dalian for over a century. In 1895, Japan laid claim to Dalian. A few years later, the Russians took over. In 1905, Japan gained it back. After World War II, the Soviet Union occupied the city for ten years before leaving on friendly terms. Once you visit Dalian, you will understand what all the fuss is about. It is a large, clean, modern city with a perfect location on the Yellow Sea. Scenic beaches beckon from just outside of town; annual festivals celebrate high fashion and the lotus flower; seafood is plentiful and delicious; and the national pastime, soccer, is followed with a passion.

Friday, April 4
Seminars-at-Sea
Enjoy the many and varied amenities of the Crystal Symphony as we begin our in-depth seminar sessions. Exercise your mind during thought-provoking seminar sessions while meeting like-minded people in a relaxed but elegant atmosphere.

Saturday-Sunday, April 5-6
Shanghai, China

Situated on the banks of the Yangtze River Delta in East China, Shanghai is the largest industrial city in China and the eighth-largest in the world. Originally a seaside village, today’s Shanghai is a multicultural metropolis with both modern and traditional Chinese features. Widely regarded as the citadel of China’s modern economy, the city also serves as one of the most important commerical, financial, industrial, and communications centers of China. Known as “the Oriental Paris,” Shanghai is a shopper’s paradise. The city offers a plethora of culinary delights, and its restaurants are among the finest to be found in China. Shanghai’s skyscrapers and modern lifestyle mark the pinnacle of
China’s recent economic development.

Monday, April 7
Seminars-at-Sea
Stroll the pristine decks of the Crystal Symphony or relax and unwind in the luxurious 3,000- square-foot spa and salon with ocean views. Once you’ve attended your in-depth seminar-at-sea, learn to tango with a dance instructor or simply sip a cappuccino and let the world float by.

Tuesday-Wednesday, April 8-9
Osaka, Japan

Osaka was the center of Japanese commerce, especially in the middle and premodern ages when Chinese merchants brought goods, new knowledge, technology, and culture, all of which filtered into Japan through the bustling port of Osaka. Known for bunraku (traditional puppet theater) and kabuki theater, the city is dedicated to raising its profile as an international cultural center by promoting artistic, academic, and sports activities, and enriching them through cultural exchanges with the rest of the world. Osaka-jo, the handsomely renovated castle, dominates Osaka’s heart just as it did centuries ago. Visitors will enjoy mingling with the Osakans and their bustling energy, happy, and outgoing nature.

Thursday-Friday, April 10-11
Seminars-at-Sea
Two glorious days at sea give you a few more chances to enjoy the ship’s luxurious amenities and relax in between seminar events. We’ll put it all together for you so that you’ll go home not only relaxed and joyous, but ready to meet—and conquer—the financial challenges of the year ahead.

Saturday-Monday, April 12-14
Hong Kong, China

Hong Kong is an extraordinary, complex territory of seven million people that remains rich in the culture of its Chinese roots. As Hong Kong rapidly industrialized, its economy became driven by exports to international markets. The economy gradually became increasingly dominant in the financial and banking sectors. Soaring skyscrapered Hong Kong Island, across the harbor from Kowloon, is one of the most stunning panoramas on earth. The bustling city streets are lined with teeming markets and sophisticated boutiques tucked tightly in every available crevice. Whether your time is spent indulging in the endless shopping possibilities, or savoring culinary delicacies, enjoy the sheer energy of its street and commercial life. Experience the distinctive blend of East and West in this dynamic city, where you’ll discover the diversity and sophistication that is Hong Kong.