Cruzeiro 5D4N pelo Rio Yangtze: Yichang para Chongqing pelo Yangzi Explorer

we boarded on 3/29 for a 4 night trip on this fabulous ship that allowed to experience the Three Gorges Dam Shiplift (only a small boat like this one can do this). That alone was amazing. Beyond that we passed the Xiling, Wu and Qutang Gorges. The scenery got better and better.One excursion choice took us to the Yuxian Valley which brought us to the Wuyuan Caves (not to be missed). Gigantic Caves - some of it is unexplored - which allowed to glide along on an old wooden boat. It was magical, especially as one guide began to sing an old folksong. On another day we went to the summit of the Three Gorges. A hike to the last platform offered spectacular views of the merging rivers. Day # 3 was an excursion to the Xituo a historic town known for its thousand year old history as a salt trading hub. .. and a group demonstrated for us how men carried 100lb bags up/down the hill. The uneven steps (about 1,200 of them) were a major challenge that I wouldn't care to tackle again. Never attempt this on a rainy day even though you're going down. About 1/2 way down we were treated to a water dragon performance by locals that was fun. The ship and cabins are wonderful with private balcony. About 120 people; maybe less. Very nice buffets; a couple of a la carte dinners (I didn't like either choice). The staff is lovely but speaks very little English. Various events on the ship: dancing lessons, a snuff bottle painting demo, Sichuan Silk embroidery and a performance we didn't understand a word of. On deck we would listen to a guide who told us about we could see in English and Chinese. On 4/2 we disembarked in Chongqing; just getting up the street level is over 100 steps. Bong bong carriers got our luggage to the bus. These guys load them up on bamboo stalks. They must be incredibly strong.