Join ARCHIE for the trip of a lifetime on our China Trek
People in the Highlands are being encouraged to take part in a ‘once in a lifetime’ experience to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, all in aid for sick local children.
The ARCHIE Foundation is preparing its second China Trek exploring the Great Wall, following the success of its 2018 adventure when over £35,000 was raised.
Participants will join the charity on the 8th of May 2020, for a six-day tour of the ancient monument, starting at the historic Huangyaguan section of the wall before the group makes its way to Beijing, sampling the finest local cuisine and culture along the way.
Emily Findlay, Fundraising Officer for ARCHIE, is organising this year’s trek. She is urging people from all areas of the Highlands to get involved.
‘The ARCHIE Foundation helped my family hugely throughout my own illness.
‘Almost everyone in the Highlands knows a child that has been cared for in the Highland Children’s Unit. Every child that walks through the door is helped by ARCHIE in some way.’
Aside from the colourful and playful spaces for the children, ARCHIE has made a tremendous difference to so many lives through emergency funding, travel and accommodation; specialist staff, training, and equipment; and tailor-made or sensory toys for differently-abled children.
‘I’d love to see lots of local people get involved. It really will be an amazing adventure!’
Those keen to take part have to pay a £299 booking fee to secure their slot on the dream trip, and then can either fundraise the remainder of the money or they can self-fund the whole trip, with the proceeds raised going towards ARCHIE Highland.
The cost includes return flights from Aberdeen, meals and drinking water on the trek, accommodation and tours in and around Beijing and much more.
Although catered for and guided by highly-experience crew members, participants shouldn’t expect an easy-going holiday.
Amanda Aitken, from Aberdeen, was part of last year’s group. She said the experience, although tough in parts, was well worth it.
‘I’m really quite scared of heights so that was my big challenge at times, but the trek took me out my comfort zone and pushed me.
‘The trip last year was amazing, having a group all there for the same charity was great. The walking was challenging in parts but the amazing views and scenery around more than made it worthwhile.
‘It’s a once in lifetime opportunity and could not recommend it enough. Experiencing the culture, food and just being on the wall itself was incredible.
‘Our Chinese tour guide was excellent throughout and really helped us understand more about the country itself. Everyone that went was put groups or with partners so I didn’t feel in my own at any time.’
Anyone interested in the trek can find more information or sign up by emailing, emily.findlay@archie.org
