Wild China Presents – In The Footsteps of Wallis Simpson with Paul French – Sept 7-16 2025….

Posted: December 26th, 2024 | No Comments »

Wild China are excited to introduce our new expert-led journey through China, guided by New York Times bestselling author and award-winning historian, Paul French. Known for his books “Midnight in Peking” and “City of Devils”, Paul brings a unique and insightful perspective on 1920s China. In his most recent book, “Her Lotus Year: China, the Roaring Twenties and the Making of Wallis Simpson”, Paul brings Wallis Simpson’s time in China to life in vivid and unexpected ways.

In the 1920s, a young Wallis Simpson arrived in China, long before the world would know her as the Duchess of Windsor. She described her time there as her “Lotus Year,” a period clouded by rumors and the beginnings of her infamous reputation. Paul French’s book offers a fresh perspective, unveiling new insights into this mysterious chapter of her life.

This rare itinerary, inspired by Paul French’s books, traces Wallis Simpson’s “Lotus Year” while unraveling the mysteries of colonial Peking and the timeless allure of Shanghai’s Art Deco era.

Journey highlights:

🔸Stepping back into the 1920’s footsteps of Wallis Simpson in Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, and Guangzhou
🔸Staying in some of China’s most iconic 20th century hotels, many of which Wallis Simpson stayed in herself a century ago
🔸Immersing in two of French’s other books with exclusive Paul French-led walking tours in Shanghai (Bloody Saturday) and Beijing (Midnight in Peking)

This is not simply a trip through China—it’s an exploration of character, culture, and the unexpected connections that define a place and a life. For those who seek depth, elegance, and the thrill of discovery, this journey is an invitation to see China—and Wallis—in a way few ever have.

Ready to see the full itinerary? Learn more click here

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