Welcome to China - my home country! I think the best way to go is by private guided tour, so you don't have to worry what kind of group you get stuck with. If you go with one of the prepackaged tours then you will be put in with a group of strangers. With a private tour you will have your own private guide and car. You can have more interaction with the guide directly instead of waiting for your turn in the group; and most important you will get more flexibility with your pace of sightseeing and photo stops. And private tours are still very reasonable in China so you don't have to be rich to afford one. So definitely go with the private guide! Actually 2 weeks is on average what most people spend in China. Definitely you should visit Beijing - the capital of China, the show case city for the 2008 Olympics, and my hometown:-). Of course, that is the best city to enjoy the Great Wall. The second city would be Xi'an- the most historical city in China, where you will experience the 2000 years old Terra Cotta Warriors. The third city is Guilin - the most beautiful city in China! When you see Guilin, you will totally understand what has inspired thousands of Chinese artists over the ages to create such beautiful paintings! Then end the tour in Shanghai - the future of China, the glamorous metropolis! That should make a perfect 2 week vacation to China, You will get to see the major highlights, but still have plenty left to see on your future visits (you will want to go back!). China is such an amazing country! If you have any more questions I would be glad to answer them; please feel free to contact me through our website at http://www.jiasdreamtours.com.