{"id":885,"date":"2023-03-27T15:58:53","date_gmt":"2023-03-27T19:58:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/usa.marathontours.com\/events\/bhutan-thunder-dragon-marathon-and-half-marathon-2\/"},"modified":"2026-05-20T17:14:33","modified_gmt":"2026-05-20T21:14:33","slug":"dragon-challenge-china-and-bhutan","status":"publish","type":"events","link":"https:\/\/marathontours.com\/en-us\/events\/dragon-challenge-china-and-bhutan\/","title":{"rendered":"The Dragon Challenge &#8211; China &amp; Bhutan"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":0,"template":"","event_types":[106,104,101],"event_locations":[18],"event_distances":[11,12],"event_course_types":[16],"event_seasons":[27],"class_list":["post-885","events","type-events","status-publish","hentry","event_types-half-marathon","event_types-marathon","event_types-trail","event_locations-asia","event_distances-half-marathon","event_distances-marathon","event_course_types-trail-remote","event_seasons-spring"],"acf":{"event_hero_image":1605,"event_logo":"","event_logo_background":{"enable":false,"background_colour":"#ffcccc"},"event_status":"off_sale","event_status_labels_available":"book-now","event_status_labels_waitlist":"available-soon","event_status_labels_off_sale":"sold-out","event_waitlist_button":{"link_option":"external","":null,"external_link":{"title":"Available Soon","url":"mailto:ann@marathontours.com","target":"_blank"}},"event_additional_buttons":null,"event_book_button":{"link_option":"external","":null,"external_link":{"title":"Book Now","url":"https:\/\/forms.marathontours.com\/booking?tc=TDC","target":"_blank"}},"event_extra_button":"","event_overview":"<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><em>If you have questions regarding Marathon Tours &amp; Travel's Dragon Challenge Package please: <a class=\"Button\" href=\"mailto:ann.haebler@marathontours.com?subject=Dragon%20Challenge&amp;body=Dear%20Ann%2C%0A%0A\" data-cke-saved-href=\"mailto:ann@marathontours.com?subject=Dragon%20Challenge&amp;body=Dear%20Ann%2C%0A%0A\">EMAIL OUR TRIP DESIGNER<\/a>\u00a0or\u00a0<a class=\"Button\" href=\"tel:6172427845\" data-cke-saved-href=\"tel:6172427845\">CALL 617-242-7845<\/a><\/em><\/p>\r\nMake it a tour of a life-time by combining China\u00a0and\u00a0Bhutan!\u00a0Compare two historic\u00a0cultures, from the bustle of China to the quiet tranquility of Bhutan.\r\n\r\n<strong>The Great Wall Marathon and Half-Marathon<\/strong>\u00a0is widely considered one of the world's most challenging marathons.\u00a0Despite the arduous course on the iconic Great Wall of China, runners will be rewarded by the breathtaking surroundings and views. As the route leads participants through the lower valley and into the villages, onlookers will be cheering and the festive atmosphere is a real energy boost!\r\n\r\n<strong>The Thunder Dragon Marathon and Half-Marathon<\/strong>\u00a0highlight\u00a0all of the aspects of Bhutan that make it so special. Running through the beautiful Paro Valley, the route takes in fantastic mountain scenery and features many iconic landmarks, such as the Taktsang Monastery (also known as Tigers Nest), Paro Dzong and many religious Chorten or shrines. It is a true Himalayan mountain and cultural experience.\r\n\r\n<strong>The Dragon Challenge\u00a0 is two (2) challenging races separated by 1800 miles and eight (8) days!<\/strong>","event_overview_button":"","event_feature_icons":null,"event_features":{"meals_included":{"detail":"Meals as outlined on the Itinerary","title":"Meals Included"},"guide":{"title":"Guide","detail":"English-speaking guides"},"transfers":{"detail":"Airport transfers included ","title":"Transfers"},"trip_extension":{"title":"Trip Extension","detail":""},"accommodation":{"title":"Accommodation","detail":"Excellent accommodation options "},"entry":{"title":"Entry","detail":""},"celebration_party":{"detail":"","title":"Celebration Party"},"excursions":{"title":"Excursions","detail":"Guided tours per the Itinerary"},"helping_hand":{"title":"A Helping Hand","detail":"Services of Marathon &amp; Travel staff"},"worldwide_events":{"title":"Worldwide Events","detail":"Travel 1800 miles in eight days"},"medal_bling":{"title":"Medal Bling","detail":"Earn the Dragon Challenge Medal!"}},"event_gallery":[{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":1322},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":328},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_video","youtube_video":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=xHTcqiqjPUk"},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":1323},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":1320},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":1324}],"event_packages":[{"package_title":"The Dragon Challenge","package_duration":"13 Nights","package_dates":"May 13 - 26, 2026","package_days":[{"day_title":"Wednesday, May 13","day_content":"<em>(Note: this package is hosted by Marathon Tours &amp; Travel staff with a minimum of 10 participants)<\/em>\r\n\r\nArrive at Beijing International Airport (PEK) between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. \u00a0Scheduled\u00a0transfers to The Kempinski Hotel will be provided during these times. \u00a0If\u00a0your flight does not correspond to the transfers included,\u00a0a\u00a0private\u00a0transfer\u00a0can be\u00a0booked\u00a0at\u00a0additional\u00a0cost. This evening, enjoy a welcome cocktail reception at the hotel."},{"day_title":"Thursday, May 14","day_content":"Following breakfast, we will travel to the Great Wall for a mandatory inspection of the\u00a0on-Wall route. Both runners and spectators will visit the Great Wall and receive race details. All runners must walk\u00a0the 3.5\u00a0km of the wall, which is part of the Great Wall Marathon course.\u202f It is\u00a0very important\u00a0to familiarize yourself with that specific section to take proper precautions and incorporate it into your race strategy. Non-runners may\u00a0participate\u00a0in this strenuous walk (good physical condition is\u00a0required).\u202f<em>(Breakfast and lunch included)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday, May 15","day_content":"This morning you will enjoy a behind-the-scenes view of Hutong, the old city of Beijing. You will travel the ancient alleyways via three-wheeled bicycle rickshaws. We then travel to the Summer Palace for a tour of the\u00a0man-made\u00a0lake followed by lunch &amp; some shopping. We will return to the hotel early enough to allow you to rest before race day.\u00a0\u00a0Tonight, we will gather at the hotel for a pre-race pasta dinner.\u00a0<em>(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday, May 16","day_content":"<strong>RACE DAY!\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>It will be an early morning departure for the Great Wall Marathon, Half-Marathon, and 8.5K fun run.\u00a0\u00a0A boxed breakfast will be provided upon departure and\u00a0lunch\u00a0from Subway is available after the race.\u00a0\u00a0You will also\u00a0have the opportunity to\u00a0get a massage! Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own.\u00a0<em>(Breakfast and lunch included)<\/em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;"},{"day_title":"Sunday, May 17","day_content":"After breakfast we will take a bus to Tiananmen Square, the largest square in the world. We will walk through the square from the south to the north, passing\u00a0Chairman\u00a0Mao\u2019s Mausoleum.\u00a0\u00a0Next is the Imperial Palace and the Forbidden City, one of China\u2019s architectural masterpieces.\u00a0\u00a0Entry to the city was forbidden to the common people until the early 1900\u2019s. We will have lunch in a local restaurant before returning to the hotel for the Gala Dinner.\u00a0<em>(Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, May 18","day_content":"After breakfast we will transfer to the airport for our flight to Bangkok. Arrive in Bangkok and transfer to the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport hotel. <em>(Breakfast and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Tuesday, May 19","day_content":"We will have an early morning flight to Paro, Bhutan. Drive to Punakha via Dochu La Pass (approx 2 1\/2 hours). Afternoon sightseeing in Punakha; visit the Devine Mad Monks Temple (Temple of Fertility) and the remarkable Punakha Dzong, past home to the King of Bhutan. Overnight Punakha. <em>(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Wednesday, May 20","day_content":"Today we start our acclimatization activity with a hike Soela Gompa via Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten. The recommended hike is approximately 20km with a high degree of difficulty (elevation gain and altitude) and will take approximately eight (8) hours. This will definitely provide you with a beautiful Himalayan trekking experience and bragging rights. An option to return after visiting the Chorten for a shorter hike can be arranged. Overnight in Punakha. <em>(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;"},{"day_title":"Thursday, May 21","day_content":"Drive to the Capital City Thimphu (2 1\/2hrs). Hike up to Buddha Point and the giant seated Buddha, the Takin Reserve (National animal), Thimphu Dzong, postal museum, and craft workshops.\u00a0 Overnight Thimphu. (<em>Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included<\/em>)"},{"day_title":"Friday, May 22","day_content":"After an early breakfast dive back to Paro and hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tigers Nest) 6hrs. On the way back, visit Kichu Lhakhang Monastery. Overnight Paro.\u00a0 (<em>Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included<\/em>)"},{"day_title":"Saturday, May 23","day_content":"Free time for shopping in Paro. Race day briefing. <em>(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, May 24","day_content":"<strong>Thunder Dragon Marathon and Half-Marathon RACE DAY!<\/strong>\r\n\r\nEarly breakfast before the 8:00 am start of both races. Celebration dinner and Cultural show at a local hotel. Overnight Paro.\u00a0<em>(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, May 25","day_content":"We will enjoy a final day in Paro before a late afternoon transfer to the airport for our flight to Bangkok. Arrive in Bangkok late in the evening and transfer to the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport hotel.\u00a0<em>(Breakfast and lunch included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Tuesday, May 26","day_content":"Depart for home or continue your tour of Asia. <em>(Breakfast included)<\/em>\r\n\r\n<em>(Itinerary subject to change)<\/em>"}]}],"event_extensions":"","event_extensions_packages":null,"event_packages_and_rates":"<h3>The Dragon Challenge Tour | Thirteen-Night Package: May 13 - 26, 2026<\/h3>\r\n<strong>China Features:<\/strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Five night accommodation at the Kempinski Beijing<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Buffet breakfast daily<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Lunch and dinner most days per itinerary<\/li>\r\n \t<li>All hotel taxes<\/li>\r\n \t<li>All current airport taxes and surcharges<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Roundtrip airport transfers (during schedule days and times)<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Tours per the itinerary with English-speaking guides<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Tips for guides and drivers<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Admission and fees for activities on the itinerary<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Guaranteed entry into the Great Wall Marathon or Half-Marathon<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Pre-race pasta dinner<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Post-race massage<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Post-race celebration dinner<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Services of Marathon Tours &amp; Travel Staff<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<strong>Thailand Features:<\/strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Flight from Beijing to Bangkok Thailand<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Two night accommodation at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Meals as outlined on the itinerary<\/li>\r\n \t<li>All hotel taxes<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Airport transfers\u00a0(walk or hotel shuttle)<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Services of Marathon &amp; Travel Staff<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<strong>Bhutan Features:<\/strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Bhutan Travel Visa<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Roundtrip flight from Bangkok to Paro Bhutan<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Airport transfers<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span class=\"ui-provider a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z ab ac ae af ag ah ai aj ak\" dir=\"ltr\">Six night\u2019s accommodation in Bhutan (Punakha, Thimphu, and Paro)<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li>Meals as outlined on the itinerary<\/li>\r\n \t<li>All hotel taxes<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Tours per the itinerary with English-speaking guides<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Admission and fees for activities on the itinerary<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Tips for guides and drivers<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Guaranteed entry into the Thunder Dragon Marathon or Half-Marathon<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Post-race celebration dinner<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Services of Marathon &amp; Travel Staff<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<strong>Additional Features:\u200b<\/strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>A unique Dragon Challenge finisher medal and finisher shirt.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<strong>Not Included:<\/strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Incidentals<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Travel Insurance<\/li>\r\n \t<li>International flights from home airport to China<\/li>\r\n \t<li>China Visa<\/li>\r\n \t<li>International flights from Thailand to home airport<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<strong>Important:<\/strong>\r\n\r\nYour passport should be valid for six (6) months after your last expected day in China. You should have at least two full pages available in your passport.\u00a0\u00a0A China Tourist Visa is required of all travelers to China. Approval of the China Visa is not guaranteed.\r\n<h4>Travel Insurance<\/h4>\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelguard.com\/agentlink.asp?pcode=&amp;ta_arc=22850085&amp;agencyemail=info@marathontours.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Travel Insurance for U.S. Residents<\/a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelguard.ca\/home\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Travel Insurance for Canadian Residents<\/a>\r\n<h3><strong>2026 Rates (all prices are per person in US dollars)<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n<\/div>","event_packages_and_rates_table":{"acftf":{"v":"1.3.30"},"p":{"o":{"uh":1},"ca":""},"c":[{"p":""},{"p":""},{"p":""}],"h":[{"c":"Package"},{"c":"Double Occupancy"},{"c":"Single Occupancy"}],"b":[[{"c":"Thirteen-Night \"Dragon Challenge\" Package"},{"c":"$9865 per person"},{"c":"$11,700"}]]},"event_rates_tables":null,"event_hotels":[{"hotel_images":[12111,12112,12113,12114,12115],"hotel_location":"Beijing, China","hotel_title":"Kempinski Hotel Beijing Yansha Center","hotel_details":"Located in the diplomatic district of Chaoyang, the hotel boasts timeless European style with a rich Chinese cultural history. As the first Kempinski hotel in China, Kempinski Hotel Beijing Yansha Center blends timeless European style with rich Chinese cultural history to create a true Chinese experience travelers. With more than six different restaurants and bars, YouYi shopping center, two private gardens, and easy transportation access points to some of Beijing's most iconic and monumental scenes, Kempinski Hotel Beijing Yansha Center is Beijing's portal into China.","hotel_link":"https:\/\/www.kempinski.com\/en\/hotel-yansha-center"},{"hotel_images":[12101,12102,12103],"hotel_location":"Bangkok, Thailand","hotel_title":"Hyatt Regency Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport","hotel_details":"Designed with an intriguing Thai influence and a complete understanding of guests\u2019 needs. Hyatt is situated right next to the airport terminal. A leisurely five (5) minute stroll via the air-conditioned underground walkway or a short ride in the complimentary airport shuttle van service. With an abundance of facilities that include seven (7) restaurants and bars, VOUS Spa, a swimming pool surrounded in tropical gardens with pool bar, well equipped fitness center with sauna and steam-room it is the perfect place to recharge.","hotel_link":"https:\/\/www.hyatt.com\/hyatt-regency\/en-US\/bkkrb-hyatt-regency-bangkok-suvarnabhumi-airport"}],"event_information":"<h3>The\u00a0Dragon Challenge\u00a0participants will receive the following:<\/h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Your entry into the 2026 Great Wall Marathon or Half-Marathon, finisher medal and race shirt.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Your entry into the 2026 Thunder Dragon Marathon or Half-Marathon, finisher medal and race shirt.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The Dragon Challenge unique finisher medal and finisher shirt.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The Dragon Challenge awards will be presented at the Thunder Dragon celebration dinner to the top male and female participants based on their combined Great Wall and Thunder Dragon times.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3>The Great Wall Marathon &amp; Half-Marathon:<\/h3>\r\n<strong>Race Date:<\/strong> \u00a0May 16, 2026\r\n\r\n<strong>Race Time:<\/strong> \u00a07:30 AM\r\n\r\n<strong>Course:\u00a0<\/strong>This demanding course includes 5,164 steps on the Great Wall at Huangyaguan, which includes steep up and down portions. \u00a0More than six (6) kilometers of the full marathon are run on the Great Wall. All other races are on the Great Wall for about three (3) kilometers. \u00a0Most of the course runs through the small farmlands and villages of Tianjin Province. Many runners\/walkers opt to carry a camera during their event and not be concerned about their finish time. For many, this is an experience of a lifetime, not a race!\r\n\r\n<strong>Temperature:\u00a0<\/strong>Expected temperatures range from 80F to 90F degrees. Humidity is high while running in the valleys.\r\n\r\n<strong>Entry Fee:\u00a0<\/strong>All tour packages include the race entry fee, pre-race inspection tour of the course, race t-shirt, pasta dinner, transportation from your hotel to the start, return transportation back to your hotel and a sandwich lunch after the race. This must be paid by runners and non-runners alike. Your entry is guaranteed after receipt of a completed tour application form and deposit by check.\r\n\r\n<strong>Time Limit:\u00a0<\/strong>The course time limit is eight (8) hours. There is also a six (6) hour cut-off at 34K for the Marathon. Runners must reach this point within six hours in order to continue.\r\n\r\n<strong>Difficulty:\u00a0<\/strong>Difficult. The wall section consists of steps of varying height, width and some steps are made of brick. Extra precaution should be taken when running this part. A few places on the wall section see no steps at all, but instead a ramp of rocks and concrete. These ramps can be slippery and extra attention must be paid to your footing! In some of the villages the surface is gravel and dirt roads. More information on Race website\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/great-wall-marathon.com\/race-info\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.\r\n<h3>The Thunder Dragon Marathon &amp;\u00a0Half-Marathon<\/h3>\r\n<strong>Race Date: <\/strong>\u00a0May 24, 2026\r\n\r\n<strong>Race Time: <\/strong>\u00a08:00 AM\r\n\r\n<strong>Course:\u00a0<\/strong>The race route starts at Udumwara, underneath the cliff that the Tiger\u2019s Nest is built on. The route is approx. half road surface and half farm trails, on the full marathon there is a 4km section of single track.\u00a0The first 8km are on road surfaces and slightly downhill alongside the Paro Chu (river). At 8km the half marathon splits off to the right and makes its way up and behind Paro Dzong (Fort). The full marathon carries straight on with a long and gradual climb alongside the Wang Chu (river) on farm tracks above rice fields.\r\n\r\nAt 18km the marathon route crosses the river and returns towards Paro on the other side on a gentle downhill gradient to 25km. Here, the route has the toughest climb, for about 4km on road, rising above the Paro National Museum, then on single track for 1km to the highest point of the race at 2.560m.\r\n\r\nDropping back down to the Paro Chu the marathon and half marathon re-join beneath Paro Dzong to cross the famous wooden bridge. The last 10km for both distances are on a gradual but long uphill climb on a mix of road and wide farm track, rising above Paro Chu, with views of the river and rice fields, before dropping into the finish back at Udumwara.\r\n\r\nThe total height gain on the marathon is 995m and for the half 450m. The altitude at the start is 2.400m and the lowest point, in Paro Town, is 2,200.\r\n\r\n<strong>Temperature:\u00a0<\/strong>Expected temperatures range from 60F to 70F degrees. Humidity is comfortable in May and light rain is a possibility.\r\n\r\n<strong>Entry Fee:\u00a0<\/strong>All tour packages include the race entry fee, race t-shirt, pre-race pasta dinner, finisher medal and post-race celebration dinner. Your entry is guaranteed after receipt of a completed tour application form and deposit by check.\r\n\r\n<strong>Time Limit:\u00a0<\/strong>The Marathon course time limit is eight (8) hours. \u00a0There is no time limit for the Half Marathon.\r\n\r\n<strong>Difficulty:\u00a0<\/strong>Difficult, if you do not have experience running at altitude and \/ or on hilly course that include some single track trail with steep descents. More information on Race website\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.thunderdragonmarathon.com\/raceinfo.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.","event_information_table":null,"event_registration_and_booking":"<strong>Rates:\u00a0<\/strong>All prices are based on current exchange rates may change due to currency fluctuations.\r\n\r\n<strong>Race entry:<\/strong> Guaranteed entry is included in the package cost. There is a limit of two (2) entries per room reservation.\r\n\r\n<strong>Reservations and Payments:\u00a0<\/strong>A completed tour application together with an initial non-refundable deposit of $1200 per person must be received before confirming your reservations. Final payment is due on or before January 15, 2026.\r\n\r\n<strong>Cancellations:\u00a0<\/strong>The initial deposit of $1200 for the Dragon Challenge package is non-refundable. No refund applies to cancellations after January 15, 2026.\r\n\r\n<strong>Not included in price:\u00a0<\/strong>All items not specifically listed under package features.\r\n\r\n<strong>Insurance:\u00a0<\/strong>For your protection, trip cancellation, baggage, health and accident insurance is highly recommended for all participants. However, no representation or description of the insurance made by our staff constitutes a binding assurance or promise about the insurance.\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelguard.com\/agentlink.asp?pcode=&amp;ta_arc=22850085&amp;agencyemail=info@marathontours.com\">Travel Insurance for U.S. Residents<\/a>\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelguard.ca\/home\">Travel Insurance for Canadian Residents<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Security Policy:\u00a0<\/strong>Marathon Tours &amp; Travel's security policy requires that anyone staying in our room block must be registered as part of our package. If a registered client attempts to house a non-registered guest and \/or invite them to attend any of our scheduled activities, the registered guest\u2019s tour package will be forfeited and parties may be denied access to future tours. Please note that no exceptions will be made as this policy will be strictly enforced.<\/p>\r\n<strong>Responsibility:\u00a0<\/strong>These tours are operated by Marathon Tours, Inc. of Chelsea, MA who acts only as an agent for the passenger to the companies offering such services and assumes no liability for injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity caused by any reason whatsoever by any party offering such services. All terms and conditions offered are governed by the laws of Massachusetts. The right is reserved to cancel the tour prior to departure with a refund, less applicable credit card and processing fees, made as full settlement to the passenger. The right is reserved by Marathon Tours, Inc. to deny acceptance of a booking application by any person. Marathon Tours, Inc. may make any changes or alterations in the itinerary as it deems necessary for the proper handling of the tour. The sole responsibility of any airline used is limited to that set out in the passenger contract evidenced by the ticket. The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time that the passengers are not on board their aircraft.","event_seven_continents_club_option":false,"event_seven_continents_club":"","custom_section_title":"","custom_media_text_block":{"content":"","media_type":"image","media_alignment":"right","media_image":"","media_video":null},"custom_section_title_2":"","custom_media_text_block_2":{"content":"","media_type":"image","media_alignment":"left","media_image":"","media_video":null},"event_testimonials":[{"title":"\"The Race Courses were hard but great...\" - 2019","testimonial":"The Race Courses were hard but great. Was impressed that ALL THE UPHILLS WERE ON THE COURSE!","author":""},{"title":"\"Great group of travelers...\" - 2019","testimonial":"Great group of travelers, great hosts and guides.","author":""},{"title":"\"Loved the course...\" - 2018","testimonial":"Loved the course... It was difficult but so so so enjoyable... The scenery was spectacular... The single track was FUN! Course markings were excellent, rest stops plentiful.","author":""},{"title":"\"Overall, the Great Wall marathon and experience was absolutely life changing...\" - 2018","testimonial":"Overall, the Great Wall marathon and experience was absolutely life changing. Before this trip my option and understanding of China was not at all what I saw and experienced. This was eyeopening and hugely educational. I feel fortunate to have taken this trip and am excited to share what I learned with my friends and family. Job Well Done!!","author":""},{"title":"\"I was thrilled with the beauty of the country...\" - 2018","testimonial":"I was thrilled with the beauty of the country and being able to spend so much time hiking it. The camaraderie of most participants and staff added to the fun","author":""},{"title":"\"This is a unique trip...\" - 2018","testimonial":"This is a unique trip because the run is actually secondary in the experience. Words really can't describe it, I'm telling friends to go and then lets talk!","author":""},{"title":"\"It was professionally organized...\" - 2018","testimonial":"It was professionally organized, the guides were great, every day was an adventure, the hikes, especially Tigers Nest was just awesome. Jeff's attention to detail and his ability to connect with everyone on the trip makes it a great experience.","author":""},{"title":"\"Inspirational...\" - 2018","testimonial":"Inspirational, spiritual and unique.","author":""},{"title":"\"Our tour guide was absolutely wonderful...\" - 2018","testimonial":"Our tour guide was absolutely wonderful. His organisational skills were second to none and he never missed a thing. During the trek he was always calm, kind and knowledgeable and looked after everyone. Once back in Thimphu and Paro he was on top of everything without having to be asked. He is probably the best guide we have had over the course of many trips. We cannot speak highly enough of him.","author":""},{"title":"\"Very physically difficult...\" - 2018","testimonial":"Very physically difficult which led to an even deeper spiritual journey.","author":""},{"title":"\"I had an incredible time on this trip to China...\" - 2018","testimonial":"I had an incredible time on this trip to China. Running the GW was extremely difficult but also very rewarding when I crossed the finish line. The comradery and friendships of fellow runners made this event even more special. Both Scott and Jeff were extremely helpful on this journey and made the experience so much fun. Thank you for creating a first class running experience!!!","author":""},{"title":"\"Jeff was terrific as were the local guides...\" - 2018","testimonial":"Jeff was terrific as were the local guides. I appreciate having a MTT representative on-site who is very knowledgeable, helpful and truly cared about my well-being. 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