We will have to see how the tour lays out ladies to make a decision. It is an action packed tour program so something will have to give.

Unfortunately the Pearl Market does not open very early in the morning or stay open late at night. I left the Radisson tour at Forbidden City by cab and made it over to the Pearl Market on my first trip. The poor Radisson tour guide was pretty concerned we were wandering off on our own. I had her write down "Pearl Market" and "Shangri La Hotel" in Chinese. Got in about 2 hours shopping. The taxis are metered and we had no problem. That is always a possibility.

As a side note if we stay at the Shangri La Hotel they have one of the best buffets you can imagine for dinner. Really outstanding food so we have that to look forward to also.