You will have an excellent first trip to China if you follow these tips before you go.
Pack the Essentials
You will need your passport and visa, cash, debit, and credit cards, appropriate attire (check the weather before you go), medications (you might need a note from your doctor to get the medicine through customs), cell phone, and adapters for electronics.
VPN Needed
Some social media and other websites are blocked in China, and you may need a VPN connection to access email and some apps on your phone. Free and paid VPN subscriptions are available.
Be Knowledgeable About Pollution
The Chinese government is working on reducing air pollution, but the air quality could negatively impact the trip for people with respiratory illnesses. The Chinese combat it by wearing dust masks. Tourists might prefer to travel to China in the spring when there is less pollution.
Best Seasons to Travel
Speaking of spring, it’s one of the best times to visit China. Fall is also an excellent time to visit China. Fall temperatures are temperate and dry in China.
No Holiday Travel
Avoid traveling to China during holidays, which is when the locals travel. Costs for flights and hotels will be higher during the holidays.
Train Over Plane
The country’s new high-speed trains are an efficient option for intercity travel. You might find them quicker than planes, because some train stations are closer than airports to city centers.
Consider Private Transportation
Taxis and buses are cheap ways to get around in Chinese cities, but they are not convenient if you are unfamiliar with the area. And some taxi drivers are unlicensed and might try to overcharge you. Private transport services are a more convenient and reliable means of touring China.
Sidewalk Safety
Cars and motorbike drivers like parking — and driving — on sidewalks. Be on the lookout for them zooming past you as you walk on the sidewalks.
Personal Space Rules
Public affection is uncommon in China; a verbal greeting is enough. But you might find your space invaded on public transportation, where it’s common to see locals shoving for space.
Mandarin Helps
Before traveling to China, consider learning a few key phrases in the language. It’ll go a long way in enhancing your travel experience.
Love From the Locals
The locals like to interact with tourists, but those in some parts of the country are not accustomed to seeing foreigners, so they might stare and ask many personal questions. Don’t be offended.
Be respectful
Don’t offend them. It is disrespectful to speak loudly in temples and to touch statues of deities. Politics and religion should generally be avoided in conversation.
Indulge in the cuisine
The food is delicious! Try it!
Use chopsticks
But never stick the chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice, which is a symbol of joss sticks at a funeral. And don’t try to use chopsticks as a fork by “stabbing” your food.
A New Restroom Experience
Public bathrooms may be void of toilet paper, paper towels, and soap. So bring your own! And most public restrooms are equipped with squat toilets.
Tips Not Needed
While tipping in Hong Kong and Macau is common, it is uncommon in mainland China.
Gifts Are Accepted
Gift giving is a sign of respect among the Chinese. You should bring gifts when visiting Chinese families.
Beware of Tourist Traps
Avoid scams for overpriced services and products. You should bargain for the best price when buying souvenirs.
Beware of Budget Tour Groups
They are large, noisy, and rushed to cut costs, which inconveniences you.
Choose a Good Guide
China Highlights has well-trained guides who provide you with a highly personalized experience. The tour will be tailored to suit you.
Contact me and I’ll get starting planning these details for your trip to China.
