Unlock the Wonders of China
Your essential, up-to-date guide for an unforgettable adventure.
Start PlanningBefore You Go: The Essentials
1. Visa Application
Most visitors need a tourist (L) visa. Apply well in advance (at least 1-2 months) through a Chinese embassy or consulate. Requirements vary by country, so check the official website for details on application forms and necessary documents like flight and hotel bookings.
2. Get a VPN (Crucial!)
Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and many other Western sites are blocked in China. A reliable VPN (Virtual Private Network) is essential to stay connected. **Install and test it before you leave**.
3. Digital Payments are King
China is a nearly cashless society. Set up **Alipay** or **WeChat Pay** and link your international credit card before your trip. While cash is accepted, many smaller vendors and taxis prefer mobile payments. Foreign credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels.
On The Ground: Navigating China
4. Master Transportation
The high-speed train network is phenomenal—fast, clean, and efficient for city-to-city travel. For inner-city travel, subways are modern and have English signs. Use apps like **DiDi** (China's Uber) for ride-hailing, which is often easier than flagging a taxi.
5. Bridge the Language Gap
Few people speak English outside of major tourist hubs. Download a translation app like **Google Translate** (use the offline package) or **Pleco**. Having key addresses (like your hotel) written in Chinese characters is a lifesaver for taxi drivers.
6. Stay Connected
Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at the airport for affordable data. This, combined with your VPN, is the best way to stay online. Free public Wi-Fi is common but often requires a Chinese phone number to log in, making it tricky for tourists.
Culture & Etiquette
7. Food & Water Safety
Be adventurous with food—it's a highlight! Eat at busy, popular restaurants. However, **do not drink tap water**. Always opt for bottled water, even for brushing your teeth. Ice in drinks at reputable establishments is generally safe.
8. Tipping & Bargaining
Tipping is not a common practice and is not expected. In fact, it can sometimes cause confusion. Bargaining, however, is expected at markets and small stalls. Start at about 50% of the asking price and negotiate with a smile.
9. Always Carry Tissues
Public restrooms, especially outside of major cities or malls, often do not provide toilet paper or soap. It's a wise habit to carry a small pack of tissues and a bottle of hand sanitizer with you at all times.