A fascinating land with thousands of years of rich history, China is among the most intriguing places to visit in the world. However, there are a couple of important things to know before traveling to China. The country is super-huge and has so many dialects and languages that even locals are sometimes flummoxed when traveling to a part of China they’re unfamiliar with. But you mustn’t let anything stop you from experiencing this one-of-a-kind country. There are too many amazing things to see and places to visit that will leave you absolutely spellbound. Just use our list below of the top things to know before traveling to China and you’ll be fine.
Essential China Travel Tips for First-Timers:
Whether you’re heading to China for a long break or making a short trip on last minute flights, keep in mind some of the most important China travel tips. This is especially important if you’re visiting China for the first time. There are bound to be some travel fails. However, we can reduce them to a minimum by following the below list of some important things to know before traveling to China. Take a quick peek now!
1. China is safe to travel
Is it safe to travel to China? Why, yes it is! Despite the negative reports you may hear about China, it is one of the safest countries in the world for solo travelers, couples, and families alike. Every country has its pros and cons as does China. But that does not make it unsafe to visit. It’s just that the sheer size of it is daunting to first-time travelers.
2. Apply for Visa in advance
One of the most important things to know before traveling to China is that you need to get your Visa in advance of your trip. Visa is a key part of your travel to China checklist. You need to provide a letter of invitation from a friend or relative in China while applying for the Visa. Alternatively, you can submit a copy of your itinerary along with hotel booking, flight details, etc.
3. Consider a group tour
Booking a tour as opposed to traveling on your own can be a good thing if this is your first trip to China. You will have company and the tour guide will take care of every minute detail of the trip. For instance, not only can they help you with your order at restaurants, but they will also take you to places you won’t find in guide books.
4. Install language apps
This is among the top things to know before traveling to China if you’re planning to travel alone. There are countless language apps that will help you translate anything from signages to the spoken word. Find one that works best for you and enjoy hassle-free communication with the locals.
5. Get a local SIM Card and VPN
Getting a local SIM Card will prove to be a lot cheaper than using an international number. However, know that roaming rates will apply on the card outside of the province it is purchased. Also, get a VPN so that you can access sites like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, which are blocked by their Great Firewall.
6. There’s a currency protocol
Important traveling to China money tips: Yuan, or RMB, is the official currency of the country and the only one acceptable. Mostly cash is preferred in China. However, big and branded establishments in cosmopolitan cities will accept cards. You can give coins to taxi drivers but don’t be surprised if they are rejected by market vendors. Also, don’t tip in China.
7. Hotels are pretty cheap
Among the best tips for traveling to China on business class flights for work or holiday is to remember that the hotels are pretty cheap here. If you’re a large group, you can get extra beds for a less amount rather than book another room. Most of the hotels are also okay with you bringing your own food.
8. Local transport is a good option
One of the top things to know before traveling to China is that you must give local transport a chance. Buses, taxis, and high-speed trains are very effective and super-cheap in China. You can get from one province to another via a bullet train just as easily as booking domestic flights.
9. Weather is unpredictable
The most important of all China travel tips is to check the weather conditions of your intended travel destination in China before your trip. China is incredibly vast and thereby, different parts of it will experience different climatic conditions. This is among the most vital things you need to know about China. So do your research and pack accordingly
10. Bargain while shopping
Offering pearls, cheap electronics, pottery items, handicrafts and more, China is a dream for shopaholics. But one of the top things to know before traveling to China is that there is no fixed rate so remember to bargain for a good price. Also, you can use the Post Surface Mail to ship things home at very cheap rates.
11. Get to the airport early
Although the signages make them easy to navigate, China’s airports can be very crowded. So when you’re booking cheap flights to China and back, it’s a good idea to get to the airport at least two hours early. This is among the top things to know before traveling to China. It will be easier to get through security with enough time on hand.
