Travel Tips
China Travel Information
Traveling to one of the largest and most populated areas on earth can be an overwhelming experience. At 9,596,960 km, China is a vast and diverse country with a rich history, delicious cuisine and a thriving economy. There is much here to delight any world business traveler.
Entry Visa
China requires most travelers to obtain a visa before entering the country. Apply at the Chinese consulate, through your travel agent or through a visa service such as My China Visa. Depending on your city of origin, visas may take more than one day to process and should be arranged well enough before your departure to ensure an easy trip.
English Language Usage
One of the biggest challenges of traveling in China is the lack of English language usage by the vast majority of the population. Although many nationals complete some years in English study at school, most of them are shy, unwilling or unable to attempt to communicate in English. Most civil servants, customs officials, police, taxi drivers and restaurant staff do not speak enough to be able to take an order or help you when you are in need. In the more upscale restaurants and hotels in larger cities, English-speaking staff are more common but not guaranteed. It is best to carry a Chinese/English phrasebook with you at all times, or better yet travel with Transportation China’s bilingual Leisure Guide or Executive Assistant.
Foreign Exchange
China’s currency is the Reminbi (RMB) or Yuan. Currency may be exchanged at your local bank or in the airport upon arrival into the country. Once in China, currency may be exchanged at banks and most hotels, with banks generally giving better rates. International ATMs can be found outside most banks in larger cities, however you may have to try a few different ones before you can successfully withdraw funds. Generally, foreign currency is not accepted at stores, restaurants or other venues.
Payment Facilities
Most better class hotels and shopping centers accept credit card or travelers’ cheques- although an increasing number are refusing the cheques due to fraud. Smaller hotels, restaurants and shops will accept RMB only. Once out of the larger cities, credit and debit cards are rarely accepted.
The largest RMB note is the 100. Counterfeit 100 RMB and 50 RMB notes are common in China so check your change carefully for differences in texture or ask someone for help if you are not sure what to look for.
Safety
China is generally a safe country. Violent crime is rare, especially in the more heavily trafficked tourist areas. However, petty theft is very common. Be conscious of the location of your wallet or handbag at all times when on a crowded bus, subway or on the street. Keep all valuables zipped in your bag and it is best to put your wallet in your front pocket, as pickpockets are common and very talented!
The major tourist cities have an abundance of touts selling everything from currency exchange to jewelry to female companionship. Avoid these people at all costs as they will surely leave you having taken more than was bargained for.
Domestic Travel
Travel in China by air, bus, train and ferry is relatively inexpensive and convenient. Air tickets can be booked online or through a travel agent. Bus, train and ferry tickets can be purchased at the station, through a travel agent or at your hotel. Avoid the crowds and confusion at the stations and allow your hotel concierge to arrange travel for you in advance. Prices are likely to be competitive and the tickets will be delivered to your hotel room. Again, avoid the ticket touts who approach you in the street.
For local travel, taxis in the large cities are plentiful however the majority will not speak English. Buses are inexpensive and convenient if you can determine which number will take you to your destination. Most major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen have convenient subway systems that are clean, air-conditioned and have signs in the English script form of Chinese, which is called Pinying. If you plan on traveling to factories or other places outside the city centers, a hired car with an English-speaking guide or driver is the best and safest way to travel.
Hotels
Hotels in China range from no-frills and inexpensive to luxury five star resorts with a good selection of everything in between. The major cities all have the familiar international brands as well as smaller Chinese owned operations. If it is an unknown hotel, you can always ask to see the room before you commit to staying and prices are often negotiable.
Telecommunications
Mobile phone coverage in China is excellent in most locations. Any phone that accepts a SIM card can be used while in China. SIM cards are inexpensive and are sold at an abundance of locations. To use, simply purchase the card, add some RMB to the balance and you are ready to talk. The system is prepaid and requires no contract and the SIM card can be reused on all future trips to the country.
Internet
Internet is widely available throughout the larger cities in China. Most coffee shops will have free or inexpensive access, as will most three to five star hotels. Cyber cafes are also common if you do not have your own laptop.
Additional Travel Tips
• Try to arrange an English-speaking guide whenever possible. China has a rich and wonderful history and the more information you received, the more enriching the experience will be.
• Always ask for a receipt from your taxi driver. If you leave anything in the car, you have a chance of getting it back by calling the taxi company and giving them a description of the object and the car number. Also, you can offer complaints on their driving if you have any. Bear in mind, driving in China can be quite different than in other countries so try to relax and always buckle up.
• Always carry a business card of your hotel with you. This way, if you get lost in the city, you can hail a taxi, show them the card and be back at the hotel quickly and easily.