10 things to know before travelling to China
Along with everywhere else I want to go, China is one place I’d love to go to. One reason may just be for the food, but I would also love to see their monuments, the Great Wall of China, Shanghai and all their amazing architecture. China is now the fourth-most-visited country in the world. But, as China is a relatively new arrival on the holiday scene, it can be hard to know exactly how to plan for a trip there, as if I flew there tomorrow I don’t think I would know the first thing to do – so here are some tips to get you started:
1. Organise your visa
The first thing to know is that you’ll only be offered a tourist visa after submitting a detailed itinerary for your stay, including confirmed travel options and accommodation bookings. For this reason, it’s recommended that you make sure your accommodation provider allows free cancellation, in case something goes wrong with the visa application. Visa’s always terrify me, for absolutely no reason, I was so nervous getting my US one!
2. Get vaccinated
You’ll be advised on which vaccinations to have based on where you’re headed and how long you’re staying. But note that it’s important to get them at least six weeks before you’re travelling, as it can take a few weeks for them to be fully effective. I made this mistake in Bali, but managed to get them just in time.
3. Cash preferred
Large chains are starting to accept western cards, but you can’t use them in a lot of places still. Especially when you’re out of tourist areas. You’re best off making sure you have enough cash (Yuan, RMB), before you go so you know you can definitely buy things!
4. Stock up on bottled water
Tap water is not recommended for travellers, but bottled water is inexpensive and easily available from shops and restaurants (though check the seal is intact). If that’s not an option, boiling tap water should make it safe – though you could also pack water filters. I hate using bottled water abroad, but sometimes it’s just the easiest way.
5. Getting about
Chinese airports are notoriously busy, and this can lead to regular delays – so have something to distract you should you have a long wait. Trains, meanwhile, are both affordable and fast, making them a great option for travelling between regions (nothing like our trains). For travelling around cities, local taxis can be booked online and are safe to use!
6. On the street
As with many countries, China’s population density means natives are accustomed to much less personal space. This may inevitably lead to some jostling on the street – don’t take it personally! Which is one of my hates, so I’d have to get used to it quick!
7. Fitting in
Handshakes are fine, but kissing on the cheek should be avoided. If you are visiting a sacred site on your trip, be sure to dress modestly (limiting the amount of skin shown) for the duration of the visit. I always make sure I pack pants, jackets and longer sleeved tops for certain areas like temples etc.
8. Shopping
Outside of chain stores and higher-end outlets in shopping malls, haggling is very much part of the retail experience here. But remember to do so politely! I’m such a sucker for this, but we did quite well in Bali. It definitely takes some getting used to.
9. Eating out
Chinese meals are informal affairs, but meal times often come earlier in the day – many restaurants begin lunch service around 11AM, and may be closed by mid-afternoon until after 5PM. For someone who always tends to eat later abroad, it would be so strange to me! Also, be aware that tipping servers is not expected.
10. Staying in touch
You’ll be able to pick up a local SIM card for a reasonable price at the airport. However, if you’re planning to update your social media while there, you may need to purchase a VPN (Virtual Private Network) before travelling. The whole aspect of this seems craaazy, but the rules are so strict here.
As well as China, there is so many places I want to see nearby. Japan being one of them especially, the cultures are so different to ours and it’s fascinating. It’s one side of the world I’m yet to venture to, but I definitely plan to in the future. It’s on my bucket list to see the ancient wonders of the world after all!
Have you ever thought of visiting China? Would you want to?
