Travelling to China for the first time can be an intense cultural experience due to its vastness, huge cities, sweeping landscapes, and enormous population. In addition to language barriers and cultural differences, there are bound to be surprises. To alleviate the overwhelm, here are a few things to keep in mind before your trip to China.

 

Travel Document

Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least the next six months and that you have obtained a visa for China. It is recommended that you make a photocopy of your passport and visa page and keep it in a safe place in your luggage, separate from your passport. Additionally, it is advisable to bring an original birth certificate or a valid driver’s license to aid in obtaining a new passport in case of loss or theft.

 

 

Money

ATMs in major cities accept Visa and MasterCard for cash withdrawals, with a daily transaction limit of RMB2000. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and most hotels. A passport is required for exchanges. Department stores accept international credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, and some also accept American Express. However, be aware that foreign conversion fees may apply depending on your credit card bank’s terms and conditions.

 

 

Language

The official language is Mandarin Chinese. When travelling independently in China, it is advisable to carry a business card of your hotel and a card or written Chinese characters for your destination. This will enable taxi or bus drivers to assist you.

 

 

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in China, but at high-end hotels and restaurants that cater to Western tourists, porters, room service and wait staff may have become accustomed to receiving small tips. If you choose to tip, cash is preferred.

Hotels: Generally, a tip of USD2 or USD3 per day is sufficient for the room attendant if you stay at the same hotel for a couple of days. For the porter, USD1 per piece of luggage carried may be appropriate. Tipping is not expected at hostels or inns.

Restaurants: There is no need to tip at fast food restaurants or roadside stands. At upscale restaurants in larger cities, if you are satisfied with the service, you may leave a small gratuity for your waiter, such as one or two dollars. The amount you choose to tip depends on your level of satisfaction with the service. Please ensure you have the appropriate converter.

Tour Guides and Drivers: Our guides and drivers receive a base salary plus a performance bonus, but you may choose to tip them for exceptional service.

Local Tour guide

• Group 1-2 pax: USD30 per group per day
• Group 3-6 pax: USD40 per group per day
• Group over 7 pax: USD3-5 per pax per day

Driver

• Group under 6 pax: USD15 per group per day
• Group more than 6 pax: USD2 per person per day

 

 

Electrical Voltage

Please refer to the guidelines below. It is important to note that China uses 220V / 50 Hz and has specific types of outlets. To ensure you have access to power for your electronic devices such as video cameras and phones, it is important to bring an international adapter set as electric plugs may vary by location in China.

 

 

Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Additionally, it is worth noting that popular websites such as Google, Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, and many news websites are blocked by the Great Firewall in China. To access these websites while in China, it is recommended to obtain a VPN prior to arrival.

 

 

Toilets

Lastly, all hotel rooms in China are equipped with Western-style toilets. In addition to being present in major tourist centres and venues in large cities, there may also be ‘squat’ style toilets in some public areas or local restaurants. In addition to being present in major tourist centres and venues in large cities, there may also be ‘squat’ style toilets in some public areas or local restaurants. It is advisable to bring tissue and hand sanitizer when using these facilities. The squat toilets are designed to be more hygienic as there is no contact with any surfaces.

 

 

Clothing

During winter, it is recommended to bring thermals, woolen socks, gloves, and a hat. Additionally, a waterproof jacket or a sturdy umbrella is essential. In summer, light clothing such as t-shirts, shorts, light cotton tops, trousers, pants, or skirts are recommended. For spring and autumn, temperatures can vary, so it is suggested to bring a sweater, long-sleeved tops, and a lightweight rain jacket. It is important to wear strong, comfortable, and preferably waterproof footwear, especially when traveling in the countryside.

 

 

Food

A typical Chinese meal comprises two parts: a staple food, which is usually rice, noodles, or steamed buns, and vegetable  and meat dishes. Chopsticks are used for solid foods, while a ceramic spoon is used for soups or congees. The dishes are often eaten together with a mouthful of rice.  Fresh fruit is typically served for dessert. It is important to note that tap water in China is not safe to drink unless it has been boiled. Although bottled water is inexpensive, we encourage all passengers to bring their own reusable water bottles.

 

 

Safety

China is a safe country for travellers due to its tight security measures, resulting in a low crime rate. As you explore beyond the tourist hotspots, you can feel completely at ease. Please check the China emergency call as below.

• Police: 110
• Fire Alarm: 119
• Traffic Accident: 122
• Telephone Inquiry: 114
• Emergency Center: 120
• SMS Alarm (Police): 12110
• Maritime Search & Rescue Center: 12395

 

 

Health

It is recommended to carry a basic first aid kit as some medications may be difficult or impossible to obtain in China. Consider bringing diarrhoea treatment, cold and allergy medicine, painkillers, insect repellent, feminine hygiene products (if needed), and anti-bacterial wipes or gel. It is recommended to bring tissues as toilet paper may not always be provided. You can purchase these items at a local convenience store, but it is advised to bring some for initial use.

 

 

Packing list

For a basic packing list, click the following link before you travel to China!

 

 

If you need any suggestions for your upcoming trip, please do not hesitate to contact our travel consultants. We are excited to accompany you on your journeys in China.  Discover China in your own way with My China Holidays team!