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Travel in China

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

China is a land of contrasts, where modern metropolises collide with jaw-dropping natural beauty. Feel the pulse of cities like Shanghai and Hong Kong as you navigate through bustling streets and dazzling skyscrapers. Then, prepare to have your breath taken away by the awe-inspiring “Floating” Peaks of Zhangjiajie, straight out of a fantasy movie like Avatar. And let’s not forget about The Great Wall of China, a majestic marvel that spans for miles, showcasing the incredible engineering skills of ancient civilizations.

But planning a trip to China requires a little extra effort. With restriction social media apps, visa requirements and the potential for a massive culture shock, it’s essential to be prepared. Do your homework, research the local customs, and embrace the adventure with an open mind.

PICK A DESTINATION

BEIJING

SHANGHAI

TRANSSIBERIAN RAILWAY

XIAN

HIGHLIGHT

BEST

TIME

TO

Travel

Deciding when to visit can be a real head-scratcher. Let me give you the lowdown on the best time to plan your adventure!

If you crave warm weather and want to dodge those pesky thundershowers, spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are your go-to seasons. Imagine strolling through Beijing’s Yuyuantan Park, surrounded by blooming cherry blossoms, or immersing yourself in the stunning hues of Sichuan’s UNESCO Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve.

Now, brace yourselves for some chilly excitement! Winter in China may freeze your socks off, but it’s also the time for unbeatable deals. Bundle up in your coziest layers and prepare for jaw-dropping landscapes, like snow-drenched landscapes straight out of a fairytale.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Language: Mandarin is the official language of China, it is said that there are over 300 dialects spoken here! It’s like a linguistic adventure around every corner.

Currency: When it comes to money matters, we’re talking about the Renminbi. So, remember to have some local currency handy for those street food feasts and shopping sprees.

Credit Cards & ATMs: Time to talk plastic! While cash is king in smaller cities, in big urban hubs like Shanghai and Beijing, your credit card will come to the rescue. Look for friendly banks like Bank of China, China’s Merchant Bank, or ICBC to withdraw some cash if needed. Oh, and if you’re rocking an American Express, better have a backup plan because finding an ATM that accepts it can be like searching for a needle in a haystack.

Plugs: Let’s power up your gadgets! The plug situation in China includes types A, C, and I. Voltage is at 220 V, and the frequency dances to 50Hz. So, don’t forget to bring a versatile adapter (with that extra surge protection) and grab a converter for those hairdryers and hot tools to keep you looking on point.

VPN: Time to outsmart the internet restrictions! Facebook, Instagram, Gmail—yup, they’re blocked in China. But fear not, equip your laptop and phone with a VPN before you touch down. It’s your secret weapon to bypass those digital barriers and stay connected.

Safety: China is generally a safe country, with petty crime being rare. Just like anywhere else, keep your street smarts sharp and stay aware of your surroundings. A little caution goes a long way!