Essential Travel Tips for Foreigners Visiting China

Here are some must-see travel tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure an enjoyable trip to China!

1️⃣ Avoid Peak Tourist Seasons:

• Do not plan your visit during China's summer holidays or public holidays. Tourist spots can be overwhelmingly crowded.

2️⃣ Do Your Homework:

• Research ahead of time, as some attractions may be temporarily closed due to special circumstances.

3️⃣ Prepare Small Change:

• Although WeChat and Alipay are widely used in China, many small shops may not have change for large bills.

4️⃣ Currency Exchange:

• Finding places to exchange money in China can be challenging. It's best to exchange your currency before traveling to avoid counterfeit money.

5️⃣ Register for Alipay or WeChat:

• These apps are not only convenient for payments but also widely accepted across various services. (Malaysian TNG can be used in some stores).

6️⃣ Get a Chinese Phone Number:

• Having a local number is convenient for shopping and contacting hotels. If you're traveling with a group, you might not need a local number, but consider international roaming or using a VPN to access WhatsApp and Facebook. (VPNs can quickly consume data, so roaming or a local SIM card is more cost-effective).

7️⃣ Bring Your Medications:

• It's a good idea to bring your own medications as you might not be familiar with Chinese medicines. Essentials include painkillers, cold medicine, and topical remedies like Tiger Balm.

8️⃣ Buy Train Tickets in Advance:

• When traveling by high-speed rail, purchase tickets in advance to ensure you have a seat. Foreigners can buy tickets at ticket counters or through the 12306 app.

9️⃣ Carry Toilet Paper:

• Many public restrooms in China do not provide toilet paper, so always carry some with you.

🔟 Bring a Power Adapter:

• China uses a different plug type and voltage (220V) compared to some countries. Ensure you have a suitable power adapter and converter for your devices.

🅰️ Useful Apps in China:

• WeChat: This app offers a variety of services under "Me—Services," making it incredibly versatile.
• Amap (Gaode): Similar to Google Maps, it's great for navigation and hailing rides.
• Meituan: Useful for finding authentic food reviews and recommendations.

Additional Tips:

🅱️ Internet Access and VPNs:

• Many Western websites and services (like Google, Facebook, and Twitter) are blocked in China. Using a VPN can help access these services, but VPNs can be slow and consume a lot of data. Consider using international roaming for better connectivity.

🌐 Language Barrier:

• While many signs are in both Chinese and English, having a translation app handy can be very helpful, especially in more rural areas where English is less commonly spoken.

💡 Electricity and Charging:

• Bring a power bank for your devices, especially if you plan to be out all day. Charging stations might not be as readily available as in some other countries.

🧳 Luggage Storage:

• Major train stations and tourist spots often have luggage storage services, which can be handy if you’re traveling between cities or waiting to check into your hotel.

🚖 Transportation:

• Taxis are convenient but make sure to have your destination written in Chinese to show the driver. Alternatively, ride-hailing apps like Didi are very user-friendly and offer in-app translation features.

🚶 Personal Safety:

• China is generally safe, but as with any travel destination, stay vigilant. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places.

📱 Mobile Payments:

• Cash is becoming less common in China, with mobile payments being the norm. Having Alipay or WeChat Pay set up is crucial for convenience.

🛃 Visa and Documentation:

• Ensure your visa and travel documents are in order well before your trip. Keep copies of important documents in case you lose the originals.

📞 Emergency Contacts:

• Save local emergency numbers and your country’s embassy contact details in case of any issues.

If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to comment or contact the website for more information. Enjoy your trip to China!