Tips to Travelling in China
We have already reviewed lots of traveling spots for you in China, so this time I will write about things that you need to take note of before you start your journey. We hope this would help you to enjoy the trip! It’s a must!
Background of China
Before we go further let’s have a look at the country.
China is a large country with a size of 9,596,960 sq km, and it’s also known as the biggest population in the world after India. China also has a very long history; Ancient China was an earliest centre of human civilizations.Not only does China have a very rich culture and history, food and scenery in China are also one of its greatest attractions. China has a very beautiful natural beauty. there are just so much to do and see in China!
And right now, we go to the main part. Here are some TIPS for you on traveling in China,
1. Apply visa
China requires an entry Visa from most countries just like any other country, and there are different types of Visa depend on how long you want to stay. Each country has their own application process. Remember to apply one (or check if you need one) if you plan to visit China
2. Climate
As I said before, China is a very large country, that’s why the weather could be extremely diverse, from tropical on South to Subarctic in North of China. Make sure it is a proper weather when you plan to travel to China.
3. Money
I don’t need to mention this; you should know that you won’t get anywhere if you don’t have money. What I need to tell you is the currency in China. The unit known as Renminbi (RMB) or Yuan. So, get some RMB first before you travel to China. You can exchange foreign currency at Banks, Hotels, or money changers in your country.
FYI, currently, at August 2009 the exchange rate is approximately US1$ to 6. 8 RMB.
Besides money, in China you also can use credit cards or travelers cheques as long as the hotels or shops can accept it, small shops or restaurants would only take cash. Most of the major China bank ATMs allows you to withdraw cash with your foreign bank credit card.
4. Camera
Camera is a must for the trip to China, because not only can you take pictures for fun, but China has very wonderful scenery that you will not want to forget. Snap it for your memory.
5. Language
There are various languages in China- local dialects like Cantonese, Shanghainese, Hokkien, etc. But, the main language would be Standard Mandarin (putonghua). Depending on which province you visit, the Locals may not speak English well or speak English at all.
However most of the bigger hotels and restaurants have staffs that speak English. Most road signs and public notice boards in China will carry both English and Chinese, but occasionally the English text, translated not so accurately, may end up meaning different from its original message. Generally, if you are touring major cities like Beijing or Shanghai, you don’t need to be overly concerned, although knowing a few common Mandarin phrases will definitely be useful. In more rural areas, consider getting a local guide or following an English speaking tour group.
6. Security in China
China is generally a safe country but still you have to take precautions, hang on to your wallet especially on crowded and popular tourist sites.
Be careful when approached by touts trying to sell things from jelleweries to female companionship. Generally, just be a little more cautious as you would travelling to any foreign country.
7. Slurp… FOOD!
Now, this is one of my favorite! You can find a lot of variety of food in China. From western food to unique Chinese dishes that you never seen before can be found here. My tip for you here is “Try as much food as you can!” and the good part is the price of the food is reasonable.
That should be what you need to know generally when you travel to China, and here are some other tips to take note
- Try to get an English speaking tour guide at every opportunity you can. China has a rich and wonderful history and culture; it’s such a waste if you miss all of it.
- Always ask for a receipt from a taxi driver so that you can complain if you have been cheated or for tracing purposes if you miss something in the taxi.
- Get a Map. It will help you in any situation, in case you got lost.
- If you cannot speak Mandarin, it helps to write down on paper in Chinese the place you want to visit. You can find the Chinese characters from online research or get your hotel staff to help
We are going to keep on updating the tips and help for you, and for those who has a question feel free to ask. so, Stay Tune! take care and have fun!
Vocabulary
chū zū chē
出 租 车 taxi
jiǔ diàn
酒 店 hotel
dì tú
地 图 map
qián
钱 money
yīng yǔ
英 语 English
Zhōng wén
中 文 mandarin
shí wù
食 物 food
gōng gòng qì chē
公 共 汽 车 bus
huǒ chē
火 车 train
