🇨🇳 Essential Tips for Planning Your Trip to China

China is a vast and breathtaking country, but traveling here requires careful preparation, especially concerning digital connectivity, money, and visa requirements. This guide covers the basics you need to know before you book your flight.

Visa and Entry Requirements

Most international visitors need a visa (typically an L-visa for tourism). The application process is detailed and requires an itinerary, flight bookings, and hotel reservations. Note that rules are frequently updated, and short visa-free transit periods may be available in major cities.

• Start Early: Apply for your visa at least one to two months before your trip.
• Required Documents: Completed application form, passport, photo, and proof of onward travel/accommodation.
• Check Exemptions: Research if you qualify for any of the 24, 72, or 144-hour visa-free transit policies, as these can simplify short visits.

Digital Life and the 'Great Firewall'

A functional smartphone is crucial for travel in China, but most familiar western apps and services (Google, Facebook, Instagram) are blocked. You **must** prepare your digital life before you arrive.

1. Install a VPN: Download and set up a reliable Virtual Private Network (VPN) on all your devices **before** entering the country. Ensure it is a paid, reputable service known to bypass the firewall.
2. Mobile Payments: Cash is rarely used. Set up apps like WeChat Pay or Alipay and link them to a foreign credit card. This is essential for transport, food, and shopping.
3. Offline Maps: Download offline maps for major cities (like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an) using apps like Baidu Maps or a prepared map on your VPN-enabled service.

Cultural Etiquette and Travel Logistics

Understanding local customs and logistics will make your trip smoother and more rewarding:

• Language: English is not widely spoken outside of major hotels and tourist sites. Have names and addresses of destinations written in Chinese characters.
• Tipping: Tipping is generally not customary and can sometimes be considered rude.
• Transport: China's high-speed rail network is world-class. Book train tickets well in advance, especially for holiday periods.