Ten Tips For Your First Trip To China

The lock-down has been lifted from most international borders, and it is the right time for you to plan your next vacation. In the present scenario, China seems to be the best place where you can spend quality days taking time off from your routine work and life. A trip to China will give you not just a good time away from the daily hustle-bustle but also a great experience to remember. So if you have decided to visit China sometime in the next few months, then here is what you need to keep in mind. These are some of the essential tips that will come in handy for you on your first trip to China.

#1 You Must Get Your Visa:

It is not a surprise to know that China keeps updating its travel rules and visa policies. So you must be aware of those policies before you plan your trip to China. Based on the place you want to stay and the number of days, you can apply for a visa to China. Make sure your passport is updated and does not have any discrepancies. If you are clear about the passport and visa, you will not have any issues during your trip.

#2 List Out The Places You Want To Visit:

China has a plethora of tourist places that you can visit. But if you are in China for a short period, you would not be able to visit every place. So make a list of the places you need to visit to avoid confusion at the last minute.

#3 Get To Know The Best Time To Visit China:

The best time to visit China is during the Spring festival or around Chinese New Year’s eve. This would be around January or February. Another wonderful time to visit China would be in October. During this time, people have a 5 to 7 days’ holiday, and you would get the opportunity to interact with a lot of local citizens.

#4 Learn Common Phrases In The Chinese Language:

When you are in a foreign country, you must have at least some knowledge of the native or official languages of the place. It will make your trip easier than you have imagined. The main language of China is Mandarin, and you must try and learn the common phrases of this language. If not, you must carry a language translation book or application on your smartphone.

#5 Be Aware Of The Payment System And Currency In China:

Even if you are in China for a short period, you will have to make payments at several places such as the airport, for cabs, for the meals, drinks, buying souvenirs, and various other things. WeChat is the most popular mobile platform for online payments.

#6 Your Social Media Applications Will Not Work In China:

All around the world, the most popular social media applications are Facebook, Instagram, and the search engine Google. But these applications will not work in China. So if you want to post pictures or search for something online, you will need Baidu, which is the Chinese search engine.

#7 Stay Healthy While You Are On Your Trip:

This is one of the most essential points that you need to know. If you get sick in China, the checkup and medication will be very expensive as you will not have insurance. So make sure you are keeping yourself hydrated and avoid unhealthy street food.

#8 Pack Your Clothes For China:

The weather in China is quite suitable and not very harsh. But if you have planned for morning treks and visiting the mountain ranges, then you would require warm clothes. Moreover, if the month of your trip is in January or February, then you will need a collection of good footwear and warm clothes to keep you safe.

#9 Keep All Your Important Documents Safe:

When you are on an international trip, you need to have multiple documents that prove your identity, your nationality, and your profession, etc. So apart from your visa documents and passport, you need to have multiple copies of your important documents and keep them in a safe place. These documents should not get lost.

#10 Always Have A Short And Crisp To-Do List:

Having a to-do list will simplify your trip. In the to-do list, you can mention everything that you wish to do in China. Make a list of places, monuments you want to see, the food you want to try, the cultural events or festivals that you wish to attend. When you know what to do next, you will not be wasting your time and get a full experience.

Summary:

China is a great place not just for food or the heritage sites but also for the cultural events, the cuisines offered in different restaurants, and even for shopping. You can use these tips while planning your first trip to China.