For anyone who wishes to explore China and its many mystical wonders, a travel guide book, free to download, is the perfect place to start. Whether you are in the planning stages of your vacation, or you are already in the Far East, ready to explore the cities, landscapes, beaches, mountains, food, and culture of this expansive and diverse country, this guide will provide all the information you need. Here you will find information about what to see and do, as well as tips on how to save money while you’re in the region.
Visiting China can be a journey of a lifetime, filled with amazing sights, food, and culture. Every traveler should consider learning at least the basics of Mandarin Chinese, as it will give you a much greater appreciation for the country and its people. Even if you don’t learn the language, don’t let that stop you from asking locals questions and striking up conversations. Regardless of where you go, you will find hospitality and camaraderie amongst the Chinese people.
One of the greatest advantages of visiting China is its broad assortment of accommodation options. From youth hostels to luxury hotels, each city has a range of hotels that cater to all budgets. And regardless of where you stay, you will experience great hospitality and service. Additionally, there is a wide selection of restaurants that offer a variety of different cuisines, including amazing Chinese food.
Transportation in and around the country is also plentiful and fairly inexpensive. High-speed rail is available throughout the mainland and is especially convenient for traveling between cities. If you are planning to visit multiple cities, it may be economical to purchase a transportation pass. Air travel is also widely available, although it can be more expensive than rail and bus travel. Furthermore, there are boat and bus services available nationwide.
As with any trip, you’ll want to remember to take precautions for your safety and security. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times, don’t carry large amounts of cash on your person and keep any valuables back at the hotel or in the hotel safe. Also, it is important to remember that you are in a very different culture and you should respect the customs and laws of the country.
Your journey to China is sure to leave you with a wealth of stories and experiences. To help you prepare for your adventure, this China Travel Guide features detailed city maps to get you around, as well as recommended restaurants and sights to explore. Be sure to download it today, and use it as your companion to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey into the magical world that is China!
Visas
Before exploring China, travelers will likely need to obtain a visa. There are three main types of visas that most visitors to China will need to consider – a tourist visa, a business visa, and a student visa. Depending on your nationality and purpose of travel, you may be able to apply for a visa online or you may need to appear in person at your local Chinese Embassy. It is important to note that visa regulations and requirements can change frequently, so make sure to check on the latest rules before applying.
In addition to visiting the Chinese Embassy, there are some excellent online resources to help guide you through the visa application process. These websites can provide you with the necessary application forms to fill out, as well as any additional documentation you may need to provide. Additionally, many times the websites will have both English and Chinese versions of the forms, which can be especially useful if you are not proficient in Chinese.
It is also important to note that some visitors may be eligible to enter China without a visa, depending on their nationality, purpose of visit, and amount of time spent in the country. Children, in particular, may be able to travel to China visa-free for a period of up to six months, depending on the nationality and age of the child.
Money Matters
When traveling to China, it is important to ensure that you are prepared with the necessary financial resources. In most cities, cash is the most common form of payment, so it is important to make sure that you bring enough cash for the duration of your trip. Additionally, most places will not accept traveler’s checks or American Express cards, so make sure to carry other forms of payment such as Visa or MasterCard.
When it comes to exchanging money, most cities will have banks or money exchange locations where you can exchange your currency for Chinese currency. It is important to note that stores and restaurants in China will only take cash payments, so it is important to have enough cash to cover your expenses. One easy way to get cash is to use your ATM card at an international bank in China – most major banks have ATMs available and they can be found in most large cities.
It is also important to be aware of the costs of living in China. Depending on the city or region you are in, prices can range from cheap to very expensive. Additionally, be on the lookout for prices that can be double or triple what you would pay for the same item elsewhere. Doing a bit of shopping around and inquiring about prices is always a good idea before committing to a purchase, to ensure that you are getting the best deal.
Useful Resources
Finally, there are some incredibly useful resources available to assist you in making the most of your time in China. One of the most important is the China Travel Guide, which provides detailed information on the country, its cities, and its attractions. Additionally, the guide contains invaluable advice on finding affordable accommodation, navigating the country’s public transportation system, and staying informed on the latest cultural events.
Online forums are also a great resource for travelers to China. There are numerous forums that discuss everything from food to entertainment to sightseeing, and they are a useful way to connect with other travelers and get tips and advice from those who have already been. Additionally, many of the forums offer information about local discounts and promotions available in certain cities, which can help you save money and get the most out of your trip.
Furthermore, many guide books and websites are available that provide detailed information on the various regions and cities of China. These guides can be incredibly helpful for those planning their journey, as they provide information about attractions, restaurants, and hotels in each area. They also often contain reviews from previous travelers and advice on where to stay and what to do.
Eat Like a Local
Exploring local cuisine in China is one of the best ways to get to know a place. Eating like a local will not only give you an intimate knowledge of the food, but it will also give you a deeper understanding of the culture. To truly eat like a local, it is important to explore the local street food, sit at small neighborhood restaurants, and try out some of the specialties offered.
While the regional cuisine in China is extremely varied, one thing that all regions have in common is the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Additionally, Chinese chefs are masters of the art of cooking, so it is easy to find tasty dishes regardless of where you are. From the fiery Sichuan cuisine to the fresh sushi of Shanghai, there is something to tantalize the taste buds of everyone.
Additionally, many cities in China offer a variety of food-related tours and classes. These are a great way to explore the region and learn more about the food and culture. They usually involve trips to the local markets, visits to family-run restaurants, and tastings of local dishes. Experiences like these make for a truly immersive journey of exploration and discovery.
Appealing Attractions
The cities and sights in China are highly varied, making it possible for travelers to find something that appeals to them. From the hustle and bustle of Shanghai to the serene beauty of the Yangtze River and from the colorful minority villages of Yunnan Province to the tranquil mountain temples of Sichuan, there is something for everyone in China.
Travelers should consider taking some time to explore the country’s many fascinating attractions. A trip to the Great Wall of China is a must, as it provides an incredible view of the surrounding landscape as well as a window into the country’s extraordinary history. The city of Xian is renowned for the 2,200-year-old Terracotta Warriors, and the Huangguoshu Waterfall in Guiyang is one of China’s most stunning natural sites.
Additionally, there are numerous sites that offer insight into the spiritual and cultural heritage of China. These range from the Forbidden City in Beijing to the Thangka galleries of Ngaba and the Buddhist monasteries of Yunnan Province. Exploring these places will not only open your eyes to the country’s unique history and culture, it will also provide you with timeless memories and beautiful photographs to treasure for years to come.
Dynamic Shopping Experiences
China boasts some exciting shopping experiences as well. In any town or city, you can find bustling markets and intricate shops filled with handmade goods and traditional crafts. Here you can find everything from colorful fabrics to intricate jewelry to exotic foods. Shopping in China is an experience like no other.
The country also has numerous shopping malls, where you can find modern items, as well as some unique local items. The prices in the malls are often similar to what you’d pay back home, so it’s a great way to get your hands on some hard-to-find items. Additionally, the malls are home to many restaurants and cafes, so you can unwind after a long day of shopping.
Finally, online shopping is becoming increasingly popular in China. This is a great way to shop for items that are hard to find in the markets and stores. Popular websites such as Taobao and WeChat Mall offer a wide array of items, from apparel to electronics. It is important to note, however, that these websites are in Chinese only and shipping can be expensive.
