Background Information
Traveling to China has become increasingly popular in recent times, and Ottawa travel agents are more than happy to facilitate the journey for those in the region looking to explore this beautiful country. The journey to China from Ottawa, whether for business or vacation, usually consists of a connecting flight with a duration of about 17 hours. Canada maintains two diplomatic missions in China, in Beijing and Guangzhou. As with any foreign travel, it’s important to prepare for your trip with the help of a travel agent. To make the most of your trip while remaining safe, Ottawa travel agents have a wealth of information that can help you maximize the potential of your China journey and navigate through any unexpected difficulties.
Relevant Data
China is a sprawling nation with a population of 1.42 billion, and is the 3rd largest country in the world in terms of travel size. The country is split into three regions: East, Central, and South. Beijing is the capital city and a major world economic center. It’s also a wonderful spot to experience traditional Chinese culture. Guangzhou is the largest and most populous city in the southern region of China, and is home to the world-famous Canton Tower, a renowned landmark.
As for the weather in China, travellers should expect warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures in the north of China can reach an average of 29°C and winter temperatures drop to an average of -11°C. Travelers are advised to pack warm clothes if they’re planning to visit during the colder months.
Expert Perspectives
When it comes to the advice of Ottawa travel agents, the most important piece of advice would be to plan your trip ahead of time. Have a clear itinerary in mind and always check with your travel agent for any necessary documentation. According to Marie-Lauren Patterson, an Ottawa travel agent, it’s important to plan the details of the trip, such as accommodations, transportation, and flight tickets.
“It’s essential to have an understanding of the local culture and customs, especially if you are planning to stay for more than a few days. Have all your documents ready, including a passport and visa. Make sure you exchange money so that you can access local currency to pay for services.”
Furthermore, if you plan to travel outside of the major cities be sure to have all your travel information handy and be prepared for any unexpected roadblocks or delays that may arise.
Own Insights and Analysis
It’s important to consider the language barrier when travelling to China. While many younger Chinese people are familiar with English, there are still those who are not. Therefore, it’s a wise idea to brush up on some basic phrases or even download translation apps to ease the language barrier when travelling in China. It’ll be even better if you can work with Ottawa travel agents who will not only help you book flights and hotels, but they’ll also often provide assistance in arranging necessary paperwork, recommended activities or attractions in the area, and tips on the local language and how to use it.
Moreover, it’s important to be aware of cultural differences as well. China is an ancient country with long standing cultural customs and rituals. Since some of these customs are hard to understand from a Western perspective, it’s a good idea to discuss them with your Ottawa travel agents so that you can be better prepared for the journey ahead.
Safety and Security
China is generally safe for travel; however, travelers should exercise the same precautions they take when travelling anywhere. In order to stay informed during your trip, plan ahead. Check in with your Ottawa travel agents for updated information, and research online for recommendations of safe areas and activities.
Additionally, it’s important to make sure that you take appropriate safety precautions such as taking only pre-arranged taxis, avoiding dark alleys or unknown places, and being aware of your surroundings at all times. When you are out at night, make sure you stay in groups and choose a secure hotel to stay in. Most importantly, always have your phone with you in case you need to call for help or assistance.
How to Get Around
The best way to get around China is by train. The country has a well-developed rail network that is efficient and affordable. China also has bus networks which are also an affordable way to get around. Since travel in a foreign country can be overwhelming, Ottawa travel agents can help you book train and bus tickets as well as give advice on how to travel safely and comfortably.
Taxis are another popular way to get around, especially if you are travelling alone or in a small group. However, to avoid getting scammed, it’s important to use a reliable taxi company that is registered with the local government.
Eating and Drinking
Eating and drinking in China is an integral part of the culture, as the country has some of the best cuisine in the world. Chinese cuisine is considered one of the major cuisines in the world but there are also many regional specialties.
There are thousands of Chinese restaurants all over the country and many of them offer regional specialties. It’s always a good idea to ask the Ottawa travel agents for recommendations of reputable restaurants.
In terms of drinking, one should be aware that the legal drinking age is 18. It’s a good idea to know where you can and can’t buy alcohol, as it is illegal to drink in public in China.
Cultural Activities
There is plenty to do in China from cultural activities to sightseeing adventures. One of the most popular places to visit in China is the Great Wall of China, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Other notable places to visit would be the Forbidden City and Summer Palace in Beijing, the ancient city of Xi’an, and the Terracotta Warriors.
There are also many cultural activities one can partake in while travelling to China. Participating in a traditional tea ceremony, a calligraphy class, or a cooking class are all great ways to immerse yourself in Chinese culture. Ottawa travel agents can help you plan and book activities while on your journey.
Shopping and Markets
China is a shopping paradise with its abundance of souvenirs, artwork, antiques, and much more. One of the best places to find authentic goods is at the night markets, which take place in almost every city and town. In order to get the best deals, it’s advisable to haggle with the vendors and always remember to check for quality.
Finally, there are large department stores as well as smaller specialty stores in cities across China. Again, it pays to do your research prior to your visit, especially if you’ve set your sights on a particular item. Ottawa travel agents can help you track down the items you’re looking for, as well advise you on any special precautions to take while shopping.
Accommodations
When looking for accommodation in China, travelers have options to choose from. Hotels are the most obvious choice, but there are also AirBnB’s, hostels, and homestays available. Before booking, it’s important to check the safety and security standards of the accommodations.
With the help of your Ottawa travel agents, you can book hotels or other accommodation according to your budget and needs. Your agents can also provide advice on the best places to stay and recommend excellent restaurants or activities in the area.
Communication
In order to stay connected, it’s important to prepare before leaving Canada. Ottawa travel agents can help you set up an international SIM card plan or purchase data packages if needed. Additionally, some of the bigger cities in China have WiFi hotspots and networks, so you should always have access to the internet.
For communicating with locals, try to learn the language as Chinese has many unique idioms and nuances that are not found in English. Although many younger people are familiar with English, learning basic phrases such as “Thank you” can make a huge difference in making your journey to China more enjoyable.
