China is a vast and fascinating country with a rich cultural heritage, but navigating it as a foreign traveler can sometimes be challenging due to how different it is from other destinations. To make your trip easier and more enjoyable, here are some essential travel tips for visiting China based on our personal experience traveling through China.
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1. Get Alipay
One of the first things you should do when arriving in China is to download Alipay. This app will simplify your entire trip. From paying for meals to booking a DiDi (China’s version of Uber), renting bikes, and even using public transportation, Alipay has you covered. The best part? It has an integrated translator that will automatically translate the content you encounter on the app, making it easier to navigate the Chinese-language interface.
Pro Tip: Make sure to connect your credit card to Alipay before your trip, and create an account for public transportation in advance. You’ll need your passport number for this, so it’s a good idea to have it handy.
2. Pack Tissues and Hand Sanitizer
China is great when it comes to the availability of public toilets, which you’ll find almost everywhere. However, not all of them are fully equipped with toilet paper or soap, so always carry a pack of tissues and some hand sanitizer with you. This small preparation will save you a lot of hassle during your travels!
3. Be Ready for Crowds
China is known for its massive population, and you’ll experience this firsthand, especially at tourist spots. If you’re claustrophobic, it’s best to avoid visiting during Chinese national holidays, as crowds can be overwhelming. But on the bright side, after experiencing China’s crowds, no other place will feel as busy by comparison!
4. Expect Curious Stares
As a foreign traveler in China, especially in tourist-heavy areas, be prepared to get stared at. Some Chinese visitors, particularly those from smaller cities, may be seeing foreigners for the first time and could be curious enough to ask for a picture with you. Our advice? Be open, friendly, and enjoy the unique experience of interacting with locals in these situations.
6. Leave Room in Your Suitcase
Shopping in China is an absolute delight! We found that the clothing quality was even better than what we’re used to in the West, and there are so many unique styles to choose from. Make sure to leave extra space in your suitcase for the cool clothes and souvenirs you’ll want to bring home.
We hope these tips make your trip to China smoother and more enjoyable! From digital convenience with Alipay to understanding the local culture, a little preparation goes a long way. If you’ve already visited China and have some tips of your own, feel free to share them in the comments!
If you’re planning a trip to China, bookmark this post and share it with your travel companions. For more travel tips and updates, follow us on Instagram for insights from our latest adventures.
Do You Want To Travel Like Us? Here are some of our favorite travel tips and resources:
Flights: Our go-to flight websites to find the best deals are CheapOair and Kiwi.com. The destinations everywhere feature is perfect for finding spontaneous cheap flights!
Accommodations: There’s no better site than Booking.com. We save hundreds of dollars each year through their Genius program. It’s the most reliable site for accommodations with no added fees!
Tours and Tickets: Our favorite site is GetYourGuide. They have the best-rated tours all over the world. Also, it is a perfect place to buy an entrance ticket that takes international cards.
One Response
Great tips!