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China is a fascinating country with the oldest civilization in the world, a rich culture, landscapes of mountains, rivers, deserts and grasslands, warm and friendly people belonging to over 50 minorities. China is a country undergoing rapid transformation into a vibrant, mighty economic power.
Even though China is modernizing at breakneck speed, certain areas, both in cities and countryside, present obstacles to people in wheelchairs, those using crutches or walkers, or those with poor eyesight or a hearing deficiency. Missing manhole covers, dark streets and poorly lit sidewalks are frequently encountered. Shifting stones and bricks on paths, staircases and sidewalks can sometimes result in nasty falls. “Slippery when wet” is not a sign you will often see, but a situation to watch for. Pay extra attention and you will avoid minor accidents.
Sightseeing in China means lots of walking. Most tourist attractions cover a large area, most are “outside”. For example, the Forbidden City (Imperial Palace) covers an area of 72 hectares and is an unfolding collection of buildings. Most buildings you cannot enter, but can only view through the doorways and windows. Sightseeing there usually takes a full morning or afternoon. However, you could easily spend weeks visiting every nook and cranny. A tour of the Forbidden City requires lots of walking, a hat, drinking water and a great guide book, audiotape or human guide. Visiting the Great Wall requires walking on uneven, brick and stone paths that climb and wind up and down and along the hills or mountains. The Summer Palace is another major destination that requires a few hours of walking to simply scrape the surface.
NOTE：If you will travel with infants and children, Please read the following carefully.
Pollution is a huge concern as China modernizes. People with allergies to dust or pollution should come prepared with necessary medications. If you have serious respiratory problems, discuss your journey with your doctor. Eye drops and surgical masks are often helpful for some travelers.
Chinese food is out-of-this world delicious. Food varies from region to region and you could eat a different dish at every meal during your time in China. It is not like the food found in Chinese restaurants in North America and Europe. Food preparation is generally safe. Choose restaurants that are filled with people and you will have no problems with cleanliness. Eating on the street is not generally advised for visitors.
You do need a visa. Contact the nearest Chinese Embassy or check their website for information regarding the visa application. Likely this will take about a month if you have to use the mail system, so don’t leave it to the end. Visas are available at the airport upon arrival. HOWEVER, this takes an unknown amount of time (lineups, photos, etc) and is not the best way to begin your trip to China. This method should only be used as a last alternative.
You should ensure that your vaccinations are up to date. Visit your doctor for information on this. China is safe to travel in if one uses common sense and enjoys normal good health.
- Rabies does exist, so don’t play with animals
- Mosquito-borne diseases do exist in some areas of rice paddies during certain seasons; so protect yourself against bites with insect repellant and by wearing long sleeves and pants.
- Drink either bottled or very boiled water and do not use ice cubes
- Travellers Diarrhea ruins your day, so eat freshly cooked food in very busy restaurants. Don’t be tempted by the delicious aromas coming from the street vendors. Carrying imodium or a similar treatment for diarrhea is wise. Otherwise you can buy local brands of this drug.
Money while you travel - Cash is king in China…meaning that you should always travel with some local currency in the event that you cannot change USD or travelers cheques. You can normally change USD and travelers cheques at most of the hotels in which you will stay, or in the Bank of China. In large cities of course it is simpler to exchange than in small out of the way places. In most large cities there are now plenty of ATM machines. However there is a maximum amount that you can withdraw per day…at this time about RMB5000.
Domestic Air Travel - Note that the airline checked luggage limit on domestic airlines is 20kg total, with a maximum of 2 pieces per person for economy class. In addition to that, you are allowed reasonable size carry-on luggage and your purse. Overweight is charged per kg. It will sometimes surprise you when you see the amount and kind of carry-on that the local people bring.
NOTE：Some tours will be by train. If you will undertake train travel, Please read the following carefully.
Some things you should be prepared for -
- Many local people “hork” and spit. As education increases, this habit decreases. There are government health campaigns aimed to curb this and although it may not seem so to some western travelers, the campaigns are working slowly.
- Most places in China do not yet have modern sewer systems. Public toilets smell. Public toilets are not cleaned as often as you would like them to be. Some are outright disgusting. Often there is no toilet paper or hot water to wash your hands. Always travel with toilet paper and wet-wipes and if smells upset you, carry a mask impregnated with a smell you like. A wet- wipe held over your nose helps.
- China is noisy - 1.4 billion people plus their cars and mobile phones!
- Guides and drivers rely heavily on tips to supplement their very low (sometimes non-existent) salary. They often want to take you to shops or stores where they will earn a small commission on your purchases. If you do not want to shop, please discuss this with your guide in advance and explain that your preference is to give a tip for good service.
Now that you have properly prepared yourself, you are ready to come to China. You will have a marvelous trip, meet warm, friendly and interesting people and learn about a culture that is totally different from your own.
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