Visiting any new place often involves some sort of mix of excitement and nerves at everything you need to do.
To help you focus on the excitement instead of the admin, our China Travel Specialists have compiled their first-hand knowledge to answer some of the most frequently asked questions from our travellers below.
Whilst we have done our best to cover as much as possible, if you still have questions then feel free to get in touch with our destination experts.
Before departure
Your passport needs to have at least 6 months validity after your date of return from China. See our Visa and Passport page for more information on requirements.
To visit China, you’ll need a visa and as of 1 November 2018, all visa applicants aged between 14 and 70 inclusive will need to make their visa application in person at a Visa Application Centre. Also, as part of the application process, biometric data (scanned fingerprints) will now have to be provided.
Chinese visa details and requirements have been known to change with almost no notice given, so please refer to the Chinese Embassy in the UK for the most up to date details.
With a UK passport, you do not require a visa to visit Hong Kong, unless you stay longer than 3 months. If you plan to leave Hong Kong to enter China, you’ll need a Chinese Visa in advance. If you leave China to enter Hong Kong, and plan to return to mainland China afterwards, you’ll need a double entry Chinese visa.
See our Visa and Passport page for more information.
Yes, we would always recommend taking out comprehensive travel insurance when travelling, especially overseas, that is suitable for your requirements and needs.
China is a vast country, spanning different terrains, climates and temperatures. Depending on the time of year you are travelling and your unique itinerary, you might need to pack different items. The essentials we would recommend are comfortable walking shoes or trainers with good grip, clothing you can layer made from breathable, natural fabrics and a warm jacket for cooler days in the mountains or a chilly train.
It is always best to get the advice of a GP or travel nurse before travelling overseas to check which vaccinations you might need or if any boosters are required. The Travel Health Pro website provides a comprehensive guide on all the vaccinations you should consider.
Departure
We know heading off on holiday is always a little bit stressful, especially on the day you leave, so we would advise doing these things before you depart:
- Check you have all your necessary documentation, including your passport!
- Take a photo of your documents and email it to yourself and travelling partners. Having a copy on your phone always comes in handy too.
- Ensure you have all your chargers and converters for any phones, cameras, tablets you are taking. A portable battery pack is a handy item to have in your hand luggage.
- Take snacks and a big bottle of water for your flight.
- Get to the airport with plenty of time to spare, we advise arriving 3 hours prior to your flight departure.
- Pack a change of clothes in your hand luggage and take a photo of your checked bag in case it goes missing en route.
- Sit back and relax knowing we have your holiday sorted!
Arrival
The official language of China is Mandarin Chinese. However, there are 55 officially recognised minority groups in China, each with their own unique language and culture. English is spoken by many especially in cities and touristy places but you will find many people who don’t speak any English so having a translation app on your phone or a phrase book is essential. Communicating with those around you even when you don’t speak the same language is all part of the fun of travelling!
Here are some helpful words and phrases to get you started:
- 你好 (nǐ hǎo) – Hello
- 谢谢 (xiè xiè) – Thank you
- 不好意思 (bù hǎo yì si) – Excuse me/Sorry
- 请问 (qǐng wèn) – Excuse me/ May I ask
- 对不起 (duì bù qǐ) – I’m sorry
- 没关系 (méi guān xi) – It’s okay/ No problem
- 我不懂 (wǒ bù dǒng) – I don’t understand
- 请说慢一点 (qǐng shuō màn yī diǎn) – Please speak slower
- 多少钱 (duō shǎo qián) – How much does it cost?
- 厕所在哪里 (cè suǒ zài nǎ lǐ) – Where is the restroom?
We all know the types of dishes on offer in our local Chinese takeaway, and you will certainly see some of these favourites during your travels, but the variety on offer goes beyond what you see in the average UK restaurant. From pops of spicy Sichuan peppers to steaming hot pot and sticky Peking Duck, there are plenty of new and exciting dishes to try. Read our foodies guide to eating in China on our blog to warm up your tastebuds!
China has an ancient and complex history that is brimming with traditions, customs and beliefs. It can be tricky to navigate these when visiting China but being polite and respectful will get you a long way (and forgiven quickly for any faux pas).
Spitting, burping and napping in public are commonplace and not considered rude in China so don’t be taken aback should you see any of these around you. In some areas, especially those with a Tibetan population, pointing can be seen as impolite. Instead use your full hand with your palm facing up and your fingers flat to point to something or someone. Read our tips on travelling to China blog for more insights.
Safety
China is a safe country to travel to as a tourist, crime rates are relatively low and people are generally welcoming and accommodating. As in any country, we suggest you are cautious, keep an eye on your belongings and be mindful of your surroundings.
We are contactable in the UK during office hours and our local partners in destination are available 24/7 for any support or help you might need. They are in the best position as they will be on the same timezone, they should be your first contact in a case of emergency.
Tips and practical information
Chinese money is referred to as renminbi, ‘peoples money,’ but is better known as the Yuan, or ‘kuai.’ We suggest using Bank of China ATMs which are found in cities and large towns. All you need is a debit or credit card with a Visa, Maestro or Cirrus logo, but be aware that cards are not accepted everywhere. You can visit ATM’s in every airport and city but we recommend carrying spare cash just in case.
In Hong Kong the currency is the Hong Kong Dollar, and is available from ATM’s throughout the city.
Tipping is not customary in China, and almost no-one asks for or expects a tip, it can even be seen as impolite in restaurants and cafes. We would however recommend using your discretion towards any guides or drivers you may use as tipping is becoming more common place for good service.