Essential China Travel Guide: Navigating the Middle Kingdom with Ease

Understanding China's Cultural Landscape

China's major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an each boast distinct characteristics and cultural nuances. While some situations may seem chaotic, they often work out surprisingly well, leaving you to wonder why you were concerned in the first place. Conversely, tasks that appear simple can become unexpectedly complicated, leading to what's colloquially known as a "China day." Embrace these experiences with an open mind; they're part of the fabric of daily life in a country that's rapidly evolving while still rooted in millennia of tradition.

Navigating Chinese Toilets

Be Prepared for Varied Facilities

• Expect the Unexpected: Not all toilets will be clean, so be ready for anything.
• Carry Tissues: Always have tissue paper on hand, as it's not guaranteed to be provided.
• Master the Squat Toilet: Practice using a squat toilet at home to avoid surprises.
• Use Clean Toilets When Available: If you encounter a clean restroom, take the opportunity to use it.
• Public Toilets: Paid toilets (around RMB 0.5) are generally cleaner. Be cautious with free public toilets, especially at bus and train stations.
• Rural Areas: Expect basic facilities and dispose of toilet paper in provided baskets to avoid blockages.

Tip: Hotel lobby toilets are a reliable option and are typically well-maintained.

Savoring Chinese Cuisine

Embrace the Culinary Diversity

• Variety is the Spice of Life: Chinese food offers an incredible range of choices. When in doubt, carry a snack like a chocolate bar until you find something familiar.
• Water Safety: Drink only bottled or boiled water, as tap water isn't safe to drink. Even boiled water may contain minerals you'd rather avoid.
• Dining Etiquette: Meals can be noisy affairs with food flying in all directions. Smoking at the table is also common.
• Ordering Food: If you can't read the menu, simply point to a dish at another table and ask for the price.
• Menu Translation: Carry a translated menu to ensure you know what you're ordering. Contact me for a copy of a basic menu that avoids exotic meats.

Stat: According to a report by WildChina, an estimated 30% of tourists find Chinese dining customs to be a significant cultural shock.

Getting Around: Taxis in China

Taxi Tips for a Smooth Ride

• Choose Reputable Companies: Opt for taxis from major companies, identifiable by their uniform color schemes.
• Have Your Destination in Chinese: Carry a business card from your hotel with the address in Chinese.
• Be Vigilant: Note the driver's name and taxi number in case of issues.
• Bargain After Hours: In cities like Shanghai, taxi fares increase after 11 pm, but you can often negotiate a fair price.

Fact: According to the Shanghai Municipal Transportation Commission, there are over 50,000 taxis in Shanghai as of 2021.

Shopping in China: A Bargain Hunter's Dream

Strategies for Successful Shopping

• Size Matters: Larger clothing sizes can be hard to find outside tourist areas.
• Tech Purchases: For electronics, consider shopping in Hong Kong instead.
• Payment Methods: Visa is widely accepted, but be aware of surcharges.
• Bargaining: Start at 25% of the initial price and expect to settle at around 40-50%.

Insight: A survey by Trip.com found that 60% of international tourists to China engage in shopping, with many citing bargaining as a memorable part of the experience.

Health and Safety: Medical Considerations

Stay Healthy on Your Journey

• Access to Doctors: Most hotels have a doctor on call, and larger hotels often have English-speaking staff.
• Pharmacies: Look for the Green Cross sign for 24-hour pharmacies. Carry a phrasebook for communication.
• Medication Packaging: Many medicines have English on one side of the packaging—make sure to check.

Communication: Staying Connected

Tips for Using Phones in China

• Hotel Phones: English-speaking assistance is more likely in high-end hotels.
• Chinese SIM Cards: Purchasing a local SIM card can be cost-effective for calls and SMS.

Note: Before buying a SIM card, ensure it's compatible with your phone.

Travel Timing: When to Avoid

Plan Around Peak Times

• Chinese New Year: Late January or early February.
• Labour Day: Early May.
• National Day: Early October.

During these periods, expect heavy congestion and full prices for travel and accommodation.

Entertainment: Television and Media

Keeping Informed and Entertained

• Cable TV: Most major hotels offer a variety of channels.
• CCTV9: The national English-language channel provides news and cultural programs.

Departure: Airport Tax

Budget for Additional Costs

• Domestic Flights: RMB 50
• International Flights: RMB 90

Some tickets now include the construction fee, but it's wise to have the amount ready just in case.

This guide aims to make your trip to China less stressful and more enjoyable. For those who have traveled to China and wish to share their insights, your contributions are welcome. Visit Travel-the-Real-China for more information and to connect with fellow travelers.

John McKenna