China Travel Guide | She is Wanderlust Female Adventure Traveler

Located in East Asia, China is the world’s most populous country, home to a millenaire culture and one of the oldest empires in the world, a country with a rich history, and stunning natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.

Why Visit China

CULTURE AND HISTORY

China’s civilization date back more than 5000 years, one of the Four Ancient Civilizations. Chinese cultural history has enormous diversity and variety, as the customs and traditions vary by geography and ethnicity. An abundance in spiritual values, arts and traditions, unchanged over millennia.

LANDSCAPES

China’s landscapes are equally awe-inspiring, from the towering mountains of the Himalayas to the sweeping deserts of the Gobi. Visitors can also explore the karst hills and stunning limestone formations of Guilin or marvel at the serene beauty of West Lake in Hangzhou. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking natural beauty or tranquil countryside, China has plenty to offer.

CUISINE

Chinese cuisine is world-renowned for its diverse flavors and regional specialties. From the fiery Sichuan cuisine to the delicate flavors of Cantonese cuisine, visitors can savor a wide range of dishes. Be sure to try some of the iconic dishes such as Peking duck, dim sum, and hotpot.

VIBRANT CITIES

With 1.4 billion people, cities in China just keep growing and growing. China is also home to some of the most vibrant and bustling cities in the world, such as Shanghai, Beijing, and Hong Kong. Visitors can explore the towering skyscrapers, experience the bustling street markets, and immerse themselves in the modernity and energy of these dynamic cities.

Why Visit China

CULTURE AND HISTORY

LANDSCAPES

CUISINE

VIBRANT CITIES

Name: People’s Republic of China
Capital: Beijing
Official Languages: Standard Chinese
Currency: Renminbi (yuan; ¥)
Time Zone: UTC + 8

Name: People’s Republic of China
Capital: Beijing
Official Languages: Standard Chinese
Currency: Renminbi (yuan; ¥)
Time Zone: UTC + 8

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What to expect

LANGUAGE

Mandarin is the official language of China, with more than the 70% of the population speaking it, but there are also several dialects that vary depending on the province. Other languages and dialects are spoken throughout the country, including Cantonese, Shanghainese, and Hokkien. English is not widely spoken outside of major cities and tourist areas, so it’s recommended to learn some basic Mandarin phrases before traveling to China.

ELECTRICITY

In China the standard voltage is 220 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. That’s the standard voltage in the UK, Europe, Australia and most of Asia and Africa; If you are traveling from the US you will need an adaptor

CURRENCY

Chinese yuan (Renminbi) is the official currency in China. ATMs are widely available in cities and towns, and major credit cards are accepted in many establishments. However, it’s always a good idea to carry cash in smaller denominations for transactions in smaller shops and markets. 1 US dollar equals 6.9 yuans (as of 2023)

SAFETY

China is generally a safe country for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, it’s always important to take common sense precautions, such as not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night. Petty theft can be a problem in crowded areas, so it’s recommended to keep an eye on your belongings in busy tourist spots and on public transportation.

CLIMATE

China’s territory is so extensive, that climate varies from region to region. Generally, the north is cold and dry, while the south is warm and humid. The best time to visit China depends on the region, but generally, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most pleasant seasons. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid in many areas, while winter (December to February) can be extremely cold in the north.

How to get around China

As a tourist, there are several ways to get around China. Here are some of the most common modes of transportation:

Domestic Flights: China has an extensive domestic flight network, making it convenient to travel between major cities. Major airports include Beijing Capital International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport.
High-Speed Trains: China has a vast network of high-speed trains, which are a convenient and efficient way to travel between cities. Major high-speed rail lines include the Beijing-Shanghai Line, Shanghai-Hangzhou Line, and Guangzhou-Shenzhen Line.
Metro: Major cities in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, have metro systems that are efficient and affordable. They are an excellent way to travel within a city.
Buses: Buses are a common mode of transportation for both short and long distances in China. They are relatively cheap and offer a wide range of routes.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available in major cities, but it’s essential to use licensed taxis. Many apps, such as Didi Chuxing, make it easy to book a taxi.
Bicycle: China has an extensive network of bike rental services, making it easy to rent a bike and explore cities at a leisurely pace.
Private Car: It is technically impossible for tourist to rent a car in China, as you will need a chinese driver’s license and a residency permit, be also aware that the majority of signs have no english translation, and there is a lot of traffic in the main cities. Some rental agencies will rent you the car with a driver. You could also move around by taxi, that are relatively cheap, although their english skills might not be the best.

Visa Policy

China has a strict visa policy for most visitors. Most foreign visitors are required to obtain a visa prior to their arrival in China, except for citizens of a few visa-exempt countries, such as Singapore, Brunei, and Japan, who can stay in China for up to 15 days without a visa. There are different types of visas depending on the purpose of the visit, including tourist, business, student, and work visas. The visa application process involves submitting an application form, a passport-sized photo, a valid passport, and other supporting documents, such as proof of travel arrangements and accommodation bookings. The visa processing time varies depending on the type of visa and can take several days or even weeks. It is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance of the intended travel date to avoid any delays.