China General FAQ

When is the best time of the year to visit China?

Deciding when to visit China depends on where you wish to visit, what type of weather you enjoy, and how much of a bargain you want. China is a huge country with many different climates and types of landscape.

Is it safe to travel in China?

Yes. China is still one of the safest travel destinations in the world. The Chinese government guarantees the safety of the foreign tourists and takes the safety of visitors very seriously. As with visiting any foreign country, it is wise to be cautious with your personal possession in public places.

Is air travel within China safe?

Yes, air travel within China is very safe. Pilots of Chinese airlines are very well trained and the aircrafts are well maintained, mainly manufactured by Boeing and Airbus.

Is tap water safe to drink?

Only drink boiled or bottled water when in China.

What is the currency used in China? Where can I change money? What are banking hours?

China's legal tender is the Chinese Yuan (CNY or RMB). Foreign currencies cannot be used directly in China, though some shops do accept foreign currencies. The basic unit of RMB is yuan. RMB is available in both paper notes and coins. The denominations of paper notes are 100 yuan, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Foreign currencies may be converted into RMB at all banks and hotels at the exchange rate quoted on the foreign exchange market on the day. Banking hours are: 9-5 Mon-Fri. except holidays. As of August 2010, US$1 = approximately 6.8 Chinese Yuan. For currency conversion, visit: http://www.xe.com

Do I need a visa to travel to China?

A visa is needed to enter China. Plan ahead and allow 4 weeks to obtain your visa. Contact the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your country.

For U.S. citizens, please visit: http://www.china-embassy.org

Which months are considered high season and which is low season?

Generally, high season is from March 1 to November 30, and the low season is from December 1 to the end of February.

Do I need travel insurance to visit China?

Travel insurance is highly recommend to guard against unforeseen circumstances that may arise. Most travel insurance companies offer Trip Cost Cancellation and Interruption Insurance, emergency medical transport and medical expenses insurance. These pay for loss due to any unforeseen circumstances such as death, injury and illness. Travel policies also cover you for a variety of other risks, such as cancellation charges, loss of money, loss of baggage, and liability to third parties. Purchasing travel insurance is an easy way to ease the mind when traveling anywhere.

Is English widely spoken in China?

Most hotels welcoming foreign guests have an English-speaking or Japanese-speaking working staff. The tour guide will also have a good command of English.

Is tipping customary in China?

Tipping in restaurants and taxis is not customary. However, tips are now frequently offered to and accepted by tour guides, drivers and bell persons at the hotel. If in doubt, check with your tour guide.

What are some of the best sight-seeing locations in China?

There are so many! The famous ones include The Forbidden City, Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace in Beijing, the Terra-cotta Warriors in Xian, the Jade Buddha Temple and the Bund in Shanghai, picturesque limestone mountains scenery in Guilin, the Stone Forest in Kunming, Yangtze River Cruise, Huangshan or Yellow Mountain, the Potala Palace in Tibet. The list goes on!

What health condition do I need to travel to China?

Generally, there are no special health requirements about travel China. But for those pregnant, elderly, disabled and children travelers as well as travelers with poor health, special care should be ensured. Elderly travelers, or those with medical conditions, are advised to make a thorough physical examination before visiting China. Travel to high-altitude areas such as Tibet is not suitable for those with pulmonary or heart problems.

Do I need immunizations to enter China?

No immunizations are required for entry into China, unless the traveler is coming from a yellow fever infected area. For traveling into countryside, immune globulin is also recommended to combat hepatitis A, as is typhoid immunization. It is advisable to bring along an anti-diarrhea agent, and your supply of prescription drugs for your trip. For most update information, please contact CDC in Atlanta or visit their web site at http://www.cdc.gov

Do I need to bring my medical record?

It is necessary, particularly for those with a history of coronary or pulmonary diseases. The absence of your medical records would make you disoriented when emergency occurs. A complete medical record should include your blood type, immunization record, allergies, medications you are currently taking (both prescription and non-prescription), your doctor's name, address, phone number, emergency contact name and phone number, and your insurance company's name, address and phone number.

What is food really like in China?

The most important aspect of life in China is the food. Each region has their own wonderful specialties and signature dishes and they all have their own character. It is definitely NOT like the Chinese food you are use to in your home country's Chinese restaurants. You are encouraged to have an open mind and sample whatever looks appetizing to you.

What is the electricity voltage used in China?

Voltage used in China is 220V-240V.

What is the measurement system used in China?

The standard measuring system in China is the metric system; i.e. kilograms, liters, meters etc.

What should I pack when traveling to China?

Best advice is to pack as little as possible. "Lightweight" and "Compact" are two words that should be etched on your mind when you are deciding what to bring along. Today's China is well stocked with most personal items. You will have many opportunities to buy whatever you may need. It would be much better to make your purchases as you need, along the way, than to end up throwing them away because you have too much to carry!

What sites in China are listed in UNESCO's World Heritage Program?

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