Useful Tips & Guide

Bring the essentials: casual and comfortable clothing/shoes, sun lotion, medical kit and toiletries;

It's suggested to pack a few precautionary items with you, especially for minor illnesses;

Always prepare some changes, it is needed when you buy things from the street vendors or small shops. At some scenic spots, and when you get changes back, please check carefully in case they are counterfeit money;

Try not to open your wallet in public, and don’t show large amounts of cash or traveler's check to others.

It's better to have your hotel staff arrange taxi service for you if you want to go somewhere on your own by taxi, take a hotel card with you or ask your receptionist to write down the names of the hotels and places you want to go in both English and Chinese before getting in the car.

Always ask for a receipt from a taxi driver so that you can complain if you have been cheated or for tracing purposes if you happen to leave your anything behind in the taxi.

Be careful about sharing your travel plans with strangers.  Most people in China are friendly, and some of them are eager to practice English, it is delightful to talk with them, but never follow a stranger to anywhere you are not familiar with, especially when they promise to get you some fun or good bargains.

Transport, hotels and attractions are extremely busy during the Chinese New Year (usually in January or February) and the week-long holidays of International Labor Day (May 1) and National Day (Oct 1). It's suggested to avoid traveling in China during these periods.