Things to know before traveling to China
While exploring China can present its own set of challenges, the rewards are well worth it. The people in China are incredibly welcoming and the country’s rich history and breathtaking sights are truly unparalleled. A trip to China is sure to be an unforgettable experience. If you have any questions, we’re here to help. If you can’t find the information you need in our FAQ section, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team of travel experts is always available to provide you with the answers you’re looking for.
Do I need a visa to visit China?
Unless you come from one of the few visa-exempt countries (which are currently listed as; Singapore, Brunei, Japan, Qatar, and Armenia) you will need a tourist visa, known as the L Visa, to visit China. The L Visa allows visitors to stay in China for 30 أيام. It is also possible for citizens from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canadian, and Argentine to apply for a 10-year China tourist visa that allows for multiple entries. There are some exceptions to this rule, including direct transit passengers staying less than 24-hours and passport holders from 53 countries who can enjoy 72-hour or 144-hour visa-free transit at certain points of entry. Visitors traveling directly to special areas, like Hainan, can also enjoy visa-free travel.
What is the Chinese policy on Visa-Free Transit?
China makes allowances for visa-free transit for visitors from more than 50 countries. These include; France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, Russia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and the United States. Passport holders from these countries are granted a visa-free stay up to 72 hours while transiting via popular airports, including Beijing, شنغهاي, Chengdu, شيآن, Guilin, and many more. Passengers from the same 53 countries can also visit Guangdong, شنغهاي, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, شيآن, Chongqing, Liaoning, Chengdu, Wuhan, Qingdao, Kunming, and Xiamen on a visa-free stay of up to 144 ساعات.
How do I get a Visa? What kind of visa should I get?
If you’re visiting China on holiday, you will most likely need to apply for a Chinese Tourist L Visa. We always recommend our travelers apply for a tourist visa at least 60 days prior to departure. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months on the return date of your trip. Please note that travelers are required to submit a Letter of Invitation with their visa application. IslamiChinaTravel will be happy to provide this letter after you have secured your reservation.
How accessible is the Internet in China?
The Internet is available all over China and Wi-Fi connections are quite common. China blocks access to Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or anything related to Google (including your Gmail). One way around this is by purchasing a VPN, or a Virtual Private Network. A VPN disguises the computer’s IP address so it looks like you are connected from the US or Australia even if you are in China. Please make sure you purchase the VPN before getting to China. China blocks access to the VPN companies so you will be out of luck trying to purchase one if you are already in China.
What kinds of medications or medical supplies should I bring?
For your comfort and convenience during your trip, we recommend bringing along some medical supplies. These include antibacterial ointment (such as Neosporin), antihistamines, anti-nausea medication, decongestants (like Pseudoephedrine), anti-diarrheal medication (such as Loperamide), insect repellent with DEET, hydrocortisone cream for itching, pain-relievers like Ibuprofen, and sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Be sure to pack enough of any prescription medications you may need for the duration of your trip, plus an extra week’s supply in a separate location just in case.
How much spending money should I bring, and what is the best way to carry it?
The cost of your journey covers most of your basic needs, but you’ll still need to budget for personal expenses and souvenirs. Be aware that pick-pocketing can be an issue in China, so it’s a good idea to keep your money and valuables secure and out of sight. Consider using a money belt to keep your passport and cash close to your body, even under your clothing.
Are there baggage limits while traveling by air within China?
When flying domestically in China, each passenger is permitted to check one piece of luggage weighing up to 20 kilograms (44 pounds) and bring one carry-on bag with total dimensions not exceeding 45 inches. Be sure to secure your checked luggage with a lock (combination locks are recommended) and attach a luggage tag with your name and contact information. Luggage without a lock may not be accepted for transport, and you may need to purchase a lock at the airport. To prepare for the possibility of delayed or lost luggage, consider packing a change of clothes, underwear, and toiletries in your carry-on bag.
What power plugs/sockets are used in China?
الكهرباء في الصين الرئيسية هي 220 فولت, 50 هرتز وهو ضعف الجهد القياسي مقارنة بأمريكا الشمالية وبعض دول أمريكا اللاتينية التي تعمل على 110 فولت 60 هرتز. نظرًا لاختلاف أشكال المقابس والفولتية بين الدول, عادة ما يكون محول قابس محمول ضروريًا. شواحن معظم الأجهزة الإلكترونية مثل الهواتف المحمولة, الأجهزة اللوحية, والكاميرات يمكنها العمل بشكل طبيعي في نطاق الجهد الكهربائي الواسع من 110~240 فولت. معظم الفنادق المصنفة فوق 3 نجمة في الصين توفر مآخذ كهربائية بكلا الفولتين 110V و220V في الحمامات, على الرغم من أنه في غرف الضيوف عادة ما تكون المآخذ 220V فقط متاحة.
هل أحتاج لحمل جواز السفر أثناء السفر في الصين?
من المهم إبقاء جواز سفرك معك في جميع الأوقات أثناء السفر في الصين, لأن القانون يتطلب ذلك. You’ll need to present your passport when checking into a hotel, boarding a flight, exchanging currency, or purchasing a train ticket. It’s also necessary if you want to receive a senior citizen discount at museums or other tourist attractions with admission fees. Additionally, some department stores may require you to show your passport when using a foreign credit card.
What is the state of restrooms in China?
While Western-style toilets are commonly found in large cities and hotels, public restrooms, train stations, and some airports may only have squat toilets available. It’s also important to note that toilet paper is not always provided in public restrooms, so it’s a good idea to bring your own.
How easy is it to change currencies upon arrival in China?
تبادل العملة في الصين سهل ويمكن القيام به في المطارات الدولية, البنوك الكبيرة, والفنادق. من الأفضل أن تحمل معك ما يكفي من النقد لأنه قد يكون من الصعب سحب الدولارات الأمريكية بمجرد وصولك. أكشاك صرف العملة في المطارات تقدم أسعار صرف منخفضة, لذلك فإن البنوك الصينية أو الفنادق ذات الأربع والخمس نجوم خيارات أفضل. احتفظ بإيصالات الصرف لأنها ستكون ضرورية إذا كنت تريد تحويل العملة الصينية مرة أخرى في نهاية رحلتك.
هل يمكنني الحصول على النقود باستخدام ماكينة الصراف الآلي في الصين؟?
نعم. يمكنك سحب النقود من ماكينة صراف آلي في الصين بسرعة وبسعر جيد. ومع ذلك, قد يتم تحصيل رسوم صرف أجنبي من البنك الصيني ورسوم من بنكك الخاص. ماكينات الصراف الآلي التي تقبل بطاقات الائتمان والخصم الأجنبية سهلة العثور عليها. تذكر أن تعرف الرقم السري الخاص بك للحصول على النقود من بطاقتك.
هل الإكراميات مقبولة في الصين؟?
الإكراميات ليست جزءًا من الثقافة المحلية في المطاعم, ولكن يُقترح تقديمها للمرشدين والسائقين حسب تقديرك. سترسل لك IslamiChinaTravel إرشادات أساسية حول الإكراميات ومعلومات مفيدة أخرى قبل حوالي شهر من موعد مغادرتك.