Tips For Your First Trip To China

China is among those countries that continue to amaze people. From its rich history and culture to its completely different way of life. Being in China on your first visit could be quite a cultural shock. No, I don’t refer to Hong Kong, cause that city isn’t ever considered China!

To prepare yourself for your first trip to China Here are my top suggestions to help you on the journey! Get the help of the chinese name generator in order to generate chinese names.

Trip To China

Two passport photos that are official – They have strict guidelines regarding these photos! Be sure that your ears are clear of any jewelry. Hair should be pulled back and put in a ponytail. Additionally, you must wear dark clothes against a white backdrop that ensures that your neckline is clear.

Passports – They require two blank pages adjacent to one another and need to be valid for at least six months after entry into the country.

The proof of your stay has to provide them with the complete hotel itinerary, including the address of the hotel

• Stay connected

China is known for its blocking of many apps. Facebook, Instagram, Google, and Whatsapp aren’t working. The best method to avoid this issue is to install a VPN.

• Language barriers to language

If you’re the first time to China and you’re not a native speaker of the Chinese language, you need to start by exploring more tourist destinations like Beijing and the rest of its environs. If you’re planning on going beyond the major cities, I would strongly suggest that you learn some basic words of Mandarin. They’ll be very helpful since the locals exclusively speak Mandarin.

In Beijing in contrast, public transportation is easy and clean, and the people are slowly learning English.

The sign language that helps you communicate the things you wish in your words or actions can get you much further!

• Culture shock

There will be one, I’ll inform you of that. However, you should remember that you should always be courteous. You’re an intruder to their country and not the other way around.

• Things that are commonplace in China

There’ll be nearly no toilets. The only exception will be the case if you’re staying at an elegant hotel. So start practicing your squats!

Let me begin by reminding you that it’s more simple than it seems! Make sure you have toilet paper in your bag or some hand sanitizer and tissues.

It’s pretty unusual – although this is rapidly changing as the younger generations get older. To be fair I’ve never seen a plane move more efficiently than in China.

The practice of spitting in the street is pretty common.

• The eating process will be performed using chopsticks

It’s quite high-pitched if you’re on a train, so if you’re looking to sleep, make sure you bring headphones with you.

There’s no need for privacy. Expect people to lean back against you or grab your arm to snap a picture with you.

There are many high-speed trains that pass through mainland of China. The only thing you need to do is reserve these trains several weeks in advance. This is yet another example of the importance of planning the trip you are planning to China in advance!

If you are required to make a reservation at a train station in your area be sure to carry your passport! If you don’t, you won’t be allowed to purchase tickets.

• You could be the main attraction

Even in big cities, you’ll have to face the reality that as you’re a Westerner one stands apart from the rest of the population. And a lot of the locals aren’t familiar with us or have never met anyone from an area that is a greater Western country.

The result is that they’ll be enthralled taking pictures with you. For just a moment they will not care whether they’re in the Forbidden City, all they’ll want is to take a picture with you. If you’re at ease doing this then put on your most dazzling smile. Be aware that it is not uncommon for this to turn into a full-on photo shoot.

• Be healthy and stay fit

Drink only water that is bottled!

Use hand sanitizer to clean your hands.

If you are suffering from breathing or lung issues, stay clear of the major towns or put on a respirator

Take some Immodium along If your stomach isn’t used to eating foreign foods!

• Do not take taxis in major cities

It is important to recognize that in the city of Beijing alone, there are over 21.5 million people! It’s likely that traffic congestion is a huge issue. If you decide to use a taxi, you may be stuck and waste lots of time. The taxi meter will never stop and you’ll pay a steep cost.

The public transportation system in Beijing is extremely clear regardless of whether you know one sentence in Mandarin!

• Enjoy the local cuisine

It’s likely that you’re wondering… It’s true that I could take Chinese food whenever I’d like while at home. WRONG! You’re so wrong! I used to believe that until I actually tried Chinese food! I’ll say, it’s not like everything you’ll find at home!

It’s not too oily and of course “Nasi Goreng is an Indonesian dish. It’s not worth ordering this in China!

The food you must explore is Hot Pot, dim sum, Beijing duck, buns (apparently the red beet buns are tasty, According to Caroline) Local fish meals from Guilin, or enjoy the many vegetarian and vegan choices!

If you dine in a restaurant, Chinese customs are also distinct from ours.

It’s completely normal to point your finger at the waiter and then start shouting if you’re looking to place an order.

The orders you have placed may be served at the same moment and your companions could be at the table twenty minutes after.

A loud slurp and chewing sound indicate that you’re eating well. Therefore, if you’re going to any town go here!

Tipping isn’t permitted in China

• Cash is King

The locals pay using their mobile phones (helloooo WeChat!) You’ll find it quite difficult to pay with cards in a lot of locations! In particular, if you venture out of the major cities, having cash available is essential! Make sure you inform your bank that you’ll be traveling to China. Don’t want the credit card you have on your account to get canceled and you not be able to cash out any money.

Additionally, China only recognizes its own currency. Don’t be adamant that your dollars or Euros take you far.

It is important to be aware that the Chinese don’t give tips, and they don’t expect you to give them either.