1. Noob-friendly Places
Pro tip from China Travel Advisory: Your choice of first city makes ALL the difference! If you’ve never been to China before, I recommend starting your trip in cities like Shanghai, Beijing, or Guangzhou. These places have clear English signs, and it’s easy to find English-speaking foreign friends here. However, although English is taught from primary school in China, most people aren’t particularly fluent. So don’t set your expectations too high for locals’ English skills. It’s wise to prepare a translation app (like Baidu Translate “百度翻译”) and ask passersby for assistance when needed.
2. Internet & Apps
The moment you land in China, most Western apps (e.g., X/Twitter, Google services [Maps, Gmail], WhatsApp, Snapchat, Instagram) will be inaccessible. To contact family, download and test a reliable VPN before your trip. You may also need it to access online documents (e.g., hotel bookings) if requested at border control.
3. Mobile Data Options
- International carriers like AT&T or T-Mobile require global roaming activation to work in China, but speeds can be slow.
- For better connectivity, get a local SIM card (from China Mobile, China Telecom) using your passport.
4. Essential Apps
- Install Alipay and WeChat for mobile payments (QR code scanning). These apps also handle taxis, subways, bike-sharing, etc.
- Link your bank card/credit card in advance and test payments (e.g., buy water at a store) to confirm functionality.
5. Safety & Help
- Don’t fear the police—they serve the public. Look for uniforms labeled “Police” (avoid “Bao An” [security guards]).
- Electric scooters (used by delivery riders) are silent—watch out when walking, as they may approach unnoticed.
6. Transportation
- Google Maps doesn’t work; use Apple Maps or Chinese apps like Gaode Maps (Amap). For rides, try Didi Chuxing (It’s China’s Uber).
7. Accommodation
- Not all hotels accept foreigners—check eligibility before booking.
Technically, foreigners are allowed at all Chinese hotels, they just need to complete some extra registration steps that locals don’t.—but the check-in process can still be a headache. Some hotels find it’s too troublesome and simply refuse foreign guests. To avoid hassle, call first to check if they accept foreigners.
8. Cultural Notes
- Some older locals may stare or ask for photos out of curiosity (no disrespect intended).
- Avoid peak holidays (National Day [Oct 1], Spring Festival, Labor Day [May 1])—crowds overwhelm attractions, and many businesses close.
- Book tickets online in advance for major sites (e.g., Beijing’s Forbidden City). Search guides on Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book).
- Carry your passport—some venues may require it for entry.
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