If you plan a trip to China, you’re in for a unique and memorable experience. Its history and culture are part of every building. Americans planning to go to China must prepare more than their suitcases before going. A visit to China is like a trip into another dimension.
Tourist Information
The two most popular airports to use for a visit to China are Beijing, which is the capital, and Shanghai. Experienced tourists report the best way to get from Beijing Airport to the city’s center is by using the Airport Express Train. Please note you cannot rent a car in China with a foreign driver’s license. Public transportation will be the best travel method.
When to Visit
Travel experts agree that the best months to visit China are mid-April, September, and October. Air quality in China makes touring there uncomfortable, and allergy sufferers will want to avoid summer travel. June and July are the hottest months, and there are often typhoons.
Chinese Orchids
Orchid lovers may insist on visiting for the orchid festival in January, but China’s winters are icy. Despite the cold weather, the loveliness of Chinese orchids can be worth a visit. Many people are surprised that orchids are popular in China for their beauty and medicinal use; they are reported to ease sore throat and indigestion. According to Comfy Living, international sales of orchids total around $5 million.
English – Chinese Relations
When traveling in China, you may not find nearly as many people who speak English. Learn a few words or phrases in Mandarin, like ‘help,’ ‘bathroom,’ and ‘food.’ Download Google Translate to your phone to help with communication. One important thing to note is that in many cultures, people need more personal space than Americans and are not accustomed to greeting with hugs.
Finance and Identification
When paying for something in China, cash is preferred over credit cards. Most Chinese citizens use an app called Alipay, which is part of the WeChat messaging system. You can download Alipay and simplify your payment processes at every Chinese destination. Always carry your passport; you won’t be able to board public transportation without showing your passport.
Chinese Industries
China is home to many profitable industries, such as mattresses. Spring mattresses – one of the most popular mattress types – were first made in 1857, and Chinese factories still make them with quality craftsmanship. With so many industrial production facilities in China, you may be amazed at the large buildings you see during your trip.
History buffs may be interested to know the first pipes for transporting petroleum and natural gas were made in China, in 500 B.C. At the time, the pipes were made of bamboo.
Tourist Destinations
One of the most popular destinations in China is the Forbidden City. It’s also known as the Palace Museum, and its 9,000 rooms give visitors a breathtaking lesson in Chinese history. Millions of tourists per year also travel to the Great Wall of China. At almost 14,000 miles long, the Wall is one of the best-known structures in China.
Technical Considerations
To use your phone in China, you must download a good VPN. Facebook, WhatsApp, and Google are all banned in China, so you can’t use them when traveling there. To communicate with your friends in China, download their messaging system called WeChat. When packing your suitcase, be sure you have adapters for the outlets in China.
Restroom Facilities
American tourists should prepare themselves for the toilets in China. Most toilets are lower to the floor (‘squat toilets.’) You won’t find toilet paper, paper towels, or soap. Bring some toilet paper in your travel bag and some hand wipes when you go out for the day.
China’s culture and habits may differ, but your experiences there will be priceless. Use the above information to prepare yourself. Then, pack your bag and get set for your Chinese adventure!
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