China is becoming more and more of a popular tourist destination for people around the world. Not only does China have the world’s largest casino (http://www.china.org.cn/english/MATERIAL/222472.htm) built by the Las Vegas Sands corporation, but they have a unique culture with tons of tourist trap destinations.
photo by Dainis Matisons
You can visit everything from the Forbidden City and the terracotta soldiers to the great wall and still not have done or seen everything there is to do. However, before you get on the plane to head over to china, there are a few things you need to check to make sure your vacation goes as smooth as possible.
- Make sure your favorite attractions and destinations are opened to tourists.
One place that many tourists want to visit is Tibet. If Tibet is one of the reasons you are going to China, check with your local embassy or consulate ahead of time and make sure that the Government is allowing foreigners into Tibet while you are there. The Government does close access to the area during certain times of the year so it is important to check ahead of time so you don’t ruin part of your trip by being turned away.
- Get your China visa ahead of time.
Almost everyone is required to have a visa to enter China. Unfortunately when you book your tickets and your hotel, not every company will let you know. Then when you get to China you find out you needed a visa and they can turn you away if you don’t have one. Luckily it is fairly easy to get a China visa since the application is a simple 4 page online form. Just give yourself enough time before your trip in case you make any mistakes.
- Learn to pronounce your allergies in Mandarin.
One thing that you should know how to do, especially with seafood allergies, is learn to pronounce them in Mandarin. Not only should you learn how to say I am allergic to, but find a person before you go who can correct your pronunciation. You may even want to have them write your allergies on a piece of paper to let the servers know you are allergic to certain foods. This way there is no confusion when you are out eating and your vacation won’t be ruined by a stomach ache or trip to the hospital.
China is an amazing tourist destination, the thing that you need to do ahead of time is check to make sure you have everything you will need to get into China like your Visa, as well as making sure your destinations are opened to the public before you go. Then just make sure you know how to say anything that would be important like allergies to foods and you should be good to go.
Hotels in China
Joy City Hotel & Apartment – Beijing
Average Price: €70
Average Rating: 8
Hotel New International Guest House – Hong Kong
Average Price: €30
Average Rating: 7
Hotel Citadines Xi An Central – Xian
Average Price: €43
Average Rating: 9.8
Leave a comment