Useful Guide for First-time Travelers to China

Opt for metered taxis in major cities, as taxis may change agreed fares last minute or take you to incorrect destinations.

Handy Guide for First-time Travelers to China

China is mysterious with stunning natural landscapes, world heritage sites... frequented by travelers worldwide, including Beijing, Shanghai, Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Hainan as places you should consider for your first trip to China. Here are some tips from SkyScanner:

Capital Beijing

The largest tourist spot in the capital Beijing is the area surrounding the Forbidden City, which has been the home of two dynasties, the Ming and Qing, for five centuries. Pay attention to the harmonious blend of ancient architecture with modern skyscrapers increasingly encroaching throughout Beijing. Ancient streets nestle alongside each other, interspersed with restaurants, bars, cafes… Don't forget to stop by Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant and taste the crispy Beijing Roast Duck, a delicacy you shouldn't miss. Additionally, tourists can also book tours to visit the famous Great Wall of China.

City of Tay An

Visit the terracotta warriors of the Qin dynasty buried beneath the soil of Tay An, in the province of Thiem Tay, discovered in 1974 by local farmers digging wells. This army is a collection of 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses. Each statue is at least 1.8 meters tall, all belonging to Emperor Qin Shi Huang. This colossal mausoleum site has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site.

Province of Sichuan

Sichuan Province welcomes you with its rich natural beauty, mysterious mountains, deep ancient forests, vast expanses of countryside, and villages that stand the test of time. Visitors can explore stone-carved Buddha statues embedded deep into the mountainside. The region's specialty is Bian Lian, a sub-genre of Chinese opera and the origin of the mesmerizing art of face-changing. For animal enthusiasts, the panda research center near Chengdu will bring visitors closer to the country's iconic bears. Jiuzhaigou, a paradise on earth, is also an unmissable destination.

City of Shanghai

Shanghai lies to the east, 1,200 km from Beijing, and represents the urban face of modern China. It's home to the world's second tallest skyscraper, the Shanghai Tower, standing at 632 meters. For a taste of sophistication, indulge in some wine at Glamour bar, one of the city's cultural event venues, offering captivating activities. Additionally, visitors can explore the Jade Buddha Temple or the Chinese Calligraphy Exhibition in the Shanghai Museum to delve deeper into the rich cultural heritage of this ancient city.

Beautiful Hainan Island

Escape to the picturesque tropical paradise of Hainan Island, where palm trees sway under the golden sun and azure waters. Explore Sanya Bay and Yalong Bay, where you can lounge on the beach, indulge in a good book, surf the waves, and feast on fresh seafood at seaside restaurants. When you've had your fill of the coastal scenery, rent a mountain bike and venture into the hinterlands, discovering waterfalls, old-growth forests, and traditional villages.

Essential Tips for First-time Travelers to China:

- It takes approximately 4 working days to obtain a single-entry visa to China, valid for 30 days. The visa is valid for up to 3 months from the date of issue.

- The currency in China is the Chinese Yuan (Renminbi CNY), with 1 CNY being approximately 3,500 VND.

- Getting around major cities in China is convenient, thanks to well-developed infrastructure including high-speed trains, buses, and subways. For travel to rural areas, taxis or private minibusses are available.

- Best Time to Travel: March to May, when the weather is most pleasant. However, there may be variations in climate across regions. Summer and winter can be quite harsh.

- Finding English speakers in China can be challenging. Therefore, only experienced travelers should venture outside urban areas. Mandarin and Cantonese are the most common languages in China.

- Vegetarians may encounter difficulties with dining options in some areas. Upscale restaurants typically add a 15% service charge to the bill.

- Besides the common pickpocketing incidents in popular tourist areas, you should be wary of the following issues:

+ Take licensed metered taxis in major cities, as unauthorized taxis may change the agreed price last minute or take you to unplanned shopping locations.

+ Avoid following strangers pretending to be friendly and inviting you to local festivals. You may fall victim to scams. Stick to places on your itinerary.

+ Beware of counterfeit money. Money from ATMs and banks is safer.

+ Only travel with reputable tour companies. Some companies may take you to shops where they receive commissions, but you'll waste time here instead of sightseeing.

+ Avoid purchasing goods you don't recognize in supermarkets.

According to Ngoisao.net

***

Source: Travel Guide Mytour