China
China is a vast country in East Asia, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and rapid economic growth. With a population of over 1.4 billion people, it is the most populous country in the world. China is home to iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Army.
The country has made significant advancements in technology, infrastructure, and international relations in recent years.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "你好 (nǐ hǎo)" - hello
- "谢谢 (xièxie)" - thank you
- "对不起 (duìbùqǐ)" - sorry
- "请 (qǐng)" - please
- "再见 (zàijiàn)" - goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Historical Beijing
morning:Visit the iconic Forbidden City and marvel at its grand architecture. Try the savory jianbing near the entrance!
afternoon:Walk along the ancient alleyways of the Hutongs and experience traditional courtyard living. Stop by a local eatery for a bowl of piping hot Beijing noodles.
evening:Experience the colorful and vibrant Wangfujing Night Market with its exotic street food and lively atmosphere. Head to Sanlitun for a night-out with trendy bars and clubs.
Scenic Guilin and Yangshuo
morning:Take a peaceful boat ride along the Li River surrounded by picturesque karst mountains. Enjoy a local breakfast of Guilin rice noodles by the riverside.
afternoon:Explore the enchanting countryside of Yangshuo and cycle through the lush rice paddies and quaint villages. Savor a leisurely lunch of local specialties at a riverside restaurant.
evening:Take a relaxing stroll along West Street in Yangshuo, known for its vibrant nightlife and lively atmosphere. Pick a cozy bar or cafe to unwind and enjoy the evening.
Cultural Xi'an Exploration
morning:Explore the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army and witness the ancient wonders of the Qin Dynasty. Indulge in a delightful traditional breakfast of roujiamo, a local meat sandwich.
afternoon:Stroll along the well-preserved ancient city walls of Xi'an and immerse yourself in the historical ambiance. Treat yourself to a hearty bowl of Yangrou Paomo, a popular local lamb soup.
evening:Experience the colorful night market at the Muslim Quarter, filled with aromatic street food and a bustling atmosphere. Discover the lively bars and cafes in the city center for a fun night-out.
Modern Shanghai Exploration
morning:Ascend the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower for a panoramic view of Shanghai's impressive skyline. Fuel up with a tasty breakfast at a local dim sum restaurant.
afternoon:Explore the trendy Xintiandi district with its historic Shikumen architecture and modern boutiques. Enjoy a delightful afternoon tea at a chic cafe.
evening:Stroll along the lively Bund and take in the stunning night views of Shanghai's illuminated skyscrapers. Head to the vibrant bars and clubs of The Former French Concession for an exciting night-out.
China's Famous Food
Delicacies in China you must try!
Peking Duck
This iconic dish features succulent roast duck with crispy skin, served with condiments and thin pancakes. Quanjude and Da Dong in Beijing are renowned for their Peking Duck.
Must-Try!
Xiaolongbao
These delicate soup dumplings are filled with savory broth and pork, best enjoyed at Din Tai Fung in Shanghai or Jia Jia Tang Bao in Shanghai.
Hot Pot
A communal dining experience where diners cook a variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles in a simmering broth. Haidilao Hot Pot is a popular chain across China.
Mapo Tofu
A classic Sichuan dish featuring silky tofu and minced meat in a spicy, flavorful sauce. Sample authentic Mapo Tofu at Chen's Mapo Tofu in Chengdu.
Attractions in China
Nice places to capture memories
The Great Wall of China
Offers stunning views of the Chinese landscape and a chance to capture iconic images of the wall winding across the mountains.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Known for its unique pillar-like rock formations that inspired the landscape in the movie Avatar, providing opportunities for breathtaking photos.
The Li River
Features karst limestone peaks and the picturesque scenery of traditional Chinese fishing boats, ideal for capturing serene and stunning images.
Yellow Mountain (Huangshan)
Renowned for its misty peaks, unique rock formations, and ancient pine trees, offering photographers a chance to capture ethereal and otherworldly scenes.
Yunnan Province (Lijiang, Shangri-La, Yuanyang)
Boasts diverse landscapes including ancient towns, snow-capped mountains, and terraced rice fields, providing a wide range of photographic opportunities.
Seasonal Advice
Best times to visit and what to expect in different seasons
Spring (March to May)
Best time to visit China with pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect crowded tourist destinations during public holidays like Qingming Festival (early April).
Summer (June to August)
Peak tourist season with warm temperatures. Expect heavy rainfall in some regions and crowded attractions like the Great Wall and Forbidden City.
Autumn (September to November)
Ideal time to visit China with comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and beautiful fall foliage. Expect large crowds during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Winter (December to February)
Off-peak season with cold temperatures. Expect smaller crowds, especially at major tourist sites, but be prepared for potential travel disruptions due to snow or ice.
Outdoor Activities in China
Fun outdoor pursuits
Hiking in the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Explore the stunning sandstone pillars and lush forests of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Cycling the ancient city walls of Xi'an
Enjoy a unique perspective of the city while cycling along the well-preserved walls of Xi'an.
River rafting on the Li River in Guilin
Experience the breathtaking karst landscapes of Guilin while rafting on the peaceful Li River.
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In China, tipping is not a common practice and is often not expected. In fact, tipping may even be refused or seen as disrespectful in some situations. However, in luxury hotels and high-end restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill, so tipping is not necessary.
Payment
In China, cash is still widely used for everyday transactions, although mobile payment systems such as Alipay and WeChat Pay have become increasingly popular. Credit cards are accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but it's always good to have some cash on hand, especially when traveling to more remote locations.
Local Etiquette
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for hierarchy
In China, it's important to show respect for elders and those in positions of authority. This is often demonstrated through gestures such as bowing or using formal titles.
Collectivist culture
China values the group over the individual, so it's important to be mindful of others and considerate of the group's needs and interests in social interactions.
Gift-giving etiquette
When offering gifts in China, it's essential to present them with both hands as a sign of respect. Additionally, it's customary to politely refuse a gift initially before accepting it.
Things to do in China
Unique local experiences...
Safety
Safety in China can be examined through various lenses, including crime rates, public health, traffic safety, and natural disaster preparedness. Overall, the country is considered relatively safe for both residents and tourists, particularly in urban areas where law enforcement is visibly present. Crime rates, particularly violent crime, tend to be lower than in many Western countries. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded places or tourist hotspots. The Chinese government places a strong emphasis on social order and public safety, which contributes to the general feeling of security among citizens and visitors. Public health initiatives are also a significant aspect of safety in China. The government invests heavily in healthcare infrastructure and public health campaigns, though disparities exist between urban and rural areas. In recent years, measures to address issues like pollution and food safety have become increasingly prominent due to growing awareness and public demand. Traffic safety is an ongoing concern, with high rates of road accidents attributed to heavy traffic, lax enforcement of traffic laws in some areas, and the rapid increase of motor vehicles. Efforts to improve road safety include public awareness campaigns and stricter regulations. Natural disasters, such as earthquakes and floods, pose risks in certain regions. The government has implemented disaster preparedness and response plans to mitigate these risks and to ensure public safety in the event of emergencies. Overall, while there are challenges, the combination of law enforcement, public health measures, and disaster preparedness contributes to a relatively safe environment in the country.
Nightlife in China
Nightlife in China is a vibrant and dynamic experience, offering a wide range of activities that cater to both locals and tourists. Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou boast an array of nightclubs, bars, and live music venues that stay open well into the morning hours. These metropolises are known for their bustling streets illuminated by neon lights, creating an electric atmosphere ideal for night-time adventures. In addition to modern entertainment, many cities feature traditional night markets, where visitors can sample a variety of street foods, shop for unique souvenirs, and enjoy performances by street artists. These markets provide a more authentic and culturally rich nightlife experience. Karaoke bars, known locally as KTVs, are particularly popular and offer private rooms for friends to sing and socialize in a more laid-back setting. These establishments often come with extensive song selections and high-quality audio-visual systems. For those who prefer quieter evening activities, numerous teahouses and cafes provide a relaxing environment to unwind. In areas like Xi'an and Chengdu, you can even find teahouses that offer traditional Sichuan opera performances, complete with face-changing acts and shadow puppetry. Coastal cities such as Shenzhen and Xiamen also feature beautiful waterfronts and beach clubs, where people can enjoy sea views, live DJ sets, and tropical cocktails. Whether you are interested in dancing the night away, savoring local delicacies, or immersing yourself in cultural performances, the diverse nightlife scene in China ensures there is something for everyone.
Costs of Living
The cost of living varies significantly across different regions, cities, and lifestyle choices. Here is a general overview of common expenses you might encounter in a city like Beijing or Shanghai: Housing: - Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: approximately 5,000 to 10,000 CNY per month. - Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: around 3,000 to 6,000 CNY per month. Utilities: - Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment: about 300 to 600 CNY per month. - High-speed internet: around 150 to 300 CNY per month. Food: - Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: approximately 30 to 80 CNY. - Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: about 300 to 600 CNY. - Grocery prices per kilogram: - Rice: 5 to 10 CNY - Eggs: 10 to 15 CNY - Chicken breast: 25 to 35 CNY - Apples: 6 to 10 CNY - Milk: 8 to 15 CNY Transportation: - Public transportation ticket (bus or subway): around 3 to 5 CNY. - Monthly transportation pass: approximately 200 to 300 CNY. - Taxi fare (starting fare): around 14 CNY, with additional costs per kilometer. Healthcare: - General consultation with a doctor: about 100 to 300 CNY. - Health insurance (private plans): from 1,000 to 3,000 CNY per year, depending on coverage. Entertainment: - Movie ticket: approximately 40 to 100 CNY. - Gym membership: around 300 to 600 CNY per month. Education: - International school fees: varying from 70,000 to 200,000 CNY per year. Overall, living costs can vary widely based on personal choices and lifestyle. Urban centers tend to be more expensive than rural areas, and expatriates may find additional costs associated with international schools and imported goods.
Pet sitters in China
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!