China is a fascinating, multifaceted destination, with everything from busy cities filled with tall skyscrapers to ancient temples displaying the nation’s rich culture and history. As thrilling as Anna Veselova-Solovoniuk has explained it to be, the idea of visiting China for the first time can be somewhat intimidating. There’s no doubt that travelling to China can be difficult, even for seasoned travellers. Let alone first-timers.
If you are someone who has explored Travel Wise Way for the best travel guides, latest news and trends in the travel world and is currently organizing your first vacation, we have something for you. Here are five important tips we have for first-timers on their journey to the world’s most populated land to help them explore new places.
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Apply for a Tourist Visa
Unless you are from one of the visa-exempt nations, you will most likely need a tourist visa to visit mainland China, you should check the visa requirements for your country. However, if you are transiting and have evidence of your next flight, there is a 72-hour visa-free transit policy that permits travellers from 53 countries to stay in 18 China cities for up to 3 days (72 hours) without a visa.
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Download WeChat
WeChat is one of the most important China Travel Tips. WeChat is a mix between Messenger, Facebook, Apple Pay, and a slew of other smaller apps. And almost every Chinese citizen has it. This app is essential if you want to make friends and message them. Another useful feature is the ability to translate text messages from Chinese. Having trouble communicating with someone? Add them to WeChat and start chatting. However, as with any translation program, keep your phrase simple, or you may receive some strange results.
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Get a VPN
Consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for hassle-free internet access while travelling in China. The internet laws in this country can be quite severe, and some websites and apps may not function properly. However, with a VPN, you may bypass such restrictions and continue surfing, chatting, and sharing as usual. It’s a useful tool to have in your digital backpack while you travel through China.
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Local Food Adventure
When in China, make sure to explore the local food scene; it’s a delectable excursion you won’t want to miss out on. Trying authentic Chinese cuisine is an adventure in and of itself. And here’s a bonus tip: understanding a few local phrases can be beneficial when it comes to ordering from the menu. It not only adds to the excitement of your gastronomic adventure, but it also allows you to connect with locals who enjoy your enthusiasm for their traditional flavours. So, prepare to have your taste buds tantalized in China!
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Avoid Tourist Traps
To make the most of your trip to China, avoid congested tourist traps and instead discover less-explored, off-the-beaten-path locations. While popular destinations are obviously appealing, discovering calmer and more authentic locations can provide a richer and more immersive experience. You’ll get the opportunity to engage with local culture, have one-of-a-kind activities, and create lasting memories that go beyond the traditional tourist experience. So, investigate and discover China’s hidden jewels to make your trip genuinely memorable.
Conclusion
With these key recommendations, traveling China as a first-time visitor becomes a breeze. Embrace cultural differences, prioritize local cuisine, learn basic Mandarin phrases, and get a VPN. These insights offer an enriching and trouble-free journey, as well as an unforgettable experience in this interesting country.