Top 8 Must Do Before you Go to China
with the right ideas of what you should actually do. If you have never been toChinabefore, things might be a little
bit confusing for you. Here are some of the most important tips on how to
prepare yourself before going to this country.
1.Arrange your flight tickets
The first thing you should do is arrange your flight. Almost every major
airline flies to China. It is usually possible to book a flight on line, either
through the airline directly, or through a third party travel agency.
Approximate fares from Europe or North America will be around US$ 800 in low
season , rising to nearer US$ 1,600 in high season (summer months, around
Christmas and Chinese New Year).
2.Apply for a visa
After arranging your tickets will be able to apply for a Chinese visa.
The necessary documents needed to apply for a tourist visa are flight tickets,
original passport with a validity of at least 6 months and a completely filled
application form with photo. If you do business in China you need an invitation letter by a company to get a F-Visa. In order to obtain a visa it is not necessary to
submit the documents personally to the embassy. You may ask a third person.
3.Take out an insurance
Before going to a place like China you should remember to take some kind
of insurance, that can be used abroad, like accident or medical insurance. The
cost of travel insurance may vary depending on the cost and length of your
trip, your age or your health. Purchase insurance from a broker, or directly
from an on line insurer, as it is much cheaper than that sold by travel
agents.
4.Get vaccinated
Although there are no obligatory vaccinations before going to China, it
is highly advisable to see your doctor in this matter. Different vaccinations
are being recommended for certain travel destinations. This is because there
are several climatic zones in this country. The most common vaccination is
against hepatitis and typhoid. Information is available either the health
insurance information packs or at pharmacies that offer vaccination advice.
5.Take some medicines
For a trip to China, it is a good idea to bring a first aid kit. In
addition to typical travel supplies (band-aids, bandages, laxatives, etc.),
include insect repellent especially for the summer and if you go to the south
of China, make sure you"ve got some kind of topical anti fungal agent, and
sunscreen. In winter an additional supply of moisturizer is recommended because
it can get very dry.
6.Bring some cash
Before going to China make sure that you have some money in cash,
either in US Dollars or Euro. These currencies can easily be converted into the
Chinese currency RMB. In some places like smaller towns or villages around the
country, it might be quite difficult to find a bank or a cash dispenser. The
Bank of China is believed to be the most trustworthy place to change money.
7.Check your cellphone
All Europeans and many North Americans operating on GSM can use their
ordinary mobile phones. But North Americans, who operate on a different
frequency, need to have a more expensive tri band model. You may also need to
call your cellular operator to "unlock" your phone if you want to use it with a
local provider.
8.Buy a phrase book
You have to remember that not all people in China know how to speak a
foreign language. Even some employees at typical touristic places, like museums
or famous temples often do not speak English. It is highly advisable to buy a
decent phrase book before you come, just to make sure that you will be able to
communicate with the locals by asking them essential things such as directions,
food etc.