The Chinese mindset differs significantly from our own. While the Chinese are accommodating towards the idiosyncrasies of their guests, visitors should also consider the customs of a foreign country. To assist you in having a trouble-free experience in China, we have compiled ten helpful tips:
1. Chinese Dining Etiquette: China boasts centuries of rich dining traditions. Even the ubiquitous rice sticks are considered an art with unique customs. Dining rituals in China also convey mutual respect. For instance, passing food from one pair of chopsticks to another is discouraged. Avoid inserting chopsticks into rice, as it symbolizes sudden death, reminiscent of incense sticks used in funeral ceremonies. When using chopsticks, grasp a sizable portion of food and bite it off. Never point with chopsticks or use them to move plates. After a meal, place chopsticks on the edge of the plate or on stands, not directly on the table. Additionally, when someone hands you something, including a plate or a cup, receive it with both hands. Keep in mind that Chinese dishes are often large and meant to be shared, so it's considered wasteful to leave a significant portion of food uneaten, even if the cost is modest.
2. Photography and Videography: It's important to note that taking photos and videos is generally prohibited in temples and museums. Some locations may allow filming for an additional fee. It's strongly discouraged to photograph government offices and strategic sites, including bridges and dams. Be vigilant for signage, often indicated by a crossed-out camera symbol, but exercise caution even when there are no explicit warnings.
3. Immunization Recommendations: While there are no strict rules for immunizations before traveling to China, we recommend considering vaccinations for cholera, Japanese encephalitis, polio, typhoid, and hepatitis A and B. Additionally, there is a risk of rabies, tuberculosis, diphtheria, and bilharziasis (blood schistosoma). If you plan to visit the southwest and Hainan Island, it's advisable to get vaccinated against malaria.
4. Water Safety: It's strongly advised not to drink tap water, and even more so, water from springs and reservoirs in China. Most hotels provide a thermos with boiling water or an electric kettle in your room for your convenience. When it comes to drinking water, use mineral water from sealed plastic bottles. When ordering chilled drinks, it's recommended to avoid ice, as there is a risk that the ice may be made from untreated water from the nearest river.
5. Traveling to Tibet: Please be aware that many regions of Tibet are restricted to tourists, not just due to nature reserves but primarily for religious reasons. To visit Tibet, you'll need a special additional permit, which must be arranged in advance by your host. Traveling to Tibet often involves joining a group tour following a predetermined and agreed-upon route, as separate tours are designed for this purpose.
6. Carrying Identification: It's advisable for foreigners in China to always carry a hotel business card in Chinese or a card with your details filled in by a Chinese translator. The more identification you have with you, the easier it will be to navigate any situation and receive assistance promptly.
7. Currency and Payment: The official means of payment in China is CNY, also known as yuan. While some stores may accept USD, it's recommended to exchange your currency for yuan for better convenience. Currency exchange can be done at main branches of the Bank of China, hotels, international airports, railway stations, and large shopping centers. It's important to keep the checks received during currency exchange, as you'll need them for returning any remaining yuan at the end of your trip. Major credit cards such as American Express, JCB, Visa, MasterCard, and Diners Club are accepted at international hotels, restaurants, and large state department stores. However, you can only withdraw cash from these cards at Bank of China branches, with a commission of about 4%. Credit card purchases may incur a 1-2% fee of the purchase price and are generally not eligible for discounts.
8. Be Prepared: When packing for your trip, ensure you have everything you'll need, especially for preventing and treating illnesses. If you require injections, bring syringes along, and stock up on necessary medications like antipyretics in advance. It's better to plan for potential issues such as stomach upsets or colds rather than trying to explain your needs in local pharmacies. This advice also extends to items related to hygiene, food, and travel comfort. Plan your packing comprehensively to avoid searching for items in large supermarkets with Chinese labels, as not all products may have English translations, even in tourist areas.
9. Tipping and Restaurant Menus: Tipping is not customary everywhere in China, but it's appreciated to give 1-2 CNY to a maid or porter in a hotel. Additionally, note that restaurants often have two menus: one for Chinese customers and another for foreigners, with prices being 2-3 times higher on the foreigner menu. If you'd like to save on dining expenses, especially if you don't look Chinese, you can try requesting the Chinese version of the menu.
10. Safety in China: China, being a densely populated country, may not always be considered entirely safe for tourists, especially in its megacities. To enhance your safety, ensure you have all your hotel contacts, transportation information, maps, atlases, and contact numbers for translators and guides readily available. Keep a close eye on your belongings, avoid walking alone, especially in unfamiliar neighborhoods away from your hotel, and stay close to your tour group. While China is generally a civilized and helpful destination, where police and passers-by are likely to assist you if needed, it's still advisable to exercise caution and maximize your safety measures.
