When on a China tour, it is better for the foreigner to enter China at the appointed point of entry with a valid visa and passport. It is not permitted for foreigners to visit cities not opened to them on their China tour.
If required, a foreigner can apply for a Foreigners Travel Permit, and on its approval, enter the place. If these restricted places are visited without permission, the foreigner may get punished. However, foreigners cannot work or engage in any religious functions and illegal journalism with this permit.
Get an English speaking guide
It is better for a foreigner to get an English speaking guide when on a China tour to explain the rich and wonderful history of China. Without the right understanding, most of the love of the country will not be understood, which will make your China tour a waste.
If you take a taxi in China, always ask for a receipt from the driver so that you can complain if you find you have been cheated. It can also be used for tracing purposes if you leave your belongings on the taxi.
Wherever you go on your China tour, make sure you carry your ‘namecard’ along with you. These cards have a Chinese address with a map to your hotel which proves to be useful if you need help in finding your way back to your hotel. Remember that your accent may give the hotel name you are staying in a different name altogether!
Natives are friendly and love foreigners
After a long and tiring day of your China tour, take a Chinese foot reflexology or Chinese TuiNa which is great for the body, and cheap to your pocket. You can tell these stores with their signs with two feet, found everywhere in China.
Try to make as many friends with foreigners as possible as natives love meeting foreigners and are helpful in nature. After all their services, all you have to do is to give them a small present, in appreciation for all they have done for you.
Besides packing light for your China tour, you will have to take along electrical converter and adapter plugs as the electrical system in China works at 220 volts. Don’t forget to take along your hair dryer, razor and alarm clock, along with sanitary napkins if you are a woman, common toiletries and over the counter medicine for general use during your China tour.
Travel light during domestic flights of your China tour
Keep your mouth moist on your China tour with chewing gum, mints and throat lozenges. Take along reading materials, including guidebooks on the places you intend to visit during your China tour.
When on domestic flights on your China tour, take along only a piece of luggage of a maximum of 5 kgs. Extra pieces and extra weight are charged whilst it is possible to take along a carry-on like a backpack or tote bag that fits in the overhead compartment or under your seat.