In August 2008 Beijing will play host to the Summer games. You don’t have to wait for this sporting showcase to think about a visit to China. Here are some China travel tips to help you enjoy your next vacation in China.
Although history and culture tends to vary considerably between Asian countries, it can be helpful to get some general Asia travel tips. However, China is unique in that it is the world’s most populous country and is under quasi-Communist rule. The government is under the strict control of the Chinese Communist Party. Read up on travel advice that can be found free from various government websites before making travel plans.
The majority of Asian countries are much the same in that they display a high degree of respect for their elders and customs are very prevalent. There are also a number of items that are not allowed to be imported or exported from China. Unauthorized items include guns, ammunition, explosives, certain radio parts, Chinese currency, media that is contrary to China’s politics, economy, culture, and ethics such as pornography or religious texts.
When visiting China one must be careful even when taking what might seem like innocent magazines into the country. The image and suggestions that appear in many magazine ads may be considered pornographic by Chinese officials even though they are completely normal in many other cultures. It is also illegal to export rare items, such as relics, some books, rare plants and animals, as well as precious metals or diamonds. As you find information on this topic, you may find many Asian travel tips that indicate that other countries have similar policies.
In China, there is a low crime rate, but it has increased in recent years. However, foreigners are rarely victims of crime. Many experts suspect that the low crime rate is partially due to the lack of guns in China, but stabbings have become more prevalent. Many of the laws are different in China, although laws and penalties relating to drugs are strict and can result in serious jail time. Occasionally foreigners are detained and fined for improper sexual relations with Chinese citizens.
One of the China travel tips that is likely to come in handy is take some time to learn several basic phrases in Mandarin, the official language of China. Although you do not need to be fluent, knowing how to locate a bathroom and ask how much something costs will help immensely. Depending on how long you are in China, you may be present for one of their many holidays. If this is the case you should find some holiday tips, find out what is being celebrated, and join in on the festivities. Many times knowing the proper holiday tips and customs is enough for Chinese people to make you feel more welcome. The two main Chinese holiday periods are Spring Festival and National Day. A tip for you with these holidays is to try not to travel at these times as it is extremely busy.
Even though it may sound like China is too serious about many issues, their rules and regulations ensure that China remains a safe place for its citizens and visitors. Tourism is emerging as a major industry in China and the laws will likely become more lax in the future. Be sure to search for your China travel tips before departing on your Chinese vacation,and of course don’t forget your travel insurance.
If visiting China you will find getting a cheap flight to Beijing is a great starting point for your vacation. Beijing can be used as a base before heading to attractions such as the great wall of China and the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an. You can also take a train ride down to Shanghai and enjoy many attractions in that region. When taking a vacation in China the options are endless. I hope you enjoy the China travel tips.
