China is one of the most interesting countries in the world for an independent tourist with an unforgettable atmosphere that combines ancient traditions and ultra-modern technologies. There are a number of tips to follow when planning your trip to China.
Obtaining a visa
To travel to China, Russians need an entry visa, which can be obtained through an agency when buying a tour or at a consulate if you plan to travel on your own. To obtain a visa, you need to submit an application and the following documents: passport, photo, application form, documents confirming hotel booking, original and photocopy of insurance certificate (coverage of at least $ 15,000), photocopy of air tickets or printout of electronic tickets. The terms for issuing a visa vary from 3 to 7 days, depending on the urgency of the visa.
The choice of the region of rest
In order to successfully travel around China, you should decide on the direction of your vacation. For a beach holiday and a "smooth" introduction to the culture of the Middle Kingdom, it is worth choosing the island of Hainan. Firstly, a visa to Hainan can be issued upon arrival at the airport, and secondly, Hainan is a tourist area where you can communicate in English or even Russian (there are Russian-speaking travel agencies on the island). To travel to mainland China, you should immediately take a phrasebook with you, or download an online translator, since residents of the country do not speak English in 90% of cases.
Transport for travel
The choice of transport on which the journey will take place is quite important. Renting a car in China is quite dangerous due to the very chaotic traffic. China has a developed bus service, excellent rail links (with high-speed trains), and in addition there is a network of low-cost airlines. If there is a specific plan for visiting attractions and resorts, it is best to select the modes of transport for it. Do not forget that smoking is allowed on Chinese buses and trains.
Travel food
When traveling across China, you should pay close attention to the national cuisine known all over the world. In all settlements of the country there is a huge number of eateries of different levels: from expensive restaurants designed for tourists to eateries “for friends”. Since the names of the dishes in English will not be on the menu, you can choose from the picture or simply show the dish you like, which is being eaten at the next table.
Accommodation booking
Booking accommodation in Chinese cities is also not difficult: in fact, all hotels are available on the two world booking systems Booking.com and Agoda, room rates start at 300 rubles per day per room in a guesthouse. You don't have to book a hotel in advance: in every major city there are entire streets dedicated to travel agencies, hotels and hostels.
Safety
The level of security in Chinese cities is standard for Asia, so it is not recommended to carry all your money and credit cards in one place.
