12 Ways to Travel Hack China
Get the know-how before you say “ni hao.”
Over the last two years I’ve been fortunate to travel around Eastern China to develop and promote the World’s Highest Bungy Jump. One of the most addicting things about the country is the speed of evolution and rapid development of infrastructure both physical and online. While China continues to speed march into modernity there are still several travel hacks to remember before visiting for your first time.
1. Download a VPN
The “Great Firewall” of China can be a challenge to access many sites on the internet, but can be a great way to stem your Instagram addiction. To access the greater web on your computer or phone a VPN is required. While it is possible to download a VPN while in China, it is recommended to install before you go.
While there are many free options available, most are very slow and unreliable. For paid options 12 VPN and Astrill are recommended by many expats. Recommended free apps for your phone are VPN 360 or VPN Proxy Masters.
2. Get SIM Card at Airport
Crack downs on temporary SIM cards can make it difficult to purchase one outside of the airport with visiting a local shop with a translator. Often there are several vendors that sell SIM cards at the airport. Make sure to have your passport handy when purchasing. There are some options to purchase SIM cards before you depart and there are also vending machines at many airports selling SIM cards. Make sure that the cards are compatible with Mainland China.
Another option is to check with your domestic carrier. Often for a small fee you can extend your service into Mainland China (including unrestricted access to the internet). However, most hotels will require a Chinese mobile number to access WiFi.
3. Offline Google Translate
English is not common especially in the rural areas. The Google Translate app can be a lifesaver. Since Google is blocked by the “Great Firewall” it is best to download the offline version of Chinese (simplified). Unfortunately the photo feature doesn't work offline so ordering from a menu at restaurants can be a challenge. Fortunately pointing and smiling works fine.
One of the handy features of Google Translate is to turn your phone sideways to make the text more visible. There is also a voice option available if you are in an area quite enough to use it.
5. WeChat
WeChat (Weixin) is ubiquitous in China. More than a messaging app, it is a combination of Facebook, Apple Pay, Yelp, and more. One the best features for travelers is to translate chats. WeChat is the primary way of texting since most messaging services are blocked, however iMessage also works for iPhone users
WeChat Wallet is of the most handy features and can be used to purchase nearly anything in addition to transferring money to friends. While WeChat has allowed foreign credit cards to be added, I’ve yet to see it work for anyone. For now now this feature is limited to those with a Chinese bank card or credit card.
4. Not Everyone Speaks Chinese
All Chinese people don’t speak “Chinese.” Actually, “Chinese” is not a single, unified language or people. Instead China is a conglomeration of unique ethnic people spanning the breadth of the country including many different dialects, the most common of which include Mandarin and Cantonese. Generally not a problem in the city, it can be a challenge when operating in the countryside.
For those that are linguistically challenged or just lazy (guilty) use Google Translate or WeChat to communicate. Most Chinese people have a translation app on their phones and it can often turn into a funny conversation. Won’t be long before a Star Trek universal translator revolutionizes communication. But until then texting and funny computer voices will have to do.
6. Expect Travel Delays
China continues to improve their transportation systems, but expect to wait. It is recommended to arrive early for all flights, especially if you have check-in baggage. However, expect the majority of flights to be delayed. Don’t be surprised on domestic flights to board the plane only to be stuck on board for hours before leaving the terminal for take off.
Trains tend to be more timely, but give yourself some time to purchase or pick up your train tickets. Ticket booths and train entrances tend to be on separate floors and often have a long line. Don’t forget to bring your passport when purchasing or picking up tickets. To purchase train tickets online in English visit Trip.com or use the app.
Traffic in major cities can be a nightmare. Even getting a taxi in a city like Shanghai can be a real challenge. Avoid the rush by taking the surprisingly clean and easy to navigate subways. If you have luggage, not quite sure where to go, or train just ain’t your thing use the Didi app to find a taxi. Didi is the Uber of China (in fact Didi purchased Uber China in 2016). The app is improving its English interface, but make sure you have the address of your destination.
6. Tissue Packs
While there are more and more western toilets available, not all of them have toilet paper — especially outside of the cities. Save yourself from using your hand or sacrificing your undies and carry a pack with you. Most convenience stores will sell packs of tissues in addition to wet wipes when things get a little sensitive down there.
Moreover, you will likely experience a squat toilet on your journey (also doesn’t have toilet paper). While the debate continues over taking your pants all the way off or leaving them down to your ankles be sure to take note on the proper way to use a squat toilet.
7. Be Prepared to Eat
The food is one of the best things about China. Like many Asian cultures sharing a meal is common business practice to build relationships and also one of my favorites. With so many different varieties of dishes from throughout the country it is nearly impossible to try it all. While nearly everything is delicious be prepared for some strange out of this world food.
Chinese table manners can be a bit perplexing. Dinning etiquette is full of significant traditions, however dishes and chopsticks are placed on the table in clear plastic wrapping and spiting uneaten bones on the table still seem alien to me.
8. Beer is cheap and variety to great
Beer continues to be the beverage of choice for the everyman and woman with an average cost for a 600ml bottle of Tsingtao or Budweiser beer around $1.00USD at a convenience store. Craft beer and import beer has skyrocketed in the cities with tap rooms and large international bottle selections available even in some obscure locations.
While drinking baijiu (a strong clear liquor distilled from sorghum and rice) is customary at most business dinners it isn’t always a necessity. The default toast in China is ganbei (sounds like: “gon bay”) which literally means “dry cup.” And unlike in the West, you’ll be expected to empty your cup after each toast given, or at least give it your best effort.
9. Haggling is standard
Like most things in China nothing is strait forward. Haggling is not only common it is a refined art. While most major stores and markets have prices clearly labeled, there is always wiggle room at local markets and wholesale stores.
Seasoned negotiators seem to have little problems using translation apps on their phones, but it’s easier to have a native speaker with you. Regardless be prepared to walk away and find another vender if you can’t get the price you are looking for.
10. Extremely safe
China is very safe and the vast majority of the people are kind hearted (but a little rough on the outside). It is not uncommon to see small children wandering the streets by themselves or young women with eyes glued to their phones walking home alone at night. For the solo traveler there is little danger in major cities and even rural villages.
While travel insurance is always recommended, but it’s not necessary. Hospitals are quite reasonable and accessible. Even many prescriptions can be filled at local pharmacies.
11. Tattoos Are Ok
Tattoos have a long history in China. But for most of that history they were stigmatized, associated with prisoners, vagrants and the criminal underworld. Now it not uncommon to see business men and women with intricate tattoos nearly anywhere on their bodies. For many Chinese tattoos have become a form of identity and individuality.
Don’t be ashamed to show tattoos if you have one (or several) visible outside your clothes, unless you have an awkward Chinese characters inked on your body.
12. Coffee Shops Don’t Open Until 10am
Coffee culture has exploded across China. It is not uncommon to see several cafes next to each other on the street. Many gentrified areas of cities are identified by the number of Starbucks located in a 10 minute walking radius.
While coffee has become commonplace, most shops don’t open until after 10am. This may frighten those that require a cup of joe to get out of bed. Most hotels have a hot water maker in the room. Recommend bring your own coffee or at least instant (God forbid).
