2007-1-28 15:37
vip
How to Pack for a Trip to China??
China is a very intersting and thrilling place to visit. There are a few key things that you need to be sure to bring with you, and some tips that can help you along your way. *v7I W,V\!k;V;}
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[b]Steps [/b]%aSX8F
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1 Decide where you want to go, and do research before you leave. Know the general weather for the season and location you will be. There's nothing more miserable than being dressed for the wrong weather. Also, it is important that you dress conservatively. Long pants and nice shirts and tops are good. &n7wLz!u S3S
2 Read several histories of China to make the sights more comprehensible. Bring your guide books with you so you can read them on the airplane and in your hotel room so the information will be fresh in your mind. 6d9VKz3ypG \g)J;f
3 Find a cassette language course, or bring a translation dictionary. While it is important to understand some Chinese, don't stress, just know the basics, enough to get you by. Keep in mind, though, that most Chinese people, outside of employees at 5-star hotels/restaurants and shops that cater to foreign tourists, will NOT be able to speak English. (aside from "hello!!") So, if you want to venture off the beaten path, learn some key phrases. Also, ask someone at the hotel you are staying at if they could write down, in chinese, the places you wish to go during the day. That way, if you have a taxi driver, you can show them where you want to go. #If you are staying in the urban areas, chances are high that you'll be able to communicate OK in English. yl0tO@s0pf#c
4 Always carry a business card of the hotel you are staying at. This way, no matter what happens, someone will be able to get you back to where you want to be. Just in case of emergency, it would also be a good idea to bring a copy of you passport with you and leave your real passport locked in the safe at your hotel.
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5 Know where to find your currency collection places. It is not possible to obtain Chinese currency outside of China. So you will need to know where to access major hotels and big banks in the big cities so that you can cash the travelers' checks or credit card when needed.
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[b]Tips [/b]7EOd/|4T"O ^
1 Pay attention to how much cash you have with you. It is a good idea to keep enough to get a taxi back to your hotel. All major airports will have ATMs, so get the money once you arrive. 'J6[it/~-{\o"l&|K
2 Spend some time with a map and get to know the places you are staying or will be visiting. It will help you get your bearings before wandering off into the city. S{1Y3@gJ~
3 Insider Tips: Chinese people are very often very much respecting those who come from the Western world, and thus would help you whatever way they can. Nine out of ten times Westerners will get respect just because they're Westerners. Hence don't give your power away and always ask for things in a polite manner such that what you want will be easily granted. When in doubt, always check into a nice hotel and you'd be surely protected from all potential dangers. Also, drink Coke whenever you're in doubt about the kinds of foods you have eaten - it will help digest whatever is not appropriate in your stomach...but don't overdo it.
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4 Make sure you know what you're eating and how well it's been cooked. In places like Wangfujing market in Beijing, sometimes many of the snacks aren't cooked thoroughly. A%t
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5 If you are of Caucasian or African ancestry, do not be suprised if people ask you to take a picture with them. In fact, smile and be glad you have that kind of power! Q {wAjl-`'P
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[b]Warnings[/b]
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1 Chinese culture is very unique, and sometimes comes as a shock to outsiders. Don't be the obnoxious tourist! People will be more willing to help you if you aren't stubborn. vkx5{9LU @
2 Be aware of pick-pockets, as you should when in any big city or foreign country. Have a short chain connecting your belongings to yourself.
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3 In major cities, do not give money to the poor. This sounds harsh, but from personal experience, if you give money to one, thousands will come to you. Instead, treat them to a meal.
2007-1-30 20:18
annyblank
Welcome to China. We will be your good guider. If you visit China, please don't forget to tell us.:P :victory:
2007-3-17 13:53
shirllytao
Up for you, let more peolple see this article...
2007-5-22 17:07
solarnima
5 If you are of Caucasian or African ancestry, do not be suprised if people ask you to take a picture with them. In fact, smile and be glad you have that kind of power!
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hahahaha this one is very true, I saw it in Lhasa and Kathmandu