| China is a country with a long and illustrious history, | | | | lowest prices in most places except for major malls |
| colourful ethnic traditions and sumptuous cuisine, | | | | and departmental stores. |
| besides its breathtaking natural and architectural sites. | | | | Diverse cuisines and flavours |
| These are some of the reasons why China is a very | | | | No other country elicits strong reactions in its cuisine |
| popular destination for visitors from all over the | | | | like China. With a diverse array of regional cuisines |
| world. | | | | that utilize the different parts of plants and animals, |
| Regardless of what is the purpose of your visit to | | | | be prepared for a gourmet experience like no other. |
| China, it is important that you get yourself well | | | | Nonetheless, the many different styles of cooking |
| prepared so that you know what to bring and what | | | | and preparation result in gourmet masterpieces that |
| to expect during your exciting trip. The following | | | | are unique to each region. That is the alluring appeal |
| useful information and advice about China travel | | | | of Chinese cuisine. Tipping is not necessary for most |
| would help inform you about how you should go | | | | cases, although a service charge will be levied in |
| about preparing for your trip. | | | | some restaurants. |
| What to bring | | | | How to keep yourself safe |
| Packing the right essential items has never been | | | | You may be able to enjoy safety in most of China |
| more important as you prepare for your exciting | | | | and expect hospitable treatment by the locals. |
| China trip. To prepare for walking long distances in | | | | However, as in any other country, do beware of |
| attractions such as the Great Wall of China, a good | | | | pickpockets in crowded places by not showing off |
| pair of walking shoes would help you traverse difficult | | | | your flashy accessories and by securing your bags |
| terrain such as long flights of steps. | | | | and pouches prominently where you can see them. |
| To shield yourself from the elements in exposed | | | | As a foreigner, you also have to take precaution not |
| areas like the Forbidden City, have an umbrella or | | | | to fall for scams by being alert and walk away if |
| raincoat handy. The sweltering summer might see an | | | | somebody who looks suspicious tries to approach |
| increase in insects which you can keep away with | | | | you. |
| insect repellant. The most important thing to | | | | What you should know when getting around by |
| remember is to dress appropriately and adequately | | | | yourself |
| for the season and destination. | | | | Exploring by yourself without getting lost need not |
| Shopping in China | | | | be hard if you follow these tips. Keeping your hotel |
| If you are planning a trip to more than one region in | | | | room card with you wherever you venture is helpful |
| China, you can buy specialty goods that are unique to | | | | in getting directions back to your hotel should you |
| a particular region to get a taste of these different | | | | get lost. Taking a taxi need not be a chore even |
| regions. Hence it is a good idea to spread out your | | | | though taxi drivers are generally unfamiliar with the |
| purchases. Some examples are the mounted | | | | English language. You just need to have your |
| butterflies in Yunnan and the carpets in Xinjiang. | | | | destination and its address written down and show it |
| Bargaining in China is your best way to get the | | | | to your driver. |