The most difficult thing, before preparing for a trip, is to come up

with the right ideas of what you should actually do. If you have never been to

Chinabefore, things might be a little

bit confusing for you. Here are some of the most important tips on how to

prepare yourself before going to this country.

1.Arrange your flight tickets

The first thing you should do is arrange your flight. Almost every major

airline flies to China. It is usually possible to book a flight on line, either

through the airline directly, or through a third party travel agency.

Approximate fares from Europe or North America will be around US$ 800 in low

season , rising to nearer US$ 1,600 in high season (summer months, around

Christmas and Chinese New Year).

2.Apply for a visa

After arranging your tickets will be able to apply for a Chinese visa.

The necessary documents needed to apply for a tourist visa are flight tickets,

original passport with a validity of at least 6 months and a completely filled

application form with photo. If you do business in China you need an invitation letter by a company to get a F-Visa. In order to obtain a visa it is not necessary to

submit the documents personally to the embassy. You may ask a third person.



3.Take out an insurance

Before going to a place like China you should remember to take some kind

of insurance, that can be used abroad, like accident or medical insurance. The

cost of travel insurance may vary depending on the cost and length of your

trip, your age or your health. Purchase insurance from a broker, or directly

from an on line insurer, as it is much cheaper than that sold by travel

agents.

4.Get vaccinated

Although there are no obligatory vaccinations before going to China, it

is highly advisable to see your doctor in this matter. Different vaccinations

are being recommended for certain travel destinations. This is because there

are several climatic zones in this country. The most common vaccination is

against hepatitis and typhoid. Information is available either the health

insurance information packs or at pharmacies that offer vaccination advice.



5.Take some medicines

For a trip to China, it is a good idea to bring a first aid kit. In

addition to typical travel supplies (band-aids, bandages, laxatives, etc.),

include insect repellent especially for the summer and if you go to the south

of China, make sure you’ve got some kind of topical anti fungal agent, and

sunscreen. In winter an additional supply of moisturizer is recommended because

it can get very dry.

6.Bring some cash

Before going to China make sure that you have some money in cash,

either in US Dollars or Euro. These currencies can easily be converted into the

Chinese currency RMB. In some places like smaller towns or villages around the

country, it might be quite difficult to find a bank or a cash dispenser. The

Bank of China is believed to be the most trustworthy place to change money.

7.Check your cellphone

All Europeans and many North Americans operating on GSM can use their

ordinary mobile phones. But North Americans, who operate on a different

frequency, need to have a more expensive tri band model. You may also need to

call your cellular operator to “unlock” your phone if you want to use it with a

local provider.

8.Buy a phrase book

You have to remember that not all people in China know how to speak a

foreign language. Even some employees at typical touristic places, like museums

or famous temples often do not speak English. It is highly advisable to buy a

decent phrase book before you come, just to make sure that you will be able to

communicate with the locals by asking them essential things such as directions,

food etc.