#budget
Living in China: A Complete Guide
Stays exceeding 180 days require a residence permit. Apply at the local Entry-Exit Administration Bureau with your work or student visa. Required: passport, visa, lease contract, l
Chinese Social Etiquette: Greetings, Gifts & Dining
Chinese names have family name first, given name second. In formal settings use "surname + title" (Wang Jingli / Manager Wang, Li Laoshi / Teacher Li). When unsure of title, "Xians
Tips for Using Metro in Chinese Cities
QR code : Alipay/WeChat have built-in metro ride codes — scan to enter and exit, auto-billed, most convenient. Transit card : City-issued physical cards, top up and tap; some citie
Using Public Transportation in China
Over 40 Chinese cities have metro systems; Beijing and Shanghai each have 800+ km of lines. Fares are distance-based, starting at ¥3–4. Transit cards offer 10% discounts; Alipay/We
Staying Connected: China SIM Cards and WiFi
Buy at airport : Purchase at China Mobile/Unicom/Telecom counters after landing; tourist packages ¥100–200/month with data (typically 10–30GB). Passport registration required, acti
How to Use Ride-Hailing Apps in China
滴滴是中国最大网约车平台，市占率超80%。 国际版DiDi 支持英文界面、境外手机号注册、Visa/Mastercard支付，是外国游客首选。下载"DiDi - Ride Hailing App"（非中文版滴滴出行）。
Chinese Etiquette and Customs
Common greetings include "nǐ hǎo" (hello) or "chī le ma?" (Have you eaten? — an expression of care, not a literal question). Handshakes are standard in formal settings. When exchan
Ordering Food Delivery in China: Meituan & Ele.me Guide
Meituan and Ele.me are China's two dominant food delivery platforms covering most cities. Meituan holds ~65% market share with more restaurant options; Ele.me is Alibaba-owned and
Accommodation in China: Hotels, B&Bs & Hostels
Not all accommodation accepts foreign guests. By law, properties hosting foreigners must report to the police system. International chains and major domestic chains are all equippe
Staying Connected in China
China's internet is regulated by the Great Firewall (GFW). Google, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Twitter are inaccessible without a VPN. Baidu replaces Google Search;
Medical Care in China: Hospitals, Pharmacies & Insurance
Chinese public hospitals are rated in three tiers; 3A is the highest. Foreign visitors should prioritize: International hospitals (United Family, Parkway, etc. — English service, h
Packing List: What to Bring for a Trip to China
Phone + charger (China uses 220V/50Hz, flat 2-pin plug — US plugs work directly)
Mobile Apps You Need in China
Some apps are harder to download inside China — install before departure: WeChat, Alipay, Baidu Maps, DiDi, 12306, Baidu Translate. If you need Google services, also install and te
Bargaining in China: Markets, Scenic Spots & Online Shopping
Bargaining is expected : Yiwu wholesale market, Beijing Silk Street, Shanghai Chenghuang Temple, antique markets, scenic area souvenir stalls. No bargaining : Supermarkets, conveni