China is a beautiful and diverse country in Asia. The country has a rich history and culture that makes it an ideal travel destination. The size of the country makes it a country of extremes; from bustling metropolises such as Shanghai and Hong Kong, to beautiful nature and UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Great Wall of China. One of the most fascinating countries we have ever visited!
Cities
What you can expect from China
Capital: Beijing
Language: The official language in China is Mandarin. This is the most widely spoken language, next to about 300 dialects. Cantonese is most widely spoken in the south of the country.
Payment methods: Debit cards are accepted at shops, hotels and restaurants in most major cities. However, the situation outside these areas is different and the possibilities for paying with a debit card will be limited. ATMs are also scarce here, so make sure you have enough cash with you.
Power outlets: In China there are type A, C and I power plugs. The standard voltage is 220 volts.
Time zone: The time in China is equal to GMT+8. China does not use different winter- or summer times.
Internet: Keep in mind that Google is blocked in China, which means Gmail and Google Maps are not available. Facebook and Instagram have also been blocked.
Visa:Before you can enter China you need a visa which has been preapproved in advance by the Chinese embassy. This tourist visa is valid for 30 days. To apply for a visa, you need proof of the outward and return flight and of booked hotels.
Currency: Chinese Renminbi commonly known as Yuan. The official abbreviation is CNY. Hong Kong and Macau have their own currencies, the Hong Kong Dollar and the Pataca respectively.
Best time to visit China
China is a large country with a very diverse climate which is influenced by both Siberia and the tropics. In general it can be said that it is wet in the summer and dry in the winter.
The monsoons travel from the Southeast to the Northwest in the period from March to September. In addition, tropical cyclones occur in Southeast China between May and September.
This is the land of extremes; it has areas that are constantly covered with snow, such as in Tibet, and areas of desert and steppes. The temperatures in this country can also differ extremely. In summer it can rise to 40 degrees Celsius above zero, while in winter in the North it can drop to a cold minus thirty degrees Celsius.
