Destination Asia
China is a fascinating and diverse country with a rich history and culture, making it a must-visit destination in Asia.
There are numerous places to explore in China, from the bustling cities of Shanghai and Beijing to the serene beauty of Guilin and the breathtaking Great Wall of China.
One can explore the modern metropolises of Shanghai and Beijing with their impressive skyscrapers, bustling markets, and historic landmarks, such as the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven.
China also offers a wealth of cultural experiences. One can indulge in delicious Chinese cuisine, explore traditional architecture, and witness ancient cultural traditions such as Chinese opera, martial arts, and calligraphy.
Things To Remember
Tour Bus
**Before choosing a tour bus, ensure that it covers the places you want to visit.
Usually, the tours are for small groups and include delicious buffet lunches.
Most tour buses include stops for lunch and at stores like jade, silk and tea shops. The driver may earn commission if you buy from these shops, but there is no pressure to purchase anything.
Visiting these shops can be a great experience as you can learn about the making of jade statues, and how to differentiate between real and fake pearls and the silk products.
The tea room is also a fun experience.
**Tips to Avoid Fakes: To differentiate between real and fake pearls, use the tooth test. When you rub a real pearl, natural or cultured, on your teeth, it will feel slightly gritty, while a fake one will feel smooth and slippery.
If you’re still unsure, ask the vendor to scrape the pearl with a knife. A white powder will result from scraping a real pearl.
To differentiate between real and fake jade, listen to the sound it makes. Real jade has a beautiful soft clicking sound, unlike the heavier chime of glass or the hollow sound of plastic.
Jade is also denser and often heavier than other gemstones of the same size.
This test is more effective if you have a piece of genuine jade on hand.
Good To Know
*Currency: China’s currency is the Renminbi (RMB) or the yuan, I use my debit card at the bank machine.
*Credit Cards and ATMs: You won’t have any problems finding ATMs around Beijing unless you go really off the beaten track.
*Plugs:In China there are three associated plug types, types A, C, and I. Plug type A is the plug that has two flat parallel pins, plug type C is the plug that has two round pins, and plug type I is the plug that has three flat pins in a triangular pattern. China operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz.
*Safety: I never felt unsafe there. Now it is another question!! I have a TRAVELON BAG, safety lock, anti-Theft Bag, RFID.
**Forbidden City ticket price depends on the season. From November to March (Low season) Forbidden City tickets cost 40 Yuan ($6). From April to October (High season) Forbidden City tickets cost 60 Yuan ($9).
**We always choose our hotel in the middle of everything, restaurants, shopping, and taxis.
**For most of the places we visit, we book a tour from the hotel or walk to places close by.
***And DON’T FORGET…Social media is blocked in China.
7 Travel tips that you might find useful while in Asia
- Avoid buying useless travel gadgets that are not worth the money.
- Don’t worry too much about the language barrier as most people speak English.
- Don’t overpack as you can buy things inexpensively at your destination.
- Always have travel insurance before you leave home.
- Don’t rely on only one way to access funds as you might need cash in many places. 6. Be cautious to avoid getting scammed by street vendors.
- Plan your trip carefully to make the most of your time and budget.
- Don’t rely too much on guidebooks, as exploring on foot can help you discover more.
Shanghai
Shanghai, China’s largest and most prosperous city, exudes an atmosphere of self-confidence and vitality, it’s worth a visit. Unlike places featuring ancient, imperial, or scenic attractions,
Shanghai has its own unique and spectacular range of more modern highlights.
Xi’An
No place like Xi’An to see the TerraCotta Warriors.
Xi’an, located in central-northwest China, is a living history book that records the great changes of the country. In ancient times, it was known as Chang’an, the “eternal city,” and is considered one of the birthplaces of the ancient Chinese civilization in the Yellow River Basin area.
The Terracotta Army, also known as the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, is a massive collection of life-size terracotta sculptures in battle formations. It is considered the most significant archeological excavation of the 20th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A visit to Xi’an is incomplete without seeing the Terracotta Army.
Additionally, Xi’an is known for its cheap and delicious street food.
Beijing
As one of the six ancient cities in China, Beijing has been the heart and soul of politics throughout its long history and consequently, there is an unparalleled wealth of discovery to delight and intrigue travellers as they explore the city’s ancient past and exciting modern development.
There is so much to see. Also, the food and the shopping are incredible.
