The city of Beijing, as the capital city of China, is one of the world's most exciting and interesting travel destinations. One of the things that makes it so interesting is that it is very different than just about anywhere else in the world, so it is always best to prepare yourself before traveling to Beijing to minimize surprises and maximize the value of your trip. Here are three tips to consider when making plans to visit Beijing and the People's Republic of China:
Tip 1. Avoid Traveler's Cheques – Bring Cash, Credit/Debit and/or ATM Cards
Usually traveler's cheques are a good idea, but in China, the transaction fee is high, and the procedure can take hours to complete while you sit there in the bank with nothing to do. For some people, the wait may be worth the peace of mind for carrying traveler's cheques, but expect a long wait. ATM cards are widely accepted in most ATMs, at least in the major cities, and they also offer much better exchange rates than what you will get by changing cash at the bank. One caveat: most ATMs limit each transaction to 2500 Chinese Yuan (CNY) with a limit of 5000 CNY per day. You should also check with your bank before you go to find out what the transaction fee would be per withdrawal in China, but for most people, ATMs can be an inexpensive way to supplement your cash while in China.
Tip 2. Don't Overpack – If You Need It, You Can Probably Buy It Cheaply in China
A common mistake is to bring too much of everything with you. Today's China has just about everything you could possibly need, with the notable exception of deodorants and some prescription medicines. Clothing can be bought just about everywhere, especially at the tourist markets, very inexpensively, so if the weather should change unexpectedly, you can buy what you need in China. Inexpensive shopping can be a highlight of your trip, so pack lightly but bring extra empty bags with you to fill with that treasure trove of all the bargains that you will find. Or just buy extra bags in China, they are inexpensive also!
Tip 3. Bring a Positive Attitude – Enjoy the Adventure
Try your best to leave negativity at home – China and Beijing are unlike anywhere else in the world, and customs and attitudes here are very different than what most of us are used to back home. Remember that you are the visitor, and with its 5,000 years of history and 1.3 billion people, customs, manners and habits are just different in China. Revel in the experience rather than passing judgment, and always remember that a positive attitude and a smile can make all the difference in the world for both you and the local people that you encounter.
These are just a few ideas for you to consider before making your trip to Beijing and China; good luck and have fun!
Beijing Tour – 3 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Beijing is a post from: Traveling China
from Traveling China http://www.chinaya.org
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