China Travel Guide 

Important Things to Know

Currency

The Yuan is China’s official currency, but USD, GBP, and Euros are accepted in most hotels and tourist attractions.

National Languages

The official language of China is Mandarin Chinese. Less than 1% of the population can speak English. 

We soon discovered that although most hotel staff in tourist hubs could speak English, it was still a challenge in many restaurants and stores. 

The Guangzhou cityscape, located along the scenic Pearl River. (photo via 4045 / iStock / Getty Images Plus) (Photo Credit: (photo via 4045 / iStock / Getty Images Plus))

Time Zone

China is a country full of contrasts. Despite it covering five geographical time zones, only one - China Standard Time - is used as the official standard. In China, it is known as Beijing Time.

China uses the Gregorian calendar for day-to-day activities yet uses its lunisolar calendar for holidays. 

Climate And Weather

The Chinese climate varies considerably from region to region. 

In the south, a tropical climate predominates with high temperatures and heavy rains, especially in the summer month from May to September. The mountainous southwestern regions experience more moderate temperatures.  

In the north, summers are hot and humid, while winters are cold and dry. Winds blowing in from Siberia cause winter temperatures to plummet below freezing.

When To Visit China

Plan your China vacation for the spring or fall, when the weather is warmer and drier. 

Because much of the country experiences extreme weather in summer and winter, the best time to visit is March to May (Spring) or September to November (Fall). 

Bear in mind that this country has regional disparities due to its size and topography.

Where To Stay In China

Chengdu

One of our favorite places to visit in China is Chengdu, and we know you’ll love it too. See the world’s tallest stone Buddha, go on a day trip to the terracotta army, or visit the Giant Panda Breeding Center. 

We especially enjoyed the bicycle tour of the city. It’s a great way to get to know the local culture and exercise, too. 

And you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation. There are several top hotels in this city.

Beijing

Beijing will always be a popular tourist destination. The Great Wall of China is a major attraction, as is the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Tiananmen Square. 

It is also the home of the world-famous dish, Peking Duck. Make your way to any of the local restaurants where you’ll be in for a memorable taste sensation.

Choose between luxury hotels or boutique resorts in this metropolis, the nation’s capital.

Shanghai

No visit to China should exclude Shanghai. Like Beijing, it offers a wealth of boutique hotels and usual top candidates. 

It also offers the opportunity to ride on the world’s fastest train - the Maglev and the fastest elevator. The latter will take you to the Shanghai Tower, where the bird’s-eye view of the city is incredible. 

We highly recommend shopping for gifts to take back home along Nanjing Road. Besides all the high-end stores, you’ll also see several examples of stunning architecture. Stroll here at night; the lit-up buildings will seem like an outdoor gallery.