Making plans to visit China for the first time is an exciting experience but it may also be a bit overwhelming. China is a multicultural country with a long history and modern large cities, and this makes it a destination that has something to offer to everyone. When traveling to China, the first step of the process is to apply for China visa from Dubai in case you are traveling out of the UAE. Knowing how to get a visa, planning to adapt to the cultural change, and scheduling your trip ahead of time will make you make the most out of the trip.
In this guide, we are going to give useful travel tips to first time travellers to China. These tips will help you to navigate your way around the country; from visa requirements and language tips to transport and cultural etiquette.
1. Prepare Your China Visa in Advance
You should ensure you have the right travel documents before you make flight or hotel booking. Residents of the United Arab Emirates have no trouble applying to a China visa in Dubai, especially when the process is carried out through reputable visa services. The type of your visit- either tourism, business, or family- will require the type of visa you need.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Plan early: Apply for your visa at least a month before departure.
Check requirements: Passport validity of at least six months, passport-sized photos, and proof of travel arrangements are generally required.
Choose trusted visa services: Working with professional visa consultants saves time and ensures your application is accurate and stress-free.
Taking care of your visa process early allows you to focus on the fun parts of your trip—like planning which cities and attractions you’ll visit.
2. Learn a Few Basic Mandarin Phrases
While English is spoken in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, many locals in smaller towns may not understand it. Learning a few simple Mandarin phrases will go a long way in making your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Hello – Nǐ hǎo (你好)
Thank you – Xièxiè (谢谢)
How much? – Duōshǎo qián? (多少钱?)
Yes/No – Shì / Bù shì (是 / 不是)
Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, locals often appreciate the effort, which can lead to more friendly interactions.
3. Stay Connected with a Local SIM or eSIM
Internet connectivity is crucial to navigation, translations and communication. As well-known applications such as Google, WhatsApp and Facebook are blocked in China, it is advised to download a safe VPN before your trip.
Also, you may want to buy a local SIM card or eSIM when you arrive to get access to maps, messaging apps and travel information. Chinese applications like WeChat and Baidu Maps are widely used, thus, having mobile internet access will make your trip much easier.
4. Transportation Tips: Trains, Taxis, and More
China has one of the most advanced transportation systems in the world, making travel between cities convenient and efficient.
High-speed trains: The bullet train network connects major cities quickly and comfortably. Tickets can be booked online in advance.
Taxis and ride-hailing: In cities, apps like Didi (similar to Uber) are widely used. Keep your destination written in Chinese characters to show drivers.
Metro systems: Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou have extensive metro systems that are affordable and easy to navigate.
Avoid peak travel times like Chinese New Year or Golden Week, when millions of locals travel across the country.
5. Get Familiar with Chinese Currency
The currency in use is Chinese Yuan (CNY or RMB). China is also going towards the use of digital payments, but cash is still accepted. The locals usually use apps such as Alipay or WeChat Pay As a visitor, you cannot go without some cash in hand, and also make sure that your international credit card works in the hotel and large shops.
Tip: Carry a little money of yuan before travelling or at the airport.
6. Respect Cultural Etiquette
China has a rich culture with unique traditions, and respecting local customs helps you connect better with the people.
Greetings: A simple nod or handshake is common.
Dining etiquette: Wait to be seated, and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice (as it symbolizes funerals).
Tipping: Tipping is not a widespread practice, though it’s appreciated in some tourist areas.
Personal space: Public spaces may feel crowded, so patience is key.
Understanding and respecting these customs will enhance your experience as a guest in the country.
7. Must-Visit Destinations for First-Timers
China is vast, so it’s impossible to see everything in one trip. For first-time travelers, these highlights are highly recommended:
Beijing: Visit the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Summer Palace.
Shanghai: A blend of modern skyscrapers and traditional temples.
Xi’an: Famous for the Terracotta Warriors.
Guilin and Yangshuo: Stunning landscapes with rivers and karst mountains.
Chengdu: Home of the giant pandas.
Choose two or three cities for a manageable itinerary and avoid rushing.
8. Food and Dietary Tips
Chinese cuisine is diverse and delicious, but menus can sometimes be overwhelming for visitors. Don’t miss trying authentic dumplings, Peking duck, and hotpot. If you have dietary restrictions (vegetarian or halal), do some research in advance. Larger cities usually have restaurants catering to international diets.
9. Best Time to Visit China
The ideal times for first-time visitors are spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). The weather is pleasant, and you’ll avoid extreme temperatures and peak tourist crowds.
Conclusion:
The first trip to China is an adventure of exploration and memories. To make your trip to China a pleasant one, you need to prepare well in terms of planning your China visa from dubai, understanding local culture and transport, etc.
As a resident of UAE, you can count on Go Kite Travel to make your travel process as smooth as possible. As a reputable travel agency in Dubai, we provide visa services, flight booking, and itinerary services. We also make the process of getting your visa as smooth as possible and provide expert travel advice to help make your trip memorable.
