The eat-stay-move-connect essentials
Everything you need to handle daily life in China smoothly — from setting up mobile payments to ordering food and getting online.
Paying for things
China runs on mobile payments. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay with your foreign card before you arrive and you'll breeze through almost everywhere.
Getting around
World-class high-speed rail between cities, cheap clean metros within them, and ride-hailing that works in English — moving around China is one of its great pleasures.
Staying connected
Sort out data and a VPN before you land. Many global apps are blocked in China, so a little prep keeps you online with maps, chat and search.
Money & costs
The currency is the renminbi (yuan, ¥). China is mid-range for travel cost — street food and trains are cheap, big-city hotels less so. Convert prices below.
Language & communication
English is limited outside big hotels and tourist sites, but translation apps and a handful of phrases go a very long way. Try the phrasebook below.
Eating well
Chinese food is regional, varied and a highlight of any trip. Order with confidence, flag dietary needs clearly, and don't fear the busy street stalls.
Heading somewhere specific? Every destination guide also has its own “getting there” and “avoid the pitfalls” notes.
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