China Tours & Cruises

1. The Chinese New Year celebrations last 15 days. Each year has an iconic animal that represents it.
2. Early chopsticks were originally used for cooking, not eating, around 5,000 years ago.
3. China covers about the same area as the continental United States.
4. The color red is considered to be a lucky color.
5. The Terra Cotta army in Xi'an features an impressive 8,000 warriors, which likely took close to 40 years to make.
6. China has over 1.42 billion people, making it the world's most populous country.
7. China is the world's largest exporter of goods.
8. Although China spans five traditional time zones, they were all united into one single time zone.
9. Table tennis is China's national sport.
10. Around half of the world's pigs were raised in China.

Do I need a visa to travel to China?
Yes, in most cases, U.S. citizens and many other nationalities must obtain a visa before entering China. Some transit and visa-exemption policies exist (24-hour, 72-144-hour, or 240-hour or 10-day transit without a visa in selected cities for eligible travelers), but these only apply under specific conditions. Check the visa requirements for more specific information.

Is tipping customary in China?
You can tip around 5 percent if you've enjoyed excellent service, but it is not an expectation.

What is internet access like in China?
Connectivity is good in cities: hotels, cafes, and public places often offer WiFi. However, many popular foreign websites and social media platforms (Google, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter) are blocked by Chinese internet censorship (Great Firewall). Connectivity in remote or rural regions may be weak or absent. Many travelers use VPNs to work around restrictions (though the legality of VPN use is a complex issue in China).

Can I use my cell phone while in China?
While in China, you will likely have access to cell phone coverage in the more developed metropolitan areas and less access as you get into the isolated rural areas. In order to enable your phone in China, you will have to make sure it is GSM-capable and unlocked by your provider. Then you simply purchase a SIM chip at the airport when you arrive and you will be able to use your phone normally on the local network. Another option is to connect to free public WiFi when it's available or ask your provider if they have international plans.

Do I need power adapters?
China has 220v power with two-flat prongs, two round prongs, and two diagonal flat prongs (Types A, C, & I). Make sure your devices are compatible with these types and you will not likely need a power converter.

What are the toilets like in China?
In cities, you will often find Western-style flush toilets. In more rural locations or older facilities, squat toilets are still common.
In some places (especially rural or rest areas), flushing toilet paper is discouraged (or the system may clog), so many travelers are advised to discard paper in a waste bin. Bring your own toilet paper/tissues, especially when traveling off the beaten path.

Can I drink the water in China?
Do not drink the tap water in China. Drinking water should either be bottled or purified, and we promise that you will always have access to drinking water. However, tap water should strictly be used for washing.

Are credit cards accepted in China? Will I be able to find ATMs?
In major cities, many businesses (hotels, large stores, restaurants) accept credit/debit cards (especially UnionPay, and sometimes Visa or MasterCard in big establishments). But in small towns and local shops, cash is often preferred, or only mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted. ATMs are common in urban areas, but in remote areas, ATM access may be limited. Always carry some cash as backup.

Should I purchase travel insurance?
No matter what your destination, you should always purchase travel insurance. Check out our Once You're Booked page for more information on getting a comprehensive insurance package from TravelGuard.