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Travelling to China

  • 06-09-2010 6:17pm
    #1
    Incy Wincy
    Closed Accounts Posts: 35 ✭


    Hey, planning on travelling to Western China next July and wondering what needs to be done prior to travelling. I have downloaded a Chinese visa but should I leave it until closer to the time to complete it?

    Flying into Hong Kong...is it best to stay for a few nights or just make our way to our destination??? doing the booking online myself so not going through travel agent....


    I hope some fellow travellers out there can give me some tips and advice about travelling to China....plan is to stay and explore for 3 weeks.


Comments

  • #2
    undo
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 860 ✭✭✭undo


    The validity of a Chinese visa is based on when you apply for it, not when you travel. So you should apply close to departure. It takes just one week to process. They are very, very efficient - I was really impressed.

    As for Hong Kong - absolutely, you should stay a few days and explore. Every little bit of China is fascinating. You should not miss out on your chance to see both the mainland and Hong Kong.

    I am just back from China, arranged everything myself (the last time I used a travel agent was some time in the 20th century I think)... no problems at all. I found the Chinese to be very friendly and helpful. Sure, hardly anyone speaks your language. But it is their country so I cannot fault them for it. They do try their very best to help you nevertheless.


  • #3
    killbillvol2
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,178 ✭✭✭killbillvol2


    Incy Wincy wrote: »
    Hey, planning on travelling to Western China next July and wondering what needs to be done prior to travelling. I have downloaded a Chinese visa but should I leave it until closer to the time to complete it?

    Flying into Hong Kong...is it best to stay for a few nights or just make our way to our destination??? doing the booking online myself so not going through travel agent....


    I hope some fellow travellers out there can give me some tips and advice about travelling to China....plan is to stay and explore for 3 weeks.

    If you're staying in HK for a few days just wait and get the visa there. HK is worth staying in for a few days at least once.

    Either way, the visa is valid for entry for 3 months from the date of issue.


  • #4
    Brian010
    Closed Accounts Posts: 102 ✭✭Brian010


    Where are you planning on going in the west of China? I think Tibet is the only real attraction in the west. You need a permit to go and must arrange the trip with an official tour group. I was in China for 3 weeks this summer. Went to Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Leshan, Nanjing, Suzhou and Shanghai. I could recommend places in those cities if you plan on going. I would 100% go to Shanghai. It is an absolutely amazing city. China in general is unbelievable. So cheap. I'm already planning my trip back!


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