Survival Guide for Foreign Buyers Visiting China: Eat, Stay, Travel, and Thrive!
So, you’re packing your bags to source products in China? Welcome aboard the high-speed train of excitement, endless tea, and sometimes puzzling cultural nuances. Fear not! Here’s your ultimate (and slightly humorous) guide to mastering the art of business travel in China—covering Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Beijing.
1. Arrival: Navigating Chinese Airports
First, the airports! Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) are huge. Seriously, pack comfy shoes.
- Download WeChat and Alipay ahead of time. Cash is quaint; mobile payments rule!
- Airport Wi-Fi often requires SMS verification. Use roaming or grab a local SIM card.
2. Getting Around
High-Speed Trains (Gāotiě 高铁)
Welcome to China’s bullet trains—where trains are faster than your decision-making process!
- Book via Trip.com or the official China Railway website (12306.cn).
- Always carry your passport—your golden ticket to board.
- First class? Luxurious. Second class? Still better than most airlines.
Domestic Flights
When time is short and distances long, flying is your friend.
- Major carriers: China Eastern, China Southern, Air China.
- Book in advance for savings. And arrive early—China’s airports are thorough.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
Uber who? Meet Didi—China’s answer to Uber.
- Get the DiDi app (English available!).
- Use translation features for hassle-free communication.
- Tip: Always screenshot your destination address in Chinese characters.
3. Accommodations: Your Temporary Palace
Big city hotels are excellent. Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou cater well to international tastes and needs.
- Shanghai: Jing An Shangri-La, Radisson Blu.
- Guangzhou: The Westin Guangzhou, Marriott Tianhe.
- Beijing: Kerry Hotel, JW Marriott.
4. Eating Like a Local (Without Surprises!)
- Shanghai: Soup dumplings (Xiaolongbao) at Din Tai Fung.
- Guangzhou: Dim Sum at Tao Tao Ju.
- Beijing: Peking duck at Da Dong.
5. Visiting Suppliers: Impress and Be Impressed
- Exchange WeChat contacts immediately.
- Bring small gifts.
- Business cards: Use two hands to exchange.
6. Cultural Dos and Don’ts (Mostly Don’ts)
- Do: Address contacts by surname and title.
- Don’t: Discuss politics or stick chopsticks upright in rice.
7. After Hours: Navigating Nightlife
- Shanghai: Bar Rouge.
- Guangzhou: Tianhe’s Party Pier.
- Beijing: Sanlitun district.
8. Must-See Attractions and How to Visit Them
- Shanghai: The Bund (free), Yu Garden (¥40), Oriental Pearl Tower (¥220–¥350).
- Guangzhou: Canton Tower (¥150–¥488), Chimelong Safari Park (¥250–¥350).
- Beijing: Great Wall Mutianyu (¥165 total), Forbidden City (¥60), Temple of Heaven (¥35).
9. Money Matters
- Exchange money at airports, banks, or hotels. Use ATMs for better rates.
- WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate; link via Tour Pass.
- Carry cash for smaller transactions.
10. Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Use translation apps (Pleco, Google Translate).
- Pre-download APP
- Emergency numbers: Police (110), Ambulance (120), Fire (119).
11. Safety and Well-being
- Stay alert to avoid scams and keep valuables discreet.
12. Departure Tips: Leaving Gracefully
- Confirm tickets, collect invoices, and carry some Yuan for last-minute expenses.
Final Thoughts
Navigating China may seem daunting, but the locals are friendly, helpful, and incredibly welcoming to prepared visitors. Follow these tips, and you’ll not only survive but thrive. Happy sourcing, eating, and exploring!
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