Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bank and Zhaoshang Bank all issue credit cards and are trying to encourage the Chinese
to spend. In Běijīng, credit cards are relatively straightforward to use, but don't expect to
be able to use them everywhere, and always carry enough cash. Where they are accepted,
credit cards often deliver a slightly better exchange rate than in banks. Money can also be
withdrawn at most ATMs on credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard and Amex. Credit
cards generally can't be used to buy train tickets, but Civil Aviation Administration of Ch-
ina (CAAC; Zhōngguó Mínháng) offices readily accept international Visa cards for buy-
ing air tickets.
Money Transfers
money transfers that arrive in just 15 minutes. Counters can be found all over town at
branches of China Post and the Agricultural Bank of China.
Tipping
Almost no one in Běijīng asks for tips. Tipping used to be refused in restaurants, but
nowadays many midrange and top-end eateries include their own (often huge) service
charge; cheap restaurants do not expect a tip. Taxi drivers do not ask for or expect tips.
Travellers Cheques
Travellers cheques cannot be used everywhere; as with credit cards, always ensure you
carry enough ready cash. You should have no problem cashing them at top-end tourist ho-
tels, but they are of little use in budget hotels and restaurants. Bear in mind that most ho-
tels will only cash the cheques of guests. If cashing them at banks, aim for the larger
banks such as the Bank of China or ICBC. Some banks won't change travellers cheques at
the weekend.
Sticking to the major companies such as Thomas Cook, Amex and Visa is advisable,
particularly if you plan to travel outside Běijīng. Keep your exchange receipts so you can
change your money back to its original currency when you leave.
