Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Shoulder Season
(Feb-Apr, Sep & Oct)
» Expect warmer days in spring, cooler days in autumn (the optimum season
for north China).
» Accommodation prices rise during the October holiday period.
Low Season
(Nov-Feb)
» Little domestic tourism, but busy and expensive at Chinese New Year.
» It's bitterly cold in the north; only warm in the far south.
» Expect to find far fewer tourist crowds at the top destinations.
Advance Planning
»
Three months before
Start shopping for your flight and, in the high season,
book your accommodation. Learn some basic Chinese phrases.
»
One month before
Get your visa arranged.
»
One week before
Book sleeper berths on trains, domestic air tickets if flying
around China and tables in popular restaurants in Beijing, Shanghai, Hong
Kong or Macau.
Your Daily Budget
Budget
less than ¥200
» Dorm beds: ¥40 to ¥50.
» Excellent, cheap hole-in-the-wall restaurants and food markets.
» Affordable internet access and bike hire.
» Some free museums.
Midrange
¥200 to ¥1000
» Double room in a midrange hotel: ¥200 to ¥600.
» Lunch and dinner in decent restaurants.
Top End
more than ¥1000
» Double room in a high-end hotel: ¥600 or more.
» Lunch and dinner in excellent restaurants.
