Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Government Travel Advice
The following government websites offer travel advisories and information on cur-
rent hot spots.
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade
( 1300 139 281;
British Foreign & Commonwealth Office
( 0845-850-2829;
www.fco.gov.uk/country
advice)
Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs & International Trade
(
800-267 6788;
www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca
)
US State Department
( 888-407 4747;
http://travel.state.gov
)
TRANSPORT
Traffic accidents are the major cause of death in China for people aged
between 15 and 45, and the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates
there are 600 traffic deaths per day. On long-distance buses, you may find
there are no seatbelts or the seatbelts are virtually unusable through neglect,
inextricably stuffed beneath the seat. Outside of the big cities, taxis are un-
likely to have rear seatbelts fitted.
Your greatest danger in China will almost certainly be crossing the road, so
develop 360-degree vision and a sixth sense. Note that cars can frequently
turn on red lights in China, so the green 'walk now' man does not mean it is
safe to cross.
Telephone
MOBILE PHONES
A mobile phone should naturally be your first choice. If you have the right
phone (eg Blackberry, iPhone, Android) and are in a wi-fi zone, Skype
