Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
You can use credit cards at most CAAC offices and travel agents. Departure
tax is included in the ticket price.
BICYCLE
Bikes (
zixingche
) are an excellent method for getting around China's cities
and tourist sights. They can also be invaluable for exploring the countryside
surrounding towns such as Yangshuo.
HIRE
A growing number of cities - Hangzhou for example - have foreigner-friendly
bike hire networks with docking stations dotted around the town. You will need
to show your passport and hand over a sizeable deposit (around ¥300) but us-
age fees are generally very good value, with a cost structure that generally en-
courages shorter journeys (sometimes free for the first hour). Otherwise the
best places to try are youth hostels which rent out bicycles, as do many hotels,
although the latter are more expensive. Bicycle-hire outlets that cater to travel-
lers are listed in destination chapters.
Rental rates vary depending on where you find yourself, but rates start at
around ¥10 to ¥15 per day in cities such as Beijing.
TOURING
You will have virtually unlimited freedom of movement but, considering the size
of China, you will need to combine your cycling days with trips by train, bus,
boat, taxi or even planes, especially if you want to avoid particularly steep re-
gions, or areas where the roads are poor or the climate is cold.
A basic packing list for cyclists includes a good bicycle-repair kit, sunscreen
and other protection from the sun, waterproofs, fluorescent strips and camping
equipment. Ensure you have adequate clothing, as many routes will be taking
you to considerable altitude. Road maps in Chinese are essential for asking
locals for directions.
Bikechina
(
www.bikechina.com
)
arranges tours and is a good source of in-
formation for cyclists coming to China.
