Travel guides

Everything that's different, explained simply

Practical, up-to-date guides for first-time visitors. Read them on the plane, then keep them in the app for when you need them on the street.

Connectivity

Gmail, Google Maps, WhatsApp and X don't load on mainland networks. Here's why, and how to set up before you fly.

China runs on QR codes. Link your foreign Visa or Mastercard to Alipay or WeChat Pay and pay almost anywhere, even street stalls.

Street taxis are cheap but drivers rarely speak English. Ride-hailing with DiDi is easier: English app, set destination, pay automatically.

China's high-speed rail and city metros are clean, cheap and punctual. Book trains with your passport and ride the metro with a QR code.

Public hospitals in big cities are well equipped, fast and inexpensive by international standards. Here's how registration and payment work.

Pharmacies are everywhere and many are open late. Learn what you can buy over the counter and what to pack from home.

Save these numbers and steps now. Two minutes of preparation saves a lot of stress later.

Many restaurants use table QR codes for ordering. Combine photo menus, a translation app and a few phrases and you'll eat very well.