Solo travel is a very rewarding experience, but it can also be very daunting, especially in a country as culturally different to the UK as China. Stay safe on your travels with our ten top tips for solo travellers in China.
Detian Waterfall via http://www.admu.edu.ph/
Get a Visa
Not just applicable to solo travellers, all EU citizens will need to obtain a visa prior to visiting China, and you should be prepared to provide a lot of evidence such as your invitation from China and specifics about where you’ll be staying. Make sure you read the application instructions carefully and leave plenty of time to get everything sorted. More information about visas can be obtained from your nearest Chinese Embassy.
Pack Appropriately
You’ll want to pack light, but make sure you pack plenty of layers and waterproof clothes. Check out the average weather conditions for the time of year you’ll be visiting to help you pack smartly for your trip.
Learn the Language
Nobody is expecting you to be fluent, but be sure to learn a few words. These (very phonetically spelled) phrases will help you get by: Knee-how (hello); Shay Shay (thank you); Gum Bye (cheers); Dui Bootse (sorry); How (yes/okay); Boo (no).
The Great Wall of China via http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Wall_of_China
Plan Your Itinerary
Travelling doesn’t always go to plan, but it will help to have a rough idea of the places you want to visit and routes you want to take before you leave, even if you decide to alter them later; this will help with budgeting. Naturally you’ll want to see and do as much as possible, but try and factor in a few rest days to recharge your batteries.
Budget
Work out how much you’ll likely be spending and be sure to break down the cost of everything before you go. While you’re away, make a note each day on how much you’ve spent and on what. The last thing you want is to run out of money mid-trip!
Sanitation
As with every new country, you should only drink bottled water and make sure the cap seal breaks as you open it. Be sure to carry toilet paper with you too (note that it goes in the basket, not the toilet).
Stay in a Hostel
Staying in a hostel is a great option for travellers exploring any destination. Most offer clean, basic and comfortable accommodation and are not only a much more budget-friendly way of travelling, but also offer the opportunity to meet other solo travellers to share your experiences with.
Hong Kong via http://andreas.com/
Safety
One of the most common questions asked by travellers is: is it safe to travel in China? The answer is that there are always risks associated with travelling, but as long as you use your common sense and keep your wits about you, China shouldn’t be any less safe than other destinations. It might help to read up on common scams to make sure you don’t fall into any tourist traps. Crossing the road can also be a dangerous experience in China, so follow the crowds to be on the safe side.
Get a Chinese SIM Card
Chinese SIM cards are very cheap and easy to buy and are a great way to get in touch with fellow travellers you might want to meet up with in different cities.
Be prepared for the fact that a good many websites are blocked in China. You may want to look at a VPN as a solution. It’s important the you use one of the best VPNS for China. Here https://anonymster.com/best-
Come with an Open Mind
China is a beautiful and extraordinary country with so much to see and do, so come with the right attitude and an open mind and you certainly won’t be disappointed!