Planning a trip to Asia? Here are some things you may want to consider.
Passport:
Passports are required now to travel outside the USA. Passport information and applications can be obtained at major US Post Offices in the USA. This information can then be mailed of to receive your USA passport. Allow 4 weeks for this process and always mail by registered mail for ease of tracking. There are also services that will rush this process for you at a substantial up charge. For more information on passports and procedures go to http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html
Visas:
Visas are available from Chinese Embassies and consulates in most countries. Foreign visitors to Mainland China require visas. Visas re not required to travel to Hong Kong and Macu but you must have a valid passport. If you have not secured a Visa into China on can be received in Hong Kong but will require an over night stay to get the processing complete. Most hotels can direct you to a service that will do this for you. It is best however to plan ahead and get this taken care of in advance and as your flight plans may not take you thru Hong Kong. For more information and applications go to http://www.china-embassy.org/eng/hzqz/default.htm
Health Tips:
Bring all medications with that you take frequently and in a volume that you will not run out during your trip. Most USA pharmacies will give early refills if you explain that you are going to be out of the country. Also cold and Anti diarrhea medicine should be taken with you, as long trips tend to increase the likely hood of these conditions.
Generally thru out Asia it is a good idea to drink only bottled water. It is also a good idea to get the bottle unopened if possible. Make a point to drink an increased amount of water during your trip due to dehydration on the plane and higher temperatures and humidity.
Vaccinations:
The US Center for Disease Control determines recommended inoculations or shots for all countries visited. Information on Asian countries can be found at
Climate:
China’s climate will range form extremely cold to very hot depending where you are in the country and what time of year it is. The ideal time to visit China is in the spring March & April and the in autumn (September and October) for a general rule. Visits in southern China are also very good December thru April. The rainy season and threats of Typhoons in southeast China are from Mid July thru September.
Currency:
Mainland Chinese currency is the Renmibi (RMB) and is used for all cash transactions on Mainland China. The approximate exchange is 8.25 RMB to 1 USA dollar. You should only exchange the amount you plan to spend, as the reverse exchange is not favorable. Some Mainland Chinese restaurants will not take credit cards so be sure to check with your hosts before agreeing to buy dinner. Credit Cards are taken at most mid to upscale hotels in Mainland China.
Currency on Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Dollar and is used only in Hong Kong. It is not interchangeable with the Chinese RMB. The exchange rate for the Hong Kong Dollar is 7.78 HKD to 1 USA dollar.
Languages:
Mandarin is the official language of Mainland China. However you will find many different dialects thru out the country. Cantonese is spoken in Hong Kong.
Electricity is 220V 50 Hz AC. Plug adapters are required. Some hotels will either furnish them or sell them to you.