Just came back from a trip to China and honestly loved it. Figured I’d share a few things I picked up that I don’t see mentioned enough, or that people tend to downplay.
First one is big. Buy a physical Chinese SIM with a phone number once you arrive. Even if you already have an eSIM for data. Tons of restaurants, cafés, tickets, and random services run through WeChat or Alipay mini apps that need SMS verification to a mainland number. If you plan on doing anything even slightly off the tourist path, you’ll need it. Airport SIMs cost a bit more but save hassle.
Always carry toilet paper. Use the bathroom whenever you see a decent one, don’t wait until it’s urgent. A lot of public toilets don’t have paper, many are squat toilets, and some are honestly pretty grim. Even shopping mall bathrooms can be rough, with people smoking inside.
Pollution is real. If you’re not used to it, wear a mask or you’ll probably feel it after a few days. And if it looks hazy, skip observation decks during the day. You’ll just see grey. Night views are way better when the city lights cut through.
Don’t write off mall restaurants. Unlike a lot of Western malls, many really good and popular places are inside shopping centres and full of locals.
If you’re taking high speed trains with luggage, consider first class. Storage space is limited and fills instantly. In first class at least you can usually fit a suitcase in front of your seat.
Food tip: after trying all the bubble tea, get the strawberry cake drink from Naixue. Absolutely worth it.
And finally, when lining up, be a bit defensive. Close gaps and stay alert. People cutting or squeezing in isn’t uncommon.
Hope this helps someone planning a trip. China was awesome.
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