China Uncovered - 9 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the main theme of the "China Uncovered" tour and what are some key experiences?

  This 9-day adventure focuses on taking you back in time and into the future in China. Key experiences include visiting the Giant Buddha of Mt E'mei, famous monasteries, floating down the Li River on a bamboo raft, and exploring vibrant Shanghai, including Nanjing Road, The Bund, and the Shanghai Museum.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 3.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation throughout the tour consists of hotels for all 8 nights.

• How many meals are included in the tour price, and are vegetarian options available?

  One lunch is included. Generally, other meals are not included to offer flexibility. Breakfasts are typically Asian style (noodles, congee, bread, eggs), and vegetarian options are available, though choices may be limited in some areas.

• Will there be a tour leader or guide accompanying the group?

  Yes, a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany the group throughout China. They provide information, suggestions, and local recommendations. Local guides are also used for specific sites to enhance the experience.

• What is the accommodation arrangement for solo travelers?

  Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, as group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. The "My Own Room" option is available for those who book it.

• What currency should I use, and what are the recommended payment methods in China?

  The local currency is Chinese Yuan (CNY). While credit cards may work in major cities, the most common payment methods are apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay. It is strongly recommended to set these up before arrival and carry some cash as a backup.

• Will I be able to access social media and certain websites while in China?

  Many popular internet websites such as Google, Dropbox, Gmail, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and WhatsApp are restricted in mainland China. You may be able to access some of these using a VPN, which should be researched and installed prior to travel.

• Are there any restrictions on carrying power banks on domestic flights in China?

  Yes, China has banned uncertified power banks on all domestic flights. Passengers are only allowed to bring power banks that have the official China Compulsory Certification (CCC) mark.

• What is the recommended dress code, especially for visiting religious sites?

  The dress standard in Asia is more conservative. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is recommended. When visiting temples or other holy sites, please dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops.

• What modes of transportation will be used during the tour?

  The tour utilizes a variety of transportation methods including train, private vehicle, boat, walking, and plane.

• What are some of the optional activities available?

  Optional activities include an Impression Liu Sanjie Culture Show, a Central Chinese Cooking Class, Tai Chi Class, and a Guided Cycle Tour in Yangshuo, as well as visiting Yuyuan Garden, an Acrobatic Performance, and Shanghai Tower in Shanghai.

• What is the recommended approach to tipping during the tour?

  Tipping is customary in the tourism industry in China. For drivers and local guides, a recommendation is 1 to 3 USD per person per day. For your Chief Experience Officer (CEO), a guideline of 5 USD per person per day is suggested if you feel they did an outstanding job.

• Is there an age limit for participants on this tour?

  The tour is open to participants aged 12 to 100 years old.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The group size ranges from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 16 participants.

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  This tour's main highlights include traveling off the beaten path to Mt Emei, exploring Chengdu and Shanghai, and enjoying a bamboo raft ride down the Li River.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  You will be accommodated in hotels for all 8 nights of the tour.

• What are the age restrictions for this tour?

  The minimum age for participants is 12, and the maximum age is 100. Minors must be accompanied by a guardian over 21 years old.

• What is the expected group size?

  The group size is a maximum of 16 travelers, with an average of 12.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  One lunch is included. For other meals, flexibility is offered for you to choose where, what, and with whom to eat, with food generally being inexpensive. Breakfasts in China are typically Asian style, consisting of noodles, congee, bread, or eggs.

• What forms of transportation will be used on the tour?

  The tour utilizes a variety of transportation methods including trains, private vehicles, boats, walking, and planes.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage is also strongly recommended.

• What should I know about currency and payment methods in China?

  The currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). While common payment methods in China are apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay, carrying some cash is strongly recommended as a backup, especially outside major cities. It's advisable to set up WeChat Pay or Alipay and link a credit/debit card on your device before arriving, and ensure you have a data roaming package for local payments.

• How does accommodation work for solo travelers?

  Solo travelers on group trips are typically paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, without a single supplement. If you opt for the "My Own Room" option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• Are there any internet access restrictions in China?

  Yes, some popular internet websites like Google, Dropbox, Gmail, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, WordPress, and Whatsapp are restricted in mainland China. It is suggested to research and install a suitable VPN on your device prior to travel if you wish to access these sites.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for China?

  A valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity is required. You are responsible for obtaining the correct travel documentation. If a visa for China is needed, an official Letter of Invitation (LOI) may be required, which can be obtained through the tour operator's visa support agent. It is vital to check current requirements with your local embassy or consulate and ensure your passport has at least two blank pages.

• What are the health considerations for this trip?

  Consult your travel doctor well before departure for up-to-date medical travel information and any necessary inoculations. It is recommended to carry a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and any personal medical requirements. Tour leaders are prohibited from administering drugs. Local pharmacies may stock locally produced Western drugs, so bring full drug names if purchasing prescriptions.

• What is the recommended local dress code?

  In Asia, dress standards are more conservative. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is recommended for the hot and humid climate. When visiting temples or holy sites in predominantly Buddhist areas, dress respectfully by avoiding very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops.

• What is the tipping policy for this tour?

  While tipping is not generally expected in China for general services, it is customary in the tourism industry. Recommendations for local guides and drivers are $1-3 USD per person per day. Tipping your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) is appreciated, with a guideline of $5 USD per person per day.

• What safety and security precautions should I be aware of?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuable items such as passports, tickets, cash. Leave valuable jewelry at home; hotels often provide safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is also advisable. Your CEO can amend the itinerary if safety concerns arise. During free time, exercise good judgment for optional activities, and in cities at night, travel in small groups or use taxis. Water-based activities should only be undertaken with a guide.

• Who leads the tour group?

  The tour is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, who provides information, suggestions, and recommendations. Local guides are also utilized for specific knowledge in certain areas.

• What optional activities are available on this tour?

  In Yangshuo, optional activities include a Central Chinese Cooking Class, the Impression Liu Sanjie Culture Show (298CNY), a Tai Chi Class (100CNY), a Moon Hill Entrance and Hike (15CNY), and a Guided Cycle Tour (200CNY). In Shanghai, you can opt for a visit to Yuyuan Garden (40CNY), a Shanghai Acrobatic Performance, or a visit to the Shanghai Tower (180CNY).

• Are there any important notices regarding luggage and power banks?

  Backpacks are preferred over suitcases due to local transport and train travel, with a recommended weight of 10-15kg (22-30lb). China has banned uncertified power banks on all domestic flights, so ensure yours has the official China Compulsory Certification (CCC) mark if flying internally.

• What should I do if I arrive late and miss the welcome meeting?

  If you arrive late, your CEO will leave a note at the hotel reception with important information and morning instructions for the following day.

• What is Planeterra and how does it relate to this tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that leverages travel to create income opportunities for local communities, supporting indigenous people, empowering women, and protecting the environment by integrating community-owned businesses into tour itineraries. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, ensuring 100% of donations go directly to these projects.

• Are international or local flights included in the tour price?

  International flights are generally not included. However, all local flights within the itinerary are included unless otherwise noted.

• Is there a notice regarding travel during 'Golden Week'?

  Yes, Golden Week (October 1st to 7th each year) is a very busy national holiday in China, so expect crowding at major attractions. Booking well in advance is recommended due to limited accommodation and transportation availability during these dates.