As I navigate through traveling in Beijing and (hopefully) other locations in China, I thought I would document some tidbits and useful information here. This will be work in progress always -
See link at the bottom for Beijing travel info.
General Tips
Currency - Chinese currency is called the Renminbi (RMB in short). It’s also often referred to as the Yuan, which is the counter for a dollar in Chinese.
Exchange Rate – Well, this changes day to day… Recently close to 1USD = 7.6RMB 7.1RMB 6.78 (yikes!)
Getting Money – ATMs are abundant, and works with all major U.S. bank cards. Global hotel chains actually have really good rate, so my suggestion would be to bring USD and have them converted in hotels. Do not try to convert RMB in the US – you will get a ridiculous rate and it’s totally unnecessary. There are ATMs, and also money exchange centers at the airport.
Language – Most people don’t speak English, even in Beijing and Shanghai. Always have your destination addresses written in Chinese, and always keep the phone number of someone who can translate for you (your hotel concierge, for instance).
Tips – Tipping is generally not a practice for local Chinese. Having said, it is, of course, always appreciated. In global chain hotels, I believe tipping is customary.
Mobile Phones – Always get a sim card while in China to avoid tremendous roaming charge. There are booths at most airports for your convenience. You’d need a tri-band phone.
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