Conveniently nestled near the beautiful Pearl River Delta is China’s third largest city, Guangzhou. Historically, the city was used as a trading port due to its strategic positioning along the South China Sea. As such, it has transformed into China’s biggest and busiest transport hub. Located across the bay from Hong Kong, a two-hour train journey away, means that Guangzhou (or ‘Canton’ to most visitors) is one of the most well-connected cities in China. Twice every year, thousands of importers convene in Guangzhou for the world’s largest trade show, the Canton Fair. With your days occupied with meeting manufacturers supplying a range of textiles, fashion items, automotive parts, etc., you’ll no doubt work up an appetite at the end of each day. If you’re after something more than quick takeout, some of the region’s finest restaurants are in Guangzhou. Here are the five best places to eat during your visit to the Canton Fair.
If it’s your first time visiting the Canton fair, or China for that matter, and you’re looking for a quintessential Cantonese restaurant, Panxi is your best bet. Established in the late 1940s, Panxi is famed throughout Guangzhou for its traditional and affordable dim sum. Its food and Southern Han Dynasty imperial gardens attract tourists all year round. The restaurant is particularly popular amongst Canton fair visitors who are looking for the tranquility the restaurant’s setting provides. It’s ideal after a long, busy day canvassing the long halls of the fair. Considering how many people visit the fair, it’s worth making a reservation in advance and avoiding the crowds of hungry fair-goers. Meals average under $40 per person.
The Dim Sum might grab the headlines on the menu, but keep in mind that the restaurant is well known for its award winning traditional Cantonese dishes. If you’re in the mood for an after dinner treat and hoping to see more of the sights and sounds of Guangzhou, a walk around the street Panxi is located on will offer a variety of local delicacies, like mooncakes.
If you’re staying in the heart of the city, the Mandarin Oriental hotel is one of the best places to stay for the fair. One reason to stay is that its in-house restaurant, Jiang by Chef Fei, is at the cutting edge of Chinese cuisine. Led by the award winning young chef, the menu offers an exciting new take on traditional Cantonese favorites. The ingredients may sound simple at first, but the creativity in their assembly is why Jiang is so popular for business travelers visiting Guangzhou.
If you’re looking for a high-end dining experience, the luxurious interior trims and private dining booths offer the perfect environment to conduct meetings or enjoy some privacy with your partner. The impressive decor does little to distract from the incredible food, however. If you’re after a local Guangzhou favorite, the Dim Sum is prepared impeccably. The delectable flavors found in the tenderly fried sirloin with chili offer something more accustomed to a western palate. The elegance and culinary experience on offer at Jiang offer a wonderful contrast after a long day walking through the endless array of booths at the Canton fair. A full course meal at Jiang averages to about $70 per person.
If you’re looking for the comforts of home, Wilber’s is considered a staple for Western visitors. Located in a recently restored colonial-era villa, the ground floor offers a popular bar and cocktail area. Providing the perfect opportunity to unwind after a long day negotiating with vendors at the fair. The restaurant level upstairs, in contrast, offers some italian favorites and delicacies. For those looking for a taste of the seas, the squid ink pasta is worth trying. This delights are especially well-enjoyed if you’re lucky enough to be seated in the leafy and relaxing patio area or the magnificent rooftop veranda. The veranda showcases a fantastic view of the city. For those looking to have their mind made up for them, for just over $50 per person the set menu includes their famous mushroom soup and risotto.
It may be far from the romantic avenues of Paris, but La Seine offers visitors the chance to dine on elegant French cuisine. Arguably as good as anything you might find along the Champs-Elysee. The interior offers a calming, cosy experience, perfect to relax in after a busy day at the fair. The purple and cream color scheme may stand out amongst other restaurants you visit during your visit to Guangzhou. However, the colors won’t be the focus of your attention for long once the food arrives. Paired with one of Guangzhou’s best wine lists, the fantastic array of dishes include baked escargot and homemade foie gras. The pan fried goose liver with figs and red wine sauce is another favorite among guests.
Despite the elegant, formal approach to their menu, La Seine won’t chase you away if you arrive in your comfortable jogging shoes. After all, most Canton fair visitors will choose to wear comfortable shoes, considering they’ll be on their feet all day. One bonus this restaurant offers is its proximity to the Xinghai Concert Hall. If theatre is something you enjoy, you may consider attending a show at the concert hall to unwind before your dinner at La Seine. Considering how popular the restaurant is year round, it’d be best to book your table in advance.
If you started in Hong Kong before making your way to Guangzhou, you’ll have hopefully taken in one of the many rooftop views on offer. If you’re after an elegant rooftop view to accompany your meal, the Oakroom is where you’ll want to be. Situated in the heart of the CBD, the Oakroom is on the 16th floor of one of Guangzhou’s most luxurious apartment blocks. The extraordinary views of the city mix perfectly with the restaurant’s elegant, and modern interior design. If your day has been particularly busy, the Oakroom even offers an ‘All You Care To Drink’ special between 7 PM and 9 PM every night.
The drinks aren’t the only attraction, however. Offering a combination of Chinese and European gastronomy, their menu is sure to offer whatever you’re in the mood for. Some innovative schemes complement the award winning service. Including the bold idea of having guests pay only however much they felt the meal was worth. If that doesn’t show you how much confidence the restaurant has in its food, then nothing will!
It goes without saying that the Canton Fair is a great opportunity if you’re importing goods from China. Considering how vast and time consuming the fair can be, any experienced visitor will tell you to do your research on who to meet and where their booth is before entering the fair. The same research can and should be done for your hotel and dining arrangements. The fair is guaranteed to be busy in each edition. After spending all day on your feet, the last thing you’ll want to do is stand in a queue at a fast food outlet or restaurant waiting to get something to eat. Our guide to the best places to eat during the Canton Fair will ensure finding a place to eat is the least of your worries during your stay in Guangzhou!
Getting around China can be tricky for first time visitors. The language barrier, cultural differences, and crowded public spaces are a challenge to those not accustomed to China’s intricacies. If you’re planning a business trip to the East, you may be considering taking a high-speed train. Especially, if you’re planning on traveling to several relatively nearby locations. To anyone familiar with China’s public transport system, it’s not a surprise when trains or flights are delayed. However, high-speed trains tend to be a very popular choice among locals due to their mostly timely departures and expeditious service. Therefore, a glance through popular guides from travel experts like Man in Seat Sixty-One or the Travel China Guide will agree that the high-speed trains in China are a great option for travelers. If you do choose to take a train during your trip in China, this guide may help you with some useful trips.
Buying tickets for the first time can be tricky and sometimes a pain for travelers. For the most part, you’ll only be able to buy one-way tickets. Meaning, you’ll likely have to buy your return ticket once you’ve arrived at your destination city. There will be special counters for ticket purchasing. They’ll usually be at the front of the station, past security. Keep an eye out for “foreigner” labeled windows that are occasionally available with English speaking staff. Don’t be surprised, however, if there isn’t one.
However, if you’d like to avoid the long queues, you can try booking online. Sites like Seat 61 have a number of suggestions for agents and websites who’ll book your trips as much as 90 days in advance on popular routes (thanks to long standing agreements with the train companies). Websites like Ctrip are useful for western travelers looking to use the trains.
The tickets are priced based on two criteria: destination and seat comfort. Therefore, you might be surprised to find that you can purchase a “standing ticket” in a “non-air conditioned” cabin. On the same train, you could also purchase a “comfortable sleeper” in an “air conditioned cabin.” The sleeper cabins are generally neat and tidy and far quieter than the general seated sections.
Tickets go on sale for any route only between 10-20 days prior to departure. So, if your flights are already booked for a trip to Beijing in 6 months time and you’re hoping to use the train, you’ll need to wait to book your seats.
Before booking your train tickets though, here are some tips likely to make the process a bit easier:
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For the most part, trains are incredibly punctual throughout China and considered a safe way to get around. Most train stations are found in the center of town too. Which means, the transfer from the station to your hotel or office is never too far or difficult to arrange. The train stations can be quite interesting, as well. Newer stations, like Shanghai’s train station, have a very modern style. Whereas, older stations like Beijing’s Western Train Station maintain their older, unique character with large illuminated screens displaying which waiting room you should wait for your train in.
Most Chinese trains are prefixed by letters, signifying their class. The higher the letter is alphabetically, the higher the class of train. The more expensive, quickest, and most luxurious trains are usually prefixed by the letters C, D, or G. These come with comfortable, temperature controlled rooms, plenty of legroom, laptop chargers, and TV sets.
Food and drink trolleys are wheeled along the carriages every trip. If you’re on an overnight train, you’ll find the canteen carriage is open for most of the night, allowing you to stock up on snacks and water, should you need to.
Regardless of which train class you’re traveling on, here are some important tips to remember before you jump on board:
If you’re visiting for the first time, communicating can be challenging. Be prepared. If your company isn’t providing a translator during meetings, Google Translate has a useful offline feature.
The driving culture is erratic, foreigners deciding to drive themselves around usually regret doing so. Taxis aren’t without their hassles, either. Scams are prevalent in tourist or foreigner hot spots, and even the legitimate drivers often refuse to pick up tourists for fear of not understanding them. Those who visit China on business, often make use of car services to get around. They’ll guarantee getting you to your destination safely and on time. Also, if booked in advance, the car services can also provide English speaking drivers, for your convenience.
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If modern day technology had a home, it would likely be Shenzhen. There aren’t many big cities in the world where a walk through the city centre is filled with ads pointing towards some form of new technology. Strolling through the city, it becomes apparent that Shenzhen’s beating heart is digital. It’s no secret that China is an electronic manufacturing powerhouse, and nowhere in China is that more apparent than Shenzhen. If you’re a part of the technology industry, chances are, you’ll need to prepare for a trip to Shenzhen at some point. Our business traveller’s Shenzhen city guide is here to help you move around and enjoy your time in one of the world’s fastest growing cities.
For decades, Shenzhen was little more than a fishing village whose economy was almost entirely dependant on the coastline bordering the town. During the 1970’s however, China as a whole was gripped by a desire to be involved in the growing global economy. It was decided that one of the easiest and most lucrative ways of getting involved would be to open their doors to Western business within designated ‘Special Economic Zones’ (SEZ) across the country. The zones would allow China to test Western approaches to business within controlled regions. Shenzhen became the first SEZ in China, and the results have been remarkable.
Located a mere 40 km’s from the ever popular Hong Kong, Shenzhen quickly started getting the attention of Western tech companies. Offering a growing and cheap local workforce, made some of major players in the tech industry begin moving their headquarters to Shenzhen. It didn’t take long for more businesses to follow which made the city attractive for entrepreneurs as well for those seeking work. Soon this resulted in the cities population growth. Today, a staggering 14 million people call the city home, making it one of the richest cities in the world with the highest per-capita income in China.
If you’re heading to Shenzhen to visit a factory manufacturing your electronic or other products, staying in the outer suburbs of Shenzhen is a good idea. As in any major city in China, large scale factories are located on the outskirts of the city where there is a lot more space available.
If however, your interests are centred purely around electronics or tech companies, the city centre is where you’ll want to be. Huaqiang Bei is the city centre’s business hub, with some calling it the tech industry’s ‘Wall Street’. One of the better hotels in the city centre is the Huaqiang Plaza Hotel. The staff are accustomed to western travellers visiting on business and are well equipped to any requests you might have during your stay. There is also the added bonus of a Starbucks and fast food chain at the ground floor of the building, offering familiarity for visitors not accustomed to the local food on offer. There is also a remarkable view at the top of the hotel. For those who visit Shenzhen regularly, the views from the hotel rooftop will illustrate just how impressive, fast-paced and advanced this city is.
Shenzhen also offers some of the world’s most recognisable hotel brands, such as Hilton and the Westin. If you’re looking for luxury and convenience, some of the best choices are:
The hotel’s fully equipped business centre, with conference rooms, workstations and secretarial services on offer are a big draw for frequent business travellers. The hotel also offers breathtaking views of Hong Kong and the Shenzhen river.
Everything you would expect from a five-star hotel. Luxury and convenience on offer when you need it, but the hotel’s vicinity to the city’s business districts makes it the most popular stay for business people.
Shangri-La Hotel, Shenzhen occupies a central location within the Luohu central business district and is a short walk to Shenzhen railway station and Luohu Border. The Shangri-La is often considered the best hotel Shenzhen has to offer.
6 km away from the Shenzhen CBD, in the popular Futian district. Wyndham Grand Hotel attracts many business travellers for most of the year and provides a luxury stay for all the guests.
Shenzhen CBD can be chaotic at times but the Futian Shangri-La offers tranquillity amongst the chaos. It is conveniently located in the Futian Central Business District and just a stone’s-throw away from landmarks such as the Shenzhen Convention and Exhibition Centre, Ping An Finance Centre, Shenzhen Stock Exchange, etc.
If all else fails, however, Shenzhen has a growing network of Airbnb accommodation available as well. With business in mind, most visitors choose to stay within the confines of the city district, close to their office or client meeting points but that’s not to say Shenzhen has nothing to offer outside of the city.
Window of the World, is a popular and fun place to visit all year round. The theme park offers nearly 130 replicas of worldwide famous landmarks. In a whistle-stop tour, visitors can see the Statue of Liberty and Sydney Harbor Bridge before lunch, then take a leisurely stroll to Mount Fuji before stopping in to throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain and admire the architecture of Gaudi’s Parque Guell. As in Paris, the Eiffel Tower dominates the skyline, and nearby, the Palace of Versailles and the Pyramids jostle for attention. Window of the World isn’t the only ‘theme park’ in Shenzhen. The OCT, or Overseas Chinese Town is a cluster of areas on the outskirts of Shenzhen that will keep visitors busy for days. With Shenzhen’s primary bus stations and train stations, plus the harbour within the OCT zone, it’s easily accessible whether you’re coming from Hong Kong or the city centre to enjoy a meal or take in some of Shenzhen’s sights and sounds.
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Before hopping on the plane and making your way to any of the chinese cities, you should be aware of the internet censorship present throughout China. In today’s business world having a good, fast and reliable internet connection is critical, especially during a business trip.
Staying in touch with your co-workers, partners, supervisors, etc. while out of the office is crucial.
Emails, websites, maps, Skype, Whatsapp or any other apps you use to stay in touch with work contacts or family members back home aren’t likely to work in China without a VPN. Downloading a VPN providing app like ExpressVPN will help continue receiving all the relevant information and updates while in China and to connect across all the platforms you regularly use.
If you’re visiting Shenzhen to meet with vendors and possible future partners for the first time, they’ll generally assume you don’t speak any Mandarin or Cantonese so how they react to you often depends on largely their confidence and ability to speak English. Luckily, Google translate has an offline version available, which you can download before entering China, that can help get your message across and avoid unnecessary confusion. Without it, you might have to get creative when getting your message across in a meeting. For more tips on how to overcome the language barrier, check out this blog post.
Using A CalculatorMany of Shenzhen’s business travellers are in the city meeting with vendors who’ll be supplying their next range of electronic goods. It’s not uncommon for your vendor to keep a calculator on the table, often illustrating to use it when communicating order numbers and prices.
Nearly every Chinese vendor or manufacturer carries a business card with them. In Shenzhen, you’re likely to be asked for one in return if your vendor provides you with his. Before heading to Shenzhen, it is recommended downloading and signing up for WeChat, whose headquarters are in Shenzhen. WeChat is a widely used app throughout China and is useful for daily chats to payment and document transfers. Swapping your WeChat details is a great way to follow up and keep in touch with your vendors.
If it’s your first time visiting Shenzhen, you’re likely to be surprised by certain cultures present in the city. Western visitors are often a bit shocked at the local customs, so brace yourself before you arrive:
TrashGrabbed a coffee on the way to your meeting, and looking for a bin to throw it in? You will be surprised to find out there are hardly any bins in the city centre! Remarkable as that may be, the city actually hires people to collect rubbish on the streets. Recycling is a big initiative and economy in itself in Shenzhen, the trash left behind by people on their morning walk to the office is cleaned up remarkably quickly.
Perhaps the biggest quirk a western visitor will have to get their head around. In social and business environments it’s considered acceptable to spit into a container without anyone batting an eyelid. That’s not to say your vendor or client will be doing so within a high profile meeting you’ve travelled halfway around the world to attend, but it is something you’ll be exposed to during your stay.
It’s safe to say that power naps are taken very seriously in China. After having lunch, many Chinese people take their power nap, which is usually half an hour to an hour long. Employees everywhere begin to pull out beds from under their desks or simply find a comfortable place to lie down. Offices turn off all their lights, and for about an hour the entire company rests in a calm, silent darkness. If you decide to take a walk down the street during a lunchtime break you’ll see people sleeping everywhere! Nevertheless, as soon as the clock hits 2pm, the lunch break is over and everyone is back to work.
A walk between meetings through the city will often see you encounter women standing near busy intersections yelling out “byow byow byow” to the people passing by. They are offering a service to provide tax paperwork in exchange for purchase credits. Another little bit of local colour that makes Shenzhen such an interesting place.
SmokingIn China, it’s still quite common for people to smoke in public, in shops, in hotel rooms, even in restaurants. Unless you’ve managed to get a specifically non-smoking hotel room, it’s quite likely that your room will still carry the aroma of previous guests’ smoking habits.
There is hardly any personal space when trying to travel from one place to another using public transportation. If you want to get through a crowded space, don’t wait for people to subtly move aside and let you through, because you might be waiting a long time. It’s custom to just move in the direction you want to go without stopping, slipping past others as you move along.
Getting from point A to point B anywhere in China is a challenge most days. Those familiar with the city and seeking comfort without the chaos, that usually occurs in the public transportation, usually make use of a car service where safety, reliability and customer satisfaction are guaranteed. However, if you’d like using public transportation, there are several options:
The Shenzhen Metro is one of the easiest ways to get around if you choose to make your own way about. The train terminals and stations are announced in both English and Mandarin, meaning you’ll be able to get around without too much confusion. The tickets are cheap too, depending on how far you’re travelling, tickets will cost you between 2 Yuan to 11 Yuan. The only obvious downside to using the metro is that you will be doing so in one of the world’s busiest and most populated cities. If you need to get to a meeting during peak times, be prepared for long queues and large crowds.
Taking The BusShenzhen has a remarkable 10,000 buses making their way through the city every day. Considering the majority of the city is still relatively young, the bus network is relatively good. Far better than other major cities like Beijing or Shanghai. The difficulty with using the bus, however, is that they are horribly crowded for most hours during the day. It’s the cheapest way to get around for locals, and it shows. Whilst the actual bus stops are announced in English, the time tables showing departure times, bus numbers and lines aren’t. The last thing you’ll want to do is miss a meeting you’ve travelled so far for because you hopped on the wrong bus.
Taxis in Shenzhen are well regulated, the official ones at least. There are a number of ‘fake’ or unlicensed taxis operating in Shenzhen often looking to take advantage of newly arrived visitors. The fake cabs are normally prevalent at tourist hotspots like border crossings or major hotels and restaurants.
The licensed taxis are fairly nerve wracking to ride in as is. The taxi drivers often don’t speak English, and in some cases don’t necessarily know the location you have shared with them. The use of GPS system is non existed among the drivers which makes them rely mainly on the memory of all the street names and routes in the city. So it is not uncommon to be asked in Chinese to explain the area where your address is situated, which for many foreign visitors can be a true challenge.
Shenzhen does have a brilliant bicycle initiative active throughout the city where riders can rent a bike for however long they need by scanning a QR code on the back of the bike with their WeChat account. The access stations are conveniently positioned by metro stations, shopping malls and city attractions.
Shenzhen is one of China’s most attractive cities. Covered in local parks, with beautiful scenery surrounding everywhere you look, and as such it’s no wonder that it has quickly established itself as a global powerhouse.
Most seasoned travelers will agree that traveling around China can be a bit different than what they’re used to. It isn’t always as easy and simple as it would be in most other places around the world. For those who regularly take to the skies to reach their desired location, most airports develop a familiar feeling to them. The languages being bounced about may differ. However, the check-in counters will still be in their place, the lines at security checkpoints will still be long, and your air hostess will still run through a few pre-flight safety reminders once you’re on board. China, on the other hand, can offer up a few differences you’re unlikely to face elsewhere. Knowing some useful air travel tips for China before your trip can save you time and hassle.
Delays are a familiar pain for those accustomed to air travel, especially in China. According to the latest figures, less than 60% of China’s domestic flights depart on time. Hangzhou airport amazingly only sees 42% of its flights depart on time, the second worst figure globally. Savvy travelers to China usually pack an extra set of clothes in their carry-on luggage, in case they are caught by delays that leave them in a hotel for an extra night.
Many first-time travelers to China forget that the luggage weight limit for domestic trips differ from the limits they adhered to arriving on their international flight. Domestic flights allow 20 kgs (about 45 lbs) per person, while international flights usually allows 30 kgs (66 lbs) of luggage per person. One of the most useful air travel tips for China to remember, and a costly thing to forget when traveling around China by air.
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In fairness, this is one of the air travel tips for China that could easily apply to many countries around the world. On the whole, airline food has improved drastically in China and across the world in recent years. However, it remains a smart choice to avoid it where you can. Most people have stories of themselves, friends, colleagues, or family members who have suffered at the hands of a suspect airline meal. If you’re traveling on business, the last thing you’ll want is to fall ill upon your arrival and jeopardize any business interests you have in China.
Buying tickets for traveling around China can be tricky. Most travelers find their tickets online with international travel sites. While convenient, the prices offered on international sites and agencies will often differ from what you’re able to find on local Chinese travel sites. Expats residing in China and locals traveling frequently have learned that tickets are usually at their cheapest between 1 -2 months prior to departure.
As with every country, China prohibits the use of cell phones on board the aircraft. Until the flight is at cruising altitude, and even then, the device should be on “flight mode”. Once you land, however, it’s best to be prepared. Chinese airports are still fairly restrictive with wifi use. Not every airport has it, and those which do often require text verification codes to access their networks. Meaning, your number will have to be enabled to receive text messages in China, which could incur additional costs from your carrier. Another very important point to remember is that China heavily censors its internet traffic! Therefore, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, Gmail, and many other of your go-to apps will need VPNs installed on your device to access. If you’re arriving in Shanghai, here is a guide on how to access the wifi at Shanghai’s airports.
All in all, travel in China is generally different from what you would expect. Flights rarely arrive on time, which could lead to your schedule spiraling out of control. If you require an airport transfer when arriving in China, ensure you’ve done your research ahead of time. Taxis are known to have a dismissive attitude towards tourists with whom they can’t communicate with; train schedules are not 24-hours in every city; and bus routes can be quite complicated. If your flight is delayed, arranging a car service to provide your airport transfer will save you the stress and hassle of trying to find last minute transportation. Safe travels!
A quick glance through your office, living room, or kitchen and you’re likely to find more than just a few items made in China. With the country’s economy seemingly driving world trends, it’s likely that your business will visit one or more of China’s major cities in the near future. Business transport in China can be arranged simply with a little preparation. Note, that renting a car in China with an International driver’s license is not feasible due to Chinese legal restrictions. Therefore, hiring a car with a driver is the more convenient transport solution. Doing your research ahead of time can help prevent you from making these 3 common mistakes.
Communicating while in any foreign country can be difficult. China is no different. Although car services are likely to offer English drivers, local taxi drivers likely won’t. This can become problematic if your directions and schedules haven’t been communicated to the driver ahead of time. Having important information get lost in translation is a struggle you’re not likely to enjoy. Especially, if you’re at risk of missing your next flight or meeting.
A number of business travelers assume that using a taxi is just as easy as it would be in any western country. The truth, however, is that in larger cities like Beijing or Shanghai, taxi drivers often refuse to pick up foreigners. They assume the foreigners won’t speak Chinese and the broken communication won’t be worth the trouble. There are also a number of scams to watch out for. China, like many countries worldwide, is not immune to those looking to take advantage of visitors. When the purpose of your visit is purely business, most seasoned visitors prefer using a car service.
Placing your travel arrangements in someone else’s hands can often be nerve wrecking. China’s road networks are chaotic and a dangerous place to be for those not experienced in navigating the local driving culture and roads. Common taxis in China have a reputation for being poorly maintained. The old adage of ‘you get what you pay for’ applies to transport in China too.
If you’re traveling to China for the first time, it’s worth researching the different options you have to ensure you get to your destination safely and on time.
Travel doesn’t always go according to plan. For one of many reasons, flights and trains can be missed or delayed, meetings can run late, and plans can (and often do) change. Your transport should be able to accommodate to whatever changes you need to make. A good car service will offer flexibility and understanding, ensuring you’re not left stranded last minute.
Navigating China’s roads can be troublesome, especially if it’s your first time visiting. Before relying on externally provided business transport in China, do your research. It’s easier to have your travel arrangements planned ahead of time, with drivers that will know their way around. Consider a car service with a track record that fills you with confidence. Safety should be the priority of every driver and not something you should worry about. With the flexibility that suits your travel needs and the comfort of being able to communicate with your driver, hiring your own car service is always the better way to go.
China can be an overwhelming place for new visitors. Crowded public spaces, different foods and flavors, new cultural manners, and some chaotic road habits could cause stress to anyone. For business travelers, it’s necessary to focus on meetings and clients without distractions. Fortunately, China has a lot to offer! With a bit of preparation, it can be real easy to navigate! Here are our 3 essential tips for a stress free trip to China!
Travelers who have moved around any of China’s major cities will know that driving yourself around is not the most convenient idea. If you’ve got an international driver’s license, you should know that the only recognized permit on China’s roads is their official Chinese license. Getting one is relatively simple, and doesn’t cost much, but isn’t a quick process.
In contrast, the public transport networks are affordable and connect the entire country. China is the world’s most populous country. As such, its public transport infrastructure is admirable. High-speed trains, underground metros, public buses, taxis, and even bicycles are all used regularly by locals and visitors in China’s major cities.
However, keep in mind that public lines and motorways are often crowded during peak hours. Getting in and out of the city center can be challenging. Especially if you’re pressed for time or not familiar with the surroundings. In cities, train and bus stations will have signposts in both English and Chinese. Nevertheless, even the best terminals can be disorienting when hosting large crowds.
Whether it’s your first venture into China or you’re a regular visitor, convenience and peace of mind are high on everyone’s list. If you’re traveling for business, selecting a professional car service is probably the most convenient way to get around. Offering you the flexibility you require when traveling. For instance, if flight plans change, your car service can accommodate your needs and re-arrange your trip accordingly. Meaning, you’re never distracted with unnecessary worries about travel arrangements.
For most, one of the most challenging obstacles in China is the language barrier. The larger tourist areas, particularly in major cities like Beijing, will have staff able to communicate in English. Most taxi drivers, however, won’t be able to speak any English whatsoever. Often, they won’t even stop for foreign passengers, not wishing to deal with someone who isn’t able to speak Mandarin.
Business in China has its own set of language barriers. If you’re an importer manufacturing your products in China, there is a very good chance the staff at the factory handling your goods speaks very little English, if any at all! This can lead to confusion regarding product specifics that every company would rather avoid. To overcome the risk of any vital details being lost in translation, a lot of importers hire bilingual production management teams or professional translators to communicate.
Even those doing business in the corporate sector may find communication obstacles at first. It’s a good idea to learn a few basic phrases and keywords you might use when getting around China or even greeting your business associates in China. Luckily, there are apps for almost everything nowadays. Pleco is a great example of a translator app that can help. It’s free to download and the premium subscription ($14.95) is so advanced it’ll understand Chinese signposts and documents you scan with your camera and translate them for you. You’ll simply have to point your phone camera towards them.
Preparing for a trip to China? A private transfer is the safest, quickest way to travel from the airport to the city. China Car Service is a trusted transportation service helping business travelers for almost two decades. We provide door-to-door service at competitive prices.Make your journey stress-free and contact our 24/7 team at Bookings@ChinaCarService.com with questions, or get a quote below. Use this promo code: 10CARBLOG to get a $10 discount on your 1st service. |
For those who’re new to China’s shores, you may be surprised to know just how extensive China’s internet censorship is. There are over sixty internet censorship regulations in place! Prepare accordingly, as you won’t be able to read your Facebook feed or even access your Gmail account without the use of a VPN. That doesn’t mean that every popular app is restricted in China, though. There are still some popular and very useful apps you can use:
WeChat: An amazing 90% of working professionals in China use WeChat, daily. Aside from the usual social networking features, even payments are done through the app In addition, business has quickly adopted using the instant messaging giant as standard practice. So much so, that it’s now common to use the app to scan your counterparts’ QR codes to add them as a contact. For many it’s the preferred method over swapping business cards! Its speed and stability (in China) also mean that WeChat can be used for file transfers and even conference calls for business meetings.
OffMap: Google Maps won’t work thanks to China’s ‘Great Firewall.’ OffMap is an extremely useful alternative for navigating the country. You can download the map of a specific region or the whole country beforehand for only $US 0.99. Even when you don’t have access to the internet, OffMap gathers information using GPS technology and provides you real-time data. It also includes recommendations for restaurants if you aren’t familiar with the surrounding areas.
Virtual Private Network (VPN): As mentioned earlier, if you want to continue using your Gmail, Facebook, Instagram, or Youtube, you’ll need to install a VPN on your phone or device. VPNs are used to bypass China’s internet restrictions. It’s important to note that even with a VPN, the Internet speed in China will be far worse than what you’re probably used to. Android phones are particularly affected in China as most of their main functions are Google-driven. iPhones luckily aren’t as affected.
China has firmly established itself as a global superpower. The amount of business taking place within China’s economy draws millions of visitors each year. The stresses associated with travel in China are well documented and, with a little preparation, can be easily avoided. Utilizing these China travel tips can help you focus on the reason you’re visiting, as opposed to worrying about getting around it.
Guangzhou is China’s third largest city. It’s the political, economic, technological, educational and cultural hub of Southern China. Famously, the city hosts the world’s largest trade show, the Canton Fair, twice every year. Millions of businessmen and women make their way to the city each year, meeting with manufacturers and prospective clients along the way. If you’re heading Guangzhou soon, the convenience of hassle-free door-to-door transportation is worth considering. Avoid dealing with the stress of taxis, shuttles, and express trains. Before you choose a car service in Guangzhou, here’s what you need to know.
Whether for accommodation, flight tickets, or car rentals if you want the best it’s essential that you book in advance. It’ll save you and your team from having to make unnecessary last minute arrangements on arrival or before departure. Although a good car service in Guangzhou should always accept same day service reservations, booking early before your trip is always the better choice.
Here is why:
Avoid inconveniences on your trip by giving yourself sufficient time. When you book last minute, your options may be limited. The larger Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van you need for your group of 10 might not be available anymore. Of course, there’ll always be alternative solutions, like hiring two separate vehicles. However, these secondary options are generally more costly. By booking early, you’ll ensure the specific vehicle you need will be available.
When you book a car service in advance, you can expect a quick and convenient experience. You won’t have to worry about limiting your service, waiting in line to get a taxi, exposing yourself to scams, or booking with different companies to ensure you have vehicles and chauffeurs for the time you need them. No one wants to start their trip to Guangzhou stranded at the airport or trying to figure out how to get to your next destination on time!
When you give yourself time to select a car service in Guangzhou, you give yourself the opportunity to pick the best one for you. Before selecting a transport service, you can research different companies to see if they are reliable and trusted.
When you’ve just arrived from a long trip, it’s likely you’ll feel exhausted. It’s awfully tempting to sign on the dotted line without reading through the car rental contract. Very risky, as failing to properly review your contract could leave you exposed to additional fees or no accident coverage.
Read up on additional services your car service can provide that may be helpful for your trip. Traveling with children? Enquire about child seats. Need an interpreter for your business meeting? Look for assistance to help you find a qualified translator. Try using a company that is able to address all your needs in one package. Some companies even offer private, guided tours that allow you to see the city’s famous landmarks without the hassle of big tour groups. Taking the time to choose the right transport service will enhance your overall experience while in Guangzhou.
Preparing for a trip Guangzhou? A private transfer is the safest, quickest way to travel from the airport to the city. China Car Service is a trusted transportation service helping business travelers for almost two decades. We provide door-to-door service at competitive prices.Make your journey stress-free and contact our 24/7 team at Bookings@ChinaCarService.com with questions, or get a quote below. Use this promo code: 10CARBLOG to get a $10 discount on your 1st service. |
If you’re already planning on hiring a car service in Guangzhou, it’s recommended you hire one with an English-speaking driver. Navigating, abiding road regulations, and understanding traffic flow in China is complicated. In Guangzhou, English is not commonly spoken. Misunderstandings can happen, and you can easily find yourself lost in one of the most densely populated cities in the world. Make sure you pick a car service in Guangzhou that offers bilingual or multilingual drivers. Preferably, with years of professional driving experience in China and Guangzhou. This’ll help you guarantee a stress-free travel experience.
Many car services and taxis in Guangzhou restrict their acceptance of payments to cash. You’ll want to ensure your payment options are prepared in advance. To clarify, traveling with large sums of cash is never advisable. Money could be misplaced or stolen. Therefore, it’s better to consider using a company with more flexible payment options. Look for a company that accepts Visa, AmEx, Mastercard, or even Paypal. This way, choose a company with convenient and secure payment methods and enjoy a hassle-free trip. Sit comfortably and enjoy the view as you travel through one of the most famous cities in the world.
Booking a car service in Guangzhou is fairly simple when using a company that’s proven to be reliable and easy to use. You’ll skip all the hassle and chaos associated with taking a taxi or relying on public transport. More so, you’ll get to all your important business meetings swiftly and on time.
If you’re looking for a car rental service with a driver in other cities in China, here are some tips on what to expect from car services in China and tips to utilize for your best comfort.
Hong Kong, along with the likes of New York, London, and Paris is one of the world’s primary destinations. Particularly, for anyone traveling through Asia. Millions of holidaymakers and business travelers make their way to the former British colony each year. Hong Kong is famed for its modern skyline and busy streets. For all first time visitors, the organized chaos created by millions of daily commuters can be overwhelming. The density of cars on the road is amongst the highest of any city. With road networks’ expansion stunted by the limited land on the island, traffic jams are commonplace. With so many locals and visitors, public transport can also become a challenge. Especially at peak hours for the working class on their way to or from work. Navigating the roads on your own can be tricky. Furthermore, taxis have a reputation for being unreliable and are even associated with some scams. If you’re thinking of using a Hong Kong airport car service to make your way around town, here are the benefits of doing so.
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One of China’s most beautiful regions, located in the heart of Taiwan, Taipei is a popular stop for tourists and business folk alike. However, even all the natural scenery and beautiful oceans that surround Taiwan don’t exclude it from the general travel chaos you’re likely to find in China. If you’re looking into how to arrange your Taipei Airport Transfer Service, here are your best options:
Taking a taxi often seems like the most logical and hassle free option for most travelers. Unfortunately, in China, it often isn’t. One of the problems passengers suddenly face, is communication. If you’re unable to tell the driver where to go or answer questions they may have, it can become very tricky. Unless you’re fluent in Mandarin and know how to navigate to your hotel, using a taxi could be more complicated than you expect.
Language is often seen as such a significant barrier to local drivers, that many of them flat out refuse to pick up foreigners. They often feel it’s simply not worth the hassle. If you’re willing to wait out the queues exiting the airport to grab your taxi, you’ll want to do some research on things to look out for, beforehand.
March 2017 saw Taipei launch their very own airport express train. Taking travelers from the airport to the CBD in just about 35 minutes. There are specific airlines whose flight and luggage check-in can be done at the Taipei Main Station. This option is available if you’re heading to the airport rather than from it between 6 a.m. and 9:30 p.m on any given day. The first express trains leave the airport at 6 a.m.; the last trains leave at 11 p.m. If your flight lands outside of the express train’s working hours, you may find using a taxi or a reliable car service to be your only option.
Once you arrive in Taipei’s CBD, you can either take the respective metros, a cab, or simply walk to your hotel. The proverbial “last mile” can be challenging depending on what time of year you’re visiting Taipei. The air pollution isn’t as bad when compared to some of Mainland China’s bigger cities, like Shanghai or Beijing. Nonetheless, if you’re traveling to Taipei in the summer months and expect to be walking a fair distance in the heat and humidity, prepare for a challenge.
Renting a private car with a driver gives you one thing less to worry about when traveling in Taipei. This door-to-door service is preferred by most business travelers in China as it’s a straightforward and efficient means of getting around. Flexibility is a key aspect, in case your flight is delayed or you arrive earlier than your scheduled time. You’ll guarantee you won’t be left stranded at the airport. Moreso, you’ll have the comfort of traveling in a luxury private car without the stress of having to make connections on multiple modes of transport.
With your flights and accommodation booked for your trip to Taipei, consider some of the following before deciding how to book your airport transfer:
There are a million and one reasons to visit Taipei. Whether you’re visiting on business or pleasure, the booming tourist industry and thriving local economy leave no shortage of options in Taipei.
As you consider both transport and sightseeing options, keep in mind the most important factor is preparation. Planning your schedule ahead and preparing your transport to each of your destinations will save you the hassle of trying to find the right bus during rush hour. With careful preparation you can avoid crowded busses with no air-conditioning, or the risk of arriving late to an important meeting. That being said, arranging your airport transfer can be easy and done ahead of time. If you’re using a reliable car service, you can arrive knowing all of these details have already been taken care of. If you choose an alternative once you arrive at the airport, like a train or taxi, just make sure you know what to expect and prepared enough time.
If you’re looking for an airport transfer service in the capital of Mainland China, check the link on best ways to get from Beijing International airport to downtown.
Formerly a quaint, small, and picturesque fishing town, Shenzhen is now home to nearly 13 million people. The thriving metropolis is often referred to as “China’s Silicon Valley.” This tech hub has been the birthplace of numerous modern technology staples. Including: Live-Streamed video, QR Codes, Digital Wallets, and In-Messenger purchases. Situated on China’s Southern coastline, Shenzhen has quickly found itself at the forefront of China’s technological revolution. What’s more amazing, Shenzhen has gained its reputation, and made the leap from village to metropolis, in just under 4 decades. China’s first ever designated ‘special economic zone.’.
Shenzhen’s growth shows no sign of slowing, either. The Chinese government recently announced that nearly $700 million USD had been set aside to attract global talent to the city.
Over the years, Shenzhen’s neighbor Hong Kong has been the traditional pit stop for business travelers. More and more of those travelers are now commuting between the two cities regularly on their trips. So, if you’re heading to Shenzhen soon and need to make your way from Hong Kong, you may be considering taking a cab. However, is taking a taxi from Hong Kong Airport To Shenzhen a good idea?
Entering mainland China requires all travelers pass through two border crossings. Hong Kong taxis aren’t allowed to cross these borders, only cars with dual license plates are allowed across the border. On your way to Shenzhen from Hong Kong, if you’re using a taxi, you’ll have to leave the taxi at Hong Kong side of the border checkpoint. Then, you’ll walk across the border through customs and security and board a new taxi once you’re on Shenzhen’s side.
Taxis on the mainland China side are different from Hong Kong’s. Many foreigners find difficulty in finding reliable taxis in China. Often, taxi drivers will refuse foreign passengers because they don’t want to deal with the hassle of trying to communicate with a non-native speaker. Spending time trying to wave down a cab willing to take you can be tedious and time-consuming, especially during peak hour traffic. The queues can also be a problem on both sides. Waiting in line at the Hong Kong airport and then again when you arrive in Shenzhen can easily take 30 minutes to an hour of your time. Not ideal when you’ve got an important meeting to attend, or are just exhausted from the journey.
With Hong Kong being an autonomous territory, entering mainland China on your way to Shenzhen means you’ll need to pass through immigration. In the same way as you just did when landing at the Hong Kong airport. There are several options for border crossing into China. The Huanggang Crossing is the only Shenzhen border crossing that operates 24 hours a day. It’s one of the most frequented crossings for those traveling via taxi or car services.
At this border, the Hong Kong and Shenzhen side are farther apart. When arriving at the checkpoint, you’ll move through the Hong Kong Immigration building and go through Hong Kong Customs. Once you’re done there, you’ll need to buy a ticket and take a shuttle bus to the China Immigration building. The shuttle ride is roughly 7 minutes long. After clearing China Customs, you’ll be able to exit the building and try to hail a taxi in the queue.
The second most frequented border is the Shenzhen Bay Crossing. It’s easier compared to the Huanggang Crossing. Both Hong Kong and China immigration offices are located in the same building. No shuttle or long distance walking necessary. After clearing both customs inside the same building, you’ll exit on the Shenzhen side.
A private transfer is the safest, quickest way to travel from Hong Kong to Shenzhen. China Car Service is a trusted transportation service helping Hong Kong business travelers for almost two decades. We provide door-to-door service at competitive prices.Make your journey stress-free and contact our 24/7 team at Bookings@ChinaCarService.com with questions, or get a quote below. Use this promo code: 10CARBLOG to get a $10 discount on your 1st service. |
Many travelers opt for taking the ferry, especially those traveling to the Nanshan, Bao’an, or Shekou districts. It’s one of the easier ways to get from Hong Kong Airport to Shenzhen. The only problem with taking one of the ferries, however, is that they’re likely to be crowded during peak hours. If you don’t purchase your tickets in advance, you might ending waiting an hour or two to catch the next one.
Most business travelers trying to get to Shenzhen in comfort and without any hassle choose a private car service. The benefits are that you’ll be driven from door-to-door in comfort by reputable, English-speaking drivers. No worries of scams, tricks, or losing your luggage. Scamming foreigners is, unfortunately, a common flaw of Shenzhen’s taxi network. Especially the notorious ‘black taxis.’ If you’ve arrived at Hong Kong International Airport after a long flight, likely from halfway across the world, hopping inside a comfortable vehicle can feel like finding water in the desert. Without the need to worry about confusing details and catching a taxi, you’ll arrive at your meeting or hotel refreshed and ready to go.
One of the greatest benefits of choosing a car service to Shenzhen is that you won’t have to step out of your vehicle almost at all. A cross-border private car has licenses for both Hong Kong and China, so it can travel straight through the Hong Kong border. All passengers must go through the Shenzhen border on foot, however. Fortunately, your luggage can stay with your trusted driver, who will be waiting for you on the other side so you can hop back on. From there, you’ll go directly into Shenzhen and reach your final destination.
Shenzhen’s reputation and opportunities are attracting more and more travelers each year. With its thriving economy, it’s no wonder so many companies are sending experts to Shenzhen. Some major companies in China have even relocated their headquarters to the tech hub! Most international travelers will find themselves landing at Hong Kong International Airport. The easiest option for most of these Western travelers may seem to be simply catching a cab and making their way across to Shenzhen. However, the reality (as you now know) is that taxing a taxi can be far more complicated than it seems. With drivers looking to scam foreigners regularly, long queues to hail taxis, and complex border crossings, it’s no wonder that most business travelers chose to make use of a car service instead.
