Real questions, honest answers.
From travelers in China right now — answered by expats and our team. No marketing fluff, no AI guesswork.
All questions
128 questionsHow do I handle police registration if I'm staying in an Airbnb or with friends in China?
Register at the local 派出所 within 24 hours of arrival; missing the window risks a ¥2,000 fine under Article 39 of the Entry-Exit Law.
What are the jaywalking rules and fines I should know about in Hong Kong?
Crossing against the red signal in Hong Kong carries a HKD 2,000 fixed penalty, around USD 255, with no on-the-spot cash option.
What is the background music often heard in Kaifeng night videos, and where is the best place to experience this atmosphere?
Day ticket to Qingming Shanghe Yuan costs about ¥120, night-only ticket ¥80 to ¥100 with entry after 17:30.
What advice is available for purchasing gold jewelry while visiting Hong Kong?
Buy from Chow Tai Fook, Luk Fook, or Chow Sang Sang on Nathan Road or Queen's Road — all three carry QC hallmarks and chain receipts.
Is it better to visit Guangzhou or Shenzhen for a 2-day side trip from Hong Kong?
High-speed rail from West Kowloon: 14 minutes to Shenzhen North at ¥75, 48 minutes to Guangzhou South at ¥185 to ¥215.
Is Western-style Chinese food available in China, and why is the local cuisine so different?
Dishes like General Tso's Chicken were invented in North America, so Chinese restaurants in China rarely serve them.
How are recent work permit changes affecting foreigners seeking employment in China?
Beijing Category A salary floor is ¥71,622 monthly and Category B is ¥47,748, enforced through the work permit portal since February 2026.
How should I handle locals talking about me assuming I don't speak Chinese, and is it safe to film the interaction?
Reply in Mandarin with 'wo ting de dong' (I understand) — overheard remarks usually pivot to friendly curiosity within 30 seconds.
What is the best strategy for planning a 3-4 week China itinerary for a group including seniors?
Cap the route at 3–4 cities (Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin, Shanghai) over 24 days to limit hotel moves to four — seniors hate packing daily.
Is it necessary to hire a tour guide for the Great Wall and Summer Palace, or is a private driver sufficient for a family visit?
Charter a full-day private car for ¥600–800 covering Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace, including tolls and driver wait time.
What are the risks of refusing to pay a restaurant bill in Hong Kong?
Stay seated and contest the bill in writing — walking out triggers a Theft Ordinance arrest with fines and possible imprisonment for serious cases.
What is the "squirrel salmon" dish people talk about in Suzhou?
The dish is Squirrel Mandarin Fish 松鼠桂鱼, freshwater Mandarin fish, never salmon despite the mistranslation on tourist menus.