Real questions, honest answers.
From travelers in China right now — answered by expats and our team. No marketing fluff, no AI guesswork.
All questions
212 questionsWhat is the best itinerary and transport advice for visiting major sights like the Giant Buddha and Victoria Peak in Hong Kong during the May holiday?
Ride MTR Tung Chung Line to the Ngong Ping 360 cable car for Tian Tan Buddha; HK$235 return, 25 minutes each way.
Is it worth including Kunming and the Stone Forest in a comprehensive China itinerary that already includes Zhangjiajie?
Skip the Stone Forest if Zhangjiajie is already booked; both read as jagged karst and the second visit fatigues most travelers.
Is the Jiefangbei CBD area a recommended location for tourists to stay when visiting Chongqing?
Stay in Jiefangbei for first trips: Metro Lines 1, 2, and 6 meet at Jiaochangkou, a 1-minute walk from the Liberation Monument.
How 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 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 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 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.
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 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.
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.
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.