Tips

Entry Regulations:
All Canadian citizens require a Canadian passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of your entry into the country. An entry visa is necessary to enter China. You will need to fill out an application form, 1 passport size photo and your passport to obtain an entry visa.

Currency:
The Yuan Renminbi is the basic unit of currency in mainland China.  At present, the exchange rate is CNY6.53 to CAD$1 and CNY6.83 to USD$1; As exchange rates fluctuate each day, please check the current exchange rate near your date of travel.

Electricity:
The current used in China is 220AC 50Hz.

Tip: This system may differ from the one you use at home. If it is different, please purchase an adaptor from a travel store near you, to take advantage of the power ports in your hotel room.

Language:
Mandarin is the official language in China with Cantonese spoken in the south of the country.  

Health Requirement:
Normally, vaccinations are not longer required unless one travels from or via an infected area. Check with your local health authority for further requirements.

Airport Facilities and Tax:
China has various ports of entry. The international airport in the capital city is the Beijing Capital International Airport.  Departure taxes are formulated into the price of the airline ticket.

Shopping:
Bargaining is common in China. Other than Friendship stores where prices are fixed, shoppers should bargain anywhere they shop. Friendship stores are popular with most foreign visitors as they are well stocked and can arrange shipping.

Cuisine:
Chinese cuisine has a long history and is one of China’s cultural treasures. Local flavours and snacks and special dishes have formed according to regions, local products, climate, historical factors and eating habits.