Jam Tsirani

China is a captivating destination that has recently reopened its doors to tourists from around the world. Visiting a country as unique as China can be both exciting and challenging. The differences you’ll encounter extend beyond just culture; you’ll also experience an entirely new ecosystem that China has developed over the past decade.

As you explore China, you’ll find a world where technology is seamlessly integrated into daily life. Apps and AI are deeply embedded in society, making everyday experiences in China quite different from what you might be used to. With many major Western companies having withdrawn from the Chinese market for various reasons, China has forged its own unique path in technological development. You’ll be amazed at just how futuristic life in China can feel. Given these differences, it’s important to prepare before visiting this incredible country. Ensuring you have a reliable internet connection and downloading all the necessary apps ahead of time will make your experience much smoother.

Internet In China

Navigating the internet in China can be tricky due to the restrictions on many popular websites. Here are some tips for navigating the internet landscape in China:

1. Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot: For those like me who need constant access to services like Outlook and Teams, a portable hotspot can be a lifesaver. These devices, such as the GlocalMe portable Wi-Fi, operate independently of local internet restrictions, providing a reliable connection. There are several devices on the market that can help, but I personally rely on my trusty GlocalMe portable WiFi. The model I use is the G4Pro, which has been incredibly reliable for staying connected. You can check it out here: GlocalMe G4Pro.
   
2. Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help you access blocked websites and services like Google, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. However, keep in mind that VPNs can be hit or miss; they didn’t always work reliably for us. Make sure to download and install the VPN before arriving in China, as many VPN websites may also be blocked.
   
3. Data SIM Cards: Purchase a local SIM card with a data plan. This can be an affordable way to access the internet, though you’ll still face the same restrictions as any local user. For my trip, I used a Holafly eSIM for 15 days, which cost approximately $50. It generally worked well for my basic needs, but take into account that it cannot be used as a personal hotspot. It was a convenient solution without the need for a physical SIM card.
   
4. Wi-Fi Access: Many hotels and cafes offer Wi-Fi, though the quality and access to international sites can vary. These can be useful if you’re having trouble with your own devices.

Essential apps to download

1. Payment Apps

Before your trip to China, I highly recommend installing payment apps on your smartphone, as transactions primarily rely on Alipay and WeChat. The country operates largely cashless, and during our month-long adventure, we seldom encountered banknotes, coins, or even credit card payments. These apps not only facilitate seamless payments but also enable you to use taxi services such as DiDi, book train tickets, and purchase entry passes to various attractions. Bellow you can find detailed guide on installing these apps and linking your foreign credit card.

WeChat

WeChat has recently added the ability to link foreign debit and credit cards, making it easier for anyone to use China’s most popular payment system. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you set up:

1. Start by downloading WeChat from your app store and creating a new account. You’ll need to provide identification documents, such as your passport or national ID, to verify your identity.
2. Once your account is set up, open the app and go to the “Me” section.
3. In the “Me” section, tap on “Services.”
4. Under the “Services” menu, select “Wallet.”
5. In the Wallet, select “Bank Cards” and proceed to add your card. You can either manually enter your card information or scan your card using your phone’s camera.
6. After entering your card details, you’ll need to accept the terms and conditions. Once these steps are completed, you’re all set to use WeChat for payments!

Alipay

For a while, Alipay was the only option for foreigners to make payments in China, as it was the first app to support international payment cards. Alipay is still widely used throughout the country, though you might occasionally encounter elderly vendors who only accept WeChat payments. 

Here’s how to set up Alipay:

1. Start by downloading the Alipay app from your app store.
2. Create an Account: Follow the prompts in the app to create a new account.
3. Once your account is set up, navigate to the “Account” section.
4. Select “Bank Cards” and proceed to add your card. When adding your first card, Alipay may require you to provide identity verification documents, such as your passport or national ID. Once submitted, it may take up to a day to activate your card. To avoid any issues, make sure to link your card at least one day before arriving in China.

2. Translation Apps

Another essential application for your trip is a translation app. Outside of Shanghai, English is not widely spoken, especially among the older generation. Despite the friendliness of the people, communication can sometimes be challenging. I’ve mostly used apps such as Papago and ChatGPT’s AI, both of which can translate conversations and pictures. Additionally, WeChat has a convenient translator feature for chatting.

3. Navigation Maps

For navigation, you can use Bing Map, but to be honest, we used Google Maps throughout our trip in China and never had any issues with it. The main downside of Google Maps is that it does not provide routes for public transportation.

To sum it up, spending a little time prepping before your trip can really make a difference in your experience in China. Once you’re all set, get ready to dive into the beautiful culture of China and make some unforgettable memories.