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USEFUL INFORMATION
Language
Most Chinese people speak Mandarin. Although most tourist hotels employ staff who are fluent in foreign languages, visitors may find it difficult to make themselves understood by local people on the street. It is advisable to have addresses or instructions written down in Chinese. All major streets have signposts in pinyin - the Chinese system of phonetics - which makes it easier to get around with the help of a map.
Many Chinese, especially young people, are now studying English and welcome the opportunity to practice their English with foreigners. Don't be afraid to ask for directions from people on the street. You will usually be rewarded with a polite and often heroic attempt to help.
Visas
Visas are required for all foreigners entering mainland China. A standard tourist visa is valid for a 30-day visit. They can usually be obtained from Chinese embassies or consulates in your own country. You can organise your trip to China from Hong Kong through a travel agent. Express visas for mainland China can sometimes be obtained within 24 hours.
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Currency
The standard unit of currency in China is the renminbi (RMB), also known as the yuan. The smaller units are the jiao and the fen. One yuan is equivalent to 10 jiao, and one jiao equals 10 fen. The following denominations are available in both notes and coins: one, two, five, 10, 50 and 100 yuan; one, two and five jiao; and one, two and five fen.
Foreign currency and traveller's cheques can be changed at Bank of China money exchanges, located at airports, hotels and tourist stores. The exchange rate fluctuates according to international market conditions. Traveller's cheques are generally exchanged at a better rate than cash.
If you want to change any RMB back to your local currency on departure, you will need the form you filled out when changing the money. Most money exchanges are open seven days a week from 9:00 to 17:00.
Time
The whole of China is set at GMT/UTC plus eight hours.
Weights & measures
Metric
 
  
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