Odds & Ends

Clothing

Take half as many clothes as you think you will need. This is one half of a simple traveler's rule worldwide: Take twice as much money as you think you will need and half as many clothes.

In general, visitors to China should pack casual, comfortable attire. Shorts are acceptable attire for most activities. Comfortable and durable walking shoes are essential since there will be much walking. It is recommended that you not bring expensive jewelry since you may not have the occasion to wear it and you will also not have to worry about losing it.

When traveling in northern China in winter, pack woolen clothes, thermal underwear, warm coats, hats, and gloves, and an extra sweater. Traveling in the south requires between-season clothing.

In cool or uncertain weather, it is better to wear several layers of clothing instead of one bulky outer garment. For instance, wear a sweater on top of a shirt on top of a turtleneck.

In summer, most parts of China are hot and very humid. Lightweight clothing is advisable. Cotton is the most comfortable fabric for hot weather. Bring clothes that are easily washable, especially by hand.

Tipping

Tipping is welcomed in China, though you are not expected to tip in hotels or restaurants.

Whether or not to tip and how much to tip are completely at your discretion in acknowledging the services of a bellman, housekeeper, or restaurant waiter. A good tip would be five to ten yuan (the equivalent of fifty cents to one dollar).

If you are traveling with a tour group, it is customary to tip guides and drivers at end of the tour in the city. The norm is about $2 USD per guide or/driver per day. So a 10 day trip with national guide, local guide and driver will amount to about $60, which is significantly lower than on any cruise ship.

Of course, tipping is not mandatory and all depends on the performance.

Religious Services

There are over 1,000 active Protestant churches and more than 200 Catholic churches plus numerous Buddhist temples in China. If you wish to participate in religious services or visit some places of worship while in China, ask your local guides for hours and information.