China Travel Guide for Americans

Mobile internet is critical in China because Google, Gmail, Facebook, Instagram, and most Western apps don't work. China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom are the three carriers—all have comparable coverage. Buy SIM cards at airport kiosks (PEK, PVG, CTU all have them) for 50-80 RMB (~$7-11); data plans are cheap (30 RMB/month for 4-5GB). Alternatively, buy prepaid plans at convenience stores (7-11, FamilyMart) nationwide. Cost: 100 RMB (~$14) for a month of unlimited data is typical. Esim options exist (Airalo, etc.) but are more expensive. Major caveat: You MUST use a VPN app (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark) if you want to access Google, Gmail, etc. Install the VPN app before arriving in China, as you can't download it once there (the sites are blocked). Some VPNs work unreliably in mainland China—test before departure. Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan don't have these restrictions; Western apps work normally there.

Tipping is NOT part of Chinese culture and is actively discouraged in most contexts. Restaurants: No tip expected or desired—your bill is final. Leave 0% unless service was exceptional (even then, most places refuse it). Taxis: Round up to nearest 5-10 RMB if you're feeling generous, but it's not expected. Didi drivers: Optional, 2-5 RMB thumbs-up rating is more appreciated than monetary tips. Hotels: Housekeeping doesn't expect tips, but leaving 10-20 RMB for exceptional service is gracious. Guides and tour operators: 50-100 RMB per day for private guides is appropriate. Toilet attendants: 2-5 RMB in older restrooms where attendants manage the space. Key principle: Tipping can be seen as insulting, implying the business doesn't pay fair wages. Unless specifically told otherwise, don't tip.

China is safe for tourists. Violent crime against foreigners is rare. Petty theft occurs in crowded metros and tourist areas—keep bags zipped, don't flash expensive items. Scams do exist: unlicensed taxis overcharging, tea house scams targeting tourists, fake police. Always use Didi or official taxi ranks. Avoid random 'friendly locals' offering tea or invitations. Protests/political sensitivity: Avoid large gatherings, don't discuss sensitive political topics, don't photograph military installations. VPN use: While many tourists use VPNs without issue, technically it's against regulations; exercise discretion. Air quality in major cities (especially Beijing, Chengdu) can be unhealthy—check AQI apps, avoid outdoor exercise on bad days. Tap water is safe in major cities but hotels provide complimentary bottled water. Healthcare is good in tier-1 cities; international clinics operate in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou. Travel insurance is recommended. LGBTQ+ safety: Same-sex conduct is legal, but society is conservative; public displays of affection aren't recommended.