And any other tips would be useful!

Thanks

Janice.

Welcome to the Community!

If you put 'China' into the search function on the top right of the page, you will see loads of reviews, hints and tips from other JYers who have previously done the trip (including me and a detailed one from Bob Gray).

I did the tour in October 2014 and had a really great group (although I can't recommend my results from the dumpling making workshop....!). The currency you need is the Yuan, which you can order from your local post office or on line. (Make sure you don't get any old or torn notes because they won't be accepted). Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in the touristy areas (and at the silk and jade factories)

Other tips include taking wet wipes/sanitizer gel (you'll understand when you see the levels of pollution and the layer of dust on everything), cough sweets and, if you use inhalers for asthma, take double the quantity that you normally use.

Pack layers, really comfy shoes for walking (there's quite a lot of cobbles), lots of memory cards for your camera and have a super time!

All the best

Mandy

Dyuti

On the subject of money then I took sterling and this was easy to change as I went but, certainly in one hotel, there was a money changing machine that was supposed to operate 24 hours to get money when the desk was closed - several tried to use it without success & we never quite worked out if the machine was broken or we were just rubbish at using it!! Credit cards were widely accepted.

Hi! This will be my first trip with JY and I wondered if anyone had any tips on China? for example, how is it best to take currency? Will it be hot in April, what do I need to wear?

And any other tips would be useful!

Thanks

Janice

Hi Janice, I took this trip the same time last year and it was my first holiday with just you too and I can tell you that you will see some amazing sights. The weather whilst I was there was in the low 70s, just perfect for walking in light clothing and even when it rained a couple of times it was not cold. fortunately we avoided the fabled Beijing smog during our stay there! If you are going on to Hong Kong afterwards you will find it warmer and more humid but not uncomfortably so. I took currency with me but found that all the hotels will change sterling for you and credit cards are widely accepted. I also saw money exchange kiosks in most towns. I have to say that with so much already included in the trip such as meals that I did not need half as much money as I thought I would. I can recommend the optional excursions on this trip and they offer an interesting insight to the Chinese culture. Expect some early starts and full days to pack in all the sights but it's well worth it. Have a wonderful trip. :shy: