China has hundreds of local dialects, but the country’s official language is Mandarin Chinese.
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China’s official currency is the yuan, which is divided into 10 chaio or jiao or 100 fen. You can only exchange yuan within China’s borders, so make sure you change all your money back before leaving. You can change money and traveller’s cheques, preferably in US dollars, at the Bank of China, which is closed weekends. Major credit cards are usually accepted in major cities, but outside the cities acceptance is limited. ATMs are hard to find outside of a major city. Friendship Stores accept most western currencies.
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China’s international country code is 86. To call outside of the country, dial 00 followed by the appropriate country code. Most towns have internet cafés.
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Tipping isn’t common, but the practice is growing among travel guides, high-end restaurants, tour bus drivers and hotel staff. Most restaurants and hotels don’t expect tips. Many of the large restaurants and hotels automatically include a service charge of approximately 10 per cent.
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China is usually safe and foreigners rarely encounter serious crime. Watch yourself around isolated areas. Beijing has seen an increase in muggings and robberies at the airport and the Jianguomenwai area, as well as Shenzen area near Hong Kong. If you’re travelling alone, always make sure someone know your travel plans.
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If you’re coming from an area infected with yellow fever, you’ll need a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Talk to your doctor about malaria prevention, since many of the low-lying areas of the country have malaria. Some travellers struggle with altitude sickness in Tibet, Qinghai, western Sichuan and parts of Xinjiang. Stick to bottled water outside of major city centres. Western-style medical centres can be found in major cities and usually accept major credit cards. You are advised to carry health insurance.
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The electrical current is 220 volts, 50 Hz. You will most likely need adapters, as there are several types of plugs. Two-pinned plugs are the most common.
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