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China
Set to soon become the world's leading tourist destination, China is a vast, majestic land of contrasts and contradictions. Covering an area larger than Europe and yet home to twice as many different dialects and ethnic minorities, this nation of timeless mysticism and ancient history is currently in the throes of spectacular reform and dramatic development. China's past has laid some incredible foundations for today's visitors and over 30 UNESCO World Heritage sites vie for your attention. A journey through China reveals everchanging landscapes, diverse cultural differences and an incredible variety of cuisines. Enjoy discovering these for yourself.
RUSSIA
China Travel Tips
· Time: GMT +8 · Flying Time from UK: Approx. 11 hours (Shanghai) · Language: The official language is Mandarin but many dialects are spoken. English is spoken and understood in hotels and among those involved with tourist services, although less so in rural areas. · Currency: Renminbi or Yuan (CNY). £1 = CNY 14.95 approx. In more rural areas such as along the Silk Road it is not always easy to exchange foreign currency therefore we do recommend carrying some cash with you. · Departure Tax: CNY 50 for domestic flights. CNY 90 for international departures. · Visa Requirements: A visa must be obtained prior to arrival from the Chinese Embassy in London at 31 Portland Place, London W1N 3AG. Tel: 020 7631 1430. · Getting Around: There is a large network of airports throughout China with Beijing and Shanghai as the main hubs and frequent connecting flights through from Hong Kong. Once venturing out of the main cities, travel within China can be difficult and unpredictable therefore it is recommended that visitors pre-book tours either on a private basis or as part of a group. · Festivals, Events and Busy Times: Numerous local events and festivals happen throughout the year but the main celebrations are New Year's Day (01Jan), Chinese New Year (end Jan, early Feb for 1 week), International Labour Day (01May for 1 week), National Day (01Oct for 1 week). Much of China will be completely full in August 2008 due to the Beijing Olympics. Hotel prices will be high and roads will be slow, if you do not plan to attend the Olympics we recommend staying away from China during this month. · Tourist Office: China National Tourist Office, 71 Warwick Road, London SW5 9HB. Tel: 020 7373 0888.www.cnta.gov.cn
KAZAKHSTAN MONGOLIA
Ulaan Baatar
Urumqi Turpan Kashgar Dunhuang Chengde Beijing Jiayuguan Taiyuan Pingyao
CHINA
Yellow
Riv er
Xian Nanjing Suzhou Shanghai Wuhan Yichang Chongqing Hangzhou
tz e ng Ya
NEPAL
INDIA BANGLADESH MYANMAR (BURMA)
H
im
r Rive
la
ya
Shigatse
s
Kathmandu Paro
a
Chengdu
Gyantse
Lhasa
BHUTAN
Lijiang Taipei Dali Kunming
Li River
Yangshuo
Guilin Hong Kong Macau
Taiwan
Bay of Bengal
VIETNAM LAOS Hainan Island
Sanya
South China Sea
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