Travelling to China

[Gunny Highway]

In February I'm going to someplace called Shuangbei, Chongqing, Sichuan.

Anyone know anything about this place, or anything I should know about travelling to China in general?

Hey Gunny!

Haven't been there but I've been to Beijing twice and Shanghai once. It's definitely an interesting place to visit.

Here are some general observations:

1. Language - In major metropolitan areas there are a lot of English speakers but not nearly as many outside. If you don't speak Manadarin I recommend this for any traveler in China (Anywhere in the world actually)

Kwikpoint International Translator Card (http://www.kwikpoint.com/Products/Travel/Passport.html)

http://img216.imageshack.us/img216/7039/fdlxpassfr24st.jpg

This saved my butt many a time in many foreign countries where I didn't speak the language especialy when ordering food.

2. Food - Chinese food in China is much different than the chinese you find in the west, especially outside the cities. Not bad, just different. A lot more fish, less fried, noodle based.

3. Attractions - The Great Wall is a must. It really is impressive in person. Give yourself 3/4 of a day and good shoes to do this right

4. Don't buy knockoffs - Along with being a violation of international property rights, they suck. Sure you can buy a "North Face (North Fake) jacket that looks just like one that costs $300 for $30 - but it WILL fall apart within weeks.

Final point: It is very safe there but westerners do attract attention. Don't leave any valuables in a hotel or other anywhere else. Don't bring a laptop or a PDA if you can help it.

That's my down and dirty!

[Gunny Highway]

ok. just the one bump. anyone else?

[27offsuit]

Plan on being followed around for your entire trip.....

[NobodysFreak]

I have a friend who's Indian and he told me that if you ever find yourself there and someone asks you "what does your father do?" Tell them he's dead or he left you as a child. I'm sure you could probably apply the same thing to China, or parts of Russia for that matter.

tips from my dad who travels there twice a year for business(for the last 40 years)

keep an eye on your wallet

don't venture off alone-stay with whoever you are traveling with.

also if you are craving american food eat it from an american based place--mcdonalds or an american based hotel as the meat is imported-
always pack immodium

[TheMainEvent]

Since you're going to be in the south, I would recommend a cruise on the Li river in Guilin. Probably the most unique place I have ever seen.

http://img310.imageshack.us/img310/3334/6b7eq.jpg