Money & Payments
"Can I use cash or credit cards?"
Short answer: No. (Well, rarely.)
China is a cashless society. Even street vendors selling apples use QR codes. You cannot rely on your physical Visa card.
- Download Alipay (Recommended): It's the most foreigner-friendly app.
- Link your Card: Add your Visa/Mastercard to Alipay. It works for 95% of transactions.
- Verify Identity: Do this at least 1 week before your trip. It requires passport photos and face scans.
Internet & "The Firewall"
"Will my Google Maps and Instagram work?"
Not without help.
The "Great Firewall" blocks Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and most Western news sites.
📱 Option A: eSIM (Best)
Services like Holafly or Airalo offer China data plans with a built-in VPN. You just land, turn it on, and Instagram works.
🔒 Option B: VPN App
If you use local Wi-Fi, you need a VPN app. LetsVPN is currently the most reliable for China (Astrill is pricey but solid).
Maps & Navigation
"Google Maps is blocked. What do I use?"
Don't trust Apple Maps entirely.
- Amap (Gaode Ditu): The gold standard. It has the most accurate data for taxis and walking directions. ⚠️ Note: It is in Chinese only. We recommend learning to match the visual icons, or screenshotting destinations to show drivers.
- Apple Maps: It works without a VPN and has English labels. It's "okay" for general direction, but often misses new subway exits or small shops.
- MetroMan: The absolute best app for subway navigation in English. It works offline and tells you exactly how much tickets cost.
Need more details?
Our city guides include detailed screenshots on how to set up Alipay, step-by-step VPN installation, and even how to read a Chinese menu.
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