Fill in the employment section of the visa application. Journalists and anyone else who work in media often face resistance entering China. Canadians and Americans usually state "teacher" under "Occupations."
Register a foreign-made laptop or camera with U.S. Customs before departing for China. Call the Chinese consulate to determine whether the equipment should be registered with local customs upon arrival if the device is U.S.-made.
Bring a 220-volt adapter and a surge protector. Some Asian adapters have diagonal prongs that slant inward, but other outlets accept American adapters. Carry several types of adapters in case one type doesn't fit. Chinese sockets have many configurations.
Go to the China Travel Service to buy train tickets. Ask your hotel concierge to make the arrangements at CTS or get them at the local CTS office. Communication is challenging, even at the train station counter geared toward foreigners. Make reservations more than a day in advance if possible.
Arrive at train stations at least 2 hours in advance to avoid the constant crowding.
Ask your hotel travel agent about the reputation of the bus company when traveling by bus. Comfort and safety vary. The more expensive bus companies are normally safer because the government holds bus drivers accountable for accidents. You may have to pay for insurance on dangerous, mountainous bus routes.
Carry antibacterial hand sanitizer. Wash your hands frequently. Stay away from uncooked food, ice, un-pasteurized milk and milk products. Drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled at least 10 minutes to avoid traveler's diarrhea.
Avoid buying prescription drugs in China because quality control is not reliable. Bring an abundance of medicine for the trip.
Bring American-made trinkets from home to give as gifts for your guides. American T-shirts, cigarettes, candy or small cosmetic items such as nail polish and lipstick make good gifts from American travelers. Avoid giving American books and magazines as gifts because they may be considered propaganda and get the guide into trouble. CTS tour guides cannot accept gifts.
