From the Great Wall to the Forbidden City, China is packed with a plethora of sights that everyone should see once in their lifetime, and with a host of high-end hotels and restaurants to choose from in major tourist destinations across the country, it’s the perfect choice for a luxury getaway in 2023.
From its rich and vibrant culture to its beautiful cities and breath-taking natural landscapes, there’s so much to see and do in China that it can be difficult to know where to start with planning your itinerary. But, with some prior research and some time spent reflecting on what you’d like to get out of the trip, you can make the most of your time in China and ensure that your journey is one you’ll remember forever.
Here’s all you need to know to plan the ultimate adventure in China for the new year, with luxury guaranteed.
What to see in China
When most people think of China, they immediately think of the Great Wall. But there’s so much more to see in this vast country, and from the Imperial Palace and Tiananmen Square in Beijing to the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, there’s something for everyone. Then, there’s the awe-inspiring natural beauty the nation has to offer. The stunning Li River and the picturesque rice terraces that can be spotted across the country are just two examples of what you can hope to take in during your trip, so be sure to plan some time to escape the major cities if you’re keen to see this side of China.
You’ll be mesmerised by all that this country has to offer, and whether exploring ancient Buddhist temples or hiking a majestic mountain is more your bag, there will certainly be no shortage of sights to see and activities to try. In fact, just one trip to China almost certainly won’t feel like enough, and you might find yourself already planning your next visit as you leave.
One of the best things about travelling to China is how easy it is to get around once you’re there. You can take a train or bus, and many tourists also choose to ride bicycles across the countryside (though keep in mind that if you’re renting a bike, make sure it’s not too tall). If you’re keen to travel in the utmost of luxury, however, then you can hire a private car and chauffeur to get you around – a great option if you’re eager to call the shots when it comes to your itinerary and don’t want to waste any of your precious time in China waiting around or queuing.
Food and drink
If you’re a foodie, then you’ll likely find yourself in heaven the moment you arrive in China. With hundreds of restaurants available on every street corner, dining is always exciting and delicious no matter where you are. There are also many highly sought-after Michelin-starred restaurants to be found in Beijing and Shanghai, where you can enjoy some decadent and unique dining experiences you won’t want to miss out on. Tai’an Table in Changning, and Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet in Huangpu, both in Shanghai, were each awarded three stars this year, so add them to the top of your list if you’re keen to seek out the very best.
Of course, you’ll also want to sample some authentic local cuisine while in China, and while fine dining eateries undoubtedly serve up show-stopping cuisine that draws influences from traditional Chinese dishes, sometimes, the simplest dishes enjoyed daily by the locals can be equally impressive.
From mouth-watering dumplings to fiery Sichuan dishes, there is something for everyone to enjoy, and the bold flavour combinations are truly a taste sensation that you can only experience in Asia. To ensure you find the best kept foodie secrets during your trip, talk to your hotel staff or concierge and ask for restaurant recommendations, as they will be able to point you in the right direction based on your taste.
Look out for restaurants that are busy with lots of locals as opposed to tourists, as these are generally the best places to find the most authentic food. You could also ask your chauffeur or tour guide where they like to eat, as they will often have great suggestions that you wouldn’t find in a guidebook.
Don’t be afraid to try new things while in China. If you don’t know what something is, ask your waiter to explain it and they will likely be happy to do so before you order. If it doesn’t turn out as well as expected, don’t fret – just keep eating and try something else.
China visa
Before visiting China, you’ll need to make sure that you have the relevant permissions and paperwork in order to do so. A visa is required for most foreign nationals who wish to visit the People’s Republic of China. You can apply for a China visa through Visa Express, and while the process might seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be.
First, you’ll need to determine what type of visa you’re going to need. There are many different types of Chinese visas, so it’s important to make sure you apply for the correct one. The most common type of visa for tourists is the L-visa, which allows for tourism, family visits, or business trips lasting up to six months. Then, you’ll just need to gather the required list of documents provided, and submit your application online – it really is as easy as that.
Currency exchange
When travelling to China, it’s important to be aware of the currency exchange rate. The Chinese Yuan is currently worth about 0.14 US dollars, and 0.12 GBP, which means that for every US dollar, you’ll get about seven yuan, or eight per British pounds. It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand when you land in China, as well as a backup credit card in case of emergencies. You can also use apps like WeChat or Alipay to pay for things while you’re there.
