Voltage and Plugs
The supply voltage in China is 220V. The normal socket shape is shown in the picture. Most luxury hotel rooms are equipped with universal sockets, and guests can also rent adapters at the hotel’s front desk.
Socket
Dialling Chinese Numbers
When you dial a landline number in China from a foreign mobile phone, enter the China area code (+86) and city area code (for example, +10 for Beijing) before the landline number.
When you use a foreign mobile phone to make a call to a Chinese mobile phone, you’ll need to enter the China area code (+86) before the mobile number.
Emergency Numbers
Police: 110
Fire: 119
Traffic police: 122
Medical emergencies: 120
Purchasing a Chinese SIM Card
Nationwide telecoms companies such as China Mobile and China Unicom have counters in the major international airports (such as China Mobile and China Unicom). Foreign visitors can purchase a Chinese SIM card at these counters (a passport must be presented).
Tap Water
Foreign visitors should boil tap water or buy bottled drinking water. Drinking the tap water directly is not recommended.
Traffic Safety Tips
In China, cars are driven on the right. The driver and all passengers must wear seat belts.
Health and Medical Advice
It is generally a good idea to bring common medicines (e.g., painkillers and digestive medicines). If you take a regular prescription medicine, it is advisable to stock up before departure and bring doctor’s certificates and medical records in case they are necessary.
If you do fall ill, you are recommended to visit the international medical department of a general hospital or a foreign-funded hospital, as they are generally able to provide services in English.
Travellers should purchase medical insurance before departure and keep records of any diagnosis certificates, outpatient medical records, receipts, prescriptions, and invoices if intending to make a claim.
Cultural Taboos
China is a multi-ethnic country and different ethnic groups can have very different customs and habits. Please be aware of cultural taboos, especially when traveling in minority areas. For example, you should take your shoes off when you enter a Dai bamboo building. You should not order or eat pork in a Hui restaurant. In Xizang (Tibet), you should not touch Buddha statues, scriptures, Buddha beads or other sacred objects. Please listen carefully to the introduction given by your tour guide to ensure that you are aware of how to respect local culture and customs.
