Martial Arts of China a guide to travel and training in China

Many people have long to travel to China but don't know how to start, or who to contact to meet the real Kung-Fu Master of China. Daniel Pinkowski has been helping people do that for over 15 years. Daniel Has taken people such as Eric Lee, Cynthia Rothrock, Glen Wilson, Dave Garrison, and George Dillman to train at the Famed Shaolin Temple. The summer of 2010 will be one of the bigest trips that Daniel has ever constructed. If you would like to travel, train in China you can Email Daniel.

Some People want to tour China and do little training, and some want to do little touring with intensive training. For the first time traveler to China I would suggest that a 14 day to 21 day is what I suggest. Most people who have never been to China will want to see a lot of the 5000 year old history, and because of the vastness of China there might be little time to do intensive training, do to the amout of cities, and sight a first time traveler may want to visit.

Although when it come to Kung-Fu the first place that come to mind is the famed Shaolin Temple. Most people think that if you train at the Shaolin Temple you will get better training. In fact some of the world class Kung-Fu practitioners Don't come from Dengfeng China where the Shaolin Temple is located. in fact China's top Kung-Fu demo team comes from Hefei China.

Famous Chinese Movie Star Jet Li  comes from Beijing, and some of the world class teachers have had there start in Beijing.

If You are going to stay for more that 60 Days for intensive I would suggest to tran in one of the larger cities.  There are many reason for this which I will list below.

• Emergency Medical treatment is far better and safer in the large cities.
• Western food is ready and  available in large Cities, not in small cities.
• Ease of getting around in big cities with subways and taxi.
• Big cities always have westerners to talk with and make friends with.

China Overview

China has 1.2 billion people, representing 56 nationalities. However, 96% of the population is Han, whose written language is the same wherever you are, but whose spoken dialects can be more different than the languages of Portuguese and French are from each other. Putonghua--or Mandarin--can be understood in most parts of the country. Each United States dollar equals about 6.80 Chinese yuan (as of January 2009).

The Chinese electrical system operates on 220 volts. The North American standard is 110 volts. Note that you will need a converter to use appliances designed to operate at 110 volts.

The health system in major Chinese cities is sophisticated, and therefore no inoculations are required. However, if you are planning an extended stay--or are venturing to street food stands-- it is advisable to get inoculated.

There is a difference of 12 hours between standard China time and U.S. Eastern Standard Time. For example, at 10 a.m. on Oct. 5th in Beijing, it is: 10 p.m. in New York, 9 p.m. in Chicago, 8 p.m. in Denver, and 7 p.m. in Los Angeles--all on the preceding day, Oct. 4th.

The best travel times in China are spring and fall--i.e., late March, April, May, and early June, and then September, October, and early November. However, our Regent travelers have experienced perfect weather in Beijing in August and the worst flooding along the Yangtze River in September.

Mean temperatures in major Chinese cities (these are low and high readings and are noted in Fahrenheit degrees):

City Jan Apr Jul Oct

Beijing 14-35 43-69 71-89 44-69
Guilin 41-55 59-74 76-93 62-81
Shanghai 32-47 49-67 75-91 56-75
Xi'an 20-40 50-70 70-90 50-70

China is a large country, home to one of the world's oldest civilizations.

Insurance--for travel protection and assistance

Travel insurance is highly recommended. It is inexpensive and covers reimbursement of certain expenses that may be incurred during the course of your trip--e.g., treatment for accident/illness, baggage loss, and trip cancellation/interruption.

Air Travel

Flying to China doesn't have to cost a bundle!

Seat Assignment

All group-based seat assignments are done at the airline check-in counter at the international departure airport. If you have an individual air ticket, your seat can be confirmed prior to arriving at the airport. Note that airlines often save bulkhead seats for travelers with infants and those who are physically disabled. If you wish to request bulkhead seating, obtain a letter from your physician and present a copy of the letter at airport check-in. Be aware that the airline cannot guarantee a seat assignment prior to check-in.

Luggage Check-in

When you arrive at your departure airport, make sure that your luggage is checked through to your first city in China. For example, if you live in Cleveland, are flying to China via Chicago, and your first stop in China is Beijing, double-check that your luggage is marked for arrival in Beijing.

On-board Comfort

It is a long flight from North America to China. After all, you are traveling halfway around the world. During the flight, try to move around as much as possible. Walk the aisles frequently in order to minimize swollen feet and ankles. When seated, put your feet up on the edge of your carry-on case in order to keep the seat edge from limiting the circulation in your legs. Place the airline's pillow or your own roll-shaped cushion behind the small of your back. Neck pillows or inflatable pillows also help to make long flights more comfortable.

There are exercises you can do while seated that will help you relax. Move your head back and forth and from side to side in order to relieve neck tension. Loosen your shoulder muscles by shrugging. Relieve facial tension by opening your mouth as wide as you can, letting your tongue hang out, and opening your eyes as wide as possible. Stimulate your abdominal and gluteal muscles by contracting and releasing several times. Point your feet and wiggle your toes. Flex your hands, spread your fingers wide, and then make a fist.

Pack a sweater and a pair of slipper-socks in your carry-on. Be prepared in case it gets too cold for your comfort on the plane. Ask the flight attendant for a blanket if necessary.

Set your watch to China time as soon as you board the plane. This will help you start thinking in terms of your destination time and diminish some of the psychological effects of jet lag. In order to prevent dehydration, try to drink at least four ounces of water per hour of flight time. Flight attendants will serve water and fruit juice frequently. Avoid alcohol as it accelerates dehydration. Also, to counter the effects of the dry air in the cabin, use a moisturizer on your face and hands or spray your face with water from an atomizer bottle. Some people develop earaches during flight. In order to relieve ear pressure, "pop" your ears by holding your nose shut, closing your mouth, and attempting to blow air through your nostrils before take-off. During the flight, swallow frequently, chew gum or candy, and "pop" your ears as pressure builds. Do this especially if you feel you are coming down with a cold.

Lost Luggage

Luggage loss is rare--at an average of one piece out of every 1,000 items. If an airline does lose your luggage, complete the lost baggage report with the appropriate airline. Leave your itinerary with the airline so that when your luggage is found it can be delivered to you wherever you are. Keep receipts for any items you may have to purchase while your bags are missing in order to make it easier to obtain compensation from the airline for those items. Also, check your bags carefully for damaged or missing items before leaving the airport; the airline may not honor your claim once you have left the baggage claim facility.

Sightseeing

If you travel with a group, you will discover that extensive sightseeing has been planned for each city that you visit. The general format for the tour programs is to leave the hotel at 9 a.m., shortly after breakfast, stop for lunch en route, and then continue touring until dinner.

In addition to--or as an alternative to--the pre-arranged programs and schedules, you may wish to discover some of China on your own. There are very few restrictions on where foreigners are allowed to be within a city, so you may feel free to walk almost anywhere. Moreover, you can proceed with the assurance that Chinese cities are among the safest in the world. Before you set out, however, take a card bearing the hotel's name and address in Chinese in case you get lost.

Tour Pace

Set your own pace as far as is practicable. Do not feel that you have to see everything in order to get your money's worth out of your tour. If you feel that the schedule for the day is overwhelming, be selective. Do not push yourself beyond your limits (physical and mental).

Tour Guides

Regent China Tour guides are friendly, proficient in English, and eager to get to know you. They will do anything in their capacity to make your trip as enjoyable as possible. They want to introduce you to their wonderful country. So, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask one of your tour guides.

Also, oftentimes, groups of 15 or more persons will be accompanied by a national guide throughout the entire China tour.

Photography

There are no restrictions on bringing 8 mm movie or 1/2 inch video cameras into China. Kodak, Fuji, and Agfa 35mm-100 ISO color print film is available throughout China, particularly at hotels and tourist attractions,
and prices are comparable to those in the U.S. There is limited availability of fast-speed film and batteries and particularly limited availability of videotape and fuses.

You may want to take a lead-lined case to protect your film from x-ray sensors in airports if you are taking high-end
photography. Other film is unlikely to be damaged by passing through the sensors.

Here is a tip for making sense of all the photos you have taken when you finally have them developed and are ready to assemble your vacation album: Write brief notes about the pictures you take. Keep track of your film by numbering the rolls and noting dates, places, and key subjects.

Consider taking along a Polaroid camera. You can create a little excitement by handing over an instant photo to local people, especially in the smaller villages you will be visiting. Disposable cameras are also convenient and inexpensive.

Caution: Photography is not allowed at certain museums, archaeological sites, some exhibits, and many temples--either because exhibits may be susceptible to damage from countless flash photos or because authorities find it profitable to merchandise photographic rights. When in doubt, ask your guides. These rules are generally enforced. Should you neglect to heed the rules, authorities will confiscate your exposed film and impose heavy fines on the spot.

Public Toilets

You may encounter some public toilets in China that are not up to international standards. A few of them could be of the old-fashioned "hole-in-the ground" variety where you crouch and aim. Newer pay toilets are better. Public toilets in hotels and restaurants have Western-style fixtures.

Always carry extra tissue with you, especially when you are not traveling with a group.

Chinese Words

Chinese Phrases:

• Mei-guo (May-gwaw) - America
• Zhong-guo (Joong-gwaw) - China
• Ni Hao. (Knee How) - Good day / Hello / How are you
• Xie-xie ni. (Syeah-syeah nee) - Thank you.
• Dui-bu-qi. (Dway-boo-chee) - Excuse me.
• Wo bu dong. (Waw boo-doong) - I don抰 understand.
• Qing shou Ying-wen. (Ching shwaw Ying-wun) - Please speak English.
• Qing bang-zhu wo. (Ching baang-joo waw) - Please help me.
• Wo mi-lu le. (Waw mee-loo luh) - I am lost.
• Zai jian. (Dzai gee-en) - Goodbye.
• Ni, chi fan le, mai you (Knee chir fawn la, may yo) - Have you eaten
• Ming tien jian. (Ming tien jian) - See you tomorrow.
• Tai gui le. (Tai gwee luh) - (It is) too expensive.

A few hard to pronounce Chinese pinyin letters:

• ZH - as in the beginning of "jeweler"
• CH - as in ZH above, but with a strong puff of breath
• SH - as in "shoe"
• R - as in "run"
• C - like the "ts" in "it's high," but with a strong puff of breath
• J - as in "Jeff"
• Q - like the "ch" in "cheese"
• X - like the "sh" in "sheep"

I, me
Wo [3] (Waw)

You (singular)
Ni [3] (Knee)

He / she
Ta [1] (Tah)

China
Zhong-guo [1-2] (Joong-gwaw)

Good day / hello / how are you?
Ni hao? [3-3] (Knee how?)

Thank you
Xie-xie ni [4-4-3] (Syeah-syeah nee)

Excuse me
Dui-bu-qi [4-2-3] (Dway-boo-chee)

I don't understand
Wo bu dong [3-2-3] (Waw boo-doong)

Please speak English
Qing shou Ying-wen [3-1-1-2] (Ching shwaw Ying-wun)

Please help me
Qing bang-zhu wo [3-1-4-3] (Ching baang-joo waw)

I am lost
Wo mi-lu le [3-2-4-0] (Waw mee-loo luh)

Goodbye
Zai jian [4-4] (Dzai gee-en)

Have you eaten?
Ni, chi fan le, mai you? [3-1-4-5, 3-3] (Knee chir fawn la, may yo?)

Acupuncture
Zhen jiu [1-1] (Gin joe)

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
(counting from one to ten)
Yi, Er, San, Sz, Wu, Leo, Qi, Ba, Jou, Shi

Qigong
Qi gong [4-1] (Chee gung)

See you later
Ming tien jian [2-1-4] (Ming tien jian)

Taijiquan (T'ai Chi Ch'uan)
Tai ji quan [4-2-2] (Tie gee chwan)

I don't understand
Wo bu dong [3-4-3] (Waw boo dung)

Packing

Luggage Allowance

Even though each passenger is allowed two pieces of checked luggage on international flights, flights within China limit each passenger to one piece of luggage not weighing more than 44 pounds. Therefore, you are advised to bring only one piece of luggage to China. You can purchase another piece of luggage when you reach your last stop in China and then you will be able to check two pieces of luggage home. If you have extra luggage when traveling within China, you may have to pay an excess baggage charge at each airport.

Simply put, if you do not want to pay any possible penalty for exceeding luggage restrictions, then bring only one piece of luggage, weighing no more than 50 pounds, to China. When you leave China, you are welcome to buy another piece of luggage for your newly acquired souvenirs and then you will be able to bring both pieces of luggage home with you without extra charge.

Note that all checked luggage should be lockable.

Packing Tips

Lightweight (canvas or nylon) luggage is the most practical. Experienced travelers often suggest this tactic for packing: lay out everything you think you will need and then pack only half of that. Another suggestion is to walk around with your packed bags for a few minutes to see how heavy they are since porters and bellmen are not always available.

Completely filling the bag will prevent the contents from sliding around and becoming excessively wrinkled or damaged. Try stuffing socks into the toes of your shoes. Roll up sweaters and underwear and pack them on the bottom of your suitcase, followed by layers of clothing that wrinkle more easily.
Above all, do not pack anything fragile, valuable, or perishable in the luggage that you intend to check.
Valuables of any kind--money, jewelry, important documents, prescription drugs--as well as matches or cigarette lighters should be placed in your carry-on luggage. Leave all expensive jewelry and furs at home in safe storage--and enjoy peace of mind in your travels.

Packing Checklist

We have created the following packing checklist for your convenience:

Miscellaneous:

• Battery-operated or electrical (with converter/adapter) appliances
• Face cloth and soap
• Extra set of luggage keys
• Travel alarm clock
• Sewing kit
• Moist towelettes in packages
• Language dictionary and phrase book
• Photocopies of important documents
• Small notepad to log purchases for customs officials (both Chinese and American)
• Diary or journal to record your trip
• Copy (not original) of your address book (with room to include addresses of the new friends you will make during the course of your trip)
• Lightweight raincoat and fold-up umbrella Bathing suit
• Sunscreen lotion

Medical supplies:

• Aspirin or aspirin substitute
• Cold tablets
• Vitamins
• Antacids
• Bowel regulators
• Spray anesthetic
• Bandage strips
• Antiseptic spray/wipes
• Your usual antibiotic
• Copy of your medical history, prescription duplicates, extra eyeglasses and dentures, etc.
• An elastic bandage

Dental supplies:

• Baking soda
• Orabase with benzocaine
• Medicated pads
• Cotton swabs
• Tea bags
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
• Ice bag
• Sterile cotton balls

Carry-on items:

• Comforts for air flight: sweater, slip-on socks, gum or candy to alleviate ear pressure
• Neck pillow or inflatable pillow
• Camera and plenty of film
• Passport and visas

Clothing:

Be sure to include a pair of comfortable walking shoes with nonskid soles!

Pack some old clothes!

If you are traveling with a Regent group, all the hotels will be expensive and laundry costs could be significant. We suggest that you bring some old pajamas, socks, a worn robe, etc. Then you will not have to launder them too frequently and will be able to discard them by the time you leave for home. This serves a double purpose: by lightening your load, you have just created space for the souvenirs accumulated on your journey.

Another tip: If you are traveling with a companion, pack some of your companion's clothes in your bag and vice versa. Then, if one bag is lost, each of you will at least have a change of clothing. Also, pack toiletries and a change of clothes in your carry-on bag.

Hotels

Four- and five-star hotels in China are excellent and rival the quality and service of the best hotels in major metropolitan areas in the U.S. In fact, a lot of hotels in China are managed by Europeans and Americans or by Chinese nationals who were trained in Western hotel management. The cost for hotel accommodations is based on twin-bedded rooms with private bath and shower, while the cost for single occupancy room accommodations is usually based on one king- or queen-size bed with private bath and shower. All Regent hotel arrangements typically include amenities such as a business center, fitness center, swimming pool, massage service, disco, and restaurants and bars.

Generally, following hotel registration, hotel guests proceed to their rooms. Your luggage will be delivered to your room by the hotel bellman.

However, all incidental charges, including room service, mini bar, laundry, and restaurant and bar charges, must be settled directly with the hotel cashier upon check-out. Settlements can be made by cash or credit card.

E-mail

All four- and five-star hotels  provide access to the Internet.

Amenities

All four- and five-star hotel rooms included in  China Tours will have common amenities, including soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, lotions, nail file, and comb--unless otherwise noted in your travel itinerary. Many hotels also have hair dryers in each room. If a hair dryer is not available in your room, you can obtain one from the housekeeping department--along with other items such as an iron and voltage converter.

You will receive a hotel card. Usually the folder containing your room key is also a hotel card indicating the hotel name, address, and phone number. Keep the card with you at all times so that, should you get lost, you will have all the information you need to return safely to your hotel.

Electricity

The Chinese electrical system operates on 220 volts. Appliances designed to operate at 110 volts, which is the North American standard, will need a converter. Most hotel rooms have two electric outlets in the bathroom -- one at 110 volts and the other at 220 volts. Do keep in mind that not all outlets marked at 110 volts are marked correctly. If you have any doubt, ask the housekeeping department for a converter.

Communication

Every hotel in China has a mail desk for postcards, letters, and stamps.

International direct dialing (IDD) is available from your room in the hotels. All charges for telephone calls made from your room must be settled with the hotel cashier upon check-out. You may have to place a deposit, perhaps via credit card, for this service to be activated at the time of check-in.

Security

All hotels offer safe deposit boxes either in your room or at the front desk at no charge.

Shopping

Most of your shopping will probably be done in hotel stores, department stores, or factory stores--or from vendors at attraction sites. Remember to keep a log of your purchases; this will make it easier to complete customs forms. Include in your log what you paid in Chinese currency along with the U.S. dollar equivalent.

Antiques

Antiques may be purchased only in licensed shops. Chinese government authorities generally have restricted the sale of items older than 120 years. They regulate what is purchased by marking items with a special red or brown hard wax seal requiring a special customs declaration form to be issued at the time of purchase.

Caution: Old artifacts are often offered for sale at urban "free markets." Should you purchase a genuine antique at one of these markets, it will be confiscated by Chinese customs officials. You will experience considerable embarrassment in addition to the loss of your purchase.

Handicrafts

As far as handicrafts are concerned, you should always bear in mind that these items are usually regional products and may not be available in another part of the country.

Bargains

You can bargain in tourist stores. If you are not sure about the appropriateness of bargaining in a particular situation, ask your local guide.

Beware of duty-free shops, especially in Hong Kong. Most of them do not offer any real bargains. You may find a bargain if you are an experienced shopper or at least have a target price in mind.

Sales Tax

There is no sales tax in China.

Disputes

If you travel with a  group, our guides will take you only to reputable, government-approved tourist stores. Still, disputes may arise. For example, a US$1,000 jade piece may be appraised for only US$200 by your local jeweler in the U.S. It could be that the store overcharged you. It could also be that your local jeweler does not recognize the value of the jade piece, given the many varieties of jade available in China.

Our suggestion: When in doubt, do not buy. However, your credit card issuer may provide some help in carefully documented disputes.

Shipping large purchases

However, should you purchase large items, the outlet where you make such purchases will provide reliable packing and shipping to your hometown at an additional charge. We suggest that you request door-to-door shipment. In many cases, due to freight consolidation, air shipment is cheaper than surface shipment; remember to inquire about these rates at the time of purchase.

Also, keep in mind that you will be liable for U.S. customs duties, prevailing state user taxes, bonding, customs broker fees, trucking charges, etc. that may total well over US$200. It will take six to twelve weeks for your shipment to reach you. You will be notified by a U.S.-based shipping/delivery company when your shipment arrives in the U.S. If in doubt about shipping procedures--or concern about a late delivery--contact the store where you placed your order, remembering to include the invoice number.

Odds & Ends

Clothing

Take half as many clothes as you think you will need. This is one half of a simple traveler's rule worldwide: Take twice as much money as you think you will need and half as many clothes.

In general, visitors to China should pack casual, comfortable attire. Shorts are acceptable attire for most activities. Comfortable and durable walking shoes are essential since there will be much walking. It is recommended that you not bring expensive jewelry since you may not have the occasion to wear it and you will also not have to worry about losing it.

When traveling in northern China in winter, pack woolen clothes, thermal underwear, warm coats, hats, and gloves, and an extra sweater. Traveling in the south requires between-season clothing.

In cool or uncertain weather, it is better to wear several layers of clothing instead of one bulky outer garment. For instance, wear a sweater on top of a shirt on top of a turtleneck.

In summer, most parts of China are hot and very humid. Lightweight clothing is advisable. Cotton is the most comfortable fabric for hot weather. Bring clothes that are easily washable, especially by hand.

Tipping

Tipping is welcomed in China, though you are not expected to tip in hotels or restaurants.

Whether or not to tip and how much to tip are completely at your discretion in acknowledging the services of a bellman, housekeeper, or restaurant waiter. A good tip would be one to two US dollars.

If you are traveling with a tour group, it is customary to tip guides and drivers at end of the tour in the city.
The norm is about $6 USD per guide per day and $3 USD per driver per day for small groups ( 2-5 people).
The norm is about $5 USD per guide per day and $3 USD per driver per day for bigger groups ( 6-9 people).
The norm is about $4 USD per guide per day and $3 USD per driver per day for general groups ( 10 plus people).
So a 10 day trip with national guide, local guide and driver will amount to about $110, which is significantly lower than on any cruise ship.

Of course, tipping is not mandatory and all depends on the performance.

Religious Services

There are over 1,000 active Protestant churches and more than 200 Catholic churches plus numerous Buddhist temples in China. If you wish to participate in religious services or visit some places of worship while in China, ask your local guides for hours and information. There is no restrictions at all to attending religious services in China.

Passport & Visa

Passport

A valid passport is required to visit China. If you do not have a passport and are thinking of traveling with Regent to China, you would do well to obtain a passport as soon as possible. You will need:

a. proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., a birth certificate, baptismal certificate, or naturalization papers) and identity (e.g., a driver's license or state-issued identification card for nondrivers),
b. two recent 2?x 2?color photographs,
c. a completed official passport form, and

To apply, go to the State Department Passport Agency, a federal or state courthouse, or certain U.S. post offices. Note that passport renewals may be done via mail.

If you are an American citizen, you can find more information on how to apply for a passport online at Passport Services and Information web site provided by US State Department.

Keep a record of your passport number and the date and place of issuance. If you lose your passport in China, immediately notify your Regent guide, the local police, and the nearest American embassy or consulate. After reporting the loss, you will be able to obtain a temporary passport to continue your trip. If you traveling with one of our Regent groups, in most cases you will be able to continue the trip without problem. But if you are traveling on your own, you may experience delay in your travel without legal paper with you.

Visa

You will need a visa to enter China.

You can obtain visa on your own, or Regent can arrange for your individual visa. You will need:

a. your current passport,
b. one passport-size photo in color,
c. a completed application form, and
d. an express mailing/processing fee of $80.

Regent can also arrange for you be part of a group visa if you are traveling with a Regent group, in which case you need to provide Regent with the following items as soon as possible but no later than 30 days before trip departure:

a. your current passport and
b. a processing fee of $40.
e. aware that China may change its entry requirements without notice. If there is a change, Regent will notify you as long as your travel arrangements have been made through Regent. Also, you may check this page for updated information.

Hong Kong Visa

U.S. citizens holding a valid passport and staying for three months or less in Hong Kong are automatically issued a visa upon arrival. No pre-trip visa arrangement is necessary if Hong Kong is the only city you are going to visit.

Carry Copies of Everything!

Before your departure, make two photocopies of the page of your passport that documents your personal identification and passport number. Leave one copy at home, so that a family member or friend could access it in the event that you lose your passport while out of the country. Take the other copy with you, keeping it in a safe place separate from your passport.

Before Departure

Home Security

Notify family members and/or neighbors as to how long you will be away from home. Place valuables in the bank. Suspend all deliveries, including your newspaper subscription. Have the post office hold your mail. Leave a house key with a neighbor and set up automatic timers to activate lights and play the TV or radio at set times. Turn the thermostat down to 55-63 degrees (if you generally keep it set at a higher temperature); turn the thermostat up to 76-78 degrees (if you live in a hot and humid climate). Disconnect electrical appliances and turn off the hot-water heater. Empty and defrost the refrigerator; keep the refrigerator door propped open in order to avoid mildew. Secure all window and door locks.

Arrange for the care of your house, lawn, garden, plants, and pets. Well-kept grounds give the impression that the house continues to be lived in. Arrange for the in-home care or boarding of your pets. Ask a family member, friend, or neighbor to make periodic checks of your home or consider employing a house-sitting service.

Leaving For the Airport

Always reconfirm your airline reservations before leaving home, preferably 72 hours in advance of your departure. When making or reconfirming any arrangements, be sure to obtain the name of the person with whom you have spoken as well as a confirmation number.

Arrive for your flight a little early. Airlines suggest that passengers on international flights arrive a minimum of two hours before take-off. Give yourself extra time to avoid getting frazzled should you be slowed down by heavy traffic or inclement weather on your way to the airport.

Leave an itinerary with hotel telephone and fax numbers as well as the  contact number  with someone. Let one or two people know where to reach you.

Keep An Open Mind

When you leave your home in North America, you are embarking on a journey that will take you to places that are very different from your usual way of life. Try to be flexible and enjoy the unexpected. Embrace new sights, sounds, people, and the culture around you. Sample the food, try to speak the language, ask questions, and smile; you will return home a more knowledgeable person with happy memories. Many travelers have told us that Chinese people are the friendliest people in the world--find out for yourself!

Money Exchange

Dollars & Yuan

The official name for the currency in China is Renminbi (abbreviated as RMB, the "people's money") with denominations of the yuan, jiao, and fen, which bear a relationship to each other somewhat like the U.S. dollar, dime, and penny. In southern part of China, coins are favored by locals especially when taking public bus, taxi, or as changes from store, whereas in northern part of China, people like paper money better. Because of the inflation in the last few years, paper money for jiao and fen worth very little now, and almost out of the market.

RMB is not traded on international markets and can be officially purchased or exchanged only in China. Foreign currencies and traveler's checks may be converted to RMB at hotels. The rate of currency exchange is the same everywhere in China. The Aug of 2008 rate of currency exchange was around 6.70 yuan = US$1. For example, if an item costs 10 yuan RMB, it will be equivalent to almost US$1.50; This is calculated by dividing 10 by 6.70. See conversion table. Most accurate exchange rate is available on the website of Bank of China: http://www.boc.cn/en/static/index.html

Your first opportunity to exchange your money for Chinese yuan will be at your first hotel. In the airport, usually the exchange rate or the service charge is not favorable to you. In the city, the exchange rate will be same in the hotel, in the bank or in souvenir stores.

It is wise to carry some U.S. cash in $1, $5, $10, and $20 denominations as this can be a plus when buying from street vendors and giving out as tips.
Most souvenir stores accept credit card payment.

Most stores at tourist stops accept U.S. dollars.

ATM Access

ATM machines are widely available in China set up by different banks, on the street, in hotels, shopping centers or by the door of banks. You have to bring with you the PIN number as most ATM machines request you inputting this security code. Usually 3% will be charged if you are to cash your credit card on ATM machine. ( It could be higher if you do it in the airport. In the city, the rate is the same.)

Traveler's Checks

It is not recommended that you carry traveler's checks. Only in super deluxe hotels and banks, they do exchange traveller's checks for you. In most local hotels they do not exchange traveller's checks. There is a service fee for changing traveller's checks whereas there is no service fee for changing cash. Vendors will not accept traveller's checks.

Credit Cards

Major credit cards are accepted at all hotels, tourist stores, restaurants, and factory outlets in China. Be sure to record your account numbers (and customer service telephone numbers) in case you lose your credit cards. Discover & American Express can be iffy, but visa/mastercard are accepted everywhere credit cards are taken.

Make major purchases by credit card. You will get a good exchange rate, the protection of the card's charge-back provisions, and often an extra guarantee on your purchase.

It is recommended that you take a credit card or two and some cash for purchases from street vendors for food or gifts/personal items from small vendors. You'll have no difficulty exchanging cash at the hotel, but if you can, bring new bills or bills in very good condition. They reject bills that are bent or old. It is also recommended you exchange money daily as you expect to need it. Use up your Chinese bills or use them up as tips, because your conversion rate at the airport is very low.

Before you take a credit card, contact the card issuer and inform them you will be using the card in China. Otherwise, you're likely to find purchases disallowed because of security protection. Different card issuers have different foreign conversion rate charges; some will not charge, others charge up to 3% on average. Even with the additional charge, because the conversion rate is better from credit cards, you more or less break even.

Medical & Health

All visitors entering China are required to complete a health declaration card that is distributed by the cabin crew during the flight to China. Officially, China does not issue entry visas to HIV carriers.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations/inoculations are not required for travel to China except for travelers arriving from or via an infected area. Travelers arriving from or via an infected area must hold a valid certificate of vaccination/inoculation. As health requirements change without notice, please check with your local public health department or the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta for current required or recommended vaccinations/inoculations.

If you plan to try the food sold by street vendors, we suggest that you consult your doctor about recommended inoculations.

The restaurants selected  for its tour members maintain high standards of food preparation and the quality of the food served should not cause any concern.

Personal Medical History

If you have any health problems, ask your doctor for a copy of your medical history should you need to consult a Chinese doctor. This information should include your name, address, insurance data, emergency contact, blood type, medical problems and prior hospitalizations, current medications (generic names) and dosages, drug allergies, and immunizations (with dates).

Caution: Chinese people do not have Rh-negative blood, and therefore their blood banks do not store it. Also, type O blood is rare. Thus, persons with these blood types should consult their physician for advice before departing for China.

Prescription Drugs

You may bring your prescription drugs to China. Pack them in your carry-on luggage. Be sure that the medication is clearly marked with a pharmacy label and doctor's instructions. Try to anticipate what you will need and bring an adequate supply for your entire tour. Since brand names in China are different from those used in North America, ask your doctor or pharmacist for the generic name for your prescription drug in case you need a refill while in China.

Medical Care

All hotels on  tour itineraries maintain a medical clinic staffed by a doctor during the day. There is a nominal charge for the doctor's services.

The most common maladies afflicting travelers in China are respiratory problems such as head colds, bronchial conditions, and sore throats. Diarrhea and constipation are also common. If you are prone to any of these problems, you should bring appropriate medications with you. However, if you forget to bring them with you, our  guides will be glad to provide you with Chinese herbal medicines for these common problems at no charge to tour group members.

Even though most Western medicines are available in China, we strongly suggest that you bring common nonprescription medicine with you--e.g., aspirin, cold relief products, anti-diarrheals, laxatives, etc.
If you have insurance coverage for medical expenses and require medicines or medical attention while abroad, keep all receipts since most insurance carriers honor claims for such expenses. Note, however, that Medicare does not cover health care costs outside the U.S.

Emergencies

Should you become ill and require hospitalization, medical attention is available for emergencies throughout China. Major hospitals have special wards reserved exclusively for foreigners. Both Western and Chinese medicines are available. Chinese physicians are well trained--many Chinese physicians attended U.S. medical schools and earned their internships at U.S. medical facilities--and their diagnostic techniques are sophisticated, time-honored, and judicious.

Dental Care

Get a dental check-up prior to your trip. No one wants to endure a toothache while on vacation (especially on an airplane where cabin pressure can cause severe pain). Take precautions by bringing dental necessities.

Wheelchair Availability

 Tours can arrange for wheelchairs at most of the hotels on tour itineraries without charge. If you do require the use of a wheelchair, please advise your China tour specialist of this need in advance of booking your tour.

Special Diets

Airlines can accommodate you with vegetarian meals.

In Chinese restaurants, if you are with a group, meals tend to be served family style. There will be a variety of dishes, and there will always be vegetable-only dishes. If you have any questions about the meals, you can ask your local guide for help.

Meals in China

All meals in China are included on all  group tours unless otherwise specified. All lunches are included in Tour programs. A typical breakfast is an American-style buffet of cereal (hot and cold), eggs, bacon, sausage, toast, fruit, and yogurt. Breakfast is available at the hotel and is served generally between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Chinese lunches are served at local restaurants en route during your daily activities.

Some suggestions:

• a. Do not skip meals. Sightseeing takes energy.
• b. Do not overindulge at meal times. You can sample new foods and the seemingly endless array of courses without eating
• large portions. You will feel better if you eat small portions throughout the day.
• c. If you get tired of Chinese food at a certain point, note that rice will be available at every meal.
• d. Eat fruits and vegetables whenever possible. This can help you avoid constipation. Breakfast everyday will provide you
• with an ample choice of fruits and juices.
• e. Drink plenty of fluids. Mild dehydration, resulting from excessive perspiration, can make you more susceptible to fatigue,
• even illness. Keep a bottle of drinking water with you and try to drink even when you are not thirsty. On sightseeing trips, bottled water can be purchased everywhere for about 25 cents per bottle. Alternatives to water include fruit juices and soft drinks. Remember that alcoholic beverages will cause further dehydration.

Drinking water

Do not drink tap water in China. If your hotel room is not furnished with suitable drinking water, simply dial the housekeeping department and the chambermaid will be glad to bring you a thermos of hot water or a carafe of cold drinking water free of charge. Chinese and Western mineral/spring water can be purchased in most hotels. Chinese beer is excellent and is available throughout China. Imported beer, wine, spirits, and Coca-Cola are available everywhere.

Smoking

For nonsmokers and even moderate smokers, an otherwise perfect tour can be spoiled if they are forced to inhale the smoke of other people抯 cigarettes on a motorcoach. Therefore, smoking is not allowed on  motorcoaches. There are opportunities to smoke during the frequent sightseeing and rest stops. Note also that Chinese regulations strictly prohibit smoking on all domestic air flights.

U.S. and China Customs Information

Upon Entering China

Each visitor to China is required to complete a customs declaration form and health declaration form; these forms are distributed by the cabin crew during the flight to China. The customs form must be filled out in duplicate and include a listing of items of value you are declaring--i.e., all currencies (including cash and traveler's checks), jewelry, watches, cassette players, radios, cameras, and calculators. Caution: When in doubt about an item, declare it!

If you are traveling with a group, your tour director will collect everyone's forms and present all forms to the customs officer.

The endorsed duplicate copy will be returned to you by your group tour director. You are required to keep the duplicate copy of the customs declaration form until you exit China; at that time, you must again present the form with your declaration of all valuable items.

In theory, all personal possessions declared upon entry into China must be taken out of the country at the end of your trip. Therefore, if an item declared upon entry is lost while in China, check with your Chinese host immediately. Depending upon the value of the item, it may be necessary to file a report with the local police in order for you to clear China customs at the end of your trip. Currently, if you are traveling with a group on a group visa, you will not have to do any of the above.

However, this arrangement may change at any point should the Chinese government change its entry policy.

U.S. Customs

When leaving the U.S. with any foreign-made serialized items--e.g., cameras, watches, etc. that appear to be new--such items must be accompanied by the sales slip or be registered with the U.S. Customs Service in order to prevent having to pay duty upon re-entering the U.S. Thus, to avoid any confusion, you should declare any such items at your nearest U.S. Customs Service office or at the U.S. Customs Service office at the international airport from which you depart.

If you carry more than US$10,000 (all currencies, traveler's checks, money orders, or other bearer monetary instruments) into or out of the U.S., you are required by U.S. law to file a report with the U.S. Customs Service.

When re-entering the U.S., the duty-free exemption for each person over 18 years of age is 200 cigarettes, 100 cigars, or 1.36 kilograms (3 pounds) of tobacco. In addition, the duty-free exemption for each person over 21 years of age is one liter (33.8 fluid ounces) of wine, beer, or distilled spirits.

When re-entering the U.S., you must declare, at the price paid, everything acquired abroad, including gifts given to you and articles purchased even if they have been worn or used. You should be able to produce receipts for all goods acquired abroad and calculate their total U.S. dollar value.

Warning: If you fail to declare (or if you understate) the value of your purchases, penalties can be severe and articles subject to seizure. Again, if in doubt, declare it!

While abroad, gift packages may be sent to friends and relatives at addresses different from your own, and these may be received free of duty if the value does not exceed US$50.

Note that many travelers are confused by the term "duty-free" as it relates to shops. Articles bought in "duty-free" shops in foreign countries are subject to U.S. customs duty and restrictions, but may be included in your personal exemption. Also, articles purchased in U.S. "duty-free" shops are subject to U.S. customs duty if they are brought back into the U.S. "Duty-free" really means that the shop has not been required to pay a duty on the items it sells.

Caution: Be prepared for challenges to the originality of artwork and the authenticity of antiques. An original artwork is duty-free, but mass-produced artwork carries a 25% duty. In order to qualify as original, the piece should be the only one of its kind and should be signed. (You can argue past the absence of a signature. If the piece is indeed original, hold your ground and make your case.)

Certified antiques are duty-free, but duty on non-antique porcelain, bronzes, and jewelry can range from 25% to 110%, depending on the item. The U.S. Customs Service requires a signed receipt from the dealer certifying that the item is more than 100 years old.

Note also that you may get a good price for a supposedly brand-name product because it is counterfeit and thus subject to seizure.

Caution: Do not bring meats, fruits, or vegetables into the U.S. Also, many items made from the bone and/or skin of endangered wildlife may not be imported into the country. Among these items are all products made from sea turtles, all ivory, furs from spotted cats, furs from marine mammals, feathers and feather products from wild birds, and most coral.

The pamphlet, Know Before You Go, gives pertinent information about U.S. Customs Service requirements and how they apply to articles acquired abroad. Obtain a copy from your nearest U.S. Customs Service office or from the U.S. Customs Service, P.O. Box 7407, Washington, D.C. 20044.

Martial Arts or Wushu, have been created and developed for self-defense and survival throughout human history. Correct Chinese Wushu training improves physical ability, health and willpower. It gives an individual an excellent method of exercise, a personal art form, a competitive sport and a basis for self-defense and sparring. Total martial training includes Ti (kicking), Da (punching), Shuai (throwing), Na (controlling), Gi (hitting), Ci (thrusting), etc. Related to each style are basic forms, or sequences, which may involve defense strategies, offense, retreat, mobility and immobility, speed and slowness, hard or soft postures,emptiness and fullness, with or without weapons. Wushu (literally, "martial methods") was historically termed "Wu-Yi" or martial arts. Fairly recently, the Chinese government changed the term to "Guoshu," or "national method". The term most popular in North America is "Kung-fu" which actually means one's ability in any skill, not necessarily martial.

Since the Zhou Dynasty, which ended in 771 BC, practical Wushu training has included basic skills such as strength training, fencing, staff sparring, spear training, etc. and it has also included training by using forms, such as the Shaolin Eight Methods, with the basic form supplemented by weapons forms, two-man forms, staff forms, etc.

The emphasis and importance of this type of martial training has played an important role throughout Chinese history During the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), which was one of the most powerful periods of Chinese history, warriors were actually chosen through martial competition and officers were promoted through this same sort of competition Since at that time communications were well established with many neighboring countries; Chinese Wushu had a pronounced impact on these countries and was called "Tang Su Do," or the "Way of the Chinese Hand" During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD), various forms of Wushu were well established in Korea, Japan, Tibet and many other countries What is called "Karate" is actually a descendent of Southern Chinese boxing forms and similarly, Judo can trace its origins to the importation of Chinese wrestling and Qinna, the precursor of Jiu-jitsu.

FORMS AND CLASSIFICATIONS OF WUSHU

1. Internal or External styles.
2. Southern or Northern styles.
3. As "Shaolin" or "Wudang" or "Ermei."

Roughly speaking, the difference between internal and external styles can refer to whether the strength is from the torso and legs (internal) or whether the strength is derived from training of the more specific arm and leg muscles (external). The word "internal" often connotes a more pliable martial style. Southern or Northern styles naturally refer to the general origin, but finer distinctions are often made about style differences of these two schools.

Shaolin boxing styles are generally said to be derived from the form of fighting practiced at the Shaolin Temple in Henan province. Similarly, Wudang is the name of a mountain used by Taoists in Hubei province and Ermei is a significant religious mountain in Sichuan province.

WEAPONS COMPETITION

Although there are more than 400 different types of ancient Chinese weapons and many usages of each, there are only about 18 standard weapons that you will usually see in Wushu competition. Sometimes a practitioner will combine two weapons in a form or do a variation involving two of the same weapons. Some instances of forms often seen in competition are: Broadsword, straight sword, spear, staff, Kwan-sword, double-swords, double straight-swords, double hook-swords, double-ended spear, nine-section whip, rope-dart, chained hammer, 3-sectional staff, 2-sectional staff, daggers, double short-staff, etc.

QIGONG (CHI-KUNG)

The category of Qigong involves demonstrations of internal power and strength. Practitioners of this esoteric art demonstrate the powers that internal strength training and breath-training have given them.

In recent years, many of China's excellent Wushu teams have demonstrated their skills in foreign countries. These displays of finely-honed martial ability have caused a stir wherever they go. Although these teams have exhibited the performance side of Wushu, many of the other beneficial aspects of Wushu have not been equally extolled. In fact, some detractors of Wushu relegate it to at best a form of gymnastic exhibition, having little to do with actual martial arts. Such thinkers usually assign the term "Kung-Fu" to what they believe contains true, functional martial arts, i.e., if a form is pretty, it is probably not useful.

In many North American martial-arts competitions it becomes fairly obvious that the distinction between "Wushu" and "Kung-Fu" is even less clear than in China. In reality, "Kung-Fu" is "Wushu," the major difference being that Wushu training has not only traditional fighting sets, but also difficult tumbling and rigorous basic training of skills. Wushu has some extremely competent fighters among its ranks, as well as those who are more interested in health or performance. Whatever it is called, modern martial arts are evolving and improving...the traditional basics give us a firm base upon which to build.