Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does my Tour include air transportation?

The tours listed under 'Tours - Air Included' include flights to and from China; however the tours listed as 'Tours - Land Tour Only' only include inter-province travel within China. You will need to provide your own transportation to your starting city. Contact our helpful staff for recommendations at support@bookchina.com.

2. How do I get instructions of when I arrive my airport destination?

All pertinent information, including directions and/or pick up locations and times will be stated in your Tour Itinerary.

3. When will you offer Beijing Olympic packages?

We look forward to selling these exciting packages. Several options will soon be available so you can pick the package that best serves your needs.

4. How do I pay for my tour?

You must provide a credit card and the card is charged immediately in full. You are emailed confirmation of your reservation and itinerary.

5. Does the price of every Tour include taxes and fees?

Yes, each and every tour includes the Airport Taxes, Fees for entry into the mini-tours, etc.  Remember, we are not hiding any fees.

6. How do I get a Visa?

You can apply for a visa either through the Los Angeles or San Francisco consolates, please allow for 2 week to get your visa. The fee is approximately $75.00.

7. Do I need a Visa for each BookChina tour?

No. All your visa requirements for travel within China are prepared through the tour.

8. What is the best time to visit China?

Deciding when to visit China depends on which places you wish to visit, what type of weather you enjoy, and how much a bargain you want. Remember that China is a big country with many different climates and types of terrain. Think of it in terms of Australia, which China resembles in size and shape. Travelling along the Golden Route (Beijing Xi'an, Shanghai, and Guilin) is like visiting Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast and Canberra all in one trip. May, September, and October are the peak tourist months at Chinas most popular destinations, when the weather is most comfortable. The shoulder season runs from late March through April and from June through August. The off-season arrives in late November, and continues through the winter. Bearing in mind that we are in the southern hemisphere the season they have is actually opposite of what we have here.

9. What to pack?

Pack lightly, and bring casual clothes. A sturdy, comfortable pair of walking shoes is an absolute. A sports coat and tie for man, and one or two dresses or pantsuits for women, will suit the most formal occasions to be encountered in China. Travelers should bring shirts, sweaters, and jackets that can be worn in layers to suit a range of climates or you can just buy it when you are traveling in China. Remember, dress for comfort, not for style. Checklist:

  • Electrical converter and adapter plugs. China's electrical system operates at 220 volts.
  • Hair drier, razor, alarm clock.
  • Common toiletries, cold and digestive medications, lip balm, sanitary napkins and any over-the-counter medicines you generally use.
  • Chewing gum, mints, or throat lozenges to keep your mouth moist.
  • Reading materials, including a guidebook on the places you will see.
  • Suntan lotion and sun glasses. Raincoat if you go in July and August.
  • Camera, flash & a lot of films. Negative film is available in most places, positive film(Slide) may be difficult to find. And be sure to pack extra batteries. (Please note that photography restriction may be imposed for some places of interest.
  • A note book to keep track of all the exciting things happening on the trip.

10. What currency do I bring?

In China, the local currency is 'Yuan'. Currently 1 Australian dollar equals to 5 Yuan. We recommend that you bring your credit card, American Express, Travelers Cheque and small amounts of cash. Most major hotels and shops in major cities accept major credit cards. You may also cash your Travelers Cheque. You can get a bit higher exchange rate if you cash the Travelers cheque. Personal cheques are not acceptable.

In Hong Kong, the local currency is HK Dollar. 1 Australian dollar equals to 4.75 HK dollars. Please be noted the exchange rate fluctuates and information provided here is for your reference only.

11. Do you carry hotels in all major China cities?

Yes, we carry hotels in every major city.

12. Are the hotels any good?

All our hotels are at rated at least four-star. You will find clean, comfortable accomodations designed to satisfy any International traveller.