Language
The national language is Putonghua (the common speech) or Mandarin, which is one of the five working languages at the United Nations. Most of the 55 minority nationalities have their own languages. Cantonese is one of the local dialects of southern China. As a written language, Chinese has been used for 6,000 years.

Currency
China’s currency is the Renminbi (RMB¥), usually called the Yuan. The official exchange rate between U.S. Dollar and RMB Yuan currently is about 1: 8.3 (1.00 Dollar = 8.30 Yuan).

1 Yuan (known as Kuai, in some parts of China) = 10 Jiao
1 Jiao (known as Mao in some parts if China) = 10 Fen
Chinese currency is issued in the following denominations:

Yuan: 1, 2, 5, 10, 50, 100
Jiao: 1, 2, 5
Fen: 1, 2, 5

The Bank of China has exchange desks for foreign currency and travelers checks with convenient hours at all hotels, airports and other shopping areas. Many hotels and state-owned stops now accept major credit cards such as Master Card, Visa Card, American Express, JCB and Diners Card. Travelers should be prepared to pay in Yuan when shopping in smaller shops, restaurants, and in smaller hotels.

Visa Requirement
According to the Law of the People's Republic of China concerning the Administration of Foreigners Entering and Leaving the Country, all foreign tourists are required to apply visas to enter China, which can be done directly at the China Embassy. For Singapore passport holders, visa is not required if your stay is less than 15 days as a tourist. However, visa is necessary for all travelers to Tibet and it can only be acquired with the consent of the Tourism Administration of the Tibet Autonomous Region or any one of its foreign representative offices. Passport is required for visa application and it must have at least 6 months validity from the day of departure.

Time Difference
There is no time difference between Singapore and China

Electricity
In China, the electricity used is 220 volts. It is advisable to bring along an adapter plug as different hotels require different plug prongs.

Telephone services
There is GSM network coverage in China, therefore mobile phones can work when roaming with a dual band or tri band handset. IDD service is also available at all hotels and post offices. China country code is 86 and outgoing international code is 00.

Climate
China has a continental and seasonal climate.

Most parts of China: Temperate zone

Southern part: Tropical or subtropical zone (No winter all year round e.g. Hainan Island)

Northern part: Frigid Zone (No summer all year round e.g. Harbin)

Season and Clothing
Spring (Mar-May: 10-22°C) Jackets, sports coats, woolen jackets, long sleeve shirts, travel shoes

Summer (Jun-Aug: >22°C) Light, causal short sleeve shirts, sandals, caps, umbrella, rain wear

Autumn (Sep-Nov: 10-22°C) Jackets, sports coats, light woolen sweaters, rain wear, travel shoes

Winter (Dec-Feb: <22°C) Overcoat, cotton clothes, lined coats, cap, gloves, cotton-padded shoes.

Water and hygiene
In China, tap water is NOT safe to drink. All water consumed must be boiled or filtered unless it is bottled mineral water. Tourists are recommended to drink bottled water when they travel in China. No vaccinations are required for travel to China but it is advisable to check with your doctor for current information and take the necessary precautionary measures before you travel.

Travel insurance
Prior to departure, it is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses in case of injury or illness, loss of personal belongings, flight delays etc.

Tipping
It is customary to tip the China Local Guide and Driver in recognition and appreciation of their services.

A guideline for tipping is as follows:
China Local Guide: S$2.00 per person per day (inclusive of free day)

China Driver: S$2.00 per person per day (inclusive of free day)

Porter: S$1.00 per luggage every time you check in/out hotel

Shopping
In general, the shops in China are open daily from 09.00 to 20.00. Some stores remain open on Chinese festivals. Large departmental stores can close as late as 21.00-22.00.

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