Survival Guides

Step-by-step walkthroughs, verified by travelers on the ground.

How to Pay in China: Alipay & WeChat Pay with a Foreign Card (2026)

Step-by-step setup of Alipay and WeChat Pay with your passport and a Visa/Mastercard, plus limits, common errors, and backup options.

Last updated: 2026-08-09

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Staying Connected in China: eSIM, Pocket WiFi, VPN & Local SIM (2026)

Compare eSIM, pocket WiFi rental, VPNs, and local SIM cards — and how to realistically access Google, Instagram, and WhatsApp in China.

Last updated: 2026-08-09

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Survival Chinese: 20 Phrases That Will Save Your Trip

Essential Mandarin phrases with pinyin and characters — taxis, ordering food (no spice, no peanuts), directions, and emergencies. Printable table included.

Last updated: 2026-08-09

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Booking High-Speed Trains in China Without a Chinese ID (2026)

How foreigners buy China rail tickets on 12306 or Trip.com with a passport, collect tickets, pass the gates, plus refund rules and airport transfers.

Last updated: 2026-08-09

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