Travel tips
When riding alone on muddy roads, anticipate deep mud pits and slippery edges. Balance carefully and avoid sudden movements to prevent sliding.
Everything changed in a split second 🇨🇳 |S8, EP152Itchy Boots · ← Latest videos
China firsthand travel tips
China firsthand travel tips and China traveler questions answered: explore real journeys, destination experiences and practical advice from travelers.
China traveler questions answered
Everything changed in a split second 🇨🇳 |S8, EP152Itchy Boots · Travel tips
In rural China, not all vendors accept mobile payment. Ask locals for help; they may pay for you and refuse repayment, offering a memorable free meal.
Everything changed in a split second 🇨🇳 |S8, EP152Itchy Boots · Travel tips
On wet asphalt, tires with poor grip are dangerous. Reduce speed, avoid sudden braking, and be extra cautious in mountain curves.
Everything changed in a split second 🇨🇳 |S8, EP152Itchy Boots · Travel tips
When encountering a sudden river crossing on a road, assess depth and current. If possible, wait and observe before proceeding, as unseen bottom can hide hazards.
Everything changed in a split second 🇨🇳 |S8, EP152Itchy Boots · Questions & answers
What was the white van following you?
A white van stayed behind me for a long time, matching my speed whenever I sped up or slowed down. I managed to lose it by suddenly turning off the main road and it didn't follow.
I’m being followed by an unmarked white van in China🇨🇳 |S8, EP155Itchy Boots · Questions & answers
Why did you stop in Jalaid?
Harbin was too far to reach in one day from Arxan. Jalaid was the halfway point, and after riding through rain and being chased by a white van, I was happy to get there and rest.
I’m being followed by an unmarked white van in China🇨🇳 |S8, EP155Itchy Boots · Questions & answers
How was the gym in the small town?
It looked half abandoned from the outside and doubled as a pool hall, but inside the locals were friendly. They let me in for free and even gave me water, and I had a really good workout.
I’m being followed by an unmarked white van in China🇨🇳 |S8, EP155Itchy Boots · Questions & answers
What did you do about the ferry ticket?
My friend Xiao Yue helped me with that. We couldn't book online using my passport copy, so the manager secured one ticket for me and another for my bike.
I’m being followed by an unmarked white van in China🇨🇳 |S8, EP155Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Before leaving Arxan, fill up your tank even if you think you have enough. There would be no petrol stations along the 350-kilometer route, so starting with a full tank saved her from running dry in the middle of nowhere.
I’m being followed by an unmarked white van in China🇨🇳 |S8, EP155Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Seek out quiet backroads in northern China. The route from Arxan toward Jalaid was nearly empty, with wildflowers and rolling hills, and riding there felt more like Canada or Alaska than the busy China many people expect.
I’m being followed by an unmarked white van in China🇨🇳 |S8, EP155Itchy Boots · Travel tips
When you see a rain front on the horizon, don't delay. She stopped to pull on her rain jacket before the downpour and then kept moving to stay ahead of the storm, because once it catches you, it can chase you for hours.
I’m being followed by an unmarked white van in China🇨🇳 |S8, EP155Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Keep your GPS tablet in a waterproof case during wet rides. Moisture made her tablet glitch with strange colors and stripes, a problem she'd also experienced before in Angola.
I’m being followed by an unmarked white van in China🇨🇳 |S8, EP155Itchy Boots · Travel tips
If you feel like you're being followed by a vehicle, don't panic. Try slowing down, letting other cars pass, and then taking a sudden turn off the main road. That's how she lost the white van that had stayed behind her.
I’m being followed by an unmarked white van in China🇨🇳 |S8, EP155Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Make sure you have Alipay set up when traveling in China. Many places, including small-town gyms, don't accept foreign card payments, and without Alipay you might not be able to pay for everyday services.
I’m being followed by an unmarked white van in China🇨🇳 |S8, EP155Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Don't judge a Chinese small-town gym by its entrance. The fitness club looked half abandoned and doubled as a pool hall, but inside she got a great workout, was let in for free, and was even given water.
I’m being followed by an unmarked white van in China🇨🇳 |S8, EP155Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Visit Saint Sophia Cathedral early or on a Saturday to enjoy the lively square and the atmospheric live performance inside. The interior is more like a museum than an active church, so go with that expectation.
Why do Chinese People Speak RUSSIAN in this City? 🇨🇳 ❄️ (Harbin, China)20Camels · Travel tips
Say yes to spontaneous invitations from locals. A random encounter with a Russian-speaking Harbin resident led to a traditional tea ceremony, obscure local snacks, and an authentic dinner that no tour could have arranged.
Why do Chinese People Speak RUSSIAN in this City? 🇨🇳 ❄️ (Harbin, China)20Camels · Travel tips
At Siberian Tiger Park, take the slightly more expensive bus with bigger windows for the best views. Buy meat pieces for 20 yuan each to feed tigers through small holes, but be aware the bus will smell like meat.
Why do Chinese People Speak RUSSIAN in this City? 🇨🇳 ❄️ (Harbin, China)20Camels · Travel tips
In Russian products stores, don't miss the honey cookies called prianiki, giant Russian bread, and matryoshka-shaped vodka bottles. Staff may follow you around, but that shouldn't stop you from sampling local treats.
Why do Chinese People Speak RUSSIAN in this City? 🇨🇳 ❄️ (Harbin, China)20Camels · Travel tips
Try Harbin's famous cathedral-shaped ice cream even in winter. The cold weather means it won't melt quickly, making it a fun local tradition and a tasty way to warm up your photo album.
Why do Chinese People Speak RUSSIAN in this City? 🇨🇳 ❄️ (Harbin, China)20Camels · Travel tips
Visit the Russian bar for free vodka offered to foreigners. You might receive an entire bottle and free Coca-Cola instead of just one shot; you can leave the bottle for the bar and still enjoy the experience.
Why do Chinese People Speak RUSSIAN in this City? 🇨🇳 ❄️ (Harbin, China)20Camels · Travel tips
Stay at family-owned guesthouses with local character instead of generic hotels to support local businesses.
Americans in China | Exploring HIDDEN GEMS of Gansu with rednoteKatherine's Journey to the East 阳离子东游记 · Travel tips
Use RedNote to find hidden gems, local foods, and honest travel reviews from real explorers.
Americans in China | Exploring HIDDEN GEMS of Gansu with rednoteKatherine's Journey to the East 阳离子东游记 · Travel tips
Watch for marmots in Gannan grasslands; they are curious but don't feed them processed snacks.
Americans in China | Exploring HIDDEN GEMS of Gansu with rednoteKatherine's Journey to the East 阳离子东游记 · Travel tips
Explore the sacred meditation cave near Dasong Lake with a monk guide; expect tight squeezes.
Americans in China | Exploring HIDDEN GEMS of Gansu with rednoteKatherine's Journey to the East 阳离子东游记 · Travel tips
Inside the cave, look for a natural rock formation resembling a Buddha, the main reason for the deep descent.
Americans in China | Exploring HIDDEN GEMS of Gansu with rednoteKatherine's Journey to the East 阳离子东游记 · Travel tips
Hunt for caterpillar fungus in the grass, a traditional medicine believed to boost the immune system.
Americans in China | Exploring HIDDEN GEMS of Gansu with rednoteKatherine's Journey to the East 阳离子东游记 · Travel tips
Visit the nine-story Buddhist pavilion for Milarepa, but note that filming is not allowed inside.
Americans in China | Exploring HIDDEN GEMS of Gansu with rednoteKatherine's Journey to the East 阳离子东游记 · Travel tips
Use RedNote's 'be Kong' and 'be Lei' search words to filter honest reviews and narrow down travel options.
Americans in China | Exploring HIDDEN GEMS of Gansu with rednoteKatherine's Journey to the East 阳离子东游记 · Travel tips
At Kinbo, expect aggressive touting from the metro station to the market. Vendors approach constantly, and foreigners are seen as main customers. Stay calm, browse, and don't feel pressured to buy.
Inside the WORLD'S LARGEST Fake Sneaker Market (China) 🇨🇳Homeless Pelican · Travel tips
The quality of replicas varies a lot. Check details, stitching, and how the shoe holds its shape. Cheap copies look flimsy, while better ones feel almost identical to the original and are worth the higher price.
Inside the WORLD'S LARGEST Fake Sneaker Market (China) 🇨🇳Homeless Pelican · Travel tips
Haggling is part of the experience. A vendor may start at 180 yuan, and a buyer might counter with 100, then 80, and settle around 85. Be friendly, smile, and walk away if the price doesn't drop.
Inside the WORLD'S LARGEST Fake Sneaker Market (China) 🇨🇳Homeless Pelican · Travel tips
Some of the best products are in secret or hidden stores. Vendors may close doors, lead you to another shop, or ask you not to film. Follow only if comfortable; these off-the-beaten-path spots often have better quality goods.
Inside the WORLD'S LARGEST Fake Sneaker Market (China) 🇨🇳Homeless Pelican · Travel tips
At this market, 380 yuan is a very popular price for top-tier replicas. The best products are noticeably heavier, hold their shape, and feel closer to the original. Compare several stores before choosing.
Inside the WORLD'S LARGEST Fake Sneaker Market (China) 🇨🇳Homeless Pelican · Travel tips
The market gets busier in the late afternoon, around 6pm. If you want to browse more calmly, arrive earlier in the day. Afternoon crowds make the experience more intense, but also more exciting.
Inside the WORLD'S LARGEST Fake Sneaker Market (China) 🇨🇳Homeless Pelican · Travel tips
In Guangzhou you can walk straight into a private hospital without an appointment. We were seen within an hour. Be ready to use WeChat translation because not all doctors speak English, and bring money for tests paid upfront.
I Went to a Hospital in China Because the UK Failed Me… 🇨🇳Reanne & Ben #OTWD · Travel tips
Men having fertility tests in China may need to collect and deliver their own specimen sample to the lab. Ask exactly where the lab is before walking around the hospital, and check the room for sample pots first.
I Went to a Hospital in China Because the UK Failed Me… 🇨🇳Reanne & Ben #OTWD · Travel tips
Male fertility results in China can be ready in about 30 minutes. Female testing is more involved and may require returning on specific days of your cycle, so plan for multiple hospital visits.
I Went to a Hospital in China Because the UK Failed Me… 🇨🇳Reanne & Ben #OTWD · Travel tips
Doctors at Chinese private hospitals often communicate through WeChat. You can message them directly to arrange follow-up appointments and receive results, which makes the whole process much easier for foreigners.
I Went to a Hospital in China Because the UK Failed Me… 🇨🇳Reanne & Ben #OTWD · Travel tips
If you receive difficult medical news through a translation app, ask the doctor to write down the details and take time before making decisions. Don't agree to surgery or pay upfront until you've spoken with family.
I Went to a Hospital in China Because the UK Failed Me… 🇨🇳Reanne & Ben #OTWD · Travel tips
Grab a map before wandering Zhujiajiao's canals and side streets. The maze is beautiful but it is easy to get lost, so a local guide can unlock hidden houses and private gardens you would never find alone.
We Didn't Know China Looked Like This 🇨🇳Adam and Linds · Travel tips
Don't skip the old private houses and gardens. A rich businessman's home hides jade-colored rock, marble panels carved like mountain landscapes, and double-sided embroidery, details that make the water town feel like a living museum.
We Didn't Know China Looked Like This 🇨🇳Adam and Linds · Travel tips
Try local street snacks while exploring. The dou jiao bao is a popular bean-paste bun with fillings like mango, chocolate, red bean, or pork with salted egg yolk. Expect a dry, paste-like texture and deep local flavors.
We Didn't Know China Looked Like This 🇨🇳Adam and Linds · Travel tips
If you see lotus seed pods on offer, take them. A kind auntie gave the kids fresh pods, and the seeds taste a bit like peanut with a bitter green part. In summer, locals say they help calm the body.
We Didn't Know China Looked Like This 🇨🇳Adam and Linds · Travel tips
Finish your visit with a traditional wooden boat ride through the canals. It is wobbly and can feel a little seasick-inducing, but it gives a gentle, beautiful view of the thousand-year-old water town.
We Didn't Know China Looked Like This 🇨🇳Adam and Linds · Travel tips
Slow down to 30-40 km/h at corners when riding a sidecar, especially until you get used to the handling.
Like this from now: Itchy Boots side-car? 🇨🇳 |S8, EP151Itchy Boots · Travel tips
When turning right in a sidecar, the sidecar can lift up. More weight helps keep it down.
Like this from now: Itchy Boots side-car? 🇨🇳 |S8, EP151Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Mountain roads in China offer empty, scenic routes through small villages. Perfect for quiet riding.
Like this from now: Itchy Boots side-car? 🇨🇳 |S8, EP151Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Sidecar travel is very slow compared to a motorcycle; plan for much shorter daily distances.
Like this from now: Itchy Boots side-car? 🇨🇳 |S8, EP151Itchy Boots · Travel tips
The market is built on quality tiers. Lower floors are tourist traps with obvious fakes, while upper floors carry products closer to authentic. Don't buy on impulse at the entrance; explore higher levels and compare quality before spending.
Undercover In China’s LARGEST Fake MarketElliot Page · Travel tips
After police raids, sellers keep their best products hidden. If you want top-tier replicas, ask for the highest quality or ask if they have a showroom or back room. That's where the closest-to-authentic items are kept.
Undercover In China’s LARGEST Fake MarketElliot Page · Travel tips
For sneakers, don't settle for the display pairs. Ask the shop owner to bring out the one-to-one or highest quality version. Many stores have better stock in the back, and the price can remain surprisingly low.
Undercover In China’s LARGEST Fake MarketElliot Page · Travel tips
Watches vary wildly by tier. Low-quality fakes have simple clasps and off-tone metals, while medium and high-quality versions use better movements and sapphire details. For top super clones with tourbillons, expect prices in the thousands of RMB.
Undercover In China’s LARGEST Fake MarketElliot Page · Travel tips
The secret wholesale market sells almost exclusively in bulk. If you buy ten pairs, prices drop dramatically; at one hundred pairs, each Travis Scott-style shoe can cost around 195 RMB. It's an eye-opening look at how counterfeits reach global resellers.
Undercover In China’s LARGEST Fake MarketElliot Page · Travel tips
If you're new to Chongqing and especially if you're traveling with kids, hire a local guide with a private car. This city is built on multiple layers, and getting lost is easy. A driver helps you cover the biggest sights without wrestling a stroller through endless stairs.
Our First Time In Chongqing China (We Weren't Expecting This)Shawn and Amanda King · Travel tips
Start your morning the Chongqing way: look for a humble bao bun shop and order a bowl of noodles. The city is the capital of Sichuan pepper, so expect a numbing spice. Keep milk nearby to cool the burn.
Our First Time In Chongqing China (We Weren't Expecting This)Shawn and Amanda King · Travel tips
Explore the 22nd floor building with the sky bridge. From one street it looks like the second floor, from another it's 22 stories up. The bridge exists because Chongqing's mountain terrain makes roads converge in surprising ways.
Our First Time In Chongqing China (We Weren't Expecting This)Shawn and Amanda King · Travel tips
Don't miss Liziba Station. It's the famous spot where the monorail runs directly through an apartment building. Head to the viewing platform under the tracks for the classic photograph of the train emerging from the structure.
Our First Time In Chongqing China (We Weren't Expecting This)Shawn and Amanda King · Travel tips
Put Goose Neck Park on your Chongqing list. The grounds are beautifully landscaped, the cliffside viewpoints are spectacular, and it's surprisingly walkable. Families with strollers can enjoy the paths, and photographers will fill their memory cards in minutes.
Our First Time In Chongqing China (We Weren't Expecting This)Shawn and Amanda King · Travel tips
Testbed2 is a creative district built from an old coin factory. Wander the shops, try local snacks, and enjoy the views from its many vantage points. It's also a good place to check drone prices before paying Western retail.
Our First Time In Chongqing China (We Weren't Expecting This)Shawn and Amanda King · Travel tips
End your day at the evening lookout over the old city. The cyberpunk nightscape is unforgettable, but understand there are around 18,000 stairs. Skip this one if you have a stroller or a baby; choose a carrier and take your time.
Our First Time In Chongqing China (We Weren't Expecting This)Shawn and Amanda King · Travel tips
Visit People's Park on a weekend to see Shanghai's marriage market in action. Expect parents to assess you on age, height, income, education, hukou, and property. It's not romantic; it's a practical cultural experience unlike anything in the West.
INSIDE SHANGHAI MARRIAGE MARKET 🇨🇳 CHINA VLOGRide with Gabi · Travel tips
Coffee lovers should explore Shanghai's cafe scene. The city has more Starbucks than anywhere on Earth and over 10,000 cafes. Try a premium Starbucks with special coffee-alcohol drinks, and remember that Shanghai locals may choose coffee over tea.
INSIDE SHANGHAI MARRIAGE MARKET 🇨🇳 CHINA VLOGRide with Gabi · Travel tips
If you're considering driving in Shanghai, learn the plate system first. Electric cars get free green plates, while combustion cars need blue plates costing about 90,000 to 100,000 RMB. Yellow motorbike plates can cost half a million RMB.
INSIDE SHANGHAI MARRIAGE MARKET 🇨🇳 CHINA VLOGRide with Gabi · Travel tips
Be prepared for extreme queues at popular Shanghai food spots. If a line is too long, look for resellers nearby or pick an alternative, because famous dumplings and cookies can mean an hour or more of waiting.
INSIDE SHANGHAI MARRIAGE MARKET 🇨🇳 CHINA VLOGRide with Gabi · Travel tips
At night, walk West Nanjing Road toward the Bund. The contrast between historic yellow buildings and the futuristic Pudong skyline is spectacular. This is the perfect final stop to feel Shanghai's energy.
INSIDE SHANGHAI MARRIAGE MARKET 🇨🇳 CHINA VLOGRide with Gabi · Travel tips
Take the Maglev train from Shanghai to the airport just for the experience. It's the fastest train in the world, reaching 430-450 km/h during rush hour. Visit the free museum at the terminal to understand the magnetic technology.
INSIDE SHANGHAI MARRIAGE MARKET 🇨🇳 CHINA VLOGRide with Gabi · Travel tips
On a long daily ride, check your motorcycle oil level especially with a vintage bike. Itchy Boots removes the side panel and tops up a little oil, reminding riders that old engines naturally consume oil.
The Chinese village that looks nothing like CHINA (and how to get there) |S8, EP154Itchy Boots · Travel tips
At a remote Chinese lunch stop, payment may rely on WeChat only. Alipay did not work, so having a local companion or a friend to transfer money can save you when ordering food.
The Chinese village that looks nothing like CHINA (and how to get there) |S8, EP154Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Near the Mongolian border, expect police and military checkpoints. Keep your guide's phone number handy, carry your passport, and be willing to remove your helmet for routine identity checks.
The Chinese village that looks nothing like CHINA (and how to get there) |S8, EP154Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Visit Arxan's 1937 railway station, claimed to be the smallest active station in China. Its architecture reflects Japanese and Soviet history and makes a quick, fascinating stop before rain.
The Chinese village that looks nothing like CHINA (and how to get there) |S8, EP154Itchy Boots · Travel tips
In Arxan's wooden gift shop, you can see enormous mammoth tusks imported from Siberia, jade floors, and gemstone jewellery. Some pieces are priced around two million yuan, so just enjoy the spectacle.
The Chinese village that looks nothing like CHINA (and how to get there) |S8, EP154Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Don't worry about VPN or SIM cards. Use Alipay to buy an eSIM and everything works—WhatsApp, Google, Instagram. It's straightforward and stress-free.
🇨🇳 3 NIGHTS IN BEIJING | FROM THE GREAT WALL TO XI’AN | Travel VlogJake Sohanta · Travel tips
The Great Wall has many entry points. The Giang Jang entrance didn't have the best viewpoints, and drones are not allowed. Research alternatives for better views.
🇨🇳 3 NIGHTS IN BEIJING | FROM THE GREAT WALL TO XI’AN | Travel VlogJake Sohanta · Travel tips
Chinese locals are surprisingly patient with language barriers. At Subway, it took 5 minutes to order salt and pepper, but they helped without frustration—unlike in the UK.
🇨🇳 3 NIGHTS IN BEIJING | FROM THE GREAT WALL TO XI’AN | Travel VlogJake Sohanta · Travel tips
At the flea market, haggle hard. A souvenir quoted at 1,600 yuan (238 USD) was brought down to 300 yuan (35 USD). Negotiate with confidence and walk away if needed.
🇨🇳 3 NIGHTS IN BEIJING | FROM THE GREAT WALL TO XI’AN | Travel VlogJake Sohanta · Travel tips
When staying at a large hotel in China, try asking the front desk for a direct booking price. The employee canceled the online reservation and rebooked directly, saving money even at an almost empty property.
I Survived 24 Hours in a Chinese Ghost City... 🇨🇳ExpatJoel · Travel tips
Exploring abandoned hotels is eerie, especially after sunset. Bring a flashlight and stay aware of your surroundings, because public areas may be unlit, humid, and full of mold. Stick to safe paths.
I Survived 24 Hours in a Chinese Ghost City... 🇨🇳ExpatJoel · Travel tips
If locals invite you to see their home, accept politely but respect their boundaries. One family showed Joel their entire property but asked not to be filmed, and the experience was still meaningful.
I Survived 24 Hours in a Chinese Ghost City... 🇨🇳ExpatJoel · Travel tips
To meet locals in a quiet Chinese town, visit the night market. It was the liveliest place around and the easiest way to chat, eat local sour soup, and get recommendations from residents.
I Survived 24 Hours in a Chinese Ghost City... 🇨🇳ExpatJoel · Travel tips
Try sour-based soups when eating at a Chinese night market. They are uncommon in Western cuisine but delicious, and pairing them with creamy tofu and sausage makes a comforting local meal.
I Survived 24 Hours in a Chinese Ghost City... 🇨🇳ExpatJoel · Travel tips
Spotting groundskeepers in a supposedly empty neighborhood is a good sign that people live there. Respect gates and security, and always ask permission rather than entering private communities uninvited.
I Survived 24 Hours in a Chinese Ghost City... 🇨🇳ExpatJoel · Travel tips
When a planned activity fails, take a break. A painful massage at a local body clinic unexpectedly led to a conversation and an invitation to visit actual homes, solving the challenge by chance.
I Survived 24 Hours in a Chinese Ghost City... 🇨🇳ExpatJoel · Travel tips
Entering the mine requires proper preparation. Wear a helmet, boots, and a mask, and always watch where you step because the ground is slippery and uneven. Following your guide closely is the only safe way to navigate the underground workings.
🇨🇳 I Went 530 Meters Underground for Pink Calcite Mine in China!Frank Zhu · Travel tips
Riding the mining cart is a thrilling but scary descent. The track angles down steeply and becomes very slippery, so hold on tight to the cart and brace yourself as it carries you hundreds of meters into the mountain.
🇨🇳 I Went 530 Meters Underground for Pink Calcite Mine in China!Frank Zhu · Travel tips
At deeper levels, study the tunnel walls for mineral clues. Shiny pyrite, calcite, and heavy-metal stains indicate you are near promising pockets. A guide can show you which veins are worth investigating.
🇨🇳 I Went 530 Meters Underground for Pink Calcite Mine in China!Frank Zhu · Travel tips
Don't be afraid to crawl through tight crevices inside the mine. The guide showed a small opening that led into a massive room of pink calcite. Sometimes the most spectacular discoveries require squeezing through uncomfortable spaces.
🇨🇳 I Went 530 Meters Underground for Pink Calcite Mine in China!Frank Zhu · Travel tips
When exploring mineral pockets, look for cubes of fluorite along the walls. According to the miners, spotting these formations means you are on the right path and close to more valuable calcite pockets.
🇨🇳 I Went 530 Meters Underground for Pink Calcite Mine in China!Frank Zhu · Travel tips
Take time to explore the surface area around the mine after exiting. Watch how workers dump tailings into the valley, and enjoy the surrounding bamboo-covered mountains. It gives you a fuller sense of the mining landscape.
🇨🇳 I Went 530 Meters Underground for Pink Calcite Mine in China!Frank Zhu · Travel tips
Arrange a VIP airport transfer through your hotel; being picked up in a Mercedes E-Class makes arrival smooth and sets a luxury tone for the trip.
I Took My Mum Travelling : Beijing Edition 🇨🇳Kieran Brown · Travel tips
Peking duck is carved into 108 pieces by the chef at traditional restaurants in Beijing. Try it at a heritage dining hall and follow the locals' folding technique for the perfect bite.
I Took My Mum Travelling : Beijing Edition 🇨🇳Kieran Brown · Travel tips
Don't skip Peking Opera in Qianmen Cultural Street. It is a lively, funny acrobatic performance, not just formal singing, and front-row tickets make it unforgettable.
I Took My Mum Travelling : Beijing Edition 🇨🇳Kieran Brown · Travel tips
Enjoy the hotel balcony in the morning even when it's misty. Grab a coffee, take in the quiet city atmosphere and appreciate the service; small slow moments make luxury travel special.
I Took My Mum Travelling : Beijing Edition 🇨🇳Kieran Brown · Travel tips
Visit the Summer Palace early to avoid crowds and stroll along the world's longest art gallery corridor, over 790 meters, before sampling fresh plum lychee juice.
I Took My Mum Travelling : Beijing Edition 🇨🇳Kieran Brown · Travel tips
Explore 798 Art District for Beijing's creative side: old factories turned into galleries, street art and cafes. It is especially interesting on rainy mornings with fewer crowds.
I Took My Mum Travelling : Beijing Edition 🇨🇳Kieran Brown · Travel tips
Take a boat and gondola to the Great Wall at a water-meets-wall section outside Beijing. You avoid the hardest hiking while still getting breathtaking views.
I Took My Mum Travelling : Beijing Edition 🇨🇳Kieran Brown · Questions & answers
What was the natural history museum like?
It was massive, five stories high, and the dinosaur skeletons gave me jelly legs. I wasn't expecting to love it so much, but it was actually one of the best things we've done in Shanghai.
BEST Thing to do in Shanghai, China? 🇨🇳OurTwoStepStart · Questions & answers
What did the cold noodles taste like?
They looked a bit like leftover microwave noodles and were served cold, but the sauce at the bottom made them interesting. I didn't eat them, but the creamy drink was lovely.
BEST Thing to do in Shanghai, China? 🇨🇳OurTwoStepStart · Questions & answers
Where did you stay and was it good value?
We stayed at the Campanile Hotel, about a ten-minute walk from the Natural History Museum. It was around £40 a night for our own room and bathroom, which felt like a real bargain for central Shanghai.
BEST Thing to do in Shanghai, China? 🇨🇳OurTwoStepStart · Questions & answers
How was McDonald's in China?
The Angus beef burger was genuinely good, and the McFlurry came with little ice packs to keep it cool. The chips would have been amazing warm, but they were cold by the time we ate them.
BEST Thing to do in Shanghai, China? 🇨🇳OurTwoStepStart · Travel tips
When you spot a local shop selling cold noodles and creamy drinks in Shanghai, order a few dishes and share them. A blind taste test makes breakfast fun and helps you discover new flavours beyond the usual tourist spots.
BEST Thing to do in Shanghai, China? 🇨🇳OurTwoStepStart · Travel tips
The Shanghai Natural History Museum is a must-see for dinosaur lovers. The five-story exhibition hall is overwhelming in the best way, so give yourself at least two hours to explore, take plenty of photos, and enjoy the funny museum souvenirs.
BEST Thing to do in Shanghai, China? 🇨🇳OurTwoStepStart · Travel tips
There is a cafe inside the museum, so you don't have to leave for lunch. Grab a coffee or pizza, rest your legs, and recharge before tackling the second half of the exhibits.
BEST Thing to do in Shanghai, China? 🇨🇳OurTwoStepStart · Travel tips
Campanile Hotel is around £40 a night for a private room, including your own bathroom, and it's a short walk from the Natural History Museum. For budget travellers in central Shanghai, this is excellent value.
BEST Thing to do in Shanghai, China? 🇨🇳OurTwoStepStart · Travel tips
If a planned day falls apart, embrace a relaxed evening instead. Ordering McDonald's delivery in China is a fun way to try local fast-food variations like Angus burgers and McFlurries while staying cosy in your hotel.
BEST Thing to do in Shanghai, China? 🇨🇳OurTwoStepStart · Travel tips
Use a navigation app like Amap in China since Google Maps doesn't work. It has good English translations for finding metro entrances, walking routes, and meeting points, so you won't get lost when exploring Shanghai.
We Tried a Shanghai Dinner Tour… and It Was IncredibleAdam and Linds · Travel tips
Riding the Shanghai Metro with kids is easy once you know the rules: children under 130 cm ride free, and others need a transit card. Ticket machines can be confusing, so just buy a reloadable card instead of fighting with them.
We Tried a Shanghai Dinner Tour… and It Was IncredibleAdam and Linds · Travel tips
When eating soup dumplings, use chopsticks to lift gently, bite a small opening to release the steam, then sip the hot soup before dipping in vinegar. This little technique makes each dumpling safer and even more delicious.
We Tried a Shanghai Dinner Tour… and It Was IncredibleAdam and Linds · Travel tips
Scallion oil noodles are a Shanghai classic: fry onions slowly in oil for 15 minutes, then season with soy sauce and sugar. The dried shrimp adds a subtle seafood flavor, making this simple dish unexpectedly memorable.
We Tried a Shanghai Dinner Tour… and It Was IncredibleAdam and Linds · Travel tips
Some Chinese restaurants only serve tea or have very limited drinks, so it is normal to bring your own beer or juice. Stop at a convenience store like FamilyMart before dinner to grab drinks for the whole family.
We Tried a Shanghai Dinner Tour… and It Was IncredibleAdam and Linds · Travel tips
At formal Chinese dinners, round tables with a lazy Susan are common. Don't spin it while others are reaching for food; wait until the table slows down. This small courtesy keeps the meal smooth and respectful.
We Tried a Shanghai Dinner Tour… and It Was IncredibleAdam and Linds · Travel tips
Shanghai cools down a lot after sunset, so a night food tour feels refreshing. Leave room for dessert and a final brewery stop, because many tours end somewhere unexpected and the evening vibe is part of the experience.
We Tried a Shanghai Dinner Tour… and It Was IncredibleAdam and Linds · Questions & answers
Why did you visit Unit 731?
I felt I had to see it. It's a crucial part of Harbin's identity and of China-Japan relations, and I had never learned anything about it. I like showing fun things, but some stories are too important to ignore.
Unit 731: the horrific secret hidden in Harbin, China 🇨🇳 |S8, EP156Itchy Boots · Questions & answers
What surprised you most about Harbin?
The city looked more like Moscow than anywhere I'd seen in China. I learned that Russian workers arrived in the 1890s to extend the Trans-Siberian Railway, and eventually people from 53 nationalities and 45 languages lived there.
Unit 731: the horrific secret hidden in Harbin, China 🇨🇳 |S8, EP156Itchy Boots · Questions & answers
Why weren't you riding your motorcycle in the city?
Harbin has a new rule that motorcycles are not allowed in the city center. Electric scooters are everywhere, but I had to take a taxi to get to Unit 731.
Unit 731: the horrific secret hidden in Harbin, China 🇨🇳 |S8, EP156Itchy Boots · Questions & answers
What was the most disturbing thing you learned at the museum?
The scale of the horror. Prisoners were called marutas, or logs, and the experiments included freezing people, disease infection, and mustard gas. Hundreds of thousands of Chinese civilians died from the biological attacks.
Unit 731: the horrific secret hidden in Harbin, China 🇨🇳 |S8, EP156Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Use the Chinese navigation app Amap in cities because it shows how many traffic lights remain before you reach your destination. It might seem like extra information, but it helps you prepare for urban traffic.
Unit 731: the horrific secret hidden in Harbin, China 🇨🇳 |S8, EP156Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Harbin looks very different from other Chinese cities because of its Russian and European heritage. In the 1890s, Russian workers arrived to extend the Trans-Siberian Railway, creating a unique architectural mix that still defines the city center today.
Unit 731: the horrific secret hidden in Harbin, China 🇨🇳 |S8, EP156Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Visit Saint Sophia Russian Orthodox Church, built in 1907 by Russian soldiers, and walk around Sophia Square. You can even see locals dressed as elf princesses taking photos, adding a playful contrast to the historic setting.
Unit 731: the horrific secret hidden in Harbin, China 🇨🇳 |S8, EP156Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Motorcycles are not allowed in Harbin's city center because of a new local rule, so use taxis or public transport instead. Even with electric scooters everywhere, your motorbike cannot enter the core urban area.
Unit 731: the horrific secret hidden in Harbin, China 🇨🇳 |S8, EP156Itchy Boots · Travel tips
Visiting the Unit 731 museum is emotionally intense, but it is essential for understanding Harbin's dark wartime past and the broader history between China and Japan. Approach it with respect and prepare yourself before entering.
Unit 731: the horrific secret hidden in Harbin, China 🇨🇳 |S8, EP156Itchy Boots · Travel tips
After exploring the evidence, take time to reflect on how history is interpreted. Even with museum displays and survivor interviews, people may debate the past, so keep an open and critical mind.
Unit 731: the horrific secret hidden in Harbin, China 🇨🇳 |S8, EP156Itchy Boots · Questions & answers
Why did you need special shoes before climbing the waterfall?
The rocks are really slippery, so I had to change into special anti-slip shoes. It didn't stop my long pants from getting soaked, but it made the climb possible and so much fun.
Living My Best Life Deep in China’s Hidden JUNGLE 🇨🇳Uri Máté · Questions & answers
What did you find at the top of the mountain?
A full theme park! There were restaurants, a Ferris wheel, Disney characters and even a water slide. In China, mountain summits are not just viewpoints—they're entertainment zones.
Living My Best Life Deep in China’s Hidden JUNGLE 🇨🇳Uri Máté · Questions & answers
What was the best way to get down the mountain?
I took a water slide. I wore a hazmat-looking suit and backpack cover, but I still got soaked. It was fast, dizzying and the most fun way I've ever descended a mountain.
Living My Best Life Deep in China’s Hidden JUNGLE 🇨🇳Uri Máté · Questions & answers
What was the countryside meal like?
The food was delicious, especially with coconut milk and small watermelons. A random dog even kept asking for food and ate everything I gave him. Countryside food really is the best.
Living My Best Life Deep in China’s Hidden JUNGLE 🇨🇳Uri Máté · Questions & answers
What surprised you about the gas station?
Gas was incredibly cheap compared to Ireland. 115 litres cost 1,000 yuan, about half the price, and the tank was only two thirds full.
Living My Best Life Deep in China’s Hidden JUNGLE 🇨🇳Uri Máté · Travel tips
When exploring rural Chinese villages, check out local cafes and quirky decorations—you'll find unexpected themes like fake hot air balloons and hay figures. These villages are full of surreal details; just wander and enjoy.
Living My Best Life Deep in China’s Hidden JUNGLE 🇨🇳Uri Máté · Travel tips
For a rainforest-like mountain experience in Hubei, expect bamboo, artificial waterfalls and koi-filled lakes. Mosquitoes are the trade-off, so bring repellent and wear sensible clothes to stay comfortable while exploring.
Living My Best Life Deep in China’s Hidden JUNGLE 🇨🇳Uri Máté · Travel tips
Climbing the waterfall requires changing into special anti-slip shoes, but even with them your pants may get soaked. Wear quick-drying shorts instead of long pants and embrace getting wet for a thrilling adventure.
Living My Best Life Deep in China’s Hidden JUNGLE 🇨🇳Uri Máté · Travel tips
At the top of the mountain there's a full theme park with restaurants and a Ferris wheel. In China mountain summits can be as lively as town centers, so plan time to explore beyond the views.
Living My Best Life Deep in China’s Hidden JUNGLE 🇨🇳Uri Máté · Travel tips
The water slide is an exhilarating, fast way to get down the mountain. Despite wearing a full protective suit, you will get wet, so expect a drenched ride and keep valuables protected.
Living My Best Life Deep in China’s Hidden JUNGLE 🇨🇳Uri Máté · Travel tips
Countryside restaurants may close in light rain and often write menus on blackboards. Follow the locals, order seasonal dishes and don't miss the small sweet watermelons—they're a delightful rural specialty.
Living My Best Life Deep in China’s Hidden JUNGLE 🇨🇳Uri Máté · Questions & answers
What were the pork bao buns like?
We loved them so much that we went back three times. You get about eight to ten buns for 18 yuan, and they were easily one of our favorite cheap snacks in Chongqing.
Chongqing China Is Stunning | You Need To Visit Right NowShawn and Amanda King · Questions & answers
Is the bridge in Chongqing scary to cross?
It was a little scary for me because the ground gives underfoot and you can feel the train passing underneath. Still, the view from the middle made it worth it.
Chongqing China Is Stunning | You Need To Visit Right NowShawn and Amanda King · Questions & answers
What surprised you most about Chongqing?
Probably seeing dozens of people doing dressed-up photo shoots with photographers in the central square. It seemed like a huge local thing and the outfits were really cool.
Chongqing China Is Stunning | You Need To Visit Right NowShawn and Amanda King · Questions & answers
Is Chongqing a good city to visit with a toddler?
Yes. Diamond Park has wide ramps and lots of green space, and the mall had a play area where our toddler rode a little car and burned off energy for cheap.
Chongqing China Is Stunning | You Need To Visit Right NowShawn and Amanda King · Travel tips
If you're craving Luckin Coffee in Chongqing, don't expect it to open before 9:30 or 10. The mall next door may also be closed, so plan a backup spot or wait nearby before your morning walk.
Chongqing China Is Stunning | You Need To Visit Right NowShawn and Amanda King · Travel tips
Hongya Cave is a must-visit old folk area with shopping, food and traditional stilted buildings. See it during the day for architecture, then return after dark when it lights up for a different view.
Chongqing China Is Stunning | You Need To Visit Right NowShawn and Amanda King · Travel tips
Crossing Chongqing's dual-layer bridges is an experience: trains run underneath while cars and pedestrians use the top. The bridge gives slightly underfoot, which can feel strange, so be prepared if you're not a fan.
Chongqing China Is Stunning | You Need To Visit Right NowShawn and Amanda King · Travel tips
Diamond Park offers a huge green riverside space with ramps for strollers and wheelchairs. It's ideal for letting toddlers run free in Chongqing, with flowers, shade and beautiful views of the river and city.
Chongqing China Is Stunning | You Need To Visit Right NowShawn and Amanda King · Travel tips
Mall food courts are a reliable lunch option in China. Try duck rice bowls and fried pork bites; tell vendors you want no spice if you're sensitive, because even 'a little spice' can be surprisingly hot.
Chongqing China Is Stunning | You Need To Visit Right NowShawn and Amanda King · Travel tips
Hunt for local bao buns near your hotel, not tourist spots. This family went back three times for pork bao buns; they cost about 18 yuan for a generous portion and make a cheap, satisfying snack.
Chongqing China Is Stunning | You Need To Visit Right NowShawn and Amanda King ·