Daniel Adams - Info on China Please

[LovelyLesley1]

Hi Daniel,
Olly has told me about currency for China but I will also take my credit and debit cards too. So hope I can use them there. But...
Will I be able to use my mobile for texting whilst I am in China (or will I have to have it surgically removed before I go)? If so, what adaptor will I need for the charger? I see you said hairdryers are not needed.
I am looking forward to this now.
Hope you have had a good trip to China.
Be happy,
Lesley

[Daniel]

Lesley,
credit cards/debit cards are accepted at larger stores and shopping opportunities and ATMs are available in Beijing and Xian. Do be aware that in Chengde foreign ATM cards are often not accepted in banks and bank machines. Naturally you will want cash for smaller items and vendors. My suggestion is..........

1) change 50 pounds into Yuan to take with you

2) take about 150 pounds in sterling

3) take your cards

All our hotels change sterling. In China hotel exchange rates are governed by the Bank of China and regulated so unlike europe whether you change at a bank or hotel the rate is the same. Also do not change too much currency in the UK as the rate given in china is 10.5 as opposed to 9.6 in the UK so just enough to have a little for the first day. Banks in the UK only give the 100 Yuan note and you will always need smaller 5,10 and 20 notes in china so have a little cash to exchange on arrival at the hotel so you are equipped with these All hotel rooms have safes.
Sockets are a mixture but mainly Australian or european variety. In Chengde only Australian.
As for your phone you can use.if you are on a pay as you go contract you may have to register with your service provider. As you will be on The Great Wall in the afternoon what better way to wake someone at home up and REALLY show off!! Above all enjoy. I returned on sunday evening from a very successful tour.

Daniel

[LovelyLesley1]

Hi Daniel,
Thanks for the info. It was all really helpful - I especially liked the bit about the photo by mobile from the Great Wall. Will give it a go.
I am really getting excited now - roll on 15th March!
Be happy,
Best wishes,
Lesley
PS glad you had a good trip.