Here it is! We have always dreamed of visiting this beautiful country and now is the time to step out of our comfort zone, make the jump and head on over to China! We have a jam-packed 14 day itinerary to carry out and it's safe to say there are highs, lows and plenty of in-betweens! We are flying Air China from London Gatwick to Shanghai Pudong so will give you a full low-down what we think of the airline (especially the vegan meal they provide). Also, we give tips on how to get through customs and how we navigated the 240 hour Visa-free transit system. Enjoy!
Jess and Jay begin their China trip from London to Shanghai, sharing travel tips, flight experiences, and arrival insights, culminating in a ride on the Maglev train.
Travel Guides & Tips in this video
Jess and Jay's China adventure begins with an exciting journey from London to Shanghai, detailing their experience with Air China and the 240-hour visa-free transit. They share practical packing tips, a memorable vegan picnic on the train, and a humorous detour finding their airport hotel. The vlog offers insights into the Air China flight experience, from check-in to onboard amenities and meals, and their arrival in Shanghai, emphasizing the ease of using Alipay and navigating airport procedures. The journey culminates with a thrilling ride on the world's fastest Maglev train, setting the stage for their exploration of Shanghai.
First Time in China: London to Shanghai Visa-Free Transit Adventure
Here it is! We have always dreamed of visiting this beautiful country and now is the time to step out of our comfort zone, make the jump and head on over to China! We have a jam-packed 14 day itinerary to carry out and it's safe to say there are highs, lows and plenty of in-betweens! We are flying...
China Travel Vlog: London to Shanghai Visa-Free Transit & Maglev Train
Embark on an unforgettable journey as Jess & Jay take their first leap into the vibrant heart of China! From London to Shanghai, this couple's adventure is packed with incredible sights, thrilling experiences, and heartwarming moments. Discover the magic of a 240-hour visa-free transit and get insider tips on navigating customs. Join them as they explore this captivating land, sharing their genuine reactions and unforgettable memories.
Attractions in this video: Shanghai Disneyland, The Bund
More about the current video:(Published on 2025-10-27)
Jess and Jay embark on their long-anticipated journey to China, starting with a flight from London Gatwick to Shanghai Pudong. The vlog captures the excitement and logistical planning involved in their 240-hour visa-free transit, offering viewers a glimpse into the process of navigating international travel. From the initial departure, marked by a full day of work before heading to the airport, to the overnight stay at a Premier Inn near Gatwick, the narrative builds anticipation for their adventure.
The couple shares practical tips on packing, highlighting their minimalist approach with hand luggage for a two-week trip. They detail their train journey to the airport, featuring a delightful vegan picnic from a Sheffield bakery, Lovely Rutters, which they highly recommend for its delicious offerings. This segment showcases their commitment to veganism and their enjoyment of local food experiences.
Upon reaching Gatwick, they navigate the process of finding their hotel, humorously recounting a minor detour that led them to the wrong Premier Inn. This relatable travel mishap adds a touch of authenticity to their journey. The vlog then transitions to the morning of their flight, with a hearty Premier Inn breakfast before heading to the North Terminal.
Their experience with Air China is thoroughly documented, from the check-in process where they needed to present proof of onward travel to their impressions of the cabin. They discuss the airline's app, the comfort of the seats, the entertainment selection, and importantly, the quality of the vegan in-flight meals. The journey itself is portrayed as surprisingly smooth, with ample legroom, comfortable amenities, and a good selection of films, including a highly recommended emotional drama, "Nowhere Special."
Upon arrival in Shanghai, Jess and Jay share their initial impressions and practical advice for navigating the airport. They highlight the seamless functionality of Alipay, the importance of filling out the correct arrival card, and the necessity of having printed flight details. The vlog concludes with their exciting ride on the Maglev train, the fastest in the world, setting the stage for their exploration of Shanghai and the rest of their China adventure.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
Q: What was the vegan food like on Air China?
A: The vegan meals were delicious! We had a spicy rice with vegetables and a vegan fry-up for breakfast, both packed with flavor.
Q: Was the 240-hour visa-free transit in China complicated?
A: It requires careful planning, especially having proof of onward travel to a third country, but it's manageable with the right documentation.
Q: How was the experience of flying Air China for the first time?
A: We were impressed with the comfort, legroom, and entertainment selection. The vegan meals were a definite highlight.
Q: What's the fastest train in the world like?
A: The Maglev train is an incredible experience, whisking you from the airport to the city at astonishing speeds!
Q: Is it easy to use payment methods in Shanghai?
A: Yes, payment methods like Alipay work flawlessly, making transactions simple and quick.
Q: What's the most important tip for entering China?
A: Always have printed copies of your flight and onward travel details, as they are frequently requested by immigration.
