Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1Be prepared for limited English and the prevalence of digital payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay. Download these apps and ensure you have a way to top them up before your trip. This will make your transactions much smoother and easier. (1:58)
- Tip 2Research local customs and norms before your trip. Understanding the local culture will help you navigate daily life more effectively and avoid any unexpected surprises. (2:10)
- Tip 3Download Alipay or WeChat Pay before your trip to China. These apps are essential for seamless and convenient transactions in most places, including street markets and public transport. (3:33)
- Tip 4Be aware that smoking is common in public areas in China. If you're a non-smoker, this might be something to be prepared for. It may be different from the standards you are used to in your home country. (14:49)
- Tip 5Do your research before your trip to China. Plan your itinerary, download useful apps like translation software, and obtain a local SIM card for easy communication and navigation. This will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience. (24:07)
Sun Kissed Bucket List shares their honest experience of China after five trips, revealing a reality far different from Western media portrayals. From affordable transportation and convenient e-payments to vibrant community life in parks, they highlight surprising discoveries and cultural insights. While some challenges existed, their overall experience was overwhelmingly positive, leaving them eager to return.
More about the current video:( 92 / 92 )
This video offers Sun Kissed Bucket List’s honest review of China after five visits, challenging preconceived notions often portrayed in Western media. The travelers detail their experiences, focusing on unique aspects and personal insights. Initially apprehensive, their anxieties were quickly replaced by positive surprises. The affordability of China stood out, with public transport costing mere pence for multiple stops and meals in restaurants and street food being incredibly cheap. Even Shanghai Disney was surprisingly affordable compared to other Disney parks globally. This affordability extended to accommodation, significantly cheaper than comparable standards in Japan or South Korea.
The ease and speed of digital payments via Alipay or WeChat were game-changers, simplifying transactions and offering a level of buyer and seller protection. While initially challenging, this system proved remarkably efficient once mastered. The travelers also highlight the unexpected convenience and extensive reach of China's high-speed rail network, contrasting it with the UK's expensive and often unreliable system.
Beyond the practical aspects, Sun Kissed Bucket List shares deeply personal and emotional moments. Their favorite experiences included a boat trip in Suzhou, navigating picturesque canals and interacting with locals. They vividly describe the enchanting nighttime ambiance on the Bund in Shanghai, emphasizing the well-managed crowds and spacious walkways. The lively community spirit in Chinese parks, filled with dancing, games, and music, deeply resonated with them, a stark contrast to the perceived lack of community in the UK. This sense of community was observed across all age groups, creating a heartwarming and uplifting atmosphere.
However, the vlog also acknowledges less positive aspects. The prevalence of smoking in public spaces, particularly on trains and in hotels, was a significant point of contrast with the UK's stricter regulations. The travelers also mention the need to adapt to the absence of strict queuing systems, requiring a more assertive approach to navigate crowded situations. Despite these minor drawbacks, their overall experience was overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing China's safety and security, particularly for women traveling alone. They felt safe even walking at night in well-lit areas. The travelers concluded by highly recommending a visit to China, urging viewers to experience it firsthand and to do thorough research before traveling.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: Did your experience in China match your expectations from what you'd heard in the media?
- A: I was a little anxious before going, due to media portrayals, but my expectations were surpassed. I'd encourage anyone to see it for themselves.
- Q: What did you make of the e-payment systems in China?
- A: Oh, so easy to use! It was instant, a simple scan and ping. It's great protection for buyers and sellers.
- Q: How affordable was China?
- A: Very! Public transport, food, and even Shanghai Disney were incredibly affordable compared to the UK or other countries like Japan or South Korea.
- Q: What was your favorite memory?
- A: That's hard! Top three: the boat trip in Suzhou, Shanghai Disney, and the Bund at night. It was spectacular!
- Q: Was there anything you disliked about China?
- A: The amount of smoking in public spaces was the most challenging thing to get used to. Also, the lack of strict queuing systems took some adjustment.
- Q: Did you feel safe in China?
- A: Yes, I felt very safe, even walking at night. I felt more secure in China than I do in the UK sometimes.
- Q: Where do you want to visit next in China?
- A: Beijing! I think it offers a great contrast to the cities I've already seen.
- Q: What advice would you give to someone apprehensive about visiting China?
- A: Go see it with your own eyes! Do your research beforehand, and be prepared for a different experience than what you might see in Western media.
