Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1For anyone visiting China, download Alipay and WeChat Pay; these apps are essential for almost all transactions. Apple Maps is a must-have as Google Maps doesn't work in China. Consider getting a local SIM card or eSIM before arrival for easy communication and navigation. (12:26)
- Tip 2Don't be afraid to try the street food in China! It's incredibly delicious and flavorful, unlike the typical Chinese takeout you might find elsewhere. It's full of amazing flavors you won't find anywhere else. (12:54)
- Tip 3Google Maps doesn't work in China, so make sure you download Apple Maps before you go. It will be your lifeline for getting around. (12:39)
On Tour With Dridgers shares their honest first impressions of China, challenging Western media narratives. They detail surprisingly safe and affordable experiences, from navigating the city at dawn to enjoying delicious, cheap street food. The couple highlights the cashless society, efficient public transport, and the kindness of locals despite the language barrier. Their journey is a testament to the unexpected delights of exploring China beyond the headlines.
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On Tour With Dridgers, a British travel couple, shares their authentic experience in Beijing, China, defying common Western perceptions. Their initial journey involved a two-hour walk at 5 a.m., which surprisingly felt safe and peaceful. Contrary to expectations, they found China incredibly affordable, with cheap food, transport, and accommodation. The couple raves about the delicious and diverse street food, including pastries and duck pancake rolls, and the incredibly affordable Mishu ice cream. They also highlight the efficient and clean public transportation system, especially the metro. Despite the language barrier, they encountered exceptional kindness and patience from locals, who went out of their way to help them. The couple emphasizes the cashless society, facilitated by Alipay and WeChat Pay, and the widespread use of electric vehicles, contributing to a peaceful environment. They address common misconceptions about safety and rudeness, attributing negative perceptions to the language barrier and Western media bias. On Tour With Dridgers plans to return to China to explore beyond Beijing and visit Chengdu to see pandas. They also offer practical travel tips, including using Alipay and WeChat Pay, Apple Maps, and trying the local street food.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: How much did the Chinese government pay you for this video?
- A: We weren't paid anything! This is our honest experience.
- Q: Where are you from in the UK?
- A: We're both from Portsmouth, Hampshire, on the south coast of England.
- Q: Did you really walk for 1.5 hours at 3 a.m. to get to your destination?
- A: Yes! We took a bus that got us close, but Beijing is huge, and we still had a long walk.
- Q: What's your advice for people traveling to China?
- A: Get Alipay and WeChat Pay, download Apple Maps, and definitely try the street food!
