Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1In China, you can use your passport as your train ticket, eliminating the need for a physical ticket. This simplifies the travel process and makes it more convenient for tourists. (1:39)
- Tip 2Booking train tickets in China can be challenging when outside the country. Trip.com is recommended as a user-friendly English platform for booking tickets with credit cards. (6:06)
- Tip 3The first-class carriages on China's high-speed trains are equipped with convenient plug sockets, allowing passengers to charge laptops and other devices throughout the journey. (7:14)
- Tip 4On longer journeys, you can order food from various chains like McDonald's or Starbucks directly to your seat. A Chinese SIM card is required to access this service. (9:25)
- Tip 5While China's high-speed rail system is impressive, it's important to note that the cleanliness might not match the standards of Japan's Shinkansen. (11:07)
- Tip 6High-speed rail tickets in China are significantly cheaper than in Japan, even for first-class carriages, making it a more budget-friendly option. (12:05)
Embark on a thrilling high-speed rail adventure with Joel Friend from Xi'an to Chongqing! Witness the sheer scale of China's modern railway system, from massive airport-like stations to the luxurious comfort of first-class carriages. Savor delicious beef noodles, relax in massage chairs, and marvel at the breathtaking speed as you glide through stunning landscapes. Discover unexpected details, like using your passport as your train ticket and ordering food directly to your seat. This isn't just transportation; it's a unique cultural experience!
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This travelogue follows Joel Friend's high-speed rail journey from Xi'an to Chongqing, China. The video opens with Joel arriving at the massive Xi'an North Railway Station, comparing its scale to a large airport. The sheer size and impressive design of the station are highlighted, emphasizing the modern infrastructure of China's railway system.
The process of checking luggage and navigating the station is shown, adding a realistic touch to the experience. Joel and his travel companion then explore the station, discovering numerous massage chairs and noting the prevalence of boiling water taps, a common feature in China. A unique aspect of the journey is highlighted: the use of passports as train tickets, eliminating the need for physical tickets.
Before boarding, Joel and his companion grab lunch, opting for familiar and affordable beef noodle soup. This scene provides a glimpse into the everyday food culture in China. The use of chopsticks is also noted, with a preference expressed for wooden ones over plastic.
Boarding the train, the first-class carriage is showcased, emphasizing its spaciousness, comfort, and amenities. The availability of individual tables and charging ports is highlighted. A humorous moment arises when Joel's seat isn't next to his companion's, a common issue when booking tickets. The convenience of using Trip.com to book tickets is mentioned, offering a practical tip for viewers.
The train's departure is described, with a mention of the train's punctual, even early, departure. The smooth and fast journey is emphasized, contrasting the experience with air travel. The availability of plug sockets to charge electronics is also mentioned, a convenient feature for long journeys. Views from the train window showcase the vast landscapes and urban sprawl of China, offering a unique perspective on the country's geography.
The video includes a snack break, where Joel and his companion try a mystery snack from a provided box. They also discuss the option of ordering food directly to their seats via a Chinese SIM card, a service offered at some stations. A bathroom break showcases the surprisingly spacious and modern facilities.
A comparison is made between the Chinese and Japanese high-speed rail systems, noting the cleanliness of the Japanese system and the rapid development of China's high-speed rail network. The significantly lower cost of tickets in China is also highlighted.
The video concludes with the arrival in Chongqing, emphasizing the city's size and futuristic atmosphere. Joel encourages viewers to subscribe to his channel for more videos on China. The final scenes show the exit from the station, where passports are scanned again.
