How to Plan a Solo Trip to China

Ranked among Asia's most fascinating travel hubs, China is on everyone's bucket list for a compelling variety of reasons. Solo travellers who intend to visit the Chinese Republic, however, must make preparations if they wish to navigate this dynamic cultural epicentre without hassle or incident. From timing the trip to using public restrooms, here are some useful guidelines for planning a memorable Chinese getaway on one's own.

Deciding on Timing and Duration

China, being one of the largest countries in Asia and the world, can present several challenges, particularly regarding timing. Due to its seasonal characteristics, solo travellers are advised to plan their trips during either the spring season or autumn. The peak tourist seasons in China typically occur between April and May, as well as from September to October. The summer months can be uncomfortably hot, especially for those unaccustomed to high humidity, while the winters bring harsh conditions with plummeting temperatures and heavy snowfall. The duration of the trip should be determined after selecting the specific cities, states, and highlights one intends to visit.

Finding Accommodation

Solo visitors travelling to China during spring or autumn must reserve hotels and resorts well in advance as these two periods are the busiest times of the year for hospitality hubs. Depending on the number of cities that one hopes to explore, it is prudent to choose at least one accommodation provider in each location as travelling between Chinese cities is time-consuming. Whether one selects the Somerset Taihu New City CBD Wuxi or any of the other apartments in Wuxi or elsewhere in China, it is crucial to determine the exact location of the property. Venues close to subway and train stations will prove highly advantageous for solo travellers.

Explore Transport Options

One of the reasons why China is ideal for a solo trip is due to the railway networks in China that make travelling around the country both efficient and affordable. When in China, it is best to hop on the subway for quick transfers and this is particularly true for Shanghai and Beijing where train fares also happen to be inexpensive. Taxis are another option that solo female travellers, for example, may want to choose when travelling short distances as the fares are not as costly as they are elsewhere in Asia. The only drawback in using taxis is that most drivers are not fluent in English.

Make a Daily Itinerary

Solo travellers should also understand that China is not a destination that is easy to navigate without preparation. That is why it is essential to create a rough daily itinerary for every day of the holiday. Listing out the attractions and landmarks that one hopes to visit as well as scheduling meal breaks and naps can help solo tourists stay on top of their game plan. Don't pack each day with too many activities and excursions as this can be a recipe for disaster and exhaustion. It may also be prudent to join an organised tour when it comes to exploring iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Forbidden City or the Great Wall. While nearly every attraction in China can be explored on one's own, a guided tour is likely to be more informative and safe for solo visitors.

Other Tips

In China, public restrooms commonly feature squat toilets, making it important for visitors to familiarise themselves with their usage. Additionally, it is advisable to carry your own supply of toilet paper, as it may not be readily available in these facilities. Practising vigilance with personal belongings is crucial, especially in popular travel hubs, to avoid falling victim to potential scams targeting unsuspecting tourists. Furthermore, learning a few basic Mandarin phrases can go a long way in facilitating communication, as English may not be widely spoken, particularly in more remote areas.