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Maanshan Travel Checklist

Maanshan Travel Checklist

Maanshan Anhui, China Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Follow this timeline for your Ma'anshan trip.

Your Planning Timeline

Organize your preparations using this guide.

1

Months Before Departure

Passport Check

Six months validity beyond departure from China. Renew if needed.

Visa Application

Begin the visa process. Gather documents. Submit application to Embassy/Consulate.

Travel Insurance

Purchase World Nomads travel insurance. Covers medical emergencies, cancellations, luggage.

2

Month Before Departure

Bookings

Book international/domestic flights to Nanjing/Hefei and your Ma'anshan hotel.

VPN Setup

Install NordVPN on devices. Test for China access to foreign sites.

Bank Notification

Tell banks/card companies travel dates to prevent fraud alerts.

3

Week Before Departure

Confirm Reservations

Reconfirm all flight, hotel, and excursion bookings.

Packing List

Start packing. See "What to Pack". Include climate-appropriate clothes. Use Eagle Creek organizers.

Emergency List

Compile local police, ambulance, fire, and embassy contacts.

Health & Safety

Vaccinations

  • Consult your doctor regarding recommended vaccinations for China.
  • Review any required health documentation.
  • Pack a basic first-aid kit.
  • Familiarize yourself with local medical centers.

Connectivity & Cash

Prepare your digital and financial access.

Digital & Payment

  • Arrange local SIM card or eSIM.
  • Download WeChat, Alipay, Didi Chuxing, Baidu Maps/Amap, and Pleco.
  • Exchange a small amount of local currency (RMB) for initial expenses.
  • Ensure mobile payment apps link to an international credit card.

Documentation & Home Matters

Handle important papers and home arrangements.

Travel Bookings

  • International and domestic flights.
  • Accommodation in Ma'anshan.
  • High-speed rail tickets for day trips.
  • Arrange airport transfer services.

Document Copies

  • Make photocopies of passport, visa, and important documents.
  • Store digital copies in cloud storage and on your phone.
  • Store copies separately from originals.
  • Compile a list of emergency contacts.

Home Security

  • Arrange for mail, pet care, and house-sitting.
  • Inform a trusted person of your itinerary.
  • Ensure pets are cared for.
  • Turn off unnecessary appliances, lock doors and windows, secure home.

Visa Processing

Start your visa application early. The process takes time and requires detailed documentation.

Arrival Checklist

These steps welcome you smoothly to Ma'anshan.

First Steps

  • 1
    Immigration and Customs

    Clear immigration and customs at your port of entry (e.g., Nanjing Lukou International Airport).

  • 2
    Luggage Collection

    Collect your checked luggage.

  • 3
    Local SIM Card

    If not done, purchase and activate a local SIM card (passport for registration).

Settling In

  • Airport Transfer

    Proceed to your pre-arranged or chosen transfer option to Ma'anshan.

  • Orientation Strategies

    Once at your hotel, get oriented with your immediate surroundings.

  • Currency & Purchases

    If needed, withdraw cash from an ATM or exchange currency. Use mobile payment or cash.

Post-Arrival Logistics

Mobile Connectivity

Purchase and activate a local SIM card. Your passport is needed for registration.

Essential for navigation and communication.

Payment Setup

Withdraw cash or use mobile payment apps. WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used.

Link an international credit card to your chosen payment app.

Local Travel

Understand your transfer options from the airport to Ma'anshan. Consider pre-booking.

Baidu Maps or Amap for efficient public transport routes.

Local Navigation

Have your hotel address written in The chinese language for taxi drivers.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for departure for a smooth journey home.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Plan souvenir shopping for the duration of your journey.
  • If buying large items, inquire about shipping services.
  • Understand home country customs regulations regarding imported goods.
  • VAT refund procedures might apply to large department stores for foreign tourists.

Airport & Train Station

  • Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights.
  • Arrive 1.5-2 hours for domestic flights.
  • 30-60 minutes before high-speed train departure.
  • Factor in travel time to the airport/station, especially during peak traffic.

Essential Documents

Double-check all travel papers.

Document Check

  • PassportChecked
  • Boarding PassReady
  • VisaSecured
  • Hotel ConfirmationDone

Final Tasks

  • Pack last-minute items.
  • Check out from your hotel efficiently.
  • Dispose of waste properly.
  • Turn off lights and appliances.

Smooth Exit

Reconfirm flight schedules and airport transfer times.

Collect all personal belongings before leaving accommodation.