Jinjiang Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Essential Preparations

Advance planning streamlines your journey to Jinjiang.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Follow these steps for a smooth preparation process.

1

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check your passport's validity and begin visa application process.

International Travel

Book international flights and major accommodations.

Health Updates

Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations.

2

Month Before

Local Transit

Book domestic flights or high-speed rail tickets.

Itinerary & Insurance

Finalize your itinerary and arrange travel insurance (World Nomads).

Digital Setup

Install and test your VPN (NordVPN) and essential Chinese apps.

3

Week Before

Confirmations

Reconfirm all flights, accommodations, and tours.

Financial Alert

Notify your bank of travel plans to prevent transaction issues.

Emergency Contacts

Share your itinerary and contacts with family or friends.

Required Advance Bookings

Securing these items in advance simplifies your travel experience.

Reservations

Visa for China is an entry prerequisite.
International and domestic flights/trains merit early booking.
Reserve all hotels or guesthouses ahead of time.
Book certain excursions or experiences, like Gulangyu Island ferry tickets.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Gaining knowledge before your trip enriches your Jinjiang experience.

Topics to Explore

Study Minnan culture and Jinjiang's Maritime Silk Road history.
Familiarize yourself with basic Mandarin phrases.
Understand China's mobile payment system (WeChat Pay, Alipay).
Check your government's latest travel advisories for China.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Preparing your home for your absence offers peace of mind.

Home Security

Secure doors and windows.
Notify neighbors of your absence.
Set timers for lights.
Activate security systems.

Pet and Plant Care

Arrange for pet-sitting services.
Organize plant watering.
Schedule caretakers for the duration.
Leave clear instructions for caregivers.

Mail and Bills

Stop mail or newspaper deliveries.
Pay any bills falling due during your absence.
Set up automatic payments if possible.
Arrange for mail collection by a trusted person.

Travel Advisory

Checking your government's latest travel advisories for China prior to departure is important.

Arrival Checklist

The first hours after arrival require efficient navigation.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration and Customs
Show your passport and visa, then collect luggage.
2
Currency Exchange
Exchange a small amount of CNY at the airport for immediate cash needs.
3
Mobile Connectivity
Acquire a local SIM card at the airport if not pre-arranged.

Orientation Strategies

Information Desk
Locate the airport or train station information desk for immediate questions.
Navigation Check
Confirm your mobile navigation apps (Baidu Maps/Gaode Maps) are functional.
Accommodation Address
Have your accommodation address written in Chinese characters for drivers.

Currency and Initial Purchases

Currency Exchange

Exchange a small amount of Chinese Yuan (CNY) at the airport.

This addresses immediate cash needs.

Mobile Payment Setup

Verify WeChat Pay and Alipay accounts are functional.

Confirm linkage to an international credit card.

Water and Essentials

Purchase bottled water upon arrival, as tap water is not potable.

Secure any other immediate necessities.

Transportation to Accommodation

Decide on your transport mode (airport bus, taxi, Didi) and clearly state your destination using the Chinese address.

Departure Preparation

Organized departure activities lead to a smooth conclusion of your trip.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

Purchase souvenirs well in advance of your departure.
Check your airline's baggage allowance for any purchases.
Use reputable international couriers (EMS, SF Express, DHL, FedEx) for shipping.
Understand customs regulations for your home country on shipped items.

VAT Refund Procedures

China has a VAT refund scheme for foreign tourists on eligible purchases.
Inquire at stores if they participate in the VAT refund program.
Retain all original receipts plus required forms for eligible items.
Process VAT refunds at major international airports when leaving from China.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Allocating sufficient time for departure activities mitigates stress.

Departure Schedule

Airport/Station Arrival:2.5-3 hours for international, 1.5-2 hours for domestic flights.
High-Speed Rail/Buses:30-60 minutes before departure.
Online Check-in:Check in online for flights to save time.
Documents:Ensure passport, boarding pass, visa are easily accessible.

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm your return flight the details in advance.
Arrange your transportation to the airport or station.
Complete any last-minute home preparations (e.g., trash, lights).
Double-check all personal belongings before leaving.

Packing Advisory

Pack climate-appropriate clothing and all must-have items from your packing list.

Consider travel organization products from Eagle Creek.

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