Puning Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Essential Preparations

Plan your preparations chronologically, starting well in advance.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Break down your preparations into manageable phases.

1

Months Before

Visa Application

Apply for your China visa; start early as processing times vary.

Passport Validity

Check passport validity: six months beyond intended stay.

International Flights

Book flights to major Chinese gateway cities (Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Shanghai).

2

Month Before

Domestic Travel

Book domestic flights or high-speed rail to Jieyang Chaoshan (SWA) or Puning Station.

Accommodation

Book your Puning lodging for your entire stay.

Travel Insurance

Arrange comprehensive travel insurance, consider World Nomads.

3

Week Before

App Setup & VPN Test

Install and test WeChat, Alipay, Didi, Baidu Maps/Amap, and your VPN.

Document Check & Bank

Gather passport, visa, copies, insurance. Inform your bank of travel.

Home Preparation

Arrange for pet care, stop mail, pay bills, secure your home.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items ahead of time.

Bookings Checklist

China Visa is essential for most nationalities.
International Flights: Book early for better prices.
High-Speed Rail Tickets: Book, especially during holidays.
Accommodation: Reserve hotels or guesthouses.

Pre-Trip Research

Gain background to add to your Puning visit.

Research Topics

Chaoshan Culture & Cuisine: Explore unique aspects.
Chinese Payment Systems: Learn WeChat Pay and Alipay.
Local Customs & Etiquette: Understand social norms for communications.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure everything is settled at home for a worry-free trip.

Trusted Contacts

Inform your family or friends of your itinerary.
Share emergency contact information.

Mail & Bills

Arrange for mail to be held or picked up.
Pay all recurring bills before you leave.

Home Security

Secure your home by locking doors and windows.
Consider setting up lights on timers.

Important Note on Apps

Your VPN must be installed and tested Before you arrive in China. Access to app stores for VPNs may be blocked once you are in the country. Consider NordVPN.

Arrival Checklist

These steps orient you smoothly upon arriving in Puning.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration & Customs
Go through immigration and customs at your port of entry.
2
Luggage Collection
Collect your luggage off the carousel.
3
SIM Card / eSIM
Activate your local SIM card or ensure your eSIM is working.

Orientation Strategies

Local Transportation
Locate transportation options to your accommodation (shuttle bus, taxi, Didi).
Hotel Check-in
Proceed to check into your pre-booked accommodation.
Neighborhood Walk
Take a short walk to familiarize yourself with your immediate surroundings.

Currency & Initial Purchases

Currency Exchange

Exchange currency at the airport or a major bank if you require cash.

Mobile payments dominate, so cash needs are generally minimal.

Mobile Payments Setup

Ensure your mobile payment apps (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are fully set up and functional.

This is important for daily transactions in China.

Initial Purchases

Make initial purchases like bottled water or a local SIM card (if not done at the airport).

Locate convenience stores or small markets nearby.

Transportation Tip

Utilize pre-booked transfers, the airport shuttle bus, a taxi, or a Didi ride to reach your accommodation comfortably. Have your hotel address in Chinese characters ready.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure for a stress-free exit.

Souvenir & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs a few days before departure.
Check weight limits for checked and carry-on baggage.
Arrange shipping for larger items at a post office or logistics company.
Be aware of customs regulations for your home country.

VAT Refund Procedures

China has a limited VAT refund scheme for foreign tourists.
Applicable for buys from eligible stores (usually large department stores in major cities).
Unlikely to be practical for purchases made in Puning.

Pre-Departure Timing

Plan your arrival at the airport or station.

Timing Considerations

Flights:Arrive 2-3 hours before departure.
Trains:Arrive 30-60 minutes before departure.
Online Check-in:Complete for flights if you can.

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm your return flight or train details one last time.
Ensure all necessary travel documents (passport, boarding pass/ticket) are easily accessible.

Final Tip

Print a hard copy of your entire itinerary, including flight numbers, hotel addresses (in Chinese), and emergency contacts.

Keep it in your carry-on luggage for easy reference.

Puning Travel Checklist

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