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Shenzhen Travel Resources

Shenzhen Travel Resources

Shenzhen Guangdong, China Travel Guide

Applications for Your Trip

Communication & Payments

  • WeChat (微信)

    Indispensable for communication and mobile payments.

  • Alipay (支付宝)

    A widely accepted mobile payment platform.

  • Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行)

    For ride-hailing services, with an English interface.

  • Translation Apps

    Google Translate or Baidu Translate, for language barriers.

  • VPN Service

    A reliable VPN is needed for international websites and apps. Acquire this before arrival.

Navigation & Information

  • Baidu Maps (百度地图)

    The most accurate map application for mainland China.

  • Shenzhen Metro (深圳地铁)

    Official app for metro routes, times, and QR code payments.

  • Official Airport (SZX) Website

    For flight information and ground transportation options.

  • Trip.com (Ctrip)

    A major online travel agency for China bookings.

  • Travel China Guide

    Information on attractions across China, including Shenzhen.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

Seek documentaries on Shenzhen's transformation or China's economic reforms for visual context.

Music & Art

Explore Canto-pop, traditional Chinese music, or visit galleries in OCT-LOFT for contemporary art.

Online Communities

Reddit (r/China, r/Shenzhen) or specific travel forums for insights from experienced travelers and expatriates.

Essential Online Tools

Social Media & Digital Content

  • Follow official Shenzhen tourism accounts on WeChat or Weibo.
  • These platforms offer current events and festival updates.
  • Search for travel podcasts or YouTube channels focusing on Shenzhen.
  • Content creators share experiences, tips, and visual guides.

Language Learning Resources

Medical Information

Hospital Locations

  • The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital (香港大学深圳医院)
  • Peking University Shenzhen Hospital (北京大学深圳医院)
  • Shenzhen People's Hospital (深圳市人民医院)
  • Inquire with your hotel for nearby clinics or pharmacies.

Emergency Numbers

  • Police: 110
  • Ambulance: 120
  • Fire: 119
  • Tourist Complaint Hotline: 12301 (often with English service)

Natural Disaster Protocols

  • During typhoon season (July-September), follow local government warnings.
  • Observe advisories from your hotel or local news.
  • Familiarize yourself with hotel emergency procedures.
  • Know evacuation routes.

Emergency Contacts

Embassy & Consulate Information

U.S. Citizens

  • U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou
  • Phone: +86 20 3814 4000
  • Address: 43 Hua Jiu Lu, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou.
  • Guangzhou is the relevant consulate for Southern China.

Other Nationalities

  • Locate your country's embassy in Beijing.
  • Or locate your consulate general in Guangzhou.
  • Keep their contact details handy before your trip.
  • These offices assist with emergencies.

Lost Document Procedures

  • Report to local police immediately for lost or stolen passports/visas.
  • Obtain a police report.
  • Contact your country's embassy or consulate general promptly.
  • They assist with emergency travel documents.

Before Your Trip

Health & Safety Advisories

  • Consult a travel health clinic or doctor for vaccinations.
  • Check current health or safety advisories for China from your government.
  • Discuss preventative medications.

Travel Insurance

Home Preparations

Pet & Mail Arrangements

  • Arrange for pet care.
  • Suspend mail and newspaper deliveries.
  • Have a trusted person collect deliveries.

Security & Finances

  • Secure your home, lock windows and doors.
  • Consider light timers.
  • Pay any bills due while you are away.

Pre-Trip Research

Cultural & Practical Knowledge

  1. Research local customs and etiquette for respectful interactions.
  2. Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases.
  3. Understand WeChat Pay and Alipay setup and usage.
  4. Mobile payments are central to daily transactions in Shenzhen.
  5. Review government health/safety advisories.

Traveler Communication

  1. Inform trusted friends or family members of your itinerary.
  2. Provide emergency contacts.
  3. Ensure they have access to important document copies.
  4. Share your flight and accommodation details.
  5. Confirm your return date and time.

Arrival Checklist

First Steps

Clear immigration, activate SIM card, confirm mobile payment setup, locate airport transfer.

Orientation

Familiarize yourself with the neighborhood, nearest metro, stores, and eateries. Use Baidu Maps.

Currency & Purchases

Mobile payments are main. Small amounts of cash from ATMs may be useful. Acquire water or snacks.

VPN Alert

A reliable VPN is needed to access international websites and services.

Departure & Wrap-Up

Return Journey Preparations

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs well before departure.

    Look at Dongmen, Luohu Commercial City, or Huaqiangbei.

  • Arrange shipping with international couriers.

    DHL, FedEx, UPS at their local offices.

  • Keep receipts for customs.

    Be aware of regulations in your home country.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • China has a limited VAT refund scheme.

    For foreign tourists on certain goods.

  • Inquire at large department stores.

    Determine if your purchases are eligible.

  • Refunds are usually processed at departure airports.

    Ask about the specific process.

Pre-departure Timing

International Flights

For flights from Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX), arrive 2-3 hours before departure.

High-Speed Rail

For high-speed rail, arrive at Shenzhen North Railway Station at least 45-60 minutes before departure.

Border Crossings

For border crossings to Hong Kong (Luohu, Futian ports), allow 1-2 hours, especially during peak times.

Return Trip Logistics

Flight & Train Confirmation

  • Reconfirm your flight or train details 24-48 hours before departure.
  • Ensure all necessary documents are easily accessible.
  • Passport, boarding passes, and visa should be ready.
  • Pack efficiently, adhering to airline baggage restrictions.

Mobile Payment Balance

  • Consider transferring any remaining Yuan from mobile payment apps.
  • Transfer funds to your bank account if possible.
  • Alternatively, spend down your balance before leaving.
  • Ensure a smooth financial wrap-up.

Travel Insurance Reminder

Coverage Specifics

  • Confirm medical emergency coverage.
  • Verify emergency evacuation provisions.
  • Check for trip cancellation or interruption benefits.
  • Ensure lost luggage protection.

Policy Documentation

Final Checks

Reconfirm all bookings and organize documents for a relaxed end to your trip.