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Guilin Travel Resources

Guilin Travel Resources

Guilin Guangxi, China Travel Guide

Required Preparations

A planning timeline makes task management efficient.

Planning Timeline

Follow these steps for a well-organized trip.

1

+ Months Ahead

Visa & Passport

Research visa requirements and request your China visa. Start early.

Passport Validity

Check passport validity (6+ months beyond departure) and blank pages.

International Flights

Book international flights; earlier booking often finds better rates.

2

Month Ahead

Domestic Travel

Book major domestic flights and high-speed train tickets for peak season.

Accommodation

Reserve accommodation in Guilin, Yangshuo, and Longji.

Essential Apps

Download & set up WeChat, Alipay, Didi, and a reliable VPN.

3

Week Ahead

Confirm Bookings

Confirm all flights, hotels, trains, and tours.

Pack Essentials

Pack climate-appropriate clothing and other items.

Charge Devices

Charge all electronics and power banks fully.

Advance Bookings

Secure these well in advance to avoid disappointment and higher prices.

Reservations

  • China visa (most time-consuming).
  • International and domestic flights/trains.
  • Popular Li Boat trips on the waterway.
  • Impression Sanjie Liu show tickets.

Pre-Trip Knowledge

This shapes expectations and deepens your trip.

Research & Home Prep

  • Understand China's digital landscape (VPN, cashless society).
  • Learn basic etiquette and food culture.
  • Read about the history and geography of Guilin.
  • Secure your home, inform contacts, arrange pet/mail care.

Last Minute Items

Ensure smooth journey by completing these tasks.

Document Copies

  • Have both electronic and paper copies of documents.
  • Include passport, visa, insurance, prescriptions.
  • Store copies separately from originals.
  • A universal travel adapter for devices.

Financial Alerts

  • Notify your bank of travel dates.
  • Inform credit card companies to avoid suspension.
  • Have some small local cash for initial needs.
  • Ensure mobile payment apps are working.

Essential App Setup

  • Confirm WeChat, Alipay, Didi are energetic.
  • Verify VPN functionality before departure.
  • Download offline language packs for converting language apps.
  • Organize airport transfers if preferred.

Travel Insurance Reminder:

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. This policy should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

Arrival Checklist

Smooth transition when you arrive in Guilin follows these steps.

First Steps upon Landing

  • 1
    Clear Immigration & Customs

    Have your passport and visa ready.

  • 2
    Locate Airport Transport

    Find the shuttle to the airport or taxi stand.

  • 3
    Get a Local SIM Card

    Purchase one if not pre-arranged; aids local communication.

Initial Actions

  • Orientation Strategy

    Get a local map, identify your hotel, and nearby transport.

  • Currency & Initial Purchases

    Exchange currency or withdraw cash; test mobile payments.

  • Transport to Accommodation

    Use pre-booked transfer, shuttle, or Didi/taxi; confirm destination.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir & Shipping

Allow time for last-minute souvenir shopping.

Inquire about international shipping for bulky goods.

VAT Refund If Applicable

China has a VAT refund scheme for international visitors.

The process can be complex; check official guidelines.

Departure Timing

Arrive at KWL 2-3 hours before international flights.

1.5-2 hours for domestic flights; allow extra for security.

Final Checks for Departure:

Ensure all travel papers for your next destination are in order.

Return Trip Details

Prepare for your return journey with these reminders.

Luggage & Prohibited Items

  • Repack luggage according to airline baggage rules.
  • Dispose of any forbidden items before transportation security at airports.
  • Check weight limits to avoid extra fees.
  • Confirm carry-on size restrictions.

Final Departure Checks

  • Double-check your departure time and terminal.
  • Confirm home preparation (mail, pets, plants).
  • Pay any upcoming bills before leaving.
  • Charge all devices for your journey.

Emergency Reminders

Keep these contact details and steps to follow close at hand.

Contacts

  • Police:110
  • Fire:119
  • Ambulance:120
  • Embassy/Consulate:Emergency Number

Additional Notes

  • If shipping large items, costs and delivery times vary.
  • Plan your route to the airport well ahead.
  • Traffic near airports can be heavy during peak times.
  • Ensure your visa status matches your departure country's admission regulations.

Final Confirmation:

Always double-check all bookings and documents.

A smooth trip begins and ends with comprehensive preparation.

Guilin Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts