Haikou Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Communication Essentials

Reliable communication options keep you connected.

Mobile Connectivity

Local SIM cards from China Mobile, Unicom, or Telecom. You need your passport for registration. For eSIM options, explore Airalo.
Wi-Fi in hotels, cafes, plus common spaces is common. Public Wi-Fi often asks for local phone number verification. For portable Wi-Fi, visit Solis Wi-Fi.
The "Great Firewall" blocks many international websites/apps (Google, Facebook, WhatsApp). A VPN is necessary to reach these services. Download a reputable VPN Before arriving.

Language & Postal Services

Overcoming language barriers and mailal needs.

Language Aids

Mandarin Chinese is official. Hainanese dialect is local. Proficiency in english is limited. Consider Rosetta Stone for language learning.
Translation apps (Google Translate with VPN, Pleco for offline dictionary) are highly recommended. Have addresses in Mandarin characters.
China Post offices are available for sending letters and parcels domestically and internationally.

Important Phrases

Basic phrases enhance interactions.

Expressions

Hello: Nǐ hǎo (nee haow)
Thank you: Xièxie (shyeh-shyeh)
Excuse me/Sorry: Duìbuqǐ (dway-boo-chee)

More Useful Phrases

Further phrases for daily situations.

Common Inquiries

Yes: Shì (shuh)
No: Bù shì (boo shuh)
How much?: Duōshǎo qián? (dwor-shaow chyen)

Asking Directions

Where is...?: ... Zài nǎlǐ? (... Zai naa-lee)
I don't understand: Wǒ bù dǒng (wor boo dong)
Show a written address for taxis.
Phrasebooks are a good option.

Airport Services

Airport lounges are accessible through Priority Pass.
Flight delay/cancellation compensation support with Compensair.
These services enhance travel comfort and security.
Customer service at the airport helps with inquiries.

Local Dialect Information:

While Mandarin is official, the Hainanese dialect is spoken locally, notably among older generations. Basic Mandarin phrases usually work well in most tourist interactions.

Business Hours & Schedules

Operating hours for businesses vary throughout Haikou, and public holidays influence schedules.

Retail & Shops

Retail shops and malls typically operate from 10:MIDNIGHT TO 10:00 PM. Neighborhood shops and markets may open earlier (about 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM) and close later (10:00 PM - 11:00 PM), especially in bustling areas like Qilou Old Street.

Restaurants & Food

Opening hours of restaurants vary widely. Generally, they open for lunch (11:30 AM - 2:00 PM) and dinner (5:30 PM - 9:00 PM). Some operate all day or late into the night. Street food stalls have flexible hours.

Attractions

Tourist attractions usually open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with some variation. Always check specific opening hours for sites you plan to visit before your trip.

Banking & ATMs

Financial services operate on regular schedules.

Accessing Funds

Banks typically operate Monday-Friday, 9:12:00 AM to 5:00 am:00 PM. Some branches open on weekends for restricted services.
ATMs are widely available 24/7 in banks, shopping malls, and convenience stores.
Look for machines displaying international network logos (Visa, Mastercard, Plus, Cirrus) for card compatibility.

Holidays & Closures

Public holidays and seasonal variations influence business availability.

Holiday Impact

Services and business hours may see an influence, and transportation becomes busier during public holidays.
Religious holidays generally do not serve as public holidays that influence business hours.
Smaller businesses or attractions may have limited hours or close entirely during major holidays, especially Chinese New Year.

Major Public Holidays in China

First Half of Year

New Year's Day (January 1)
Chinese New Year/Spring Festival (variable, Jan/Feb - a week-long holiday)
Qingming Festival (April, 1 day)

Second Half of Year

Labour Day (May 1-5)
Dragon Boat Festival (June, 1 day)
Mid-Autumn Festival (September, 1 day)
National Day (October 1-7 - a week-long holiday)

Travel Planning During Holidays:

Traveling during major public holidays means significantly higher prices and larger crowds at attractions and on public transport. Book places to stay and transportation well in advance.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Local customs shape interactions and experiences in Haikou. Viewing these norms shows respect.

Greetings & Attire

Respectful interactions start with proper greetings and suitable clothing.

Interaction Basics

A simple "Nǐ hǎo" (hello) is appropriate. A slight nod or handshake happens in formal settings.
Politeness and respect for elders are highly valued in Chinese culture.
Casual and relaxed attire is generally acceptable. Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered) is suitable for temples or religious sites.

Dining & Photography

Dining & Photo Conduct

Tipping is not expected. Be aware of shared dishes and chopstick etiquette.
Photography within public places and landmarks is generally acceptable.
Always get consent before taking pictures of people, respecting privacy.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Some topics are best avoided in conversation to maintain respectful interactions.

Conversation Caution

Avoid discussing sensitive political topics (e.g., Tibet, Taiwan, Tiananmen Square).
Do not criticize the government or Chinese culture.
Respect local customs and traditions, even if they are different from your own.

Gender Considerations & LGBTQ+

Cultural norms guide public interactions, especially regarding personal relationships.

Public Conduct

China is generally conservative. Public displays of affection are not common.
Discretion for same-sex couples in public is generally advised in Haikou.
Respect for local social norms is appreciated.

Religious Site Etiquette

Entry & Demeanor

Remove shoes before entering certain areas of temples or homes if indicated.
Speak quietly and maintain a respectful demeanor.
Do not touch religious artifacts, statues, or altars without explicit permission.

Photography & Respect

Some sites have photography restrictions.
Avoid turning your back directly on Buddha statues or other religious figures when taking photos.
When in doubt, observe what others do or ask a local.

General Conduct Principles

Positive Engagement

Maintain an open mind and friendly demeanor.
Appreciate cultural differences.
Keep voice levels modest in public spaces.

Navigating Interactions

Observe local customs before acting.
Be patient in engagements with locals.
Use basic Chinese phrases for greetings.

Accessibility Information:

Infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is limited. Pavements can be uneven, and many older buildings and public transport options are without ramps or elevators. Newer public buildings, shopping malls, and some upscale hotels may offer better accessibility features. Public buses are generally not accessible. Taxis or private automobiles (potentially with pre-arranged assistance) offer more flexibility for getting around. Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited. Assistance dogs may face restrictions. Research specific venues in advance for accessibility needs. Contact a local travel agency specializing in accessible tourism (if available) for personalized advice and arrangements.

Accessibility Information

Access for travelers with mobility issues remains a developing area in Haikou, yet resources are available.

Infrastructure & Attractions

Mobility Considerations

Infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is generally limited.
Sidewalks can be uneven.
Many older buildings and public transport options do not have ramps or lifts.

Accessible Locations & Transport

Newer facilities offer better accessibility features, and private transport options are available.

Finding Accessible Spots

Newer public buildings, shopping malls, and some upscale hotels may offer better accessibility features.
Public buses are generally not accessible. Taxis or private cars (potentially with pre-arranged assistance) offer more flexibility.
Private transportation allows easier movement.

Visual or Hearing Impairments

Specialized services for sensory impairments have certain limitations.

Limited Support

Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited.
Assistance dogs may face restrictions in public places.
Advance planning can overcome some challenges.

Resources & Organizations

Proactive research and local assistance enhance an accessible trip.

Planning & Support

Research specific venues in advance.
If you have specific needs, consider contacting a local travel agency specializing in accessible tourism (if available) for tailored advice.
Local agencies assist with arrangements.

Enhancing Your Accessible Travel

Pre-Trip Consultations

Speak with tour operators about specific requirements.

Accessible Hotels

Look for hotels with certified accessible rooms and facilities.

Personal Assistance

Consider arranging personal assistance or specialized guides.

VPN Preparation:

Before your trip, download and configure a reliable VPN. This results in accessing many international websites and apps (like Google, Facebook, WhatsApp) possible, as they face blocks in China.

Haikou Travel Tips