Hainan China Travel Guide
China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom are the major mobile providers. China Unicom is often recommended for foreign visitors. Purchase requires a valid passport for real-name registration.
Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, cafes, and many public areas.
Mandarin Chinese is the official language. While in Hainan, you will also hear local dialects. English proficiency is limited outside major international hotels and luxury resorts in Sanya.
Technology can bridge language gaps effectively. Download offline language packs and keep key phrases handy.
Where is the bathroom?: Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ? (tsuh-swor zai naa-lee?) Too expensive: Tài guì le (tai gway luh) Delicious: Hěn hǎo chī (hun hao chih)
Understand normal opening times and various airport services in Hainan for a seamless trip.
Banks generally open Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Atms are easy to find in cities and tourist areas, accepting major non-local cards.
Most stores operate from around 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM until NINE:P.M. OR 10:00 PM. Restaurants typically serve lunch and dinner during standard hours.
Most tourist attractions typically open around 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM and close between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Major holidays bring significant crowds.
Frequent travelers gain access to independent airport lounges around the world, enhancing comfort during travel.
A specialized service that assists customers in receiving compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.
Schedule and book well in advance if traveling during public holidays due to surges in domestic tourism, crowded attractions, and higher prices.
Navigate local customs and cultural norms with respect to enhance your travel experience.
A simple "Nǐ hǎo" is appropriate for greetings. Handshakes are common in business settings. Dress modestly when at temples and cultural sites, covering shoulders and knees.
Tipping is not customary in Hainan. Slurping noodles indicates enjoyment. Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially in ethnic minority areas.
Certain topics and actions are sensitive. Observe local customs to maintain respectful interactions during your visit.
Engage in practices that demonstrate respect for local traditions and beliefs, fostering positive interactions.
While not illegal, discretion is recommended for public displays of affection for same-sex couples, as they may draw stares.
Accessibility infrastructure in Hainan is still developing. Major tourist facilities show improvements, offering more inclusive travel experiences.
Newer infrastructure, including airports, high-speed rail stations, 5-star hotels, and large shopping malls, often includes ramps, elevators, plus accessible bathrooms.
Many major attractions, like Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone, have internal shuttle services and paved paths suitable for wheelchairs, enhancing visitor mobility.
Specific services for visual or hearing impairments are limited. Public information mainly comes in Chinese. Technology use or a companion assists with navigation.
The best approach to accessibility is a factor proactive communication. Contact specific hotels, tour operators, and attractions directly in advance for detailed information.
Specific resources for Hainan's accessibility are limited. International disability travel organizations may offer general advice for travel inside China.
