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Sanya Travel Checklist

Sanya Travel Checklist

Sanya Hainan, China Travel Guide

Chronological Planning Timeline

Effective organization of tasks across three periods leads to thorough readiness.

Your Pre-Travel Journey: Step-by-Step

Breaking down preparation into manageable phases simplifies the process.

3M

Three Months Before

Passport Validity

Check expiration date (6+ months beyond return) and blank pages.

Visa Requirements

Research China's visa requirements; begin application immediately if needed.

Vaccinations & Insurance

Consult doctor for recommended vaccinations. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

1M

One Month Before

Flights & Accommodation

Book all flights and confirm accommodation reservations.

Itinerary & Transfers

Plan detailed itinerary. Book major tours, performances, and airport transfers.

App Downloads & Banks

Download essential apps (WeChat, Alipay, Didi, Maps, Translate, VPN). Notify banks of travel.

1W

One Week Before

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm all flight, hotel, and excursion reservations.

Pack & Document Copies

Pack according to climate and activities. Prepare digital and physical document copies.

Charge & Currency

Charge all electronics. Obtain initial CNY currency or confirm mobile payment setup.

Pre-Trip Research Suggestions

Dedicating time to specific research areas prior to departure delivers valuable insights.

Research Topics

  • Read about Chinese culture and etiquette for courteous exchanges.
  • Understand China's internet restrictions and the VPN requirement.
  • Research specific restaurants, activities, or hidden gems for a personalized trip.
  • Review health and safety guidelines.

Home Preparation Checklist

Before Your Departure

  • Arrange for pet-sitting or boarding if you have pets.
  • Hold your mail or arrange for a trusted person to collect it.
  • Secure your home (lock doors/windows, notify neighbors).
  • Pay any upcoming bills or set up automatic payments.

Required Advance Bookings and Reservations

Travel & Stay

  • International and domestic flights to Sanya.
  • Your chosen accommodation for the whole trip.
  • Confirm all accommodation dates.
  • Secure confirmations for all bookings.

Activities & Tours

  • Wuzhizhou Island Ferry Tickets (pre-booking saves time).
  • Popular tours or performances, like "The Romantic Show of Sanya".
  • Any special event tickets.
  • Guided tours with limited capacity.

Connectivity & Logistics

  • Setup essential apps: WeChat, Alipay, Didi Chuxing.
  • Baidu Maps/Amap, Google Translate (with offline pack).
  • Your chosen VPN.
  • Official Sanya Tourism Website for updates.

Smart App Setup

Download and set up all essential apps (WeChat, Alipay, Didi Chuxing, Baidu Maps/Amap, Google Translate, and your chosen VPN) Before you arrive in China.

Arrival Checklist

The first steps upon arrival ensure a smooth transition into your Sanya vacation.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration and Customs

    Pass through border control (passport, visa/visa-free confirmation, fingerprints/photo). Collect luggage.

  • 2
    Local SIM Card

    If not using an eSIM, locate a mobile provider counter at the airport for buy and activation.

  • 3
    Transportation to Accommodation

    Use pre-booked transfers, official taxis, Didi, or airport express buses. Confirm fare or route first.

Orientation and Initial Needs

  • Hotel Neighborhood Orientation

    Familiarize yourself with your hotel's immediate surroundings. Locate convenience stores, ATMs, and public transport.

  • City Layout Overview

    Use Baidu Maps or Amap to understand Sanya's design and major attraction locations relative to your stay.

  • Currency & Initial Purchases

    Exchange a small amount of cash or withdraw local currency from an ATM. Purchase bottled water immediately.

Getting Oriented

Hotel Proximity

Locate nearby services like Atms & public transport stops.

This saves time and reduces stress for immediate needs.

Digital Maps

Use The Baidu maps app or Amap on your phone for city layout sense.

Locate major attractions relative to your accommodation.

Connectivity

Ensure your local SIM or eSIM is active for seamless access.

A stable connection is important for navigation and communication.

Water Consumption

Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival. Tap water is not safe to drink in Sanya.

Departure Preparation

Organizing your departure in advance leads to a smooth and efficient conclusion to your trip.

Souvenirs and Shipping

  • Pack souvenirs carefully in your luggage.
  • Confirm pick-up location and procedure for duty-free items.
  • Awareness of customs limits and restrictions for your home country is important.
  • Inquire about VAT refund procedures at eligible stores for large purchases.

Pre-Departure Timing

  • Allow ample time for check-in and security at Sanya Phoenix International Airport.
  • Arrive at least ARRIVE 2 hours prior to domestic flights, 3 hours before international.
  • For train departures, arrive at Sanya Train Station 30-45 minutes prior.
  • Add extra time during peak seasons or holidays.

Return Trip Logistics

Final Checks

  • Flight Details:Reconfirm terminal, gate, and departure time.
  • Documents:Passport, boarding pass, and travel documents are readily accessible.
  • Airport Transfer:Set up transportation to the airport or train station in advance.
  • Early Departures:Book transport for early morning or late-night departures.

Packing Efficiency

  • Check baggage weight limits for your flight.
  • Consolidate items to maximize space.
  • Utilize Packing organizers or cubes.
  • Label your luggage clearly.

Duty-Free Collection

If you purchased items from the Sanya International Duty Free Shopping Complex, confirm collection point and procedure at the airport.

This occurs either before security or before boarding, depending on your flight type.