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Ordos Travel Resources

Ordos Travel Resources

Ordos Inner Mongolia, China Travel Guide

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

  • WeChat (微信):

    Communication, social networking, mobile payments.

  • Alipay (支付宝):

    Another widely used mobile payment platform.

  • Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行):

    Dominant ride-sharing app in China.

  • Baidu Maps (百度地图) / Amap (高德地图):

    Essential for navigation, real-time traffic.

  • Pleco:

    A highly recommended Chinese dictionary app.

Online Planning & Content

  • Reliable VPN:

    For Western apps like Google, WhatsApp. Set up Before arrival.

  • Trip.com (Ctrip):

    Comprehensive platform for flights, hotels, tours.

  • China Highlights / Travel China Guide:

    General information and booking services for China.

  • Inner Mongolia Official Tourist Board websites:

    Local events and regional information (often Chinese).

  • Podcasts on Inner Mongolia:

    Offer valuable insights and cultural context.

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

Lp China or Rough Guides China often parts on Inner Mongolia.

Books on History & Culture

Books on Genghis Khan and Mandarin history provide important context.

Local Publications

Local papers or visitor pamphlets may list events (often in Chinese).

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • Explore documentaries on Genghis Khan and Mongolian culture.
  • Watch films about China's urban development, including cities like Kangbashi.
  • Historical narratives offer context for your visit.
  • These sources of information deepen your destination appreciation.

Music, Art & Online Communities

  • Listen to traditional Mongolian throat singing or horse-head fiddle.
  • Discover art inspired by nomadic life and Inner Mongolia's landscapes.
  • The travel forums on tripadvisor for China can answer questions from other travelers.
  • Apps like Duolingo or Babbel for basic Mandarin phrases.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 110
  • Fire: 119
  • Ambulance: 120
  • These numbers operate nationwide within China.

Hospital Locations

  • Ordos Central Hospital
  • The First Affiliated Hospital of Ordos City
  • For complex issues, consider major cities like Beijing.
  • International healthcare clinics are accessible in larger hubs.

Lost Document Procedures

  • Report lost documents to local police (dial 110).
  • Get in touch with your embassy or consulate for replacement help.
  • Keep copies of all important documents.
  • An immediate report speeds up replacement processes.

Important Travel Notices

Emergency & Safety Alert

Embassy & Consulate Information

  • Keep contact info for your country’s embassy in Beijing.
  • Consulates in other major Chinese urban areas are also options.
  • They assist with lost documents and legal matters.
  • Access their contact details readily for emergencies.

Natural Disaster Protocols

  • During dust storms, don't go out plus near windows.
  • Adhere to local authority guidance during any natural hazard.
  • Monitor local news updates for weather updates.
  • Prioritize safety and immediate shelter.

Essential Precautions

  • Always possess emergency numbers readily available.
  • Locate large hospitals or clinics near your lodging.
  • Familiarize yourself with area safety guidelines.
  • Maintain vigilance in unfamiliar surroundings.

Books About the Destination

Historical Context

  • Books on Genghis Khan and the Mongolian Empire.
  • Such readings provide deep historical context.
  • Help understand places like the Genghis Khan Mausoleum.

Cultural Comprehension

  • Broader books on Chinese history and culture.
  • Offer perspective on the country's development.
  • Fiction set in Inner Mongolia for imaginative context.

Local Publications

Newspapers & Brochures

  • Local newspapers might list current events.
  • Brochures for tourists at accommodations or info centers.
  • These resources are mainly in Chinese.

Content & Language

  • Some publications may contain limited English content.
  • Useful for comprehending local practicalities.
  • Look for regulations or seasonal notices.

Language Learning Resources

Mandarin Basics

  1. Duolingo: Good for starting basic Mandarin phrases.
  2. Memrise: Another app for language acquisition.
  3. Even a few words significantly improve interactions.
  4. Focus on greetings, thanks, and basic questions.
  5. Cultural immersion begins with language effort.

Advanced Learning & Tools

  1. Babbel: Offers structured lessons for deeper learning.
  2. Pleco: Excellent dictionary for on-the-go translation.
  3. Practice daily to retain phrases.
  4. Listen to Mandarin audio to familiarize yourself with sounds.
  5. Local interaction tests and strengthens your skills.

Recommended Guidebooks and Maps

Lonely Planet China

Comprehensive travel guide, often includes Inner Mongolia sections.

Rough Guides China

Another detailed guide for the region and broader China.

Local Maps

Available in lodgings or tourist information offices, often in Cantonese with some English.

Critical Warning

Always have emergency numbers handy and understand the locations of major hospitals and clinics in Ordos for urgent situations.

Further Information

Documentaries & Films

Historical Context

  • Genghis Khan Documentaries:

    Find out more about Mongolian history.

  • Mongolian Culture Films:

    Gain insights prior to or following your visit.

  • Cultural Narratives:

    Understand the region's rich heritage.

Modern China & Urbanism

  • China's Urban Development:

    Documentaries on rapid urban growth.

  • Kangbashi Discussions:

    Explore discussions around cities like Kangbashi.

  • Relevant Context:

    These provide context for China's urban planning.

Music & Art to Experience

Mongolian Throat Singing

Listen to traditional Mongolian Hoomii for cultural connection.

Horse-Head Fiddle Morin Khuur

Experience the evocative sounds of this traditional instrument.

Nomadic-Inspired Art

Explore art reflective of Inner Mongolia's landscapes and nomadic life.

Online Communities & Forums

Travel Forums

  • TripAdvisor Forums for China offer traveler advice.
  • Ask questions and gather tips from experienced travelers.
  • Engage in discussions for broader travel tips.
  • Many travel blogs share detailed accounts and tips.

Specific Travel Blogs

  • Search for blogs focusing on Inner Mongolia or Ordos.
  • Find individual experiences and photography tips.
  • Discover unique itineraries plus secret places.
  • Blogs can complement official guidebooks.

Language Learning Resources

Apps for Basic Phrases

  • Duolingo for convenient Mandarin practice.
  • Memrise offers interactive language lessons.
  • Practice pronunciation for clarity.
  • Even a few words can greatly improve local interactions.

Beyond the Basics

  • Babbel for more structured Mandarin learning.
  • Pleco dictionary app invaluable for on-the-spot translation.
  • Attempting local phrases shows respect.
  • Regular practice solidifies new vocabulary.

Preparation Tip

Keep contact details for your country''s diplomatic mission in Beijing readily accessible for assistance with lost documents or other emergencies.