Changshu Jiangsu, China Travel Guide
Break down your preparations into manageable steps for a smooth journey.
Divide your planning into phases for a well-organized trip.
Ensure passport valid 6+ months, 2 blank pages. Begin visa application, as this process could require several weeks.
Research and monitor prices for international flights to major Chinese airports (Shanghai PVG/SHA, Nanjing NKG) and initial Changshu accommodation.
Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance. Consult a travel health clinic for recommended vaccinations.
Finalize and book international flights and all Changshu accommodation. Book high-speed rail tickets for inter-city travel if during peak season or holidays.
Install and test a reliable VPN service. Set up WeChat Pay and Alipay with foreign credit cards.
Make multiple copies (physical, digital) of passport, visa, bookings. Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases.
Reconfirm all flight, hotel, and train bookings. Begin packing. Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates.
Ensure emergency contact information (embassy, family) is easily accessible. Pack all prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Ensure all required apps (VPN, Didi, Baidu Maps, WeChat, Alipay, Pleco) are downloaded and working on your phone. Fully charge all devices.
Certain bookings are useful for a smooth entry and journey.
Familiarize yourself with local context to enrich your experience.
Taking care of home affairs before your trip offers peace of mind.
Make a digital copy of your passport, visa, and insurance details, and store it in a cloud service you can entry from anywhere.
These constitute the first steps when the plane lands in China and arriving in Changshu.
Have your passport and visa ready. Complete fingerprinting and any required health declarations.
Retrieve your checked bags from the baggage claim area.
If you purchased an eSIM, activate it. If you plan a local SIM, proceed to a carrier store at the airport or later.
Once connected to airport Wi-Fi or local data, activate your VPN to access international apps.
Confirm your hotel's address and review how to reach it from your current location.
Use Baidu Maps to get a general sense of your hotel's surroundings, including nearby restaurants, bus stops, and mini-marts.
If you need physical cash, withdraw a small amount from an ATM or exchange currency.
Prioritize mobile payment setup for WeChat Pay and Alipay, as this will be your main payment method.
If arriving late or with a lot of luggage, consider pre-booking a Didi or taxi to your accommodation.
For public transport, use high-speed rail, then local buses or Didi from Changshu Railway Station.
Grab some local bottled water and snacks for immediate needs after arrival.
Find the closest convenience store for any other essentials you might need right away.
By completing these arrival steps, you ensure a smooth transition into your Changshu adventure, ready to explore.
Plan your departure to ensure a smooth exit from Changshu and China.
Allow generous time to avoid stress on your departure day.
By following this comprehensive checklist, you leave Changshu assuredly, having addressed all practical considerations for a secure and enjoyable journey.
We hope to see you again soon!
