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Xian Travel Resources

Xian Travel Resources

Xian Shaanxi, China Travel Guide

Essential Digital Toolkit

Essential Apps for Xi'an

  • WeChat (微信)

    Absolutely important for messaging, social media, and mobile payment (WeChat Pay). Most businesses operate via mini-programs.

  • Alipay (支付宝)

    Another important mobile payment app, widely taken for transactions. Many travelers utilize both.

  • Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行)

    The dominant ride-sharing app in China. Features an English interface, useful for booking taxis or private cars.

  • Baidu Maps (百度地图) or Amap (高德地图)

    These regional mapping apps exhibit more accuracy and comprehensive navigation within China than Google Maps.

  • Google Translate (or similar)

    Download the offline Mandarin language pack. Valuable for real-time translation of signs, menus, and conversations.

Online Tools & Information

  • A reputable VPN (e.g., NordVPN)

    A prerequisite for reaching many Western online platforms and apps (Google services, Facebook, WhatsApp). Install and test Before arriving in China.

  • China Visa Application Centers

    Check the official website for the Chinese Embassy in your country for visa information. Visit www.visaforchina.cn

  • Trip.com (Ctrip)

    A major Chinese online travel agency with an English interface. Valuable for booking flights, hotels, and tours withinside China.

  • 12306.cn (Official Chinese Railway)

    The official Chinese railway booking website. Third-party agents like Trip.com often simplify booking for international travelers.

  • Weather Forecasts

    Utilize reliable weather sources to check forecasts closer to your trip dates.

Digital Content & Community

Social Media

Search for official tourism boards for Xi'an or travel bloggers who focus on China and Xi'an. They often present current tips and recommendations.

Podcasts

Search for podcasts on Chinese history, the Silk Road, the Terracotta Army, or specific Xi'an attractions. Listening before your trip has context.

Online Learning & Language

Explore language learning apps for Mandarin phrases or online communities for specific interests like photography.

Print Resources

While digital resources are widespread, print resources still present reliable information and serve as useful backups.

Classic Travel Companions

Recommended Guidebooks & Maps

  • DK Eyewitness China (e.g., ISBN: 978-0241641322).
  • The Rough Guide to China (e.g., ISBN: 978-1789196236).
  • Lonely Planet China (e.g., ISBN: 978-1786576211).
  • Local Maps picked up from your hotel or tourist information centers.

Books About the Destination

  • "The Terra-Cotta Army: China's First Emperor and the Birth of a Nation" by John Man.
  • "Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China" by Jung Chang (broader historical context).
  • English language magazines or visitor pamphlets found in high-end hotels.
  • These local publications contain current event listings and local insights.

Further Reading & Exploration

Deepen Your Appreciation

Documentaries & Films

  • Search for documentaries on the Terracotta Army.
  • Discover movies about the Silk Road or Tang Dynasty.
  • General Chinese history productions from National Geographic or BBC.
  • Images and videos offers valuable context for your visit.

Music & Art

  • Explore traditional Chinese music.
  • Listen to Tang Dynasty court music.
  • Discover local Shaanxi folk music (Qinqiang Opera).
  • This establishes the mood and provides cultural context.

Online Communities & Forums

  • Engage with other travelers on platforms like TripAdvisor forums.
  • Visit Reddit's r/China or r/travel.
  • Explore specific China travel forums.
  • These communities allow opportunities to ask questions and share experiences.

Emergency & Medical Information

Contacts & Protocols

Emergency Numbers

  • Police: 110
  • Ambulance/Medical Emergency: 120
  • Fire: 119
  • Traffic Accident: 122

Hospital & Clinic Locations

  • Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital (陕西省人民医院)
  • Xi'a Gao Xin Hospital (西安高新医院)
  • Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital (西安国际医学中心医院)
  • Your embassy or consulate can name international-standard hospitals.

Embassy & Consulate Information

  • Your country's embassy in Beijing or consulate in another major city.
  • Note down their emergency numbers and physical addresses.
  • Register your travel with them.
  • They constitute your main contact for consular support.

Health & Safety

Travel Doctor & Vaccinations

  • Consult a travel doctor for vaccinations.
  • Discuss required and recommended vaccinations for China.
  • This creates time for any multi-dose vaccines.

Travel Insurance

  • Obtain comprehensive travel insurance.
  • Coverage for medical emergencies and emergency evacuation.
  • Coverage for trip cancellation/interruption and lost luggage. Get a quote from World Nomads

Document & Disaster Protocols

Lost Document Procedures

  • Report loss or theft of passport/visa to local police immediately for a report.
  • Reach out to your country's's embassy for emergency passport replacement.
  • They will guide you through the replacement process.

Natural Disaster Protocols

  • Stay informed about local news and weather alerts via apps.
  • Follow directions from local authorities and hotel staff.
  • Hotels should be equipped with emergency plans.

Important Advisory

These specifics contribute to a safer and more informed travel experience.

Next Up: Xian Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Xian Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts