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Panzhihua Travel Resources

Panzhihua Travel Resources

Panzhihua Sichuan, China Travel Guide

Required Preparations Before Your Trip

Months Before Departure

  • China Visa:

    This is a document for entry; start early, as the process takes time.

  • Passport Validity:

    Confirm your passport has at least six months of validity beyond your departure date and two blank visa pages.

  • Itinerary Research:

    Begin exploring Panzhihua attractions and outline a rough itinerary.

  • Travel Insurance:

    Obtain comprehensive Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and trip cancellation.

  • VPN Subscription:

    Purchase and install a reliable VPN service for reaching international websites.

Month & 1 Week Before Departure

  • Flight Bookings:

    Secure international and major domestic flights, especially during peak season.

  • Accommodation:

    Book your hotels or guesthouses in Panzhihua and any other stops.

  • Major Train Tickets:

    Reserve any long-distance train tickets you plan to use if applicable.

  • Packing:

    Begin packing, considering climate-appropriate clothing. Eagle Creek products can aid organization.

  • Bank Notification:

    Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans.

Essential Pre-Trip Research

Mandarin Phrases

Familiarize yourself with basic Mandarin greetings and phrases. Babbel helps with language learning.

Local Culture

Read about Panzhihua's unique industrial history and its role in China's development.

Attraction Visuals

View photos and videos of attractions to help decide your must-see sites.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Security & Pet Care

  • Secure your home: Lock windows and set alarms.
  • Arrange pet care if you have pets.
  • Notify mail service to hold or redirect mail.
  • Pay bills or set them for automatic payment.

Digital Readiness

  • Download essential apps: WeChat, Alipay, Didi, Baidu/Gaode Maps.
  • Download offline map packs for navigation.
  • Install a translation app.
  • Practice simple Chinese phrases.

Arrival Checklist

First Steps at Entry

  • Clear immigration and customs at your China entry point.
  • Collect your luggage efficiently.
  • Locate the airport shuttle or taxi stand for transfer.
  • Purchase a local SIM card if needed.

Orientation

  • Navigate to your accommodation and check in.
  • Familiarize yourself with immediate surroundings.
  • Find nearby restaurants, convenience stores, and public transport.
  • Obtain a local map (digital or print) for orientation.

Initial Purchases

  • Withdraw CNY from an ATM or exchange currency at a bank.
  • Purchase bottled water and any immediate necessities.
  • Use airport shuttle, licensed taxi, or Didi to your hotel.
  • Have your hotel address in Chinese for the driver.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs and Logistics

Shopping Considerations

  • Souvenir Shopping:

    Acquire souvenirs in area markets or shops.

  • Shipping Options:

    Inquire about international shipping for larger purchases.

  • Customs Awareness:

    Be aware of your home country''s import rules for things you bring back.

VAT Refunds

  • VAT Scheme:

    China has a VAT refund scheme for foreign tourists on certain goods.

  • Complexity:

    This process is complex and often available only at major international airports for specific retailers.

  • Local Relevance:

    It is unlikely to play a significant part in Panzhihua travel.

Departure Timing

Airport Arrival

Arrive early at the airport or station for check-in and security procedures.

Recommended Timeframes

For domestic flights, 2-3 hours prior departure is advisable. For rail transport/buses, 30-60 minutes typically suffices.

Final Checks

Verify all items are packed, and no valuables are left behind in your accommodation.

Return Trip Planning

Confirm Details

  • Confirm your return flight or train details.
  • Double-check departure times and gates.
  • Review luggage allowances.
  • Keep all boarding passes and tickets handy.

Arranging Transport

  • Book transport to your point of departure in advance.
  • Book a Didi or a local taxi service.
  • Consider airport shuttle services if available from your location.
  • Account for potential traffic delays.

Digital Readiness

Pre-Departure Apps

  • Download WeChat, Alipay, Didi for local services.
  • Install Baidu Maps navigation or Gaode Maps for navigation.
  • Obtain a translation program like Pleco.
  • A VPN is important for accessing international sites.

Learning Basic Phrases

  • Practice essential Mandarin greetings and courtesies.
  • Learn phrases for ordering food.
  • Practice phrases for shopping.
  • Understand transportation-related vocabulary.

Smooth Departures

Arrange your departure for a stress-free exit. Confirm all bookings and transport.