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Baoshan Travel Checklist

Baoshan Travel Checklist

Baoshan Yunnan, China Travel Guide

Preparing for Baoshan

Timely preparations cover visa, passport, and health matters, setting up a relaxed journey.

Chronological Planning

Organize your preparations over a few months for ease and certainty.

1

Three Months Ahead

Visa Application

Apply for your China visa; allow ample time for processing.

Passport Validity

Check passport validity (6+ months, TWO blank pages).

Vaccinations

Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations.

2

One Month Ahead

Bookings

Secure international and domestic flights, trains, and accommodations.

Apps

Download VPN, WeChat, Alipay, Didi Chuxing, maps, translation apps.

Insurance

Confirm details of your travel insurance and print a copy: World Nomads Travel Insurance

3

One Week Ahead

Confirmations

Verify all reservations (flights, hotels, and tours).

Packing

Finalize bags for climate and activities: Eagle Creek Packing Solutions

Bank Notification

Notify your bank of your travel plans.

Bookings

Securing these bookings well in advance streamlines your entry and stay.

Book Ahead

  • Visa: This is absolutely required for entry into China.
  • International and Domestic Flights/Trains: Secure these well in advance.
  • Accommodation: Book your hotels or guesthouses, especially for popular areas.
  • Specific Tours or Activities: Multi-day treks in Gaoligong Mountain need advance booking.

Research for Insight

A little research greatly aids your journey and common pitfalls.

Know Before You Go

  • Culture and Etiquette: Learn local norms as a sign of respect.
  • Basic Mandarin: Learn basic Mandarin phrases.
  • Health and Safety: Review health and safety advisories for Yunnan Province.
  • Payment Systems: Understand WeChat Pay and Alipay; link cards.

Home Matters

Address home tasks before you leave, so you travel worry-free.

Notifications

  • Inform family or trusted friends of your itinerary.
  • Hold mail or arrange collection.
  • Pay any upcoming bills.
  • Arrange for pet care if needed.

Security

  • Secure your home before departure.
  • Ensure all doors and windows are locked.
  • Set timers for lights if away long.
  • Arrange for plant care if needed.

Digital Ready

  • Download offline maps.
  • Make sure all electronics are charged.
  • Pack power banks for extended use.
  • Include all necessary adapters.

Final Check

Double-check visa requirements for your nationality, as policies sometimes change. This avoids unwelcome surprises.

Arrival Checklist

Seamless arrival in Baoshan with these practical steps.

Initial Moments

  • Immigration and Customs:

    Clear immigration and customs procedures at your port of entry into China.

  • Luggage:

    Collect your luggage efficiently.

  • Transport:

    Locate your pre-arranged transport or the official taxi stand to reach your accommodation.

Orienting Yourself

  • Local SIM:

    Get a local SIM card if you did not do so at a major international airport.

  • Wi-Fi & VPN:

    Connect to Wi-Fi and confirm your VPN works properly.

  • Currency/Digital Pay:

    Exchange a little cash or confirm your digital payment apps are functioning.

Local Setup

Mobile Connectivity

Secure a local SIM for calls and data. Ensure it's activated.

This helps with route planning and communication.

Payment Ready

Set up WeChat Pay/Alipay. Withdraw some local currency for small vendors.

Mobile payments are for daily transactions.

Transport to Hotel

Use official taxis, Didi Chuxing, or an airport shuttle (if available).

Avoid unofficial touts for safety.

Arrival Advice

Have your hotel address written in Chinese for taxi drivers. A screenshot on your phone also helps.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure thoughtfully for a smooth journey home.

Souvenir & Shipping

  • Pack souvenirs carefully for transit.
  • Be aware of customs restrictions for your home country.
  • Be mindful of food or plant product limitations.
  • Organize international shipping well in advance.

VAT Refund Info

  • VAT refunds apply mainly to designated tax-free stores.
  • Minimum spend requirements often apply.
  • Unlikely to be a factor in Baoshan, not a main luxury shopping destination.
  • Keep purchase receipts for any potential claims.

Pre-departure Timing

Timely arrival at your departure point avoids unnecessary rush.

Arrival at Airport/Station

  • Arrive at the airport or train station well in advance (2-3 hours for flights).
  • Allow extra time for potential traffic delays.
  • Allocate time for security checks.
  • Account for unexpected queues.

Return Trip Details

  • Reconfirm your flight or train details 24-48 hours before departure.
  • Ensure your passport and boarding passes are easily accessible.
  • Pack any last-minute items.
  • Confirm you have not left anything behind.

Final Departure Tip

Always check the latest travel advisories for your destination and home country before departure.

This prevents any last-minute issues and promotes a smooth exit.