Travel Guide

Passport and Visa

Passports:

• Australian and New Zealand citizens entering China under the visa-free policy must have a passport valid for the duration of their stay.

• For travel to Japan, passports must be valid for the duration of the stay, with at least one blank page for entry stamps.

Visa Requirements:

• Australian and New Zealand citizens can enter China without a visa for stays of up to 15 days for tourism, visiting relatives and friends, and business purposes.

• For Japan, Australian and New Zealand citizens can enter visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism and short-term business.

Visa Conditions:

• For stays in China longer than 15 days or for purposes such as work or study, a visa is required.

• We handle the visa application process on your behalf for extended stays or different travel purposes.

• The visa processing fee is included for Australian and New Zealand passport holders on our Classic Group Tours. Private Tours and Short Stays may incur additional visa costs.

Additional Information:

• We do not guarantee visa issuance for longer stays or non-tourist purposes.

• Embassies may require additional documents or interviews. We will notify you if needed.

Making a Booking

Booking Confirmation:

• Group tours: Confirmed upon payment.

• Private tours, short stays, extensions: Confirmation within 3-10 days. Updated invoice and visa forms (if applicable) provided via email.

Special Requests:

• Inform us of any medical, dietary, or other special needs at the time of booking.

Tour Documentation:

• Documentation is received 2-3 weeks before travel and includes a detailed itinerary, hotel list, flight tickets, visas (if applicable), and a pre-departure travel guide.

Health Precautions:

• Consult your doctor at least 6 weeks prior to travel for advice on necessary vaccinations and health precautions.

Luggage Restrictions:

• Maximum 20kg for checked luggage and 5kg for hand luggage. Refer to your tour dossier for specific airline restrictions.

On Tour

Children on Tours:

• Children aged 12 and above are welcome on group tours. For families with younger children, we recommend private tours for more flexibility.

Group Composition:

• Our groups typically consist of travelers from diverse backgrounds, mainly from Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, with occasional English-speaking travelers from other countries.

Dress Code:

• The dress code on tour is relaxed, with smart casual attire recommended for evenings. When visiting religious sites, covering arms and legs is advised. A packing list will be provided in your final documentation.

Attraction Closures:

• If an attraction is closed, we will provide advance notice whenever possible and arrange alternative tours or activities.

Meals Included:

• All meals are included on our tours unless stated otherwise. You’ll enjoy a mix of local cuisine and occasional western meals, with meals typically taken at local restaurants.

Travel Insurance

Insurance Recommendation:

• Ensure you have adequate coverage for the duration of your travel arrangements. We strongly recommend taking out a policy as soon as your booking is confirmed.

Insurance Policy:

• If using travel insurance through your credit card company, verify the policy’s inclusions and conditions. Provide a copy of your policy details before departure.

Money Matters

Cash:

• Bring enough cash for your initial days. Unused notes can typically be converted back at the airport upon departure, with receipts required.

Credit/Debit Card:

• A credit or debit card is recommended for emergencies and larger purchases. Keep photocopies of your cards separate from the originals.

ATMs:

• ATMs are generally reliable in major cities but may not be accessible in remote areas. It’s best to use official bank ATMs and be aware of potential withdrawal fees.

Contact Us for Travel Advice

Have questions about our tours? Contact our travel specialists for personalized advice.

Great Wall at Juyongguan, Beijing