Why CHINA was the WORST trip of my life (but I learnt a lot!)

Summary

In this personal travel vlog, a Russian traveler shares the challenges and lessons learned during their first trip to China. The journey begins with frustrating encounters in Shanghai, where issues like VPNs and blocked social media platforms hinder communication. Despite feeling isolated, the traveler eventually adapts, gaining crucial tips like using WeChat for communication and offline maps. The video explores cultural differences, debunks common stereotypes, and offers essential advice for anyone visiting China. The traveler highlights the importance of being well-prepared for a trip, showcasing both the frustrations and the wonders of exploring a foreign country with a new perspective.

Takeaways

• 😀 Travel to China can be a challenge if you aren't well-prepared, especially when dealing with internet restrictions and communication issues.
• 😀 As a Russian passport holder, you can travel to certain Chinese cities for 144 hours (6 days) without a visa, but make sure you're aware of the limitations.
• 😀 VPNs don't always work in China, even if you use paid services, so don't rely solely on this for connecting to the internet.
• 😀 WeChat is the primary way to communicate in China. It's essential to have it set up beforehand, especially if you're meeting friends or locals.
• 😀 Offline maps and translation apps are crucial for navigating China, as many places may not have English-speaking staff.
• 😀 Many Western social media apps like Instagram, Facebook, and Google are blocked in China, so be ready to find alternative ways to connect.
• 😀 It's important to withdraw cash before arriving, as international payment systems like Visa and MasterCard are not commonly accepted.
• 😀 China has a unique food culture, including some surprising dishes like 'rolling donkey tong.' Be prepared for some strange translations and local flavors.
• 😀 The Great Wall is an incredible historical site, with sections from different dynasties, including the original, less-restored parts.
• 😀 Be aware of cultural stereotypes. China is not as closed off as some may think, and there's more access to outside news than commonly assumed.
• 😀 The 'One-Child Policy' has been repealed, allowing families to have more children without facing huge fines, though it existed from 1980 to 2016.

Q & A

What was the biggest challenge the traveler faced upon arriving in China?

The traveler’s biggest challenge was the inability to access social media and basic services due to the internet restrictions in China. Despite using a VPN, nothing worked, which caused frustration and confusion.

Why couldn’t the traveler access Google services in China?

Google services, including Google Maps, are blocked in China due to government regulations, which prevent citizens from accessing certain information that might include sensitive or secret locations.

What lesson did the traveler learn about VPNs in China?

The traveler learned that not all VPNs work in China. They assumed VPNs would work as they did in Russia but found that even paid VPNs didn’t help them access blocked services.

How did the traveler finally manage to contact someone and solve their issues?

The traveler used a Russian app, VK, which was still accessible in China, to get in touch with someone abroad who helped them get the necessary approval to leave China.

What local app did the traveler need to use for communication in China?

The traveler learned that the popular local app for communication in China is WeChat, which does not require a VPN and is widely used by locals.

What is a significant cultural difference the traveler experienced in China regarding water consumption?

In China, people traditionally drink hot water rather than cold water. This practice stems from historical reasons when water filtration was poor, and boiling water was necessary to ensure it was safe to drink.

What should travelers do before arriving in China to avoid the internet issues faced in the script?

Travelers should download a reliable VPN that works in China, have a translation app for communication, and prepare offline maps since Google services are blocked in China.

What does the traveler suggest regarding payments in China?

The traveler suggests withdrawing cash at the airport or in the city, as Visa and MasterCard are not widely accepted in China. Instead, local payment systems like AliPay and UnionPay are commonly used.

What is the traveler’s opinion on Chinese food, and what did they enjoy most about the country?

The traveler enjoyed the food the most while in China, stating it was one of the highlights of their trip. They also appreciated China’s diverse landscapes, from snow mountains to deserts.

What stereotype about China did the traveler clarify regarding brainwashing and government control?

The traveler clarified that Chinese people can access news from other countries, including the bad and good, despite the government’s restrictions on certain foreign websites. The idea of being completely brainwashed by the government is inaccurate.