China Travel Guide

Finding a tour operator in Shanghai isn’t hard, but finding a good one is. Unless you go through a reputable, large company then you’re likely getting ripped off. The industry standard is a degree or certificate in tour guide skills, English and basic transportation knowledge. Yet some folks continue to con the industry by short-cutting the education aspect in favor of jumping right into trying to work in the field. Tell-tale signs include older folks,... Read More

Choosing a tour operator in Beijing can be tricky. There are more scams than real operators, and there seem to always be hidden costs and at-the-end add on costs. This adds a frustrating element to travel in China, and is an ongoing problem with tourism in the Middle Kingdom. Still, there are a few ways to protect yourself. Sadly, many fake, rip-off agencies target foreigners in the false belief that all foreigners are rich and don’t mind spending more... Read More

When you get off the Peak Tram on your way, the first shops that greet you are the souvenir shops, you’ll see wax or fiberglass molding of baby’s hands, Chinese chops and Chinese calligraphy,toys, massage products, miniature fridge magnet dim sum, postcards, shirts, Chinese shoes and glitzy electronics but if you’ll just hold on just a second. There is actually another more noteworthy and different souvenir shop at the Peak Galleria and... Read More