FAQ'S

• When will my booking be confirmed?

For group tours, your booking will be confirmed as soon as we receive your deposit. For private tours, short stays, extensions, and additional accommodation before or after group tours, the confirmation process typically takes 3–10 days, depending on the destination and any holiday periods. After confirmation, we will send you an updated invoice reflecting your deposit payment. Please ensure that your name matches exactly as it appears on your passport for the invoice, and provide this information promptly after your booking is confirmed.​

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• Can special requests be arranged?

We strive to meet your special requests to the best of our ability. Please inform us at the time of booking about any medical conditions, dietary preferences, special meals, or unique needs you may have, so we can make the necessary arrangements for your comfort.​

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• When will I receive my tour documentation?

Approximately 2–3 weeks prior to your departure, you will receive your complete travel documentation. This will include a detailed day-to-day itinerary, a list of hotels, your flight tickets (if required), any necessary visas and passports, as well as a pre-departure travel guide to ensure you're fully prepared for your journey.​

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• Are there any health precautions or vaccinations that I need?

It is advisable to consult your doctor at least six weeks before your trip to receive guidance and ensure there's enough time for any required vaccinations. Be sure to bring along your itinerary for reference during the consultation. For additional details, feel free to explore our Travel Health page.​​​​​​​​​

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• What are the luggage restrictions on tour?

Each traveller is permitted to bring two pieces of luggage: a suitcase with a maximum weight of 20kg and one item of hand luggage not exceeding 5kg. For further details, including specific airline restrictions, please consult the tour dossier available on the tour page.

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• How far in advance are flights available to book?

Airlines typically publish their flight schedules 10–11 months in advance. If you book a tour departing beyond this timeframe, your spot on the group tour will be confirmed right away. If you need us to help book flights, once flight schedules become available, we will secure your tickets and provide you with a copy of the flight itinerary.​​

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• Do you allow children on your tours?

Children aged 12 and above are welcome on our group tours. For families traveling with younger children or seeking greater flexibility, we recommend opting for our Private Tour option, which allows for a more personalized and accommodating experience during your journey.​

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• Will I have a guide?

Group Tours: For group tours with 10 or more passengers, a National Escort will accompany you from the moment you leave the airport until your departure. On multi-country tours, a new National Escort will be provided in each country. However, for extensions and stopovers, while a National Escort is not included, you will be supported by our experienced Local Guides. Transfers and flights to and from optional extension destinations are also unescorted.

Private Tours: Private tours do not include a National Escort. Instead, knowledgeable Local Guides will be available at each destination to enhance your travel experience.​​​​​​​​

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• Do you run guarantee departures?

All tours are guaranteed to operate at the advertised price when accompanied by a guide, as long as a minimum of 10 passengers are booked for the specific departure.​​​​​

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• How fit do I need to be?

To ensure you have the most enjoyable tour experience, it's important to be in good health and capable of participating in activities without assistance. Some itineraries may involve challenging conditions that require a higher level of physical fitness. To help you select the most suitable option, you can email us to get more detail.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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• Who will be in my group?​

Your group will be made up of travellers from diverse backgrounds and will be varied in age. Our groups generally mix well due to a shared interest in travel and eagerness to explore all that the destination has to offer.​​​​​​​​​​

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• Will I be travelling with passengers from other countries?

Our tours are typically enjoyed by a diverse mix of passengers from Australia, New Zealand, and Britain, with occasional participation from English-speaking travellers from other countries. Every tour is led by English-speaking National Escorts and/or Local Guides to ensure a seamless and enriching experience.​​​​​​​​

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• ​What is the dress code on your tours?

The dress code on tour is generally relaxed. However, when visiting religious sites, it’s advisable to wear clothing that covers your arms and legs. For evenings, smart casual attire is recommended. A detailed packing list will be included in your final documentation to help you prepare.​​

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• Are there ever closures to attractions/sites outlined in tours?

Attractions may occasionally close without prior notice, which could affect your ability to visit them during the tour. While such closures are beyond our control, China Student Tours will make every effort to provide advance notice when possible. In the event of a closure, alternative touring arrangements will be made to ensure your experience remains enjoyable.​

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• Are meals included?

On our Fully Inclusive Classic Group Tours, all meals are included unless stated otherwise (excluding beverages). Exploring new cuisines is a highlight of traveling in Asia, and your Local Guide will provide tips on local specialties to try. You'll enjoy a variety of local dishes, with occasional Western meals, typically served at local restaurants. In remote areas, meals may be simpler or repetitive. Refer to your day-by-day tour itinerary for details on included meals.

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• Do I need a Visa to Travel to China?

Whether you need a visa to enter China depends on your nationality. Some countries have a visa waiver agreement with China, allowing short-term visits without a visa. However, most travelers must apply for a tourist visa in advance. Visa fees vary depending on your citizenship.

If you're also planning to visit Hong Kong, keep in mind that it has separate immigration policies from mainland China, and different visa requirements may apply.

To enter China, you’ll typically need:

• A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity after your arrival date, and at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps

• An arrival card, which is usually provided during your flight or at immigration

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• Is Tipping Expected in China?

In mainland China, tipping is generally not customary and may even be seen as inappropriate in certain settings. Most locals don’t expect tips, and offering one can sometimes cause confusion or discomfort.

That said, tipping is gradually becoming more accepted in tourist-heavy areas, especially among hospitality staff such as hotel porters or tour guides. A small gratuity is appreciated, though still not required.

In contrast, Hong Kong and Western-style establishments in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai often follow more international norms. In these places, taxi drivers, restaurant servers, and hotel staff may expect or welcome a tip for good service.

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• What should I pack for a trip to China?

Packing for China depends heavily on your destination and season of travel, as the climate ranges from tropical in the south to subarctic in the north. To stay comfortable and prepared, opt for layered clothing that can adapt to changing temperatures and conditions.

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• Can I Drink the Water in China?

Although water quality in China is gradually improving, tap water is generally not safe to drink due to lingering issues with pollution and natural contaminants in the supply. It's best to avoid drinking directly from the tap. Your tour leader or hotel staff can usually advise on safe water sources during your stay.

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• What’s Internet Access Like in China?

Internet connectivity in China is generally reliable in hotels and tourist hubs, though it can be limited in remote regions. Many restaurants, cafés, and fast-food chains offer free Wi-Fi, but you may need a Chinese phone number to receive a login code, and the prompts are often in Chinese.

Internet Restrictions

China enforces strict internet censorship, meaning many popular Western websites and apps are blocked. These include:

• Social media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat

• Google services: YouTube, Gmail, Google Maps, Google Drive

• Messaging and cloud apps: WhatsApp, Dropbox

• International news outlets

Recommended Apps & Tools

• WeChat: China’s most widely used app, combining messaging, social media, and mobile payments. It’s essential for staying connected locally.

• VPN (Virtual Private Network): Many travelers use a VPN to bypass censorship and access restricted sites. However, not all VPNs work in China—free versions and some paid ones may be blocked. Choose a reputable VPN and install it before arriving.

Even with a VPN, be mindful of what you access online—some content may be sensitive and could attract unwanted attention from authorities.

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• Can I Use My Mobile Phone in China?

Mobile phone coverage in China is strong and widespread, especially in major cities. Even in rural and remote areas, signal strength is generally reliable.

Staying Connected While Traveling:

• Unlocked phone? Purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival is the most cost-effective and dependable way to stay connected. You'll find SIMs at airports, convenience stores, and mobile shops.

• Using global roaming? Be sure to check with your provider before you travel—international roaming fees can be very expensive, and coverage may vary.

Many travelers also download WeChat, China’s go-to app for messaging, payments, and more. It’s essential for navigating daily life and staying in touch locally.

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• ​What Are Toilets Like in China?

In China, squat toilets are the most commonly found type, especially in public restrooms, rural areas, and older buildings. These may be unfamiliar to some travelers, but they’re widely used and considered hygienic by many locals.

You can still find Western-style flush toilets in modern hotels, upscale restaurants, and airports, though they’re less common in everyday public facilities.

Toilet Tips for Travelers:

• Bring your own toilet paper – most public restrooms don’t supply it

• Carry hand sanitizer or wipes, as soap and running water may not always be available

• Practice squatting if you're not used to it—it can be helpful for comfort and balance

• Look for accessible toilets in newer buildings if you prefer Western-style facilities

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• ​Is It Safe to Travel to China?

China welcomes millions of international visitors each year and is generally considered safe for travelers, provided you stay aware of your surroundings, follow local laws, and respect cultural norms.

What to Keep in Mind:

• Public safety is strong in most areas, with low rates of violent crime. Petty theft can occur in crowded places like markets or train stations, so keep valuables secure.

• Government surveillance and internet censorship are widespread. Many foreign websites and social media platforms are blocked, and public spaces may be monitored.

• Protests and demonstrations are strictly prohibited. Participating in or documenting such events—through photos or videos—can lead to serious consequences.

While the political environment is tightly controlled, most travelers experience a smooth and enriching journey when they stay informed and respectful.