A文 Luky info portal · any country · no fluff
RU AR DE EN ES FR HI IT JA KO PT TH TR ZH

Work, Study, Communities, and Daily Life in China: what actually matters to know

From real experience

tipTraveling in China requires preparation, particularly regarding payment methods and language barriers.
Installing and funding Alipay is crucial for facilitating transactions, as it covers most payment needs. Additionally, translation apps are essential. Be aware of potential extreme weather conditions, especially during summer. If flying to destinations like Nha Trang, verify the availability of direct flights from your chosen Chinese city, as multiple layovers might be necessary.
✓ 1 report from chats
serviceIn Shanghai, payment options include Chinese Yuan (cash), RosSelkhoz UnionPay cards, and the Nihao app linked to RSK Bank cards.
The Maglev train from Pudong Airport to Longyang Road costs 50 Yuan (discounted to 40 Yuan with a flight boarding pass). Metro rides are around 4 Yuan. Street food prices are reasonable, with items like skewered octopus costing 35 Yuan and mangoes 25 Yuan. Souvenirs range from 39 Yuan for small items like a waving cat or hair clip.
✓ 1 report from chats
riskFree transit hotels provided by Chinese airlines for long layovers are often located far from both the airport and the city center.
Travelers wanting to explore the city should consider booking accommodations independently near the city center, as transit time between airports and downtown can exceed 1-2 hours.
✓ 1 report from chats
ruleFixed-price hotpot buffets (often ~60 CNY for a 2-hour window) are a popular and affordable dining format in China.
Many use a conveyor belt system. Avoid food waste, as some restaurants may charge extra or strictly enforce 'no-leftovers' policies.
✓ 1 report from chats
tipFor good quality Chinese teas in Shanghai, visit 'Tea City' located on a higher floor (4-5th).
Avoid the tourist-trap shops on lower levels. For purchasing teaware, consider 'Hitable' in the FFC area.
✓ 1 report from chats
tipBuying electronics in China (laptops/phones) is generally cheaper than in Russia due to logistics costs.
For devices purchased in China, Russian keyboard layouts can be easily added via laser engraving services available locally.
✓ 1 report from chats
tipOutlet villages (e.g., Florentia Village) offer the best pricing for international sportswear brands in China.
For casual shopping, suggest local e-commerce platforms (Taobao/1688) with delivery to the hotel, which is often more efficient than visiting physical malls.
✓ 1 report from chats
ruleTipping is not standard practice in China and can occasionally be perceived as offensive or confusing to service staff.
Payment is expected exactly according to the bill.
✓ 1 report from chats
tipBusiness class lounge access in China can be purchased cheaply through Taobao for approximately 80 CNY.
This does not grant a business class flight ticket but access to the lounge facilities.
✓ 1 report from chats

Related topics

🚕 Transport and Logistics 💰 Finance and Banking Services • Digital Environment and Connectivity 🛂 Documentary Support • Customs Regulations • Border and Immigration

Didn't find your case?

Ask Luky — tries to understand your situation and answer more precisely.

And Luky is a live voice translator for real conversations: ask for directions and actually understand the answer.

PS: meet someone at a bar who speaks another language

Open Luky