Greetings: Chinese people don't publicly display affection with one another, even less with strangers. Always use a person's title and surname until they invite you to do otherwise.

Holding hands in public is fine but avoid passionate embraces.

Restaurant: Tea is served free in all restaurant because it is a common drink at mealtimes.

Tips: You don't need to tip in restaurants, or in taxis, it's officially forbidden by the government and locals simply don't do it. Chinese will be more embarrassed than grateful.

Hygiene: Carry packets of tissues and antibacterial hand wipes with you. In fact some restrooms don't have toilet paper or are not clean.

Supermarket are limited for feminine hygiene products, so bring along extra.

Health risks: Potable water is available only at top hotels, so visitors should always ask before drinking tap water. Prior to your trip, consult your doctor about immunizations you might need (e.g. tetanus, typhoid, cholera and hepatitis A and B) and about malaria suppressants if you're planning to go to rural areas. Bring all prescription and over-the-counter medicine you might require.

Electricity: The voltage is 220 volts, 50 cycles. Most luxury hotels have built-in converters in bathrooms for shavers, hair dryers, etc. Otherwise, bring your own converters, because a wide variety of plug types are in use.

Useful Numbers:

	_ Police: 110	_ Fire Department: 119
	_ Ambulance: 120	_ Tourist Hotline:6513-0828
	_ Visa Card Hotline: 10-800-110-2911	_ Master Card Hotline: 10-800-110-7309

	Local Directory Assistance: 114 (Chinese)	Local Directory Assistance: 2689-0114 (English)	International Directory Assistance: 100