What are some good gifts for travelers in 2026? This whole Covid pandemic, with all its quarantine and travel restrictions, has been a huge buzz-kill for us globe trotters, but there's hope that things will change in 2026. Here are some gift ideas for the traveler in your life who is ready to get out again. A while back, I made a gift list and broke it out into budget groups for my friends … [Read more...] about 21 Best Gifts for Travelers Ready to Explore in 2026!
Does ExpressVPN Work in China in 2026? (or any VPN?)
Does ExpressVPN, NordVPN or any other major VPN still work in China? If you are currently in China, you’re probably aware of how difficult it is to connect to a virtual private network right now. Don’t worry – you’re not alone. This is a problem people are having all across the country. So what has happened? Do they no longer work in China? I’ll start by saying this: as of January 2026, … [Read more...] about Does ExpressVPN Work in China in 2026? (or any VPN?)
What Apps Are Banned in China? A List for January 2026
What websites are blocked in China in 2026 (January Update) This is a question that gets asked a lot, particularly among people who are planning to travel or move to China. It helps knowing what to expect, which is why I’d like to give you a comprehensive (and constantly updated) list of blocked websites in China. Starting in the late 1990s, Chinese authorities began monitoring and … [Read more...] about What Apps Are Banned in China? A List for January 2026
Is it Legal to Use a VPN in China in 2026? (surprising answer)
One of the most common questions I receive about VPNs (or "Virtual Private Network") is this: Is it legal to use a VPN in China in 2026? Since China censors the internet using the "Great Firewall of China" to keep people inside the country from accessing different websites like Facebook, Twitter, Google, Gmail, etc., it's no wonder the popularity has surged for the best VPN for … [Read more...] about Is it Legal to Use a VPN in China in 2026? (surprising answer)
Best VPN for China in 2026 (+ my strategy to use them)
What is the best VPN for China in 2026? That's a loaded question that often gets met with simple answers from people who have never even lived in China. While there are plenty of options to choose from, I'm aiming to not only let you know what works, but also my exact strategy for how to use a VPN and stay connected in China. Over the past 3 years 6 years 8 years 10 years … [Read more...] about Best VPN for China in 2026 (+ my strategy to use them)
Recommended China Travel Agencies & Best China Tours 2025
What are the best China tour operators? I get emails from people all the time asking for my recommendations and I've finally decided to compile my answer into a regularly-updated article. When it comes to travel, I prefer to support local China travel agencies instead of massive travel companies, and you'll see this reflected in this list. Enjoy! When it comes to tour operators, I have a … [Read more...] about Recommended China Travel Agencies & Best China Tours 2025