Are you a traveler or expat wondering how to set up WeChat Wallet? Perhaps you're frustrated by the process or you haven't even started, but you know that WeChat is the preferred way to buy things in China. In this guide, I'm going to walk you through the WeChat Wallet set up process and troubleshoot why it may not be working for you. For folks currently living or planning to move to … [Read more...] about How to Set up WeChat Wallet in 2026 | China Expat Guide
What to Pack for China in 2026 (+ Free PDF Checklist!)
What should you pack for your trip to China? Whether you're an experienced traveler or this is your first time going overseas, it helps to know what is and isn't available in a country like China so you can pack accordingly. I'd like to share with you recommendations on what to pack for China (and what not pack) based on my own experience. I don't want to point out the obvious for you here … [Read more...] about What to Pack for China in 2026 (+ Free PDF Checklist!)
Can I Mail in China Visa Application in 2026?
If you're planning to visit China in 2026 and beyond, it's important to know that the process of obtaining a Chinese visa has changed. In the past, it was possible to do a mail in China visa from within the United States. However, due to the Covid pandemic, the process ha2s been updated and now requires applicants to complete an online application and schedule an appointment at one of the Chinese … [Read more...] about Can I Mail in China Visa Application in 2026?
China Visa Itinerary Without Flight or Hotel Reservations? (2026)
As of January 1, 2026, US travelers do NOT have to provide proof of flight and hotel bookings during the visa application process. Other former visa requirements (itinerary, invitation letter, etc.) have also been dropped for those applying for a Chinese visa. Here's what you need to know about what has changed and why it's gone. In addition to waiving the requirement for round trip flight … [Read more...] about China Visa Itinerary Without Flight or Hotel Reservations? (2026)
Best Shanghai Travel Guide Books for 2026 (rated & reviewed)
What is the best Shanghai travel guide book for 2026? If you're making plans to visit Shanghai, China in the next year or so, you're going to want help figuring out what's worth seeing, how to get around and other great travel tips. Below, I'd like to share with you my favorite Shanghai travel guide books reviewed and rated based on my own experience. If you plan to be heading out to … [Read more...] about Best Shanghai Travel Guide Books for 2026 (rated & reviewed)
Which Parts of China Require a China Travel Permit in 2026?
Are there places in China that require a permit to travel? It's a legitimate question because there are, in fact, a few places in China where foreign travelers aren't allowed to visit and a few that require special China travel permits. Let me explain. The ultimate fear of most any international traveler is that they'll spend all their time planning and yet when they arrive to their … [Read more...] about Which Parts of China Require a China Travel Permit in 2026?