My First Week in China: I Never Wanted to Leave

GeneralSep 13, 202613,500 views

China is one of the safest countries for tourists — violent crime is extremely rare, cities are well-lit and policed, and solo female travelers report feeling safe even at night. Use common sense: watch belongings in crowds, use Didi instead of unlicensed taxis, and avoid tour touts. Emergency: 110 (police), 120 (ambulance), 119 (fire).

GeneralSep 13, 20265,600 views

NO mandatory vaccinations for tourist entry to China (unless arriving from a yellow fever endemic country — then yellow fever certificate required). CDC/WHO RECOMMENDS: routine vaccines (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, flu) for all travelers, plus Hepatitis A and Typhoid for most travelers. Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, and Rabies for extended/rural travel. Consult a travel clinic 4–6 weeks before departure.

GeneralSep 13, 20266,800 views

NO — never drink tap water directly in China. Even locals boil it first. Drink bottled water (¥2–5 at convenience stores), use the electric kettle in your hotel to boil water, or use a water filter bottle. Avoid ice in drinks at small restaurants (ice may be from tap water). Brush teeth with tap water is fine — just don't swallow it.