Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

China Travel Official – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Welcome! Here you’ll find answers to the most common questions about planning your trip with us. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Our travel experts are just a message away.

1. Booking & Payment

• Q: How do I book a service or tour with you?
  • A: The booking process is simple and transparent: 1) Consultation: Contact us via email or messenger to discuss your travel dreams. 2) Proposal: We craft a personalized itinerary and quote. 3) Confirmation: You review, confirm, and sign our service agreement. 4) Deposit: Secure your booking by paying a deposit. 5) Relax: We handle the details while you receive pre-travel support and documents.
• Q: What payment methods do you accept?
  • A: For your convenience, we accept international bank transfers (TT), major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard), and PayPal. A secure payment link will be provided with your official invoice.
• Q: When is the final balance due?
  • A: A deposit (typically 30-50%) is required to confirm and start arranging your services. The remaining balance is due 45 days before your arrival date.

2. Services & Details

• Q: What’s the difference between your “Travel Butler,” “Bespoke Travel,” and “Group Travel”?
  • A: We offer different services to match various travel styles:
    • Travel Butler: This is your 24/7 digital lifeline in China. It provides on-demand support, problem-solving, and advice via chat, but does not include a pre-arranged guide, driver, or fixed itinerary. Perfect for independent explorers.
    • Bespoke Travel: A fully private and customized journey. We co-create a unique itinerary from scratch based on your passions, pace, and budget. You have a dedicated guide and driver.
    • Group Travel: Curated small-group tours with fixed dates and itineraries. These are social, cost-effective journeys featuring the best classic routes and experiences, led by a professional guide.
• Q: What is typically included in the tour price?
  • A: For Group Tours, the price usually covers accommodation, some meals, all internal transportation, a professional guide, and entrance fees for listed activities. For Bespoke Travel, everything is tailored and will be itemized in your proposal. The Travel Butler is a flat fee for remote assistance only. All exclusions are always clearly stated in your service agreement.
• Q: Can you help with obtaining a Chinese tourist visa?
  • A: Absolutely. A key document for your visa application is an official invitation letter. Upon confirmation of your booking, we will provide you with this necessary Official Travel Invitation Letter and guide you through the application process.
• Q: What exactly can the “Travel Butler” help me with during my trip?
  • A: Think of your Travel Butler as a savvy local friend in your pocket. You can ask for real-time help with translation, restaurant recommendations and bookings, arranging local transport (taxis, train tickets), troubleshooting unexpected issues, or getting advice on lesser-known spots. It’s unlimited, on-demand support.
• Q: Are your guides licensed and fluent in English?
  • A: Yes. All our guides are nationally licensed and proficient in English. For Bespoke Travel, we can often match you with guides who have specific expertise (e.g., history, photography, food) based on your interests.
• Q: How flexible is the daily schedule on a Bespoke or Group tour?
  • A: Bespoke tours are inherently flexible; the daily schedule is built around your preferences and can be adjusted as you go. For Group Tours, the itinerary is fixed to ensure smooth logistics for the whole group, but there is usually some free time built in for personal exploration.
• Q: What standard of accommodation and transportation do you use?
  • A: We partner with carefully vetted 4-5 star hotels or boutique lodgings known for cleanliness, service, and location. Private transportation is in modern, air-conditioned vehicles with safe, experienced drivers. Specific choices are detailed in your itinerary proposal.
• Q: Can you accommodate dietary restrictions or special needs?
  • A: Absolutely. Please inform us during the booking process. We will communicate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, religious, or allergy-related requirements to all restaurants and guides. We can also advise on accessibility for specific destinations.

3. Before You Go

• Q: What is the best time of year to visit China?
  • A: China is vast, so seasons vary. Generally, Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather nationwide. Summer is busy and hot, while Winter offers unique experiences like the Harbin Ice Festival. We’ll advise the best time for your chosen destinations.
• Q: Do I need any vaccinations to travel to China?
  • A: Currently, no mandatory vaccinations are required for entry. However, we always recommend consulting your doctor or a travel clinic at least 2 months before departure for general health advice and optional vaccinations (e.g., Hepatitis A).
• Q: How much spending money should I budget per day?
  • A: Aside from your pre-paid tour, we recommend budgeting approximately $50-$100 USD per person per day for lunches, souvenirs, drinks, and personal incidentals. This can vary greatly depending on your spending habits.
• Q: What should I pack for my trip to China?
  • A: We will send a detailed packing list tailored to your specific itinerary and season. Essentials include comfortable walking shoes, a power adapter (Type A, C, or I), a VPN app to access global websites, and copies of your important documents.

4. Changes & Cancellation

• Q: What is your cancellation policy?
  • A: We have a fair and structured cancellation policy. Full details will be in your service agreement. Generally:
    • More than 60 days before departure: Full refund minus any non-recoverable costs (e.g., permit fees).
    • Between 30 and 60 days before departure: 50% of the deposit is non-refundable.
    • Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total tour cost may be charged.
• Q: Can I modify my itinerary after I’ve booked?
  • A: We will always try our best to accommodate changes, subject to availability. For bespoke trips, we can revise the plan and provide an updated quote. For group tours, changes may be limited once logistics are locked in. Please contact your travel consultant as soon as possible with any change requests.
• Q: What happens if I have to leave a group tour early or join late?
  • A: Early departures or late arrivals are generally not possible on group tours due to fixed logistics. We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip interruption. For bespoke travel, your schedule is fully adjustable.

5. Support & Communication

• Q: How does the 24/7 “Travel Butler” online support work during my trip?
  • A: Once your service begins, you will have direct access to your dedicated Travel Butler via WhatsApp or WeChat. You can ask questions, get recommendations, or request immediate assistance (like booking a last-minute train ticket or translating a menu) at any hour during your travels in China.
• Q: Who will be guiding my tour?
  • A: All our Group Tours are led by licensed, fluent English-speaking guides who are experts in culture and history. For Bespoke Travel, we carefully select the best private guide or specialist to match your interests, whether it’s photography, cuisine, or family-friendly exploration.
• Q: Will I have internet access to communicate with the Travel Butler?
  • A: Yes, reliable internet is key. We strongly advise purchasing a local Chinese SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi device upon arrival at the airport. Your Travel Butler can guide you through this simple process on your first day.
• Q: What is your policy for emergencies during the trip?
  • A: Your safety is paramount. All our guides and butlers are trained to handle emergencies. You will receive 24/7 emergency contact numbers. We also strongly recommend that all travelers purchase comprehensive travel and medical insurance before their departure.
• Q: Are there any cultural etiquette tips I should know before visiting?
  • A: We provide a brief cultural guide before your trip. Key tips include: presenting business cards with both hands, avoiding sensitive political topics, and learning a few basic Mandarin phrases like “谢谢” (Xièxie – Thank you), which is greatly appreciated.

Need more help?
Reach out to us directly at support@chinatravelofficial.com or on WhatsApp/WeChat: +852 9448 5683. Let’s make your China adventure unforgettable.

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