Practical tips for first-time visitors to Shanghai.
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Download a VPN
Google, Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp are blocked in China. Install a VPN before you go — ExpressVPN and NordVPN work well.
Essential
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Set Up Alipay
China is cashless — payments are by QR code only. Set up WeChat Pay or Alipay before you go. Few places accept international cards.
Important
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Visa
Mongolian passport holders can enter visa-free for up to 30 days. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 more months.
Know This
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SIM Card or Pocket WiFi
Get a Chinese SIM card or pocket WiFi. Available at the airport. Mongolian SIM roaming is expensive.
Tips
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Travel Insurance
Emergency medical costs in China are very high. Always get travel insurance. Notify us in advance if you plan a VIP health check.
Safety
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Maps
Google Maps doesn't work in China. Use Baidu Maps or Apple Maps. Gaode Maps (高德地图) has the most accurate maps.
Navigation
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Metro
Shanghai's metro is cheap, fast, and reliable. Get a Jiaotong card — valid at all stations and buses. Card deposit is 20 CNY.
Transport
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Language
English is rarely spoken in China. Google Translate's camera feature is very useful. With a Mongolian guide, there's no language barrier.
Communication
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Hotel
Passport details are required when booking. Choose hotels that accept foreign guests — Airbnb is restricted in China.
Accommodation