This was posted 1 year 2 months 9 days ago, and might be an out-dated deal.

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China Return Ex SYD/MEL: Guangzhou $361, Chengdu $362, Shanghai $380, Wuhan $386, Beijing $388 & More on Hainan via Haikou @ BTF

1750
China Return Ex SYD/MEL: Guangzhou $361, Chengdu $362, Shanghai $380, Wuhan $386, Beijing $388 & More on Hainan via Haikou @ BTF
Go to Deal
Associatedbeatthatflight on 22/10/2023 - 09:08 beatthatflight.com.au (4501 clicks)
Last edited 23/10/2023 - 14:52 by 1 other user

The epic deal is back again!

I've gone through some example cities and routes below, but anywhere that Hainan sells/flies, appears to be on sale. If you find any dates cheaper than I've found, please add in comments for others!

Accommodation is also available for sale in these cities

Summary:
Sydney to Beijing (31 Oct - 31 Mar) from $388 Return
Sydney to Shanghai (31 Oct - 31 Mar) from $380 Return
Sydney to Guangzhou (31 Oct - 31 Mar) from $361 Return
Sydney to Wuhan (31 Oct - 31 Mar) from $386 Return
Sydney to Shenzhen (31 Oct - 31 Mar) from $362 Return
Sydney to Chengdu (31 Oct- 31 Mar) from $362 Return
Sydney to Xiamen (31 Oct- 31 Mar) from $386 Return
Melbourne to Beijing (31 Oct - 25 Nov) from $441 Return
Melbourne to Shanghai (31 Oct - 31 Mar) from $458 Return
Melbourne to Guangzhou (31 Oct - 31 Mar) from $433 Return
Melbourne to Wuhan (31 Oct - 31 Mar) from $455 Return
Melbourne to Shenzhen (31 Oct - 31 Mar) from $368 Return
Melbourne to Chengdu (31 Oct - 31 Mar) from $455 Return
Melbourne to Xiamen (31 Oct - 31 Mar) from $421 Return

Sydney to Beijing

Dates: 31 Oct 23 - 31 Mar 24

Return Price Travel Dates
$430 31 Oct to 15 Mar
$392 2 Nov to 17 Nov
$392 2 Nov to 22 Nov
$392 2 Nov to 27 Nov
$391 2 Nov to 22 Dec
$391 2 Nov to 22 Dec
$391 2 Nov to 27 Dec
$388 2 Nov to 11 Mar
$392 2 Nov to 22 Mar
$403 9 Nov to 25 Dec
$403 9 Nov to 6 Mar
$397 9 Nov to 25 Mar
$475 2 Mar to 6 Mar
$474 16 Mar to 20 Mar

Sydney to Shanghai

Dates: 31 Oct 23 - 31 Mar 24

Return Price Travel Dates
$430 31 Oct to 15 Mar
$387 2 Nov to 10 Nov
$387 2 Nov to 22 Nov
$387 2 Nov to 27 Dec
$380 2 Nov to 25 Mar
$386 9 Nov to 25 Dec
$386 9 Nov to 6 Mar
$475 2 Mar to 6 Mar
$474 16 Mar to 20 Mar

Sydney to Guangzhou

Dates: 31 Oct 23 - 31 Mar 24

Return Price Travel Dates
$403 31 Oct to 27 Mar
$362 2 Nov to 22 Nov
$361 2 Nov to 27 Dec
$362 9 Nov to 13 Nov
$361 9 Nov to 25 Dec
$361 9 Nov to 6 Mar
$449 2 Mar to 6 Mar
$448 16 Mar to 20 Mar

Sydney to Wuhan

Dates: 31 Oct 23 - 31 Mar 24

Return Price Travel Dates
$430 31 Oct to 15 Mar
$387 2 Nov to 22 Nov
$387 2 Nov to 27 Dec
$387 9 Nov to 13 Nov
$386 9 Nov to 25 Dec
$386 9 Nov to 6 Mar
$475 2 Mar to 6 Mar
$474 16 Mar to 20 Mar

Sydney to Chengdu

Dates: 31 Oct 23 - 31 Mar 24

Return Price Travel Dates
$436 31 Oct to 10 Nov
$431 31 Oct to 15 Mar
$387 2 Nov to 10 Nov
$387 2 Nov to 22 Nov
$387 2 Nov to 27 Dec
$387 9 Nov to 13 Nov
$387 9 Nov to 25 Dec
$387 9 Nov to 6 Mar
$475 2 Mar to 6 Mar
$474 16 Mar to 20 Mar

Sydney to Shenzhen

Dates: 31 Oct 23 - 31 Mar 24

Return Price Travel Dates
$405 31 Oct to 15 Mar
$362 2 Nov to 22 Nov
$362 2 Nov to 27 Dec
$362 9 Nov to 13 Nov
$362 9 Nov to 25 Dec
$362 9 Nov to 6 Mar
$449 2 Mar to 6 Mar
$448 16 Mar to 20 Mar

Sydney to Xiamen

Dates: 31 Oct 23 - 31 Mar 24

Return Price Travel Dates
$437 31 Oct to 10 Nov
$436 31 Oct to 25 Dec
$387 2 Nov to 10 Nov
$387 2 Nov to 22 Nov
$387 2 Nov to 27 Dec
$386 2 Nov to 6 Mar
$475 2 Mar to 6 Mar
$474 16 Mar to 20 Mar

Melbourne to Beijing

Dates: 31 Oct 23 - 31 Mar 24

Return Price Travel Dates
$606 31 Oct to 25 Dec
$449 5 Nov to 11 Nov
$441 5 Nov to 16 Nov
$441 5 Nov to 25 Nov
$449 5 Nov to 30 Nov
$472 3 Mar to 23 Mar
$463 3 Mar to 25 Mar

Melbourne to Shanghai

Dates: 31 Oct 23 - 31 Mar 24

Return Price Travel Dates
$606 31 Oct to 25 Dec
$511 30 Jan to 25 Mar
$458 3 Mar to 23 Mar
$458 3 Mar to 25 Mar

Melbourne to Guangzhou

Dates: 31 Oct 23 - 31 Mar 24

Return Price Travel Dates
$495 31 Oct to 25 Dec
$487 31 Oct to 24 Mar
$490 13 Nov to 22 Mar
$484 30 Jan to 25 Mar
$496 20 Jan to 24 Mar
$433 3 Mar to 23 Mar
$433 3 Mar to 25 Mar

Melbourne to Wuhan

Dates: 31 Oct 23 - 31 Mar 24

Return Price Travel Dates
$606 31 Oct to 10 Nov
$519 5 Nov to 16 Nov
$458 3 Mar to 23 Mar
$455 3 Mar to 25 Mar

Melbourne to Chengdu

Dates: 31 Oct 23 - 31 Mar 24

Return Price Travel Dates
$626 31 Oct to 10 Nov
$512 3 Nov to 16 Nov
$455 3 Mar to 23 Mar
$455 3 Mar to 25 Mar

Melbourne to Shenzhen

Dates: 31 Oct 23 - 31 Mar 24

Return Price Travel Dates
$566 31 Oct to 10 Dec
$368 5 Nov to 11 Nov
$368 5 Nov to 16 Nov
$523 13 Nov to 21 Feb
$484 30 Jan to 25 Mar
$433 3 Mar to 23 Mar
$433 3 Mar to 25 Mar

Melbourne to Xiamen

Dates: 31 Oct 23 - 31 Mar 24

Return Price Travel Dates
$606 31 Oct to 25 Dec
$469 3 Nov to 11 Nov
$421 3 Nov to 16 Nov
$606 13 Nov to 8 Dec
$458 3 Mar to 23 Mar
$458 3 Mar to 25 Mar

You can follow us at Beat That Flight for more deals, error fares, promos and sales, on Youtube, on Facebook, or on Google News.

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closed Comments

  • lanjiao on 22/10/2023 - 09:23
    +11

    Awesome price

    • rainbowyen on 22/10/2023 - 09:35
      +6

      Yeah more like you need to pay 10 times more if you ever wanted to go there.

    • sauce2k on 22/10/2023 - 09:38
      +15

      lol relax buddy. You have watched too much tv

      • Ahyao17 on 22/10/2023 - 09:40
        -7

        I am just taking the piss out of it haha

        but you do take it seriously when you are from sensitive places (e.g. some Island off Chinese coast who China have an army targeting) and have actually read news about people getting into trouble going to China.

        • sauce2k on 22/10/2023 - 10:01
          +28

          lol bruh, you go to China like you would go to any other countries. You go there as a tourist you will be fine. Don't make a fool of yourself when travelling, then you will be alright. This applies to any places you go.

            • sauce2k on 22/10/2023 - 11:22
              +8

              @Champ888: i travel with an open mind. If you like to make a fool of yourself outside your own country, hey, you do you.

          • Daibaw on 22/10/2023 - 11:54
            +21

            @sauce2k: As someone born and raised there I wouldn't say China is just like any other country to travel in. I don't buy the Mordoch fearmongering crap in the media either but one needs to be aware that China is a quirky place for travelers, especially backpackers.
            Some things to watch for (apart from getting your visa and VPN in order):
            - Prebook all our accommodations when overseas. Call the front desk to make sure they actually accommodate foreigners (big international chains are usually fine), if you count on walking into a hotel in China you will have a hard time finding one that isn't "domestic guests only"
            - Visa and Mastercard support is nearly non-existent (they phased them out a few years ago). You can cash out on ATMs but cash is considered a massive inconvenience and you get looks when vendors scramble to find the changes.
            - Getting a taxi without a local phone number will be a struggle.
            - Don't wear meme or slogan T-shirts FFS.
            - Other things you will find out especially if you go off the beaten track in Shanghai, Guangzhou etc.
            The way they run things over there isn't evil per se, but it is very overbearing, it's exactly like living in a household run by a stereotypical Asian mum… and it's not very fun if you are the freewheeling type.

            • sauce2k on 22/10/2023 - 12:07
              -1

              @Daibaw: Agree with what you wrote but you have taken this out of context. I’m replying to his comment about the government etc, so my advise is do not act like a fool then you will be ok.

              • Daibaw on 22/10/2023 - 13:25
                +11

                @sauce2k: What I said is about the government… the people in China are generally nice but not so much I can say about the "machine" and the way it's trending towards especially since the COVID years.
                Spending money or finding accommodation is getting harder is only the symptoms of a bigger problem IMO.
                Not to "act like a fool" used to work well most of the time, in big cities at least. But I'd suggest play a bit defensively these days and really know the area (and dates) you are going and lay low if you are not local. Have an argument then get filmed and what your said taken out of context then uploaded for nationalist clickbait happens to expats all the time. Personally I'd also avoid all the major sport/commerce events (unless you are attending them) and many weeks up to and following a CCP conference or Congress Session (sadly both happen during the best time of year to visit) - the security levels are insane.
                There are destinations where one should just decide to go on a hunch because the air fare is cheap. Mainland China just isn't one of them. I also encourage people to have an open mind, but the mention of "open mind" often do imply something not for the faint hearted.

                • sauce2k on 22/10/2023 - 18:51

                  @Daibaw: I think you are little too harsh on your own country.

                  I will point out a few things

                  • You don’t need to play a little defensive, imagine doing this when travelling. It’s almost like tiptoeing in a house when your parents are sleeping when you get home late. I’ve always advised my mates visiting China treat people with respect and be aware of the language barrier. It’s actually almost like Japan where most people don’t speak English but it’s so much better nowadays, I think the young demographic peeps all speak a bit of English.

                  • what is the likelihood of you getting into a heated argument with someone that attracts filming then mass media impact?

                  • the security is insane during the conference but it’s not like shut down or they gonna be looking through everything. I’ve been back there during the conference, while a lot of entertainment places are shut down eg karoake, other than that it’s normal.

                  • I wouldn’t categorise China as one of “those countries”, China is full of culture and if you do your research and hopefully can get a local guide then you will be fine.

                  Anyway you have your opinions about China not gonna change that but these are just my thoughts.

                  • Daibaw on 22/10/2023 - 19:31
                    +5

                    @sauce2k: I do agree China is an awesome country to explore, which is why I feel it's a real shame with all the artificial barriers put for travellers. And those are not really cultural IMO… they make things harder just for the convenience for the administration, and the excuse is always some imaginary threats that I don't agree with.

                    I've been inside and outside the country long enough to remember the days when the cities had more diverse character, the way things worked were a lot friendlier with travellers / returnees, so I don't like the way it's trending. It's even more worrying if you read Chinese, the internal media has really picked up the dirty tricks from the News Corp in the recent years…

                    Back to the point of the comment here I do think it is perfectly fine to travel in China, myself going next month. But plan it properly and have a bit of leeway. I do know people who got into trouble over there assuming it's just like Hong Kong and Japan (based on the distrust of media), just sayin'.

                • rokufan on 22/10/2023 - 21:32
                  -1

                  @Daibaw:

                  I don't buy the Mordoch fearmongering crap in the media either but one needs to be aware that China is a quirky place for travelers

                  The way they run things over there isn't evil per se, but it is very overbearing… I'd suggest play a bit defensively… lay low if you are not local… [don't] Have an argument… avoid all the major sport/commerce events… not for the faint hearted

                  "Quirky" is doing a of work in this description.

            • BuyNow Think Later on 22/10/2023 - 15:54

              @Daibaw:

              • Visa and Mastercard support is nearly non-existent (they phased them out a few years ago). You can cash out on ATMs but cash is considered a massive inconvenience and you get looks when vendors scramble to find the changes.

              How did you get around this to pay for things?

              • Jamesx on 22/10/2023 - 17:51
                +3

                @BuyNow Think Later: You actually can use Visa & Mastercard in Alipay &WeChat pay which is essential and accepted anywhere payment methods in China. Even beggers use these.
                Just did this ourselves this month. It's since the Asian Games I believe.
                The wolf/eagle warriors from both sides are brain washed idiots. If you don't believe me, you're one of them. The wiser minded from all over the world can tell.

              • Daibaw on 22/10/2023 - 18:36
                +3

                @BuyNow Think Later: You still have a right to use cash. It is illegal to refuse cash. You get looks but I think most of the time you still get away as they do have some small note / coin reserves for oldies with a dumb phone etc tucked away under a mat or something.

                If you doing extended stays the next best thing is probably a special version of WeChat/AliPay that allows you to link your Visa or MasterCard so you get to go around like a local to some extent, it's a very recent development and they are not getting many users, so expect it to be a bit buggy here and there. Also by principle I think it'd be a privacy nightmare if every country you travel in ask you to sign up for some local payment service which requires you to upload your identity docs and bobble your head in the camera…

                • whyisave on 22/10/2023 - 20:57
                  +2

                  @Daibaw: @Daibaw
                  You have made a lot of a good points and given very level-headed advice.
                  I applaud this.
                  I know where you are coming from, and maintaining good balance in your comments.

                  I had been to China, maybe 1.5 decades ago, and I was able to walk into any hostel/hotel
                  and ask for accommodation as a foreigner, backpacked around the whole country and loved it.
                  (Life before smartphones!)

                  The people are not the government, and I'm not always swallowing the local Australian news here either.
                  I have good intentions to want to meet locals and learn from each person, with openness.

                  I went through Guangzhou, a few months ago, just a 1-day transit,
                  and I had to think many times before leaving the airport
                  (ie. not wanting giving fingerprinting, camera pictures at immigration,
                  visiting 'soon' after Covid),
                  but I did and enjoyed my time in Guangzhou.
                  Lots of Africans there!

                  In my very short time, I just found a completely
                  different China per se, from my own memories,
                  ie. everyone has smartphones and looking at them,
                  CCTV and police force in many places,
                  digital payments nearly everywhere
                  (80% of people accepted my cash, 20% refused.
                  Of those that accepted cash, 80% of them did not want old notes
                  or even new notes that were 'low value'),
                  highly technological amenities & services available to public,
                  mask-wearing of a traumatised population after Covid,
                  … to name some observations.
                  (Actually, it was annoying also not having the Internet access
                  on my phone this time, ie. no access to Gmail at all
                  and I'm not into VPNs, but I guess everyone tells me to get one )

                  I still felt wonder and excitement being there,
                  but less attention for being non-Chinese,
                  than what I got a very long time ago,
                  unless it was for economic reason (ie. they are trying to sell something!).

                  This positive experience makes me want to visit the mainland (again),
                  but my very Australianized Chinese colleague had warned me about the hoops to go through,
                  eg. Visa process, digital payment system in China, necessity for SIM card, hotel bookings, etc..etc.
                  and he finds all this difficult and a nuisance, and he's a native Chinese speaker too!
                  (He had told me before I went to Guangzhou, exactly what you described,
                  ie. the "overbearing" nature for backpacker-style travel,
                  that the country is set up with so many checks/systems/containments
                  that free-travel is impossible now,
                  eg. getting a SIM card as a foreigner and linking payment cards to AliPay/WeChat, etc.)
                  I even remember my Visa application at the actual consulate,
                  was so easy and straight-forward….and cheap!
                  It's triple the price now!

                  In any case, these cheap flights make me want to book a flight and go,
                  but this time, I would visit the places that I could not go last time,
                  so I would ask your opinion on this,
                  ie. travel to Xinjiang for tourism, … and possibly entering Kazakhstan from China.

                  I don't have much interest in Tibet,
                  but what are your thoughts about travel to those places (eg. Urumqi, Kashgar) ?
                  I'm not going with political-activism mindset,
                  but just want to explore the nature, eat the local food,
                  and watch old people Qi Goong in parks, etc.

                    • whyisave on 22/10/2023 - 21:10

                      @TightAl:

                      • I only spent a day in Guangzhou, and I didn't catch taxis.
                        So, I didn't mention anything about taxis or even Mastercard (?)

                      • I only had currency with me.
                        I didn't know how to get a SIM card (for digital payments),
                        nor did I need one, for my short 20+ hour stay.
                        I gave my anecdotal evidence of personal experience,
                        of how shopkeepers and mall-shop owners treated me.
                        It was not a criticism, but a factual observation.
                        ( The 80-20 percentages were 'rough' calculations )

                      • I didn't spend the night there, so I didn't need to book anything through Booking / Agoda
                        Besides, I got a free hotel from the airline, so I utilized that freebie :-)

                      I don't know the purpose of your post
                      or why you think I have lost plots ?

                  • Daibaw on 22/10/2023 - 21:58
                    +1

                    @whyisave: Haha you got my point. I often tell people who say "it's fine" in China it's because they have not seen things being a lot more normal in earlier years…

                    Anyway, you seem to be a seasoned traveler, and you are most likely to have your time of life in Xinjiang especially if you go in the right season (Aug/Sept). The scenery is on par with New Zealand with a culinary wonder 10x greater. Traveling there as a foreigner is doable (unlike Tibet), but you need to stick to heavily policed main cities like Urumqi and Kashgar, as most border regions are strictly off-limits as are some archaeological sites and military zones. The rules are tricky and changing, so I'd consult a professional.

                    But know this: Xinjiang is the national surveillance capital. A lot of the security nonsense throughout China was actually first developed and deployed "temporarily" in Xinjiang for anti-terrorism purposes then ended up being applied permanently and nationwide - something I call the Galactic Empire Syndrome. So do expect to be hassled by police officers on a daily basis (same for domestic inter-province travelers to a lesser extent), have a fixed itinerary printed out, and always stay in "approved" accommodation and stick to your planned route. It's part of the "fun" (some police officers are actually quite nice), but such an experience is obviously not for everyone!

                  • Daibaw on 22/10/2023 - 22:24
                    +2

                    @whyisave: Also, a good way to experience China (only big port cities obviously) short-term without having to deal with the hoops to jump is to use the 144-hour visa-free transit. Book yourself a multi-city ticket that stops in China for up to 7 days (the 144-hour only starts counting from midnight after you enter the country) and use Vodafone's $5 roaming for no-restriction Internet. Stay at branded hotels like Holiday Inn - they are actually quite cheap for what they offer, who will take care of all the police registration stuff for you.

                    This makes a good stop on your way to Europe/Taiwan/Japan. You can even do two stops, one in each direction. Many Chinese Australians use this to visit family or even use this way to "collect" family and then go on a holiday together.

                    • whyisave on 22/10/2023 - 22:31
                      +2

                      @Daibaw:

                      short-term without having to deal with the hoops to jump is to use the … visa-free transit.

                      Yes, I've already had this idea, since they introduced this 10+ years ago.
                      I'm on top of this, and I tell everyone to do this (even my disbelieving Chinese-background colleague,
                      whom I had to prove recently that the transit visa worked in Guangzhou )

                      This is why I like this transit visa procedure, and especially the 144-hour one (which I have not utilized yet),
                      because it removes the hassle of going to consulates here and paying the fees,
                      and for me, it's enough sometimes just to visit the big cities (I know the transit visa also restrictions, eg. can't leave the designated "zone" of the city).

                      With such cheap China fares, and Covid "threat" is gone,
                      I'm thinking of visiting some places I 'missed' last time,
                      but transit visa won't be possible for visiting Xinjiang (or lesser extent Tibet).

                      • Daibaw on 22/10/2023 - 23:15
                        +1

                        @whyisave: Visa-free transit usually doesn't work on deals like this because you have to be on a direct flight on both legs in/out of China. China Eastern and Air China give you far more flexibility for this at PVG and PEK, hence the higher premium. Multi-city tickets also tend to be pricier too.

                        I have one upcoming China Eastern ticket having SYD-PVG, SHA-HND, HND-SHA, and PVG-SYD on the same itinerary $1000 return. Will see how that goes and report back.

                        One thing that's tricky about the visa-free thing is they say you have to be on a "connected" flight but in practice they let you go if you have two round-trip bookings stitched together (much easier to book). But that's obviously subject to that officer's discretion…

                        • whyisave on 23/10/2023 - 09:03

                          @Daibaw: Yes, you are right about all of this,
                          and I am also aware of this,
                          ie. the flights need to be A - B - C and not A - B - A , to qualify for the transit Visa
                          (so, the flight needs to show onward journey to a "3rd country" )

                          Hence, the plane tickets with "multi-city" type bookings,
                          for extra time in transit, will always be more pricey
                          and that's fine with me, because either way,
                          you're going to lose that bit of money in Visa applications anyway.

                          What you helped me understand, was stitching up the 2 round-trip bookings :-D

              • Daibaw on 22/10/2023 - 18:44
                +1

                @BuyNow Think Later: Also I used to be a local so I have an Alipay account tied to my old identity, and I use it to pay for stuff there. I would never give them my Australian bank / identity / phone details though lol.

            • TightAl on 22/10/2023 - 21:16
              +1

              @Daibaw: I think you've lost the plot.
              - Didi is easy to use in China - why do you need a mastercard to catch a cab?
              - No idea why you're talking about actual currency, there was only 1 place that didn't take Alipay (which every foreigner can use - linked to their MC/Visa/Wise/whatever card you want to use) - the one place that didn't take Alipay took MC/Visa.
              - Booking hotels via Bookings/Agoda etc are all foreigner friendly

              Nearly everything you've said is either outdated or incorrect.

              • Daibaw on 22/10/2023 - 22:49

                @TightAl: As I said Alipay/WeChat for Visa/MC was only recently (re)introduced about two months ago. I'm still skeptical because the last time they had it was a mess, got abandoned, and I doubt how many resources they'd actually put into those international apps if the usage doesn't pick up (returnees don't really need them and foreigners would mostly like have concerns about giving them their passports).

                I was clear about the hotels - always book ahead using overseas sites. Many of my backpacker friends like to walk into places and ask for a room because they don't have a fixed itinerary - this doesn't work in China anymore. And no, you can get a hotel from Booking/Agoda that ends up being non-foreigner-friendly, Chinese sites (ctrip/qunar) sometimes have accurate on that but the only way to be sure is to call, because being a foreign guest is such a unusual thing now.

                I had a bad experience with Didi last time in Shanghai with an underused account linked to an overseas phone number. I could be outdated on that - will find out this time.

            • juki on 23/10/2023 - 00:01

              @Daibaw: whats special about domestic guests only ones?

              what should i use if not visa or mastercard ?

              is getting a visa still a pain in the pigu?

            • nightelves on 25/10/2023 - 17:35

              @Daibaw: How are you suppose to pay for stuff if you can’t use Visa or Mastercard?

          • RichardZed on 23/10/2023 - 09:22
            +1

            @sauce2k: This is one of the most outlandish things I've come across in months. Claiming that being a tourist in China is just like visiting any other country? Seriously? If you genuinely hold this belief, you might be lacking accurate information. In fact, it was more straightforward to explore and tour China a decade ago than it is today.

            Please refrain from spreading misinformation like this. Touring China as a visitor is markedly distinct from most other countries. Your movements are heavily restricted, and many hotels won't accommodate you. If you stick to approved destinations and activities, you might get by, but don't expect the same level of freedom you'd experience elsewhere. To avoid trouble, it's often best to keep a low profile and not express strong opinions. It's definitely not like visiting just any other country.

            • sauce2k on 23/10/2023 - 10:06

              @RichardZed: "Outlandish things you have come across in months"..lol

              What's your accurate information from? You live in China? You travelled to China recently? Or you watched the news or read the paper?

              1. When I say just like any other country, I repeatedly said don't act like a fool. Maybe you should read my response again.

              2. I am not spreading anything and none of the stuff I said is misleading, in fatct, I agreed with Daibaw's comments about inconvenience such as hard to use cash etc.

              3. What movements are "Heavily" restricted? Let me know?

              4. What are approved destinations and activities? What do you do when you travelling? You go sightseeing, eat around and go to a bar/club at night? None of these things are restrcited. Sure, if you want to visit Zhongnanhai or posing disrespectful pictures in front of Tian An men square, then sure, good luck. Hence why I said don't act like a fool and be respectful.

              5. You express strong opinions when you are travelling? Who do you express your opinions to? Local restaurant owners?

              Why are you triggered and jump into the conclusion that I'm spreading misinformation?

              • Daibaw on 23/10/2023 - 10:43
                +1

                @sauce2k: On 5 - Taxi drivers. They like to ask you about the Trade War or Ukraine or Hong Kong. I usually just smile and pretend I do not know much about the topic and listen in amusement when they go on about what a bully who started COVID the US is and Australia being the spineless lapdog, while cutting in front of the other car in the next lane.

                Only happens when you speak the language though.

                For all fairness, this is not just a Chinese thing. In the US (especially in the country) people start political conversations all the time, that usually involve some pro-Trump dude encouraging us Aussies to "take back your country" lol.

                • sauce2k on 23/10/2023 - 10:52

                  @Daibaw: 100% agree with this one. I don’t know about the others, when I get asked about politics when I’m travelling, I usually act neutral or just playing dumb. I don’t even get involved here in Australia.

                  The cab drivers in China are so chatty but most conversations are friendly. If you don’t speak Chinese, the drivers won’t be able to communicate much anyway. They will ask how are you, what are you doing in China etc etc.

                  I remember when I took my friends to China I told them not to speak English to me so we don’t get ripped off 😂

                  • Daibaw on 23/10/2023 - 11:25
                    +2

                    @sauce2k: Ditto. Although I never really engage in those conversations I do observe how their opinions change. Most of my taxi rides happen in Shanghai, where much of the demographics used to be quite the liberal type. These days they are all super nationalist and heavily influenced by Douyin clickbaits. This means the same friendly conversation in the past could end up being an ugly argument today - this is what I said about laying low. Don't express your opinion even when explicitly asked by a local, because they are asking you only for the sake of their own confirmation bias.

                    Of course, it's never wise to engage in such conversations in travels, you can't neglect where things are drifting. To say the least, those AI-powered mobile media isn't making the world a better place.

              • RichardZed on 24/10/2023 - 00:28
                -1

                @sauce2k: So upset , have I struck a nerve?

                • sauce2k on 24/10/2023 - 05:58
                  -1

                  @RichardZed: Nice response 😂 this just shows you are full of crap🤣

            • TightAl on 23/10/2023 - 12:08
              +1

              @RichardZed: Having come back from China last month, nothing you've said on this is credible at all.
              Even your comment about hotels is remarkably false. Hotels that don't accept foreigners AREN'T bookable on Foreigner websites - do you think Agoda/Bookings would do this?

              Movements heavily restricted? Do they have the Chinese version of FBI following tourists around? LoL

              • RichardZed on 24/10/2023 - 00:32
                -2

                @TightAl: China is a massive country if you are happy to see the 5% that is bookable enjoy.

        • nerd1 on 22/10/2023 - 10:14
          -3

          The only ones talking about going to eat is the USA. I dont know the intentions of the government of China but they arent the ones talking up the invasions and attacks.

          This is all US propaganda, out to destabilise China and propagate their warmongering ways. Lots of money there fir the pockets of the officials.

          War is not conducive to business. I'm sure China has more to gain if they continued to do business goibally than trying to attack a small island.

          • Ren0oo on 22/10/2023 - 10:38
            +3

            @nerd1: It's not US propaganda but straight from the horses mouth. They openly admit it & are building up, preparing and structuring their military for that exact eventuality. I'd actually say this dismissiveness is the real propaganda from authoritarian countries that have always been far more specialised & sophisticated when it comes to such things.

            On a side note it's a great deal & a country rich in culture & history. I also doubt there's any real risk for tourists, but am personally not going to line the pockets of a country that the current trajectory is towards direct conflict with us. The deals obviously subsidised by Chinese government for economic (tourist spending) & political (improve negative image abroad by showing rich culture/history).

            I know someone visited N.K. as a tourist & remember thinking yea it's cool, unique, you'll have great story, but ultimately your just keeping the regime in power by giving them desperately needed foreign currency. Uncle Kim's probably using your dollars to buy bloody nuclear components.

            • Yosan on 22/10/2023 - 12:03
              +10

              @Ren0oo: There are too many pro CCP “users” in ozbargain.

            • nightelves on 25/10/2023 - 17:45
              -1

              @Ren0oo: Did your friend ever try to steal a poster in N.K?

          • sistermay on 22/10/2023 - 15:19
            +4

            @nerd1: Your reply really shows you don't understand China.

    • BarneyStinson on 22/10/2023 - 09:38

      Go there with a bit of Tegridy trust me.

      • Tim91 on 22/10/2023 - 12:09

        Haha the only way

    • Protractor on 22/10/2023 - 09:39
      -2

      Another willing swallower of the Dutton ,Hastie bogey man pill?

      • Ahyao17 on 22/10/2023 - 09:44
        +2

        I am from Taiwan I get enough anti-CCP messages there. I actually have no idea what Dutton says on this issue cos I do not follow Australian politics much. Sure whatever Dutton says is nowhere close to what we are exposed to in media there.

        But yeah I am more just making fun of CCP than actually meaning it. (we joke about this stuff between friends whenever someone goes to China for whatever reason).

        • salin on 22/10/2023 - 10:01
          +5

          No wonder…

        • nerd1 on 22/10/2023 - 10:15
          +2

          You are spreading propaganda by joking about it.

          • TightAl on 22/10/2023 - 11:12

            @nerd1: Going to Taiwan after going to China is the real joke.
            You can see how little the taiwanese govt have done for their people, and now they're in bed with the US.
            :)

        • ttacx on 22/10/2023 - 13:24
          +9

          Just had a holiday in Taiwan, what an amazing place. Loved it

          • 1bargain on 22/10/2023 - 19:00

            @ttacx: I’m interested in going to Taiwan. What were your favourite things from this trip?

            • ttacx on 22/10/2023 - 19:20
              +2

              @1bargain: The food night markets are a must and definitely take a day trip to Jiufen village. Just wandering around exploring the city is super easy and cheap with the train system, the people are so kind, friendly and helpful. You can generally get around just speaking English. Not overrun with tourists which was great. Super safe over there so what ever you get up to I guarantee you'll have an amazing holiday. I already want to go back

              • 1bargain on 22/10/2023 - 19:30
                +2

                @ttacx: Thanks. Just started traveling again last month with kids and fell in love with Japanese culture. Caught the travel bug and want to explore more of Asian cultures.

                I read here that China’s visa is too hard to get so I’m looking for easier places to travel to. Is Taiwan visa easy for Australians?

                • ttacx on 22/10/2023 - 20:02
                  +3

                  @1bargain: You'll have no trouble entering Taiwan as an Australian. On a side note the Taiwan people push their culture and behaviour more towards Japan then China. I think you'll be very happy there :)

                  • 1bargain on 23/10/2023 - 13:01

                    @ttacx: Thanks, i enjoyed Japan so would want to show kids the cultures that we can learn coming back to Oz.

                • juki on 23/10/2023 - 00:07
                  +2

                  @1bargain: no problems with taiwan and despite being a small island its pretty diverse from north to south.
                  if you want chinese -chinese culture the national museum in taipei is pretty good - night markets are pretty popular all over the place, i'd say it depends how fussy you are with what you put in your mouth but overall you'll be fine
                  if you like snorkeling and sea side the south is pretty good, i hate surfing but i believe there are some surfing places. Beaches dont/didnt have life guards so hmm that might be an issue with kids if its still the case

                  • 1bargain on 23/10/2023 - 12:59

                    @juki: Thanks,I’d like to see the culture for the kids. This sounds good.

                    • juki on 24/10/2023 - 22:36
                      +1

                      @1bargain: compared to other asian countres they are pretty new to tourism so some things may feel archaic or not designed for westerners ( i stayed in a place where you sleep on a wooden platform and everyone was excited as it is good for your back, i was not amused).
                      they also have the computer district in taipei but i believe that is less exciting than 15 years ago and prices are pretty much the same world wide
                      some of the motels are pretty luxurious but they can be sort of designed for taking your GF there (but i'm sure kids would enjoy the spa too)

                      • 1bargain on 25/10/2023 - 19:15

                        @juki: Interesting to hear. I actually like places that haven’t been trotted by too many tourists, you get to see the real cultures.

                        But I’d definitely make sure the hotels we book will have mattresses as beds. Or else no one is going to have proper sleep and we wouldn’t to remember the trip in that way.

                • homersyd on 31/10/2023 - 14:17
                  +1

                  @1bargain: Aussies dont even need a visa to visit Taiwan….

          • nightelves on 25/10/2023 - 17:47

            @ttacx: Can you also recommend some places as well and also is it best to carry cash or can you get by using card?

            • ttacx on 25/10/2023 - 18:57
              +2

              @nightelves: We took about $1000 AU in cash as it is about 50/50 when it comes to small stores accepting card. A really good card you should look at for travel is called 'Revolut' (revolut.com). Really good exchange rate and really easy to convert between currencies on the fly.

              When it comes to places to visit Jiufen Village is a must. Its high up in the mountains with a tonne of stairs but amazing vistas and a really cool night market with lots of food and trinkets. Apart from that just look for bus day trip tours and jump on the train to experience the city surrounds. Wherever you go you will have fun I promise. Hope thos helps

              • 1bargain on 25/10/2023 - 19:22
                +1

                @ttacx: Just saw a picture. Jiufen is very pretty.

                • ttacx on 25/10/2023 - 19:29
                  +1

                  @1bargain: Even better when youre there enjoying the view with a cold beverage in a hand and loved one by your side ;)

              • juki on 25/10/2023 - 21:12

                @ttacx: hmm i'm trying to remember a few names of hot spring places but my memory is shocking

                (it is better to hang out in the communal hot springs than the private family ones but that does require sitting naked with other dudes which is weird at first

                • 1bargain on 26/10/2023 - 13:43

                  @juki: I didn’t know Taiwan has a lot Japanese influence. Hot Springs, naked?? That sounds like Japanese culture. And I read briefly about Jiufen and it was built during Japanese era.

    • Hsinking431 on 22/10/2023 - 10:34
      +1

      If this is the case, buy some insurance and claim it, then you will have more than enough money to spent that you won’t want to do keyboard fighting anymore.

      People who accepted propaganda so easily are actually not the targeted ones by CCP, thinking about being arrested by CCP is indeed thinking too much.

    • TightAl on 22/10/2023 - 11:10
      +12

      Do you think the CCP cares about your existence?
      You're really not that important lmao.

      • ThymeTraveller on 22/10/2023 - 12:28
        +1

        Ha ha your post is the definition of being frank and honest.

  • first in line on 22/10/2023 - 09:36
    +3

    What is the visa process like? Some cheap prices for early November but will I get the visa in time?

    • cli on 22/10/2023 - 09:42
      +10

      It takes less than a week. Just a long long long form.

    • dtpearson on 22/10/2023 - 10:36
      +12

      It seems pretty random. We live in northern NSW, and after sending a LOT of personal info, and five goes at passport photos for the visa (they were not happy with the first 4 from legitimate passport photo places), they then required an IN PERSON interview in the consulate in Sydney, which my parents had to fly down to take, it took hours of waiting, then an invasive interview. Then they had to fly back to Sydney a week later to pick it up IN PERSON. And my family is absolutely nothing noteworthy, not political, no journalists, never been anti-china, nothing.

      I am not knocking China, just letting potential travellers know that they might have to go through a massive mess getting a visa, which you won't know about until AFTER you have non-refundable tickets booked.

      CCP shills replying to this post in 1. 2. 1…….

      • TightAl on 22/10/2023 - 11:09
        -3

        CCP shills?
        They don't ask any questions about being noteworthy/political/jouranlist/anti china

        So why would that be relevant to your response lmao. If that's the process, that's the process.

      • ippy on 22/10/2023 - 12:02
        +3

        Are you APS employees? Chinese ethnicity? You applied for a tourist visa, right?

        This is beyond. I've done the process 3 times, was unremarkable. But before covid.

      • ATangk on 22/10/2023 - 14:28
        +4

        The visa photo dimensions aren’t the same as your standard Australian passport photo dimensions.

      • Protractor on 22/10/2023 - 18:01

        Maybe they think all Caucasians look the same and were seeking a better image to suit

      • juki on 23/10/2023 - 00:08

        uuuuuuuuuuugh i'd really love to go but long forms and interviews FFS

        • TightAl on 23/10/2023 - 12:09

          It's not an interview, it's an appointment to hand in your forms.

          • jrvb42 on 01/11/2023 - 15:18

            @TightAl: Hand in your forms and fingerprints

    • jennkei on 22/10/2023 - 21:05
      +1

      There's a chance you won't be able to make it, depends on which city you are in. Have a look on the Visa site. e.g. Earliest appointment in Sydney is 8th Nov. (You don't need an application number to see the appointments available, just head to the section where you can make an appointment for an application and swipe the captcha)

      • asianMekai on 24/10/2023 - 01:20

        Ty for the info. So only making the appointment is long but the actual visa would take less than a week?

  • artoria012 on 22/10/2023 - 09:37

    I'm going at the end of the month, any SIM card recommendations?

    • phoenixpan on 22/10/2023 - 09:43

      I used my Vodafone roaming for $5/day the he last time I went.

      • salin on 22/10/2023 - 10:02
        +6

        Another good point for having roaming sim is u can access google and Facebook.

    • Kegsta on 22/10/2023 - 10:45
      +1

      When I went over I got a 30 day HK prepaid data Sim from eBay before I left. Activates when you put it in the phone and no firewall. LetsVPN was one of the only things that worked to bypass firewall on wifi.

    • TightAl on 22/10/2023 - 11:07
      +2

      Holafly unlimited data ESIM

    • Champ888 on 22/10/2023 - 11:13
      -3

      No

    • susage dog on 22/10/2023 - 14:56

      Holafly has built in VPN and is also an esim so no need to swap out the physical sim

    • arctan on 22/10/2023 - 16:08

      Optus prepaid data pack $20 for 10gb 14 days.

      • akanub on 22/10/2023 - 17:03

        Does this still exist? I believe this is no longer available

    • akanub on 22/10/2023 - 17:00
      +1

      I would actually recommend an NPN china esim purchased from the lazada singapore website. Instant delivery and roams well on China unicom network. Good amount of data and gives you a singaporean IP address bypassing the firewall.

      https://www.lazada.sg/products/china-esim-3-30-days-3gb5gb10…?

    • silverrat23 on 22/10/2023 - 18:46

      If you already have Felix, $20 for 4GB with 365-day expiry.

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