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Exercise a high degree of caution in China overall. 

Other levels apply in some areas.

China (PDF 1.07 MB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise a high degree of caution in China overall.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Tibet and Xinjiang.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Tibet and Xinjiang due to the security situation and associated measures.

• Petty crime occurs. Criminals target travellers in crowded areas, including on public transport. Resisting can lead to violence.
• Scams targeting travellers can lead to loss of money, violence and serious assault. Report scams to the nearest police station.
• Armed attacks are a risk in remote border regions. Be careful if travelling in these areas.
• The Chinese Government strictly controls demonstrations. Authorities may arrest protesters. Avoid protests and large gatherings. Don't photograph or video protests.
• Increased security measures are in place in Xinjiang. Be ready to show photo ID if asked.
• There's civil unrest and political tension in Tibet. Get permission from Chinese authorities before you go. You can only travel to Tibet as part of an organised tour.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Tap water in China may not be safe to drink. Drink only bottled water with intact seals.
• People have died from bird flu in China. Stay away from live poultry. When preparing food, handle poultry properly and ensure it's thoroughly cooked.
• HIV/AIDS is a significant risk in China. Take precautions if engaging in activities that expose you to the risk of infection. Ask for sterilised equipment when receiving medical treatment.
• Animal and human rabies and hand, foot and mouth disease are common. Be careful with both wild and domestic animals in China. Wash your hands carefully and regularly. Take other hygiene precautions.
• High pollution levels are a problem in major cities. Follow the advice from local authorities on days with harmful pollution.

Full travel advice:  Health

• The Australian Government can't intervene in the Chinese justice process. We also can't help if you're a dual national and don't enter China on your Australian passport.
• Chinese law treats a person aged 12 years and older as an adult. China has strict laws and severe criminal punishments including the death penalty and life imprisonment.
• You must always carry identification and show it to the police if they ask.
• Chinese authorities undertake random drug testing on foreign nationals and can prosecute individuals who return a positive test result regardless of when or where the drugs were taken .
• Many business and employment issues may be considered criminal matters in China. Penalties are severe. Get professional legal advice before entering into any employment or commercial contract in China.
• If you're a former Chinese citizen, authorities may treat you as a citizen and refuse access to Australian consular services. Get legal advice if you're unsure of your citizenship status under Chinese law.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of China for the latest details.
• China is gradually reintroducing visas on arrival, including transit visas. You may be permitted to enter China if you’re a foreign national holding a valid residence permit for work, personal matters or reunion. Australians should also contact the nearest  Chinese embassy or consulate  to confirm visa validity and eligibility, and other travel requirements.  

Flights between China and Australia have increased but are less frequent than pre-COVID-19. 

• China has implemented random COVID-19 testing for inbound travellers arriving at airports. Authorities have advised that no follow-up action will be taken if travellers test positive on arrival, but they may be advised to seek medical treatment.
• You must register your place of residence with the local Public Security Bureau. This will be part of the standard check-in process if you stay at a hotel. 

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• For consular services in China, contact the  Australian Embassy in Beijing  or our Consulates-General in  Shanghai ,  Guangzhou,  Chengdu , and Shenyang . 
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Petty crime.

Petty crime occurs, including:

• pickpocketing
• bag-snatching
• theft of laptops, passports and mobile phones

If you resist, you can be injured if criminals turn violent.

Criminals target travellers in crowded areas, including on transport.

People have reported  assaults  and  robberies , particularly in areas popular with expats. This includes bar and shopping precincts in  major cities .

There are scams  that target travellers.

Scammers invite travellers for a massage, teahouse service, or nearby cafes and bars. They offer various reasons and may say they wish 'to practise their English'.

Afterwards, they present travellers with an inflated bill. They won't let the traveller leave until they pay the bill by credit card.

Sometimes travellers are asked to carry concealed drugs out of China.

Never carry parcels or luggage for others.

Always pack your own bags.

ATM scams occur. Sometimes scammers set up fake ATMs that take the user's card.

Only use ATMs inside a secure place such as a bank or shopping centre. Do this during daylight hours.

If you're the victim of a crime or scam, report it to the nearest police station immediately.

Always obtain a police report when reporting a crime.

Fake money scams

Be careful of scams if paying a taxi fare with a RMB100 note. The taxi driver may swap the note for a fake note. They will then return the fake note and refuse to accept it as payment because it’s counterfeit.

Armed bandit attacks are a risk in remote areas bordering:

Be careful if travelling in these areas.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Civil unrest and political tension

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

The Chinese Government prohibits demonstrations they haven't approved. Authorities may arrest protesters.

Avoid protests, demonstrations and large gatherings.

Don't photograph, film or participate in protests or other acts that authorities may consider provocative.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Xinjiang Uyghur  Autonomous Region (Xinjiang)

Increased security measures are in place in Xinjiang.

People of Uyghur descent are particularly affected.

Security checks in major cities in Xinjiang are common. Be ready to show photo ID if asked.

Violent incidents causing deaths and injuries have occurred across Xinjiang.

The government may restrict movement and communications in Xinjiang with little warning.

Tibet Autonomous Region (Tibet)

In the past, protests have turned violent and people have been killed or injured.

If you're travelling to Tibet, get permission from Chinese authorities first.

You must also apply for a Tibet Entry Permit from the Tibet Tourism Bureau.

You can only lodge applications for Tibet Entry Permits through specialised travel agents in China.

You can only travel as part of an organised tour.

See  Travel

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Attacks could be targeted or random. They may include places travellers and expats visit.

In recent years, terrorist and other violent attacks have caused injuries and deaths in public places. Targets include railway stations and markets.

You could become the victim of violence directed at others.

Climate and natural disasters

China experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• earthquakes

Typhoons can happen along the southern and eastern coasts between May and November.

The direction and strength of typhoons can change with little warning.

If there's a typhoon:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights and other transport could be delayed or suspended
• access to seaports may be affected
• adequate shelter may not be available
• available transport may fill quickly

If a typhoon is approaching:

• know the evacuation plan for your accommodation or cruise ship
• identify your local shelter
• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• closely monitor alerts and advice from authorities such as the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• keep in contact with your friends and family

If you plan to travel, contact your airline for the latest flight information. 

• World Meteorological Organisation Severe Weather Information Centre
• China Meteorological Administration

Earthquakes and tsunamis

China can experience earthquakes and large, destructive tsunamis.

If there's an earthquake or tsunami:

• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor the media for updates

Check with the Tsunami Warning Centre  for updates on seismic activity and tsunamis.

If you're near the coast, move to high ground straight away if advised, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you travel. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in China. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Depending on your location, tap water in China may be unsafe to drink.

Drink only bottled water with sealed lids.

Bird flu (avian influenza)

People have died from  avian influenza  in China. Avian influenza virus strains continue to circulate in poultry in China.

The primary source of infection seems to be poultry handled in poultry markets.

To protect yourself from avian influenza:

• stay away from live poultry
• don't visit live bird and animal markets, including 'wet' markets and poultry farms
• practise good personal hygiene

When preparing food, handle poultry properly. Thoroughly cook all parts of the poultry.

• Avian influenza (WHO)
• Infectious diseases

HIV/AIDS  is a significant risk in China.

Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to the risk of infection.

If you need medical treatment, you could be exposed to unsafe blood and blood products. This is a particular risk in regional China.

Ask for sterilised equipment. You may need to pay for new syringes in hospitals or clinics.

Insect-borne illnesses

Japanese encephalitis  is widespread in rural southern China from June to August. The disease is also known as encephalitis B. A vaccine is available.

The risk of  malaria   increases during warm weather and is more significant in rural areas, particularly in the provinces of:

• Tibet (Zanbo Valley areas only)

Dengue  cases have risen sharply, especially in Guangdong and Guangzhou. Risks increase during the wet season.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria
• get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis

Animal and human  rabies  are common. Health authorities report many cases each year. 

Be careful with both wild and domestic animals in China.

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help immediately.

Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD)  is common. Sometimes serious outbreaks happen.

Outbreaks usually start in March or April and peak in May. However, outbreaks can continue until October each year.

The disease mainly affects children under the age of 10 years. Adult cases, particularly in young adults, are not unusual.

People with HFMD experience fever, blisters and rashes on the hands, feet and buttocks.

The disease is spread by direct contact with nose and throat discharges and faeces of infected people.

To protect yourself from illness:

• wash your hands carefully and regularly
• take other hygiene precautions

High pollution levels are a problem.

Children, the elderly and those with pre-existing heart and lung conditions may be especially affected by pollution.

Authorities issue red alerts when pollution is expected to be especially bad.

When a red alert is in place, authorities:

• close schools
• limit car use
• suspend construction activity

Flights are regularly delayed in China because of smog.

Dust storms occur across the north of China. They can:

• cause eye, nose, mouth and throat irritations
• make heart and lung problems worse

Get medical advice if you're worried about air pollution.

Follow the advice from local authorities about days with bad pollution and how to reduce your exposure.

• Air Quality Index
• US Embassy, Beijing
• Air pollution

Altitude sickness

Parts of China are at altitudes of over 3,000m, including:

• parts of Xinjiang
• Western Sichuan

If you travel to those areas, you may get  altitude sickness .

People with lung, heart or chest problems should take extra care. Even if you're healthy, you can still be affected.

Symptoms of altitude sickness include:

• coordination problems

In severe cases, fluid can build up in your lungs, brain or both, which can be fatal.

To protect yourself from altitude sickness:

• ascend slowly, especially above an altitude of 2500m
• rest when needed and don't push your body
• avoid alcohol and cigarettes

If you're affected by severe altitude sickness, get to lower ground as soon as possible.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

International standard medical services in China are expensive.

If you plan on staying in China for a while:

• find out about local health insurance
• ask your employer if they provide health cover

Some hospitals in major cities have special departments for treating foreigners.

However, the standard of medical care and the range of medications is often limited, especially outside major cities.

Medical staff in rural areas may not be adequately trained.

Hospitals and doctors may ask for an up-front cash payment before treating you. This includes emergency care.

Medical evacuation from China can be very expensive.

Medical tourism

Travel to China for  medical treatment  is increasing.

Research and choose your medical service providers carefully. Ask health professionals and former patients about the quality.

Avoid uncertified medical service providers. Their standards may be poor, and they may be unable to provide the advertised medical care.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

The Australian Government can't intervene in the Chinese justice process.

In China, authorities treat a person aged 12 years and above as an adult under the law.

If detained, a person of this age will be:

• held with adults
• subject to the same conditions and legal processes as adults

The Australian Government can't help you if you're a  dual national  and you travel on your:

• Chinese passport
• Hong Kong or Macau Mainland Travel Permit
• identity card issued by Taiwan
• any non-Australian foreign passport
• Death penalty

China has the death penalty for drug offences, and other serious crimes.

If you're sentenced to death, it's unlikely that Chinese authorities will grant you leniency.

Penalties for all types of drug offences including use, possession, manufacturing, selling or trafficking are severe and include life in prison or the death penalty.

Authorities strictly enforce these laws, even for small quantities of 'soft' drugs, such as marijuana. Laws apply to people aged 12 years and older.

Authorities conduct random drug tests. Police raids on nightclubs and bars frequented by foreigners have increased, with patrons subjected to urine and / or hair tests. A positive drug test can result in fines, detention and deportation, regardless of when or where the drugs were used.

Authorities have executed foreigners for drug offences.

• Carrying or using drugs

Legal proceedings and investigations

Authorities may not allow you to leave China if you're involved in a:

• criminal matter or investigation
• civil or commercial dispute

Sometimes people are only aware of an exit ban on them once they try to leave China.

Exit bans can affect you even if you're not directly involved in the legal proceedings. Authorities have stopped some Australians from leaving China because of a dispute involving family members. Sometimes it is years before authorities allow people to leave China.

If you're involved in local legal matters:

• get professional advice
• be aware of your rights and responsibilities

China has strict laws on national security, which it updates from time to time. These laws can be interpreted broadly and applied expansively and harshly. Chinese authorities may define certain behaviours and activities as endangering national security that would not be considered as such in Australia. This could include activities that occurred outside of China.

Authorities have detained foreigners on allegations of 'endangering national security'. Australians may be at risk of arbitrary detention or harsh enforcement of local laws, including broadly defined National Security Laws.

In China, it's illegal to:

• test positive for drugs (even if you used drugs before you arrived in China)
• demonstrate without prior approval from the government
• preach, distribute religious literature and associate with unapproved religious groups
• take part in any Falun Gong activities
• gamble or promote gambling activities
• engage in prostitution
• take photos of military or government buildings without official approval.

If you break these laws, you could be:

Registration and identification

Under Chinese law, you must register your place of residence with the local Public Security Bureau. You must do this within 24 hours of arriving and each time you change your residential location.

Staff do this as part of the standard check-in process if you stay at a hotel.

If you're staying elsewhere, such as with family or friends, visit the nearest police station. Present your passport and a valid Chinese visa.

You must always carry identification and show it to the police if they ask for it.

Authorities will accept your passport or a Chinese residence card as forms of identity.

If you don't register your place of residence or carry identification, authorities can fine or detain you.

Homosexuality is not illegal in China but be aware of local sensitivities.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law
• Doing business in China

China has experienced higher numbers of commercial disputes involving Australians in recent years. 

Before starting business relationships:

• investigate the market
• conduct appropriate due diligence

Get professional legal advice before entering into any contract in China. This includes residential leases and business contracts.

Business versus criminal matters

Many business issues Australians consider civil or commercial are classified as criminal matters in China. This is especially the case if state enterprises or state assets are involved.

Penalties for commercial and economic crimes are often severe.

Cases of Australians and other foreigners being held against their will at their workplace have increased. These incidents involved other companies or employees trying to resolve business and employment disputes. They do this through protests, and often with threats of violence.

• Doing business
• Living or working overseas

Employment in China

Disputes over working and living conditions for Australians working in China are common. This is particularly the case for those teaching English.

If you’re considering travel to China for work:

• verify the true nature of the work on offer
• make sure you have the correct visa before you arrive

Authorities can fine or detain you if you don't maintain a valid visa.

Get professional legal advice before signing any contract in Australia or China.

Carefully check local laws about business or other activities you wish to undertake in China.

Employment contracts may contain conditions that disadvantage you. For example, if your contract is terminated early, conditions may state that:

• you give up your right to a return air ticket
• your employer may withhold your pay

Don't surrender your passport to your employer for 'safe-keeping.' Businesses with a good reputation won't ask you to do this.

Dual citizenship

The Chinese Government doesn't recognise dual nationality. It won't let us provide consular help to Chinese-Australian dual nationals who travel on their:

If you're a Chinese-Australian dual national:

• travel on your  Australian passport
• get a visa to China
• always present yourself as an Australian citizen

If you're a former Chinese citizen, Chinese authorities may:

• treat you as a Chinese citizen
• refuse you access to Australian consular services

This can happen even if you entered China on an Australian or other foreign passport and you:

• haven't renounced your citizenship according to Chinese law
• haven't formally advised the Chinese authorities of your Australian citizenship
• continue to maintain a Chinese passport or household registration

Authorities may not allow certain categories of Chinese citizens, such as state officials, to renounce their Chinese nationality under Chinese law.

Get professional legal advice if you're unsure of your citizenship status under Chinese law.

If your child is born in China and you plan to get Australian citizenship by descent, contact the  Australian Department of Home Affairs  for advice.

If one parent is from mainland China, authorities will consider a child born in China to be a Chinese national.

Local authorities may not recognise the child's Australian citizenship and passport.

Contact the local Entry and Exit Administration Bureau for details.

• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Australians intending to travel to China should contact the nearest Chinese embassy/consulate to confirm visa  eligibility  and other travel requirements. 

China is gradually reintroducing visas on arrival, including transit visas. You may need a full visa to travel to China, even as a tourist.

If you need a full visa, you must get this before you travel.

See the  Embassy of the People's Republic of China  for eligibility requirements and visa types.

Foreigners holding valid Chinese residence permits for work, personal matters and reunion may be able to enter China without applying for new visas. Contact your nearest Chinese embassy/consulate to confirm your visa remains valid or to apply for a new visa.

If you're already travelling or living in China, contact the Foreigner's Entry and Exit Administration Section of the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) for visa information.

Authorities will scan your fingerprints when you arrive if you're aged between 14 and 70 years.

Authorities have strict penalties for visa violations. Penalties include:

• fines imposed for each day overstayed, including if you’re in detention
• detention from 5 to 30 days

Make sure you leave China before your visa expires.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of China  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

You no longer require a negative COVID-19 test to enter China. 

China has implemented random COVID-19 testing for inbound travellers arriving at airports. Authorities have advised that no follow-up action would be taken if travellers test positive on arrival, but they may be advised to seek medical treatment.

Travel to Hong Kong and Macau

Hong Kong and Macau are Special Administrative Regions (SAR). They have separate visa and entry rules to mainland China.

If you plan to leave mainland China to visit Hong Kong or Macau, you may need a new Chinese visa to re-enter mainland China. Get the correct visa before you leave Australia.

You may be asked to present your previous passport and Chinese visa if you:

• intend to apply for a visa at the border of Shenzhen and Hong Kong, or Zhuhai and Macau, and
• you held a Chinese visa in a recently replaced passport

If you've visited China before, authorities may deny you a visa-on-arrival if you can't show your previous China visa.

Some visas issued in Hong Kong or at Hong Kong-Macau-Chinese mainland border crossings are valid for limited travel to designated areas only, such as:

• other areas in Guangdong Province

Using these permits to travel to other parts of China is illegal. Carefully check your visa limitations.

• Hong Kong travel advice
• Macau travel advice

Other formalities

If you’re a parent of a newborn baby born in China, you must register the child with the local Public Security Bureau. You must do this within 30 days of the child's birth and will require the child’s birth certificate for registration .

Apply for a Chinese visa in the child's passport. The child will need a valid visa to leave China.

For the registration process you need:

• the child's birth certificate
• parents' passports
• child's passport

For citizenship issues, see the 'Dual citizenship' section under  Laws .

Some countries will only let you enter if your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passports

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy, high commission or consulate .

If you get a new passport while in China, you must get a new Chinese visa. Otherwise, you won't be able to leave China.

Chinese authorities can take up to 10 working days to issue a visa. It can take longer during Chinese holiday periods.

Authorities won't speed up the process to meet your travel or flight schedule.

To replace your passport and visa:

• get an official report from the local police 
• get a replacement passport from the nearest  Australian embassy, high commission or consulate
• apply at the Foreigners Entry and Exit Administration Section of the local Public Security Bureau for a replacement Chinese visa in your new passport

You can use the police report when checking in to a hotel.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTI travellers

The currency in China is the Renminbi (RMB).

Chinese law limits the amount of foreign currency you can carry in and out of China.

If you're carrying more than $US5,000 cash or the same amount in another currency, you must declare it when you arrive in China.

Keep the declaration. You need to show it to customs officials when you leave.

If you plan to leave China carrying more than $US5,000 or the same amount in another currency, you need permission from a Chinese bank.

You can't leave China with more than $US10,000 or the same amount in foreign currency.

ATMs are widely available in major Chinese cities. They accept all major credit cards.

Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, especially in international hotels and restaurants.

In smaller cities, you may find it harder to use international cards.

Local travel

Authorities restrict travel by foreigners in China.

If you plan to travel outside major tourist areas, check that the area is 'open to foreigners'. For example, restrictions apply near military installations and some border areas.

Travel and living conditions vary greatly between cities and less developed rural areas.

In rural areas, you may have trouble accessing these services:

• landline phone
• mobile phone

Driving permit

All drivers must hold a valid Chinese driver's licence.

Foreign driver's licences and International Driving Permits (IDP) aren't valid in mainland China.

Long-term residents can apply for a Chinese driver's licence at their local Vehicle Management Office.

If you're going to China on a visa with less than 90 days validity, you may be able to get a provisional driver's licence. This will be valid for the length of your visa.

If you're hiring a car in China, check driving licence requirements with your car hire company.

Age and health restrictions apply and vary depending on the class of driver's licence.

Road travel

Travel by road is dangerous because of the following:

• poorly maintained roads
• aggressive driving

You're more likely to be killed in a car accident in China than in Australia.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

To ride a motorcycle, you must hold a valid Chinese motorcycle licence.

Australian motorcycle licences and International Driving Permits (IDP) issued for motorcycles aren't valid in mainland China.

Rules for applying for a motorbike licence, including a provisional motorcycle licence, are similar to those for cars. Contact your local Vehicle Management Office.

You don't need a licence to ride an electric bike.

Check your insurance covers you for riding all types of motorised bikes.

Always wear a helmet.

Use only licensed taxis or limousine services with a good reputation, preferably those arranged through your hotel.

Always insist that the meter is used.

Most taxis in China don't have seatbelts.

Taxi drivers may swap legitimate RMB100 notes for fake notes. They will then return the fake note and refuse to accept it as payment because it’s counterfeit.

Ridesharing apps are widely used in major Chinese cities.

Public transport

Tour operators, public buses and ferries might not meet safety standards, especially in rural areas.

Transport operators may not:

• provide adequate safety equipment
• maintain vehicles and equipment
• have safety precautions in place

Always use available safety equipment, such as lifejackets or seatbelts.

If appropriate safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

• Transport and getting around safely
• Travelling by boat

Many airlines have temporarily reduced or stopped flights to China. Further travel restrictions can come into effect at short notice.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  China's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Contact your airline or travel agent for up-to-date information on domestic and international flights and transport options.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular services in China, contact the Australian Embassy in Beijing or our Consulates-General in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu and Shenyang.

Check the relevant website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Australian Embassy, Beijing

21 Dongzhimenwai Dajie Sanlitun, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600 Phone: (+86 10) 5140 4111 Fax: (+86 10) 5140 4292 Website:  china.embassy.gov.au Social media:  WeChat ,  Twitter

Australian Consulate General, Chengdu

27th Floor, Square One 18 Dongyu Street, Jinjiang District Chengdu 610016  Phone: (+86 28) 6268 5200  Fax: (+86 28) 6268 5222 Email:  [email protected] Website:  chengdu.china.embassy.gov.au

Australian Consulate General, Guangzhou

12th Floor, Development Centre No. 3 Linjiang Road, Zhujiang New City Guangzhou 510623  Phone: (+86 20) 3814 0111  Fax: (+86 20) 3814 0112 Website:  guangzhou.china.embassy.gov.au

Australian Consulate General, Shanghai

Level 22, CITIC Square 1168 Nanjing Xi Lu Shanghai 200041  Phone: (+86 21) 2215 5200 Fax: (+86 21) 2215 5252 Website:  shanghai.china.embassy.gov.au

Australian Consulate-General, Shenyang

Level 19, China Resources Building, Tower A 286 Qingnian Avenue, Heping District, Shenyang, 110004 Phone: (+86 24) 8610 6100 Fax: (+86 24) 8163 0288 Email:  [email protected] Website:  shenyang.consulate.gov.au

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care

Travellers from China required to undertake COVID-19 testing before travel

The Australian Government will introduce pre-departure testing for COVID-19 for people travelling to Australia from the People’s Republic of China.

The Australian Government will introduce pre-departure testing for COVID-19 for people travelling to Australia from the People’s Republic of China including the Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macau.

This measure is in response to the significant wave of COVID-19 infections in China and the potential for emerging viral variants in that country.

From 12:01am on Thursday 5 January 2023, travellers will be required to undertake a COVID-19 test within the 48hrs prior to travel and show evidence of a negative test result when travelling to Australia.

While we are no longer in the emergency phase of the pandemic response in Australia, this decision has been made to safeguard Australia from the risk of potential new emerging variants, and in recognition of the rapidly evolving situation in China and uncertainty about emerging viral variants.

In making this decision, I have been briefed extensively by the Chief Medical Officer (CMO). Australia now joins other countries across the world including France, India, Japan, Malaysia, Spain, the Republic of Korea, England and the United States of America in implementing similar measures.

These arrangements are precautionary and temporary and will remain under review based on the health advice and available information.

My department is working with states and territories to monitor the situation in Australia very closely. In addition, the Government continues to work closely with state and territory governments to improve our capacity to detect and rapidly respond to any new emerging variants of concern.

There is no advice to change our current approach to managing this phase of the pandemic in Australia. Fortunately, in Australia we have readily available access to vaccines and treatments, and high underlying population immunity.

Every single person eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine should make an appointment as soon as they are eligible. Staying up to date with vaccinations is one of the simplest actions people can take to help protect themselves from becoming severely unwell from COVID-19. Additionally, anyone who is eligible for oral anti-viral treatments should have a plan to access those if they test positive for COVID-19.

Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:

“The decision to implement these temporary measures has been made out of an abundance of caution, taking into account the dynamic and evolving situation in China and the potential for new variants to emerge in an environment of high transmission."

“Australia is well positioned in its pandemic response. We continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Australia and internationally, in collaboration with medical experts. Our absolute priority is keeping our community safe and continuing to be a world leader when it comes to responding to the global COVID-19 pandemic."

“This small but sensible move will help to protect people who are at risk of severe illness and safeguard our healthcare system.”

• COVID-19 vaccines
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)

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China Approved Destination Status (ADS) scheme

The ADS scheme allows Chinese tourists to travel to Australia in guided groups.

Main content

Status:  Open

About the ADS scheme

China’s ADS scheme has reopened. This follows the Chinese Government’s announcement on 10 August 2023 that Australia was again included on a list of countries for the scheme.

Austrade manages the ADS scheme in Australia with the Department of Home Affairs and Tourism Australia. We look forward to welcoming the return of Chinese group tours as part of the ADS scheme.

A phased approach to reopening

Austrade is planning a staged resumption of the previously paused ADS scheme. It will have 3 phases:

• Activation phase – short-term response to re-establish processes and reactivate previously approved inbound tour operators (ITOs) and so that ADS tour groups can commence visiting Australia.
• Transition phase – medium-term response measures where lessons from the activation phase and outcomes from a review of the scheme inform changes to the future administration of the scheme. New ITOs can apply to be included in the scheme.
• Implementation phase – long-term response measures where the framework, protocols and requirements are reflecting both government and industry requirements which are developed, consulted upon and implemented.

How to reactivate your approved status

ITOs previously approved under the ADS scheme are eligible to:

• apply to reactivate their approved status
• operate ADS tour groups.

To apply to reactivate:

• email ads@austrade.gov.au to request a reactivation form
• complete and return the form along with supporting information.

To be considered for reactivation, ITOs will need to have maintained the relevant requirements to be an approved operator, such as membership of a relevant industry organization and continue to meet the Fit and Proper Person requirements.

View the list of reactivated ITOs at  Approved inbound tour operators .

New ITO applicants

New ITOs can apply for the ADS scheme. To apply:

• email  ads@austrade.gov.au  to request a new ITO application form
• complete and return the form to us with supporting information.

View the list of reactivated and new ITOs at Approved inbound tour operators .

Tour guides

Tour guides (TGs) previously approved under the ADS scheme are eligible to continue to work with ADS approved ITOs.

Previously approved ADS TGs who need to update their contact details can do so by emailing ads@austrade.gov.au.

Austrade is not currently approving any new tour guide applications. However, if you are a tour guide and you would like to work in the ADS scheme as a guide you can.

Unapproved tour guides can work under the ADS scheme provided they:

• agree to register their details with the approved ADS ITO that is managing the tour; and
• follow the conditions set out in Section 5 of the ADS Code of Business Standards and Ethics - Obligations of ADS Tour Guides .

The ITO must record the unapproved tour guide’s details in the Austrade ADS tour guide register included in your approval email and provide Austrade with the register when asked as part of our compliance monitoring checks.

Note: Austrade is continuing to monitor and undertake ADS code compliance activities. This will include compliance projects involving approved ADS inbound tour operators and tour guides.

ADS Code of Business Standards and Ethics  

Approved ITOs are required to abide by the ADS Code of Business Standards and Ethics .

The Code sets out the minimum quality standards and requirements for ADS tours.

The role of the Australian Government

Austrade administers Australia’s ADS scheme with the Department of Home Affairs and Tourism Australia.

Austrade’s role is to undertake assessment and approval of ITOs in the ADS scheme in Australia and monitor compliance with the ADS Code of Business Standards and Ethics.

The Department of Home Affairs manages the immigration requirements of the scheme and is responsible for approving outbound tour operators (OTOs) to sell ADS tour packages and apply for ADS visas on the tourists’ behalf.

Tourism Australia  is responsible for marketing Australia to Chinese consumers and for working with OTOs to equip them with the knowledge and skills to create and sell high quality tour packages to Australia.

Email  ads@austrade.gov.au .

Telephone: 1800 048 155 (during business hours 9am – 5pm AEST, Monday to Friday, except public holidays).

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Chinese Australians' travel plans up in the air as COVID-19 surge grips China ahead of Lunar New Year

Chinese Australian Emma Wei was evacuated from Wuhan with her two kids three years ago, but she has booked tickets to return and see her ailing grandfather as China eases travel restrictions.

For her upcoming trip to China, Ms Wei will have to do several COVID tests and doesn't mind the additional steps required to re-enter Australia, which were recently announced by the health minister.

"The Chinese government requires a 48-hour pre-departure PCR test en-route to China," she told the ABC.

"On my return, I will be required to take another 48-hours pre-departure PCR test by the Australian government."

China has skyrocketing case numbers and from 12:01am on Thursday, travellers like Ms Wei will have to show Australian authorities evidence of a negative result from a COVID test before she returns.

"I think it is fair enough unless requirements escalate to forced quarantines … I don't think it is discriminative as it is really due to the severe nature of the COVID-19 situation in China."

She had thought about taking the whole family back with her initially, but the high cost of air travel deterred her.

"I cannot afford the air tickets for the whole family to go as it would easily be over $10,000 — too expensive for me," she said.

Another Chinese Australian citizen keen to make the trip to China is Sydney businessman Jeff Suo.

He booked a flight to China as soon as he heard quarantine requirements for travellers arriving in the country had been scrapped.

"Both of my parents are old, and it's a Chinese tradition to go home at the Chinese New Year to reunite with your family," Mr Suo said.

"There is an old Chinese saying that when your parents are alive, there is always a place to come.

"I want to cherish every reunion with them at home."

When he arrives in China, Mr Suo will join hundreds of millions of people visiting family across the country as the spring festival travel season, also called Chunyun, gets underway on January 7.

The world's largest human migration comes as Chinese New Year will be celebrated on January 22, welcoming in the Year of the Rabbit and marking the first time in three years there have been no COVID-19 restrictions on people travelling at this time in China.

But the new year holiday period comes at a difficult time in the pandemic, when positive cases in China are soaring and the Chinese government has relaxed quarantine measures for overseas travellers from January 8.

Bobo Law moved to Melbourne from Hong Kong and has plans to travel back there in a few months.

She said she understood the requirements imposed by Canberra, and didn't want a new variants coming to Australia.

"I think the government wants to do it because it wants to protect people in Australia. Why not?"

Ms Law also said she believed there was an issue with a lack of accurate statistics on cases numbers and deaths coming out of China.

The World Health Organization has asked Chinese officials to provide real-time information on the COVID wave in China to the international community, including genomic sequencing that identifies new variants.

Analysts estimate 9,000 people a day are dying with COVID in China, but official government information show very low figures .

China says restrictions on travellers 'unnecessary'

With a lack of data from China, governments around the world including the US, UK, Japan, France, Israel, Spain, Italy, Taiwan and South Korea have implemented new restrictions on travellers from China.

In Australia, from January 5, people arriving from China will be required to take a pre-departure COVID-19 test and show evidence of a negative result.

"There are concerns, in an environment of cases spreading so quickly, about the possibility of the emergence of a new variant," Federal Health Minister Mark Butler said on Sunday.

But on Monday night it was revealed that Australia's Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly told Mr Butler there was not a "sufficient public health rationale" for the move .

Professor Kelly advised in the absence of any "specific threat" from a COVID-19 variant, and with high vaccination rates in the country, any restrictions or additional requirements on China were unnecessary. 

When asked repeatedly about the new travel requirements some countries were imposing, Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Wang Wenbin said in the past few days "medical experts from different countries have said that entry restrictions on travellers arriving from China are unnecessary".

"For all countries, COVID response measures need to be science-based and proportionate and apply equally to people of all countries without affecting normal travel and people-to-people exchange and cooperation," he said.

"We hope that all parties will follow a science-based response approach, and work together to ensure safe cross-border travel, keep global industrial and supply chains stable, and contribute to global solidarity against COVID and the world economic recovery."

'I want to wait and see'

As infections surge and the international community reacts, many Chinese Australians are not sure if now is the best time to travel back to China.

Bing Liu, who has lived in Australia for more than 20 years, is one of them.

"The current COVID situation in China is still rather unstable, so I want to wait and see," Ms Bing said.

The restrictions for people travelling from China back to Australia have also made her think twice about visiting China now.

Ms Bing caught the virus in Australia and her two elderly parents also got COVID at a nursing home in China.

"Currently, nursing homes in China are managed under a closed-loop, so even if I manage to go back to China, I probably won't be able to see my parents."

After many years working from home, Ms Bing has now decided to take her long service leave this year to travel around Australia and Asia instead.

'Hasn't crossed my mind'

Yan Wei's daughter passed her Year 12 exams this year with flying colours, and if it were not for the pandemic, Mrs Yan said she would definitely consider taking her family back to China for a visit.

Mrs Yan was in Shanghai at the end of 2019 and early 2020 when the first COVID outbreak emerged in Wuhan.

Three years on, she is not so sure about travelling to China.

"Honestly, it hasn't crossed my mind."

Mrs Yan said almost all of her extended family in China have been infected with COVID since early December when restrictions in China were eased.

"Thankfully they are in the process of recovering," she said.

China's abrupt COVID-19 policy change

The opening up of travel to and from China this spring holiday season came as a surprise to many Chinese Australians.

For nearly three years, China had maintained a strict COVID-zero policy, a suite of harsh restrictions including lockdowns, mass testings and limited travel designed to keep infections under control.

But in December, after a series of lockdown-related protests, Beijing abruptly began easing COVID rules , then announced it would resume issuing passports for tourism .

In late December, President Xi Jinping made his first public comments on COVID since his government changed course.

In a televised speech to mark the New Year, Mr Xi said China had overcome unprecedented difficulties and challenges in the battle against COVID, and that its policies were "optimised".

"Since the outbreak of the epidemic … the majority of cadres and masses, especially medical personnel, grassroots workers, braved hardships and courageously persevered," he said. 

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• Epidemics and Pandemics
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• World Politics

A checklist for travel between Australia and China

19 November 2021:  On 1 October 2021, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced Australia will reopen its international border from November, giving long-awaited freedoms to vaccinated citizens and their relatives.

AustCham China presents a user-friendly checklist for travel between Australia and China for citizens and permanent resident holders.

STEP 1: How to return home

If you’re trying to return to Australia, we encourage you to:

• Continue to contact your airline or travel agent for available flights. ( Note: QANTAS is yet to announce the resumption of flight routes to and from Australia and China) Read more
• Familarise yourself with COVID-19: Trying to get home

STEP 2: What do i need to do to return home

Fully vaccinated Australian citizens and permanent residents aged 12 years and over can now travel to and from Australia. Read more  {Note: Sinovac Coronavac and Sinopharm BBIBP-CorV (for ages 18-60 only) is recognised by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)}

Guidance on foreign vaccination certificates. Read more

Each state and territory manage their own borders, international passenger arrival caps and quarantine programs. Before you return to Australia, read about the COVID-19 restrictions in place for the state or territory you’ll be flying in to. Read more

STEP 3: Complete the Australia Travel Declaration

If you’re planning to use a foreign vaccination certificate to prove your vaccination status, you’ll need to complete the Australia Travel Declaration  (ATD) at least 72 hours prior to departure for Australia.

STEP 4: Pre-departure COVID-19 Testing

• Show evidence of a negative COVID-19 PCR or RT-PCR test within 3 days of checking in for your flight from China to Australia
• You don’t need to be re-tested at transit points unless your airline or transit point requires it.

STEP 5:  Back on Terra Firma

Congratulations! You are back in Australia and ready to enter society, depending on which State you land in of course. In States that do not require quarantine, typically, a negative PCR test is required within 24 hours of arriving and again several days later. Make sure to check the details based on the State that you will arrive in to.  

You might wish to download a COVID app that helps identify people exposed to COVID-19.  The Australian Government COVIDSafe app is an option, but seemingly this appears to have been replaced by QR code check-ins.  Similar to China’s “Health Kit” (Jiankangbao), the QR code scan system works well.  They are a reliable way to track where you have been, you’re constantly reminded to use it and you get notifications if you visited an exposure site.

From the list below, click on the location to download the App that supports QR scanning for the respective location you require to use it in;

New South Wales

Northern Territory

South Australia

Western Australia

Returning from Australia to the PRC

So, you have enjoyed your stay in Australia and now wish to return to the PRC.  The following assumes you are in possession of a valid PRC visa.

Singapore Airlines (SIA), Cathay Pacific, Air Nuigini, and Philippine Airlines offer flights from Australia to either the PRC or Hong Kong via their respective hubs. SIA has launched a Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) services to Singapore from Australia (among other countries), allowing quarantine-free travel to Singapore for eligible vaccinated travellers. 

If you’re  fully vaccinated , from November 1 2021 you’ll be able to travel overseas without an exemption. You’ll need to provide evidence of your vaccination status when you check-in at the airport.  Read more 

Based on the premise of having been fully innoculated by a Chinese vaccine, present the foreign vaccine certificates (as mentioned in step 2) at the check-in counter.  If you have been innoculated in Australia then you must present a Australian-issued International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate (ICVC)  

Show evidence of a negative COVID-19 PCR or RT-PCR test(s) within 3 days of checking in for your flight.

It is impossible to fly into Beijing as a final destination and as the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics approaches prevention and control measures are becoming more strict.  As of the date of writing, those from overseas shall undergo “14 days of centralized quarantine + 7 days of home quarantine + 7 days of self-health monitoring”. They are obliged to take a PCR test in hospital on the 23rd and 28th days from entering China upon presenting their certificate of quarantine completion.

Getting help during coronavirus (COVID-19) – Help adding overseas vaccinations – Services Australia

Australian Immunisation Register – Overseas immunisations – Services Australia

Getting help during coronavirus (COVID-19) – How to get proof – Services Australia

* Disclaimer: AustCham China has employed best endeavours with relation to compiling a helpful travel guide between Australia and China, but makes no guarantee as to its authenticity.  The aforementioned information is subject to change.

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• Australia edition
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Chinese tourists to resume group travel to Australia in latest thawing of relations between countries

Group tours accounted for 30% of the Chinese leisure travel market to Australia before the pandemic, as travel operators welcome move

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Airlines are preparing to cater for an increase in Chinese tourists to Australia after China’s government announced group tours to the country could resume, as the relationship between Beijing and Canberra continues to thaw.

China’s culture and tourism ministry named Australia, as well as countries including Japan, South Korea, Britain and the US, in an updated list of destinations that Chinese tourism agencies can run group tours to for the first time since outbound travel was halted due to the pandemic.

Thursday’s announcement is the third such list, and followed approvals in January and March this year. The first batch included 20 countries such as Thailand, Russia, Cuba and Argentina, while the second included 40 countries, among them Nepal, France, Portugal, Brazil.

Guardian Australia understands that Chinese airlines flying into Australia had expected the announcement, and had recently begun preemptively building in extra capacity to the country.

Airports are also expecting airlines to look at introducing additional flights between mainland China and Australia as a result of the announcement.

Group tours are a popular travel choice for Chinese citizens. An industry source said group tours accounted for 30% of the Chinese leisure travel market to Australia before the pandemic.

Sign up for Guardian Australia’s free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup

Tourism & Transport Forum Australia CEO, Margy Osmond, said the resumption was “incredibly exciting” and would help the sector recover.

Osmond said the lack of tour groups from China had been “a major barrier”.

“The drop in Chinese visitor numbers has had a significant impact on our industry, given China was our largest source market for international tourism before the pandemic,” Osmond said.

Travel from China to Australia has significantly increased throughout 2023. At the beginning of the year, there were just three or four return flights between the mainland and Sydney airport each week. By August, there were more than 50 return flights a week – sustained in part by demand from the return of international students.

However, travel in June from China to Sydney Airport was at 69% of pre-pandemic levels.

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Beijing’s announcement is the latest thawing of relations with Canberra, after it last week dropped its tariff of Australian barley imports that had been in place for three years.

Thursday’s news cheered China’s outbound travel operators, which have struggled since 2020 with more than three years of pandemic-induced border closures before China finally dropped Covid-19 restrictions late last year.

“It’s a milestone for the full resumption of the outbound travel, and will also strongly push the resumption of international flights, especially for Japan, Korea, the US,” said Zhou Weihong, deputy general manager at Spring Tour.

In the first quarter, Chinese tourism agencies recorded 318,600 outbound trips, with Thailand, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore among the top destinations. Though outbound travel only accounted for 1.58% of the overall tourism market in terms of the number of people who travelled, official figures showed.

Shares in South Korean firms with large exposure to Chinese travel demand – including two casino operators – jumped on the news.

With Reuters

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Can I travel to China from Australia?

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter China.

Can I travel to China if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from Australia can enter China without restrictions.

Can I travel to China without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from Australia can enter China without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter China?

Visitors from Australia are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering China.

Can I travel to China without quarantine?

Travellers from Australia are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in China?

Mask usage in China is recommended on public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in China?

Restaurants in China are open. Bars in China are .

Find cheap flights from China to Australia from £261

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Good to know - Cheap tickets from China to Australia

Faqs for booking flights from china to australia, how does kayak find such low prices on flights from china to australia.

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from China to Australia.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from China to Australia?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Australia from China is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from China to Australia?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional return ticket. You could then fly to Australia with an airline and back to China with another airline.

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Top 4 airlines serving from China to Australia

In general good, but the machine seems to be long in operation and some functions were restricted as e. g. Adjusting of seats.

When boarding, after business class should be premium economy, but economy class already lined-up at the gate blocking premium economy to board. Singapore airline crew should done a better job to organize this chaos :( Thank you.

Wonderful service, planes and interior in great condition, very pleasant experience

The premium economy seats were not that great. It could have been more premium than economy seats.

The singapore airline now compared before covid, I like the service before covid. SQ was the best of all airlines but now I am going to look for different airline if I am travelling in asia.

A pc of cake or biscuit at least. The airport was like a maze need to take another bus to the main terminal to immigration.

They close their counter so early. I had internet issues so I couldn’t check In online . I would have made the flight but their counter was closed 5 minutes before we arrived. No way of contacting them even though I had the confirmation number and tried to check in the night before on someone else’s phone. I tried calling their customer service with no pick up. Horrible experience, I’m very unhappy with them. I hope to never fly with them ever again. It costed me almost $900.

They are great with every aspect of customer service. Helped my elderly father and aided him with using the restroom.

Transfer within the same terminal and lots of facilities at the airport.

Even though it was a very full flight, the service was still excellent, the plane did not feel too cramped and cabin crew made a sincere effort to help passengers find overhead space for stowing luggage.

They asked how much cash i have . I said no cash they said bring cash from atm . Why they even care about my cash.

Flight was scheduled to depart at 1210 hrs. It was delayed 1 hour 20 minutes (maybe for air traffic control reasons). The seats were worn out and very uncomfortable. Lunch was typical for airline. Flight free were friendly.

Wuhan - Dubai. Old plane: 1. Only USB charger. No power outlet to plug in.. 2. Super narrow seat layout 3. Toilet cover consistently fell down and hit my back when sitting on it.. :( 4. Entertainment system touch screen not sensitive, and need to press hard or use finger tips to hit. Crew were very nice and accommodating though.

1. I got very poor check in experience with the counter lady . This is the first airline I ever experienced that no combine check in weight allow . Even we have 4 of us but weight counter by piece . So we wasted lot of time argue and repack . This is super crazy 2. Next I left my Samsung tablet on the plane . And I started to escalate and finally spoke to southern airline lost and found in Malaysia and the amazing answer she give is : system nothing found and please try to call southern airline in china 🧐 . I have been flying many other airlines but this is my first encounterment with such irresponsible airline response and no empathy given to customer . My feeling is nobody bother whether how customer like me feel and I’m just too small for the management to take note .

No red vine, no whiskey, no vodka. No that I wanted all of them at once but still...

During flight, some passengers perform stomping leg exercises which disturb the comfort (I.e. sleep) of other passengers.

No good but was short flight. Both of our China Southern flights were on time. No surprises.

The flight was okay it was the kayak customer service that was poor, I have been trying to change my name on my flight ticket 3 days before my flight and nothing got done about it even tho I messaged so many times and phoned, all I got in return was that is was being processed and still to this day nothing has been done about it, I think it’s disgusting and un needed stress to the trip.

Quality flight from start to finish. Customer service is evidently very important to this company. The staff really exceeded expectations.

Traveling with the Chinese airlines , their service superior to the US Airlines , they are much more friendly and the seats are comfortable , In the past I flew with United , now ,United Airline will become history for me .

The plane was small and a little stuffy inside the plane.

Going to Xiamen they did not offer any wine and basically offered two food choices in tin trays. Something you would expect on a domestic flight in China not a $10k business class flight. The flight attendant admitted they also stopped paying for satellite Wi-Fi; which they used to offer and now don't - without apology. Normally I am a huge fan of a non-stop but the difference between Japanese or US carriers is a large one and well worth a stop in Korea or Japan rather than pay double for no amenities at all. The plane is nice, but the experience was below par.

Once on board, everything is perfect. The young and pretty flight attendants warmly welcome each passenger and demonstrate excellent service attitudes. As passengers board one after another, the flight attendants begin to inquire about our meal preferences. I requested to see a wine list and choose a suitable red wine. She replied that there were no menus or wine lists, but she would take a photo of the red wine options on her phone and show me later. After lunch, the flight attendants began to ask about dinner arrangements. It turns out that there were only three options for dinner: seafood, chicken, and beef, exactly the same as lunch.

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Global tourism is on the up and up this year

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Next month, Melbourne in the Australian state of Victoria will play host to the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE24). It is said to be the biggest tourism event to be held in the country since the pandemic ended.

For those of us in the industry, the ATE24 – held from May 19 to 23 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre – is also one of the largest business-to-business or B2B events in the world. It is hoped that the event will bring lots of benefits to Australia’s inbound tourism market, as well as act as a platform for the country to show off its tourism products to the world.

This will be the 44th edition of the ATE, organised by both Tourism Australia and Visit Victoria.

Many governments have been trying to hold similar events in their own countries but so far, none have been successful. The ATE24 is expected to bring more than 1,500 tour operators from across Australia – along with 700 outbound operators from over 30 countries that organise tours to Australia – under one roof throughout the five-day event, including 18 from Malaysia.

These Aussie players will get to meet their global counterparts face-to-face, and introduce new innovative tourism and ecotourism products, including fun destinations, good food experiences and great souvenirs from Down Under, to potential buyers.

As for me, I have been sending two to four Apple Vacations colleagues from different departments to the event each year, including those from the product development and marketing promotion departments. This allows them to meet up with fellow travel operators and gain first-hand information on Australia’s latest tourism trends and resources.

Having been in the tourism sector for a little over three decades, I realise that Tourism Australia (TA) has always played the unofficial role of “ambassador of friendship” in the industry.

Every year, the agency would set aside a massive budget to bring foreign travel operators as well as media practitioners to Australia, so that they can meet up with tourist product suppliers from the country’s six states and two territories. This not only forges meaningful business ties but also allows foreigners to have a taste of the great Australian hospitality.

I seriously feel that TA has spent its money very wisely and productively.

I myself took two travel groups to Australia in 2022 for more profound and intimate travel experiences in different parts of the country, from which I have come to notice that Australian travel operators are indeed hugely passionate about the marvellous natural environment the country offers. The red and white wines from the vast expanses of vineyards dotting the Australian countryside are aptly complemented by delicious local cuisines, and boosted by cups of stimulating after-dinner coffees.

I admit that I have a special affinity for the Australian flat white ... and have you had an Australian brunch yet? When we were there, we searched high and low for some of the best brunches around, creatively prepared by chefs using fresh local ingredients.

I always tell people that the Australian way of living – somewhat hassle-free and easy-going – is something that travellers should really experience, and enjoy. Through the annual ATE, overseas travel operators will get to experience for themselves this famous Australian way of travelling.

The country has more than enough nature, culture and breathtaking sights that can be enjoyed the “Australian” way, too. However, to truly understand this way of life, travel operators must first discover, feel and appreciate Australia’s unique cultural charms before they can pass it on to travellers from their respective countries.

This has been ATE’s unchanging objective in nearly five decades: sharing the many marvels the country has to offer with everyone else.

Currently, I am planning a 30-day themed Australian tour for autumn 2025 (which is in May), where we will be stepping on the “belly button of the Earth” gazing at the galaxies above, witnessing the thrills of Vivid Sydney and taking on the BridgeClimb challenge, and lastly, savouring the good food and fabulous wines of South Australia.

Australia aside, many other countries around the world are fighting hard today to seize a slice of the tourist economy cake. Even Saudi Arabia, previously shut away from the world, started opening up its borders and welcoming foreign visitors in late 2019.

This was soon followed by the disbursement of generous budgets to woo global travellers via large-scale marketing campaigns.

As if that’s not enough, the desert kingdom is also investing heavily to enhance its tourism infrastructure, constructing brand new airports and hotels, as well as a “futuristic city” called The Line, doing all it can to attract tourists.

Besides Mecca, almost every major Saudi destination is teeming with tourists who are free to roam everywhere. The kingdom has made a significant breakthrough in opening up its tourism sector, and is set to win big as an emerging international destination this year.

Countries across the planet are also lifting their visa restrictions, upping international flight frequencies, and hosting travel fairs and exhibitions. Everyone is vying for the lucrative tourist money to jumpstart the recovery of their tourist sector, raking in foreign exchange earnings and creating job opportunities at the same time.

In fact, the tourism industry has never received so much attention before. Governments are brushing aside all forms of restrictions, initiating unprecedented collaborations and doing all they can to throw their doors wide open to international travellers, which is something quite unseen before.

It appears that the market is overflowing with a vast range of exhilarating tourist products that are bound to put a big smile on every traveller’s face. Soon, tourist promotion authorities worldwide will find themselves intensely pitted against one another to attract tourists.

Even China is fully liberalising its visa requirements for foreign visitors, and this is poised to see many more tourists from the West as well as the rest of Asia flocking to its shores.

Australia’s TA keeps introducing exciting new seasonal tourism activities such as the annual Vivid Sydney event. There is also Yokoso Japan, Korea’s K-pop craze, Macao’s magical spell, Hong Kong’s irresistible dynamism, Dubai’s “Time To Say Dubai” and many more.

Every country is putting in immense sums of money to promote themselves to the world, trying to get travellers to come over and to shop, eat and party till you drop.

The good news is, people are actually travelling, and in every season, too.

Anyway, the tremendous effort to boost tourism is a positive development as it helps promote mutual visits of people from different countries while fortifying cultural and social exchanges. This is the harmonious integration we yearn to see from people living in our Global Village.

The views expressed here are entirely the writer’s own.

Leesan, the globe-trotting traveller who has visited 137 countries and seven continents, enjoys sharing his travel stories and insights. He has also authored five books.

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Tags / Keywords: Melbourne , Vistoria , Visit Victoria , Australian Tourism Exchange , ATE , Leesan , Tourism Australia , China , Saudi Arabia , Mecca , Dubai , Tourism

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Chinese Premier Li to visit Australia in June, SCMP says

S YDNEY (Reuters) - China's Premier Li Qiang will visit Australia in June, the South China Morning Post said on Thursday, the latest step in a thawing of ties between the two nations.

Australia and China, its largest trading partner, are rebuilding ties after a period of strained relations, which hit a low in 2020 after Canberra called for an independent investigation into the origin of COVID-19.

The visit in the third week of June will coincide with a lifting of an unofficial three-year ban on Australian live lobsters, the paper said, citing two sources with knowledge of the matter.

A spokesperson for Australia's department of the prime minister and cabinet declined to comment.

China's foreign ministry could not immediately be reached for comment.

Since a change of government in Canberra two years ago, Beijing has agreed to lift most of the tariffs on Australian goods, including barley and wine, with lobsters one of the last commodities facing curbs.

"We welcome the efforts ... to improve diplomatic relations," said a spokesperson for Geraldton Fishermen's Co-Operative, Australia's largest rock lobster exporter.

"Restoring market access is a win-win and will contribute to Australia's economy through export earnings, jobs and regional development."

Following a visit by Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, Foreign Minister Penny Wong said last month that she was expecting a visit from Li this year, without saying when.

(Reporting by Alasdair Pal and Lewis Jackson in Sydney; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)

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Australia should adhere to independent China policy to bolster trade

Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to New Zealand and Australia from Sunday to Thursday indicates an improvement in political mutual trust between China and the two countries, especially between China and Australia.

Sino-Australian relations have undergone several recalibrations in recent years since former Australian prime minister Scott Morrison took office in 2018. Due to the Morrison government's anti-China policy, Sino-Australian relations hit rock bottom, with bilateral economic and trade ties suffering a major setback. Bilateral relations took a turn for the better only after Anthony Albanese became Australian prime minister in 2022, particularly after the new government expressed its willingness to improve Sino-Australian relations and vowed to settle the trade issues through talks.

Over the past year, Australian officials, including the prime minister and the foreign minister, have engaged in pragmatic diplomacy, sticking to the principles of mutual respect and win-win cooperation, and respecting China's core interests. Such efforts eased the tensions and guided bilateral ties toward normalization, facilitating the resumption of economic and trade cooperation.

While bilateral trade is returning to normal, and Chinese investment in Australia has been gradually recovering, some trade issues remain to be resolved, including the issue of extra tariffs on Australian wine. But given the risks faced by the global supply chains and the world economy, the sooner the two sides resolve their disputes, the sooner people on the two sides will benefit.

Nevertheless, whether all the trade issues can be resolved depends mainly on Australia's attitude and actions. First, Canberra should treat Chinese enterprises' investment in Australia fairly. This is very important, because the United States has been using national security to view economic issues and has been strictly scrutinizing the activities of Chinese companies. And to counter China, the US has roped in the rest of the Western countries, including Australia, in its anti-China campaigns.

As a result, the normal business activities of Chinese enterprises in Australia, such as mergers and acquisitions, have faced excessive scrutiny in the name of national security, which has dampened the Chinese enterprises' enthusiasm to invest in Australia and impeded the development of Sino-Australian trade. As such, whether Australia can create a fair, transparent and predictable business environment and whether the legitimate interests of Chinese companies in Australia can be protected have become major concerns for the Chinese government.

Second, Australia needs to base its China policy on its own national interests, without allowing the US to hold Sino-Australian trade relations hostage, in order to fulfill its narrow political goals. Since China is Australia's largest trading partner, and the two countries have a highly complementary economic structure, deeper bilateral trade can bring more tangible benefits to the people on both sides. So despite being an ally of the US, Australia needs to distinguish between its own interests and those of the US. By confusing US-Australia alliance interests as its own national interests, Canberra stands to lose the chance of benefitting from growing China-Australia trade and people-to-people exchanges.

And third, Australia should follow an independent foreign policy. The Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Palestine conflicts have widened the rifts in the international community, giving rise to confrontations and triggering an arms race.

Only by deepening cooperation and avoiding confrontation can differences be resolved and misunderstandings cleared. The development of China-Australia relations over the past 50 years show countries benefit from win-win cooperation, not confrontation. In this regard, the negative effects of the Morrison government's anti-China policy should serve as a reminder to Australia that sticking to a stable China policy and strengthening trade relations are beneficial to Canberra.

Also, China-Australia economic and trade cooperation lags far behind that between China and New Zealand. For example, in 2016, China and New Zealand started talks on upgrading their free trade agreement and signed the Upgrade Protocol in 2021. The upgraded FTA not only promoted the liberalization of bilateral trade and investment but also bolstered the China-New Zealand comprehensive strategic partnership. And during Wang's visit to New Zealand, the two sides pledged to further deepen economic and trade cooperation.

On the other hand, Beijing and Canberra agreed to hold talks to upgrade their FTA in 2017, but the process was stalled due to the Morrison government's anti-China policy. With the emergence of new technologies and new industries, and the rapid growth of the digital economy, China and Australia need to take measures to unleash the full potential of their cooperation.

The two sides, for instance, can deepen cooperation in the fight against climate change, and secure new energy industry chains. Australia can also play a role in China joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, whose membership China has applied for.

Moreover, this year marks the 10th anniversary of the China-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership, thus this is the right time for the two sides to write a new chapter in bilateral relations. With geopolitical competitions, regional conflicts and lack of trust among countries intensifying, Wang's visit to Australia sends a message that Beijing and Canberra are willing to resolve their differences through talks and seek common ground to jointly contribute to regional peace and development.

The author is a research fellow at the Center for Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Studies, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

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