Logistic Information

General Guidelines:

1. China is generally quite safe, especially in urban areas where there are many security cameras. Just be cautious when crossing streets.
2. Many major apps have English versions available.
3. With cellphone payments, you won't need cash. In fact, many places may not even have change available.
4. Most mobile apps display ads upon opening.
5. The features of many major apps overlap. For instance, both WeChat and Gaode offer taxi calling, bike rentals, and maps.

Internet Access:

For eSIMs, you can purchase them from Amazon or directly from providers' websites. Recommended options include Airalo, Holafly, and Nomad. With these eSim cards, you can access all websites (including Gmail and Google) without restrictions. If you prefer a physical SIM card, Amazon offers several options. Note that most eSIMs do not provide a phone number, so it's advisable to bring your own number and enable messaging while in China. Many apps and tourist locations (including free airport Wi-Fi) require registration, and SMS confirmations are common, so having a number that can receive texts is essential. With a cellphone on a data plan, you can also connect your laptop via the cellphone's hotspot.

Another option is to use a VPN. Both ExpressVPN (expressvpn.com) and PrivateVPN (privatevpn.com) have worked in the past, but please note that this is not guaranteed.

Maps:

Baidu Map and Gaode Map are both good options, but I recommend Gaode due to fewer ads. Google Maps works, but may not always be reliable. Gaode can also be used to order taxis (similar to Uber), and you can call taxis through WeChat as well.

Train Ticket Booking:
I recommend using the "Trip" app for booking. You can download it from the app store or visit us.trip.com. Its Chinese version is a leading site for booking flights, train tickets, hotels, and tourist attractions. Of course there are many other options. The official Chinese Rail website is 12306.cn.

Payment:

You can use WeChat or Alipay, both of which have English versions and can be linked to your credit card. You can unlink your credit card later if needed.

Directions to the CIM

Traveling Between PEK (Beijing Capital Airport) and Beijing South Train Station:
Subway: Take the subway from PEK to Beijing South Train Station. Expect 2-3 transfers, taking about 90 minutes at most.
Taxi: Takes about 50 minutes (40 km) and cost around 120-140 CNY.

Traveling Between Beijing South Train Station and Tianjin/Tianjin West Train Stations:
The journey takes 30-50 minutes, with 2-3 trains running every hour.

Traveling Between Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) and Tianjin/Tianjin West Train Stations:
The journey taks approximately 40-60 minutes, with 1-2 trains running every hour.

Traveling Between Tianjin/Tianjin West Train Stations and the CIM
The subway ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Further details will follow.