The People's Republic of China might be the world's third largest country, but it has the largest population. Spring and autumn are certainly the best times to visit China the majority of China. However, the highlands are better seen in the summer. The weather itself is a bit extreme and ranges from very cold to very hot.
The country should be avoided during major public holidays, like the Chinese New Year, which usually occurs in February, unless you like crowds and don't mind being stuck in traffic jams- even the kind on two feet. Chinese festivals are fun and colorful though, so you may enjoy them anyway. The Lantern Festival with its exciting lion dances marks the end of the New Year celebrations.
China offers a variety of landscapes to tour from the Silk Road to the Guangxi Province to the deserts of the Xinjiang Province. Sailing down the Yangzi River is exciting, yet you might prefer the excitement of shopping at one of the more modern areas of China.
When visiting China, one has the possibility of seeing some amazing sites. Do not be afraid to explore outside of the main cities. Below is a list of the top ten sites that should not be missed on your visit.
- Huangshan, China's most spectacular mountain.
- The amazing Great Wall of China.
- Forbidden City in Beijing.
- The Zhangjiaje National Forest Park.
- The amazing Xi'an Terra Cotta Warriors
- The Yosemite of China, Jiuzhaiqou.
Eating in China can be a different experience. The Chinese are known to make use of many food items that western palette would think strange. Your adventurous spirit will be tested. As always, in the main cities, you will find plenty of restaurants that cater to the western palette. You will never be far from finding a place to serve you a burger.
The majority of the country speaks Mandarin Chinese. Over one hundred ports of entry exist, yet most people enter China by way of Hong Kong, Beijing, or Shanghai.
