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Anonymous.
Rob_Hugo@PortNWHi Everyone,
It would be great of those of you who went on the trip last year could give the first timers some advice on the trip.
Thanks,
Christina Varela
AnonymousChristina,
Read my latest post on the thread for "China in the News." Interesting article in the Times about China's food safety.
Aileen
AnonymousI've heard it is not safe to drink the water in China so I'm learning from one of my students how to ask for bottled water in Chinese! It is amazing that we are going to China!!
AnonymousThere is bottled water everywhere you go and they even sold it to us on the tour bus. In the room there are always bottles of water also. In the rooms there is a little tea pot of sorts where you can boil water if you want for hot drinks. It was never a problem getting bottled water.
You need to be careful not to eat the skins or fruits or vegetables that are not cooked. They served a lot of watermelon at meals which was really good. I just ate the cooked vegis. In the mornings at the hotels where we stayed you could always get a western breakfast if you wanted to. So if the Chinese food is not your style you can eat more at breakfast.
I enjoyed most of the food. I just got a little tired of Chinese food two times a day for 10 days, but hey it was all about the experience.
It might be wise to bring some luna bars and snack foods if you think you will want them.
Cathy
AnonymousHi Experienced Chinese Travelers,
Did you guys get any immunizations before you went? My stepdaughter,
who went last March, got hepatitis A&B, which was highly recommended by her doctor.
However, it is a series of shots over about a 6 month period - which let's us out.
What do you think?
Chris
AnonymousDon't forget to use the bottled water to brush your teeth. I had to replace a toothbrush while I was there. Not thinking, I placed it under the tap to rinse it off.
AnonymousCarry On Regulations
Clay has given me some information about your luggage:
1. Traveling from US to China: You can take 2 bags, but you will have to get rid of one if you will travel within China. So pack lightly or be prepared to throw away your extra bag.
2. Traveling within China: You are only allowed 1 bag, not to exceed 20 kilos, which is equivalent to 44lbs. Make sure it's durable and has wheels to help yourself out.
3. Traveling from China to US: You are allowed 2 bags, so you can buy a bag before you leave and pack it with goodies.
Airlines may also have other restrictions, so please be aware of those.
AnonymousTraveler Information
Health Information for Travelers to Countries in East Asia - http://www.cdc.gov/travel/eastasia.htm
Travelers' diarrhea (TD) is the most common illness affecting travelers - http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/travelersdiarrhea_g.htm
World Health Organization information on China - http://www.who.int/countries/chn/en/
Lonely Planet information on China - http://www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/destinations/asia/china
AnonymousLast Friday was one of those teaching days when I was reminded how valuable my trip to China last spring was not only for me but for my students. Last year my students were involved in my planning for the trip every step of the way. They went online to help me decide what to pack, what the weather would be, what I should buy. Their excitement peaked mine. I am about to start my ancient China unit right now in seventh grade and soon in sixth. My room is now decorated with all of the "China stuff" including all the books I "lugged" around with me through China. The lugging was all worth it when I saw the kids looking at all the books etc. Some of them have been to China and we discussed our experiences at the terracotta warriors and getting the farmer to sign our book or take our picture. I could see connections being made with students who I may not have connected so personally with yet this year. (I have 6 classes and lots!!! of students). I played a DVD for them while they worked called the 12 Girl Band, a popular group in China. Clay suggested I look for it while I was there. The kids were really interested so I want to find some more contemporary music while I am there. I suggest talking to your kids about what you might want to buy for your classroom. They have great kites and dragons. I am "over" lugging books but this time I am going to look for lighter more compact things to buy. It certainly helps China come "alive" in the classroom.
See you Monday! Cathy
AnonymousQuestion - What size memory card did you use for your camera's? did you have enough room for 2 weeks of pictures?
Christina
AnonymousHere is a good travel guide for China -
travelchinaguide.com
Christina
AnonymousDoes this 1 bag rule apply to carry on as well? Or is it one checked bag and one carry on?
Christina
Anonymousany suggestions on the type of luggage we should take? clothing to pack?
Christina
AnonymousYou can still start the Hep A and B before you go, then finish the series when you get back. I did it that way. I was informed that it's over a month period, not six. Check with a different doctor, maybe.
AnonymousLess is more! I would bring a medium rolling suitcase that is not fully packed. Then, bring a separate duffle bag that you can put your fragile goodies in for the ride home. Carry them on the plane with you.