Flashpacking; it’s like backpacking, but for those who would rather swap shared bunk beds for private double rooms. It’s for the intrepid traveller who works full time, is low on annual leave and craves adventure. And it’s flashpacking, that offers a great solution for travel around China.
Typically, Aussies favour the tour group approach for journeying through China; a one-package-fits-all solution involving being herded by a mediocre English speaking guide through a whirlwind of historical landmarks. And while this approach perceivably strips the hassle out of travelling through China, the majority of sites can actually be visited independently. Flashpacking allows you to pick and choose your preferred destinations for a solo adventure while throwing in some creature comforts to take off the intrepid-traveller edge.
Where to go:
China has experiences and destinations to enthrall all types of flashpackers. All you have to do is decide on your vacation length and then pick from a range of iconic experiences.
If you fancy…
…stepping back in time for beautiful townships, traditional Qing and Ming architecture, vibrant streets and a rich cultural experience; Visit: Pingyao, Beijing’s Hutongs, Zhujiajiao.
Laneways of Pingyao
… visiting sites of importance with incredible architecture and cultural and historical significance; Visit: Xian and Beijing (minimum 3 days required to cover sites in Beijing including the Forbidden City and Summer Palace).
Terracotta warriors, Xian
Forbidden City, Beijing
Summer Palace, Beijing
Tienanman Square, Beijing
…getting out into the countryside:
For the Great Wall. Visit: Mutianyu
For mist-wreathed karst scenery Visit: Yangshou or Huangshan.
For iconic rice terrace views, Visit: Yuanyang.
For hiking through unbelievable mountains Visit: Tiger leaping gorge, Hong Kong’s Islands or Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (from Avatar fame)
For snow-capped Tibet Visit: Lhasa or Mt Kailash, Western Tibet.
Mutianyu, The Great Wall of China
A boat trip down the Li River, Yangshou
Rice paddies, Yuangyang
Hiking in Zhangjiajie
…21st century city glam for cocktails with dazzling sky-high views, chic malls, high-end dining experiences and neon light displays. Visit: Shanghai or Hong Kong. (You can read more about what to do in Hong Kong here).
Sundowners from Bar Level 87, Park Hyatt, Shanghai
The view from the outdoor hot-tub at Vue Bar, Hyatt on the Bund, Shanghai
How to get around:
A significant slice of your budget is going to be spent on transport to get across the country. So make sure you plan and book major journeys in advance.
Planes – Fly to get across the country as quickly and easily as possible. There are loads of domestic carriers including: China Southern, Air China, Shanghai Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Beijing Capital Airlines and more! Go here to create a flight itinerary from Australia with up to six destinations which takes out the stress of booking everything separately – huzzah.
Trains – The high-speed trains in China are an experience in themselves – ultra modern and, at up to 300kph, they’re uber fast. On major routes, there are some good food options on-board and sitting in a cabin with some locals is a great opportunity to make some new friends. Within the major cities, the subways are surprisingly easy to navigate with English signs.
| Hot tip: Save on a nights’ accommodation with a sleeper train. But make sure you book a Soft Class Sleeper for a more comfortable experience. |
A soft sleeper train carriage (Pingyao to Beijing)
Taxi – Cabs are cheap by Aussie standards so hiring a taxi or private driver can be well worth it to save time and give you flexibility.
| Hot tip: Public transport areas are notorious for touts. Be prepared; know where you’re going and have a rough cost in your mind before you go to the cab rank. |
Where to stay:
In major cities, China’s accommodation ranges from multi-national hotel chains to traditional, more intimate courtyard guesthouses. Flashpackers can knock themselves out scoring 5-star luxury for 3-star Aussie prices by booking ahead online. And while most hotels will offer free Wi-Fi, make sure you utilise the hotel’s concierge desk to help you book trains, restaurants and writing down addresses in Chinese.
| Flashpacker hot tip: To save extra dollars, book a Secret Hotel® in China. Here you’ll find the hotel’s star rating, description and general location. Then, once you’ve booked you’ll be given the hotel’s name and details. |
Shangri-la, Guilin
Example of a guesthouse courtyard
When to go:
Spring and Autumn provide comfortable climates for site-seeing in most regions of the country.
What to pack:
• Your game face – Travel in China isn’t for the faint hearted. You may struggle to find English speaking locals, a breakfast that includes toast and in rural areas some small hotels even refuse board to foreigners. But fear not, getting off the beaten track will reward you in cultural spades.
• Wi-Fi enabled phone & a Chinese SIM card – Google Translate will be your new best friend – fact. Remember to pick up a local SIM at airport arrivals.
• An extra bag – If you haven’t heard, Shanghai is the new Milan (read more here). From electricals to clothes, and designer bags to home wares – China’s plethora of shopping options will convert even the most die-hard non-shopper.
How to get inspired:
Read:
• Wild Swans – Jung Chang
• Soul Mountain – Gao Xingjian
• Tiananmen Moon: Inside the Chinese Student Uprising of 1989 – Philip Cunningham
Watch:
• The Last Emperor
• Shanghai Express
• Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon