The Forbidden City, Beijing Destination China

China is an amazing cultural treasure of the world situated in eastern Asia. Its natural wealth, five millennium of history, and an old continuous civilization, place China as a great travel destination. Shanghai is largest city and the major business center with many commercial opportunities. Nanjing and Suzhou are historical places. Guangzhou is a modern prosperous city and Guilin is a paradise location. There are more than nine cities in China that should be visited.

In the world, China is the most populous country, over 1.3 billion population. China is also the third largest country in terms of area, it has an area of 9.6 million square kilometers. Economists think that China will be the most world economy powerful within 20 years. Because of its large population, rapidly growing economy, extensive research and development investments, China is often considered as an emerging superpower. Finally, China has more than 5,000 years of alive history. For these reasons, traveling to China is like traveling to another world.

Tipping is not widely expected or required in Mainland China. However, at superior hotels and restaurants catering to western tourists, porters, room service and wait staff may have become used to receiving small tips. You can tip in cash, some small gifts brought from your country would also be appreciated, such as music CDs, books, perfumes, candies, etc. Do not assume that your medical insurance coverage at home will take care of all your medical expenses abroad. It might only cover a percentage. It certainly will not cover "evacuation" on a private plane with medical staff.

If you pay for your travel through some credit cards, you automatically get travel insurance. Do check the terms. Ask about evacuation insurance if you are going off the well-beaten tourist track. AEA/SOS International has clinics and doctors in Beijing and other cities around China for this and other emergency medical help. Tel.(U.S. and Canada)800/523-8930.

In case of Emergency don't forget to take a China SIM Card , a local service here in US at the wholesale rates to save clients up-to 85% on international roaming. China SIM Card includes FREE incoming calls with service across China plus lowest call charges.

Don't have a Unlocked Cell , explore the options of buying a China- compatible cell phone from RebelFone, renting a China Cell Phone at $1 a day. Rent a Cell with a Free Activated China SIM & you are ready to stay connected to your friends & Family where-ever you go.

Vietnam Travel Guide

Vietnam is located in both a tropical and a temperate zone. It is characterized by strong monsoon influences, but has a considerable amount of sun, a high rate of rainfall, and high humidity. Regions located near the tropics and in the mountainous regions are endowed with a temperate climate.

The annual average temperature ranges from 22ºC to 27ºC. In Hanoi, the average temperature is 23ºC, in Ho Chi Minh City it is 26ºC, and in Hue it is 25ºC.

There are two distinguishable seasons. The cold season occurs from November to April and the hot season from May to October. The difference in temperature between the two seasons in southern Vietnam is almost unnoticeable, averaging 3ºC. The most noticeable variations are found in the northern provinces where differences of 12ºC have been observed. There are essentially four distinct seasons, which are most evident in the northern provinces.

Weather forecasts are only of value for a week or so in advance and even then they are not very reliable. Weather averages are better indicators of what to expect in a particular month. In each of the pages describing the weather patterns in specific locations, there is a table of average temperatures, rainfall, and so on. Also keep a close eye on short-range weather forecasts and warnings of possible storms.

December to March is a good time to visit the Central Highlands when conditions are usually dry and cool. We visited the region in late November when the weather was beautiful with fine, warm days and pleasant evenings. We had a few light showers as we headed north towards Hoi An. Along the central coast there is a rainy season from December to February. June to October tends to be very dry and hot.

If you're planning a trip to cover all of Vietnam the best time to visit is from September to December or from March to April. Also to ensure a complete peace of mind experience take a Vietnam SIM card for a GSM international cell phone is the most convenient and economical calling solution while you travel Vietnam. The Vietnam SIM card includes FREE incoming calls with service across Vietnam. Pay the local rate for local calls and use a cellular phone in Vietnam like you do at home. And unlike home, your Vietnam SIM card and cell phone service is free of a contract or minimum commitment.

If you are struck with your US carrier & don't have a unlocked cell phone then you may also , rent a cell phone for Vietnam at $1 a day. Rent a Cell with a Free Activated SIM & you are ready to stay connected to your friends & Family where-ever you go.