Find Cheap Flights to China and Compare Prices to Book Your Trip

Spring is an ideal time to visit China, with mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. Prices for China air tickets from Colombia are moderate.

Summer is high season, with heat and humidity, especially in the south. Prices for flights to China rise, but it is the best time for the Guilin landscape.

Many consider autumn the best time to visit China. The weather is dry and temperate, perfect for tourism, and cheap China flights are easier to find.

Winter brings cold temperatures, especially in the north. This is the low season, which means you can find the best cheap China flights and fewer tourists.

Yes, Colombian citizens need to obtain a visa to enter mainland China. You must apply for it at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in Colombia before your trip. The process can take several weeks, so plan ahead. Make sure you have a passport valid for at least six months and proof of your flight itinerary and accommodation. Always check the most recent requirements, as visa policies can change. Obtaining the visa in time is a crucial step to secure your trip and avoid problems upon arrival.

China's public transportation system is vast and very efficient, especially in big cities. The high-speed rail (Gao Tie) connects most major cities quickly and comfortably. Within cities, the subway is the best option: it is clean, punctual, and easy to use, although signs may be primarily in Mandarin. For short distances, taxi and ride-sharing apps are popular and often more convenient than hailing a taxi on the street. Consider buying a local transport card upon arrival, such as the Beijing card or the Shanghai card, to facilitate the use of the subway and buses. For long journeys, flying domestically is a quick option, and you can find cheap mainland China flights on TICKETS.COM.CO. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so planning your movements is vital.

China offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels of international chains to budget hostels and local boutique hotels. In big cities like Shanghai and Beijing, international hotels offer Western amenities but can be costly. For a more authentic experience, look for local hotels or guesthouses in the old neighborhoods. It is important to know that not all hotels in China are authorized to host foreigners, especially outside the main tourist areas, so verify this when booking. Online booking platforms are the easiest way to secure your stay. Compared to Colombia, prices may be higher in first-tier cities, but the quality of service is usually excellent. Book in advance, especially if you travel during Chinese holidays.

China is generally a very safe country, with low rates of violent crime. However, as in any tourist destination, you should be aware of petty theft in crowded areas. A common scam, especially in cities like Shanghai, is the 'tea house scam,' where friendly strangers invite you to a tea house and then present you with an exorbitant bill. Be polite but firm in refusing unexpected invitations from strangers. Keep your valuables safe and use ATMs inside banks. It is helpful to always carry a copy of your passport and visa. In case of emergency, the police number is 110. Remember that the language barrier can be a challenge, so having a translation app on your phone is highly recommended. Traveling with common sense will keep you safe.

Respect is fundamental in Chinese culture. When interacting with older people or figures of authority, show deference. Gifts are given and received with both hands. It is common for people to ask personal questions, such as about your age or marital status; this is considered a way of showing interest, not a lack of respect. At the table, never stick chopsticks vertically into the rice, as this is associated with funeral rituals. When paying, try to use mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay or Alipay, as cash is increasingly less accepted. Learning a few basic phrases in Mandarin, such as 'thank you' (xièxie) and 'hello' (nǐ hǎo), will be greatly appreciated by locals. Punctuality is important in business and appointments, but there may be more flexibility in social gatherings. Avoid talking about sensitive politics.

Chinese food is incredibly diverse, far beyond what is known in the West. Each region has its own distinctive style. Sichuan cuisine is famous for its spicy and numbing flavor (ma la). Cantonese (Guangdong) cuisine is known for its fresh flavors and dim sum. Northern cuisine, such as Beijing's, focuses on noodles, dumplings, and wheat dishes. Don't limit yourself to tourist restaurants; look for small local establishments (xiaochi) to try authentic delicacies at low prices. Compared to Colombian food, the flavors can be very different, with less emphasis on fried foods and more on umami and complex spices. Don't be afraid to try new dishes. Remember that sharing dishes is the norm, so order several to try a little of everything.

China is enormous, so it is vital not to try to cover too much in a single trip. Focus on one or two regions. A popular itinerary for a first trip includes Beijing (history and culture), Shanghai (modernity and finance), and Xi'an (Terracotta Warriors). If you have more time, consider the natural beauty of Guilin or the vibrant culture of Hong Kong. Use the high-speed train to move between cities efficiently. Book your tickets to major attractions, such as the Great Wall, in advance, especially during high season. For a deeper experience, consider spending more time exploring a single city, rather than quickly jumping between many. Planning your flights to China in advance will help you secure better prices.

The climate in China varies greatly. If you travel to Beijing in winter, you will need very warm clothes; if you go to Guangzhou in summer, light clothing. Pack a universal plug adapter, as China uses types A, C, and I. Connectivity is a challenge due to internet restrictions. You will need a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to access Western websites and applications like Google, Facebook, or WhatsApp. Download and configure your VPN before arriving. It is also helpful to bring a small first-aid kit with basic medicines, as finding familiar brands can be difficult. A good pair of comfortable shoes is essential, as you will be walking a lot exploring the Great Wall or the temples. Don't forget to bring an external battery for your phone, as navigation and payment apps consume a lot of energy.