FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who/what is Citslinc?
Citslinc International, Inc. was established in June 1995 and operates out of
Monterey Park, California. President of the company Mr. Leo Liu had been
coordinating tours to China for over 15 years and had partnered with
Chambers of Commerce since 2001. This year over 6000 tourists visited
China on Chamber tours such as this one. To learn more, Google “Citslinc”
or visit www.citslinc.com.
Do I need to be a Chamber member to go on the trip?
No, everyone is welcome to join us in this exciting adventure.
When do I need to commit?
You must pay your deposit for the trip by September 2, 2008. A nonrefundable
$200 deposit will hold your spot until that date. ALL FINAL
PAYMENTS will need to be made by November 1, 2008. Side trips are
arranged in country and cost $25 to $45 per person.
What about travel documents?
You will need a passport and a visa. Visas can be arranged through the
Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce for a $150 fee. Visas are issued for a
six month window. Passports can be purchased at the Post Office and must
have an expiration date that is a least six months after our return date from
China (09/23/09). Your passport must be current BEFORE you apply for
your visa, so please plan accordingly.
What about travel insurance?
Travel insurance can be arranged by your local travel agent or you can use
one of our chamber members.
What is China’s weather like in March, how should I pack?
The weather is very much like it is here, 30F at night to 50F daytime in
Beijing. It is about 10 degrees warmer in the Shanghai area. “Casual” is
the word for touring, but you may want to pack business attire if you are
planning to attend the business functions.
May I pay the Chamber by credit card?
Yes, we accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express.
Will I be able to use credit cards in China?
You will find very few ATM machines, but traveler’s checks and credit cards
are accepted everywhere. It is recommended that you leave your
checkbooks and debit cards behind.
I am interested in investigating business opportunities in China. Is it possible
to do this on this trip?
Yes, there will be a reception one evening to meet and discuss business
with local China businessmen. Fill out the “Business Questionnaire” and the
reception will be arranged by Citslinc at no cost.
How many other will be on this trip?
We are planning on blocks of 310 travelers. The individual groups will be
sized at 25-30 and it is likely the only time you will see the others in your
block will be in the evening.
Will I have the opportunity to travel outside of the tour group?
No, you may not leave the tour to do your own thing. There are exceptions
when there is allotted free time and you will be advised when it is okay.
How much money should I plan on taking?
How much you spend on those “I got to have it” items is of course up to you.
Others who have gone on previous trips have spent between $200-$400 for
miscellaneous items.
Do I need any vaccinations?
There are no vaccination requirements at this time, but travelers should
check with their physicians or the Center for Disease Control Web site at
www.cdc.gov/travel/vaccinat.htm to learn of any recommended vaccinations
or up-dated health-related news.
What are the limitations on luggage? How many pieces and how much weight
is allowed?
On Chinese domestic flights, each person is allowed 44 pounds of checked
baggage. International flights permit two pieces weighing 70 pounds total.
We recommend packing light and plan on shopping later during the trip,
especially in Shanghai.
What about airport security?
The best information can be found at www.tsa.gov. Follow the prohibited /
allowed link and you will find all the information as to what you may take on
board the aircraft.
What are the guidelines on tipping?
The bus captain will collect $25 from each traveler on the first day for the
combined services of the tour guide, the bus driver, and all hotel personnel.
Unless you request special services, you should not expect to tip anyone
else.
How can you do this for the price?
Several things are in play to keep the costs reasonable. First is the volume;
Citslinc International, Inc. is able to achieve discounts from the airline and
hotels due to the large number of travelers they bring to China. Second, it is
the “off season” in China and the hotels/busses would be otherwise
unutilized.
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