Your China Questions Answered

At Wendy Wu Tours, we are beyond excited that China is once again open for tourists. Wendy Wu Tours escorted our first group of UK travellers to China over 25 years ago, and we have been leaving our customers in complete awe of this very special country ever since.

However, over the last few years of global uncertainty, China has received a fair amount of media attention. We understand that this might raise a few concerns amongst some would-be China adventurers.

We’re happy to reassure you that this incredible country is as welcoming, exciting, and safe as ever. And you couldn’t be in better hands with our team of experts and in-country National Escorts.

Here we address some of your most frequently asked questions about travelling to China with Wendy Wu Tours.

Is China safe to visit?

China has always been and remains safe for tourists, with violent crime rates lower than in many Western countries. Common sense should be exercised in busy public places as small risks like petty theft and pickpocketing are present – just like in most other busy towns and cities worldwide.

When you travel to China with Wendy Wu Tours, you will always have our National Escorts on hand. These local experts will brief you if a particular situation requires extra caution.

What is it actually like travelling to China at the moment?

Our Senior Team travelled to China on a scouting mission in April 2023, just as the borders re-opened to tourists after a three-year closure. And they couldn’t have dreamed of a warmer welcome. With so few tourists in the country, locals were very excited to invite our team to explore the wonders of their incredible country. And it seems that they just can’t wait to greet more international visitors!

Does China still have COVID restrictions?

From 30 August 2023, there are no longer any COVID-19-related restrictions for travellers to China. Travellers are still required to register a China Customs on a Health Declaration form.

Proof of COVID vaccination is not required, and mask-wearing is no longer mandatory in China, including on public transport and flights. And you don’t need to do any testing before you return to the UK – so there’s not much to think about at all, really.

Do I need a visa to visit China? What is the process for getting one?

British Nationals need a visa to enter mainland China, and all applicants between 14 and 70 years old need to make their application in person at a Visa Application Centre (London, Manchester and Edinburgh).

Our experts at Wendy Wu Tours will help guide you through the process, and the cost of your visa application is included in your tour price. Our team will contact you around 6-8 weeks before your departure to start your visa application.

Why should I visit China with Wendy Wu Tours?

Our owner and founder, Wendy, pioneered China group travel in the UK and led her first group to China in 1994. We have been escorting curious adventurers to this beautiful country ever since.

Today, Wendy Wu Tours is the number one operator for tours to China and offers the industry’s most comprehensive escorted China tour collection. It’s safe to say that we know our stuff.

Our team of China experts are very experienced in guiding our customers through the China visa application process (the fee for which is included in the tour price) and ensuring they have everything they need for their trip. And then our valued in-country National Escorts take care of the rest. These local expert guides escort customers throughout their journey, ensuring that they stay safe, have every need taken care of – and that no stone is left unturned on their explorations. No one knows China like our National Escorts.

There really is no better operator to entrust such a special adventure with!