Embarking on my first solo flight, I traveled 13 hours from London to Shenzhen, China—a journey far beyond my previous trip to Barcelona in 2023. Invited by PR firms CommunicateMore and iMpact for a business assignment exploring emerging tech, I was eager but unprepared for the stark differences that awaited me.
The adventure began with a night in Hong Kong, a surprisingly Westernized and relaxed enclave. Navigating the airport solo was straightforward, thanks to clear English signage and helpful staff. But crossing into mainland China proved trickier than anticipated. Initially told I’d be driven across the border, the plan abruptly changed—my only option was a ferry, which runs only until a specific hour, meaning timing is critical to avoid being stranded.
At immigration, anxieties eased; with all necessary documents ready, the process was routine, especially since I didn’t require a visa. Officers mainly confirmed my exit date, without the intense scrutiny often depicted in movies.
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The real challenge began with China’s strict internet censorship. Known as the Great Firewall, this system blocks Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and more. Without a reliable VPN, communicating with friends and family was impossible once I moved from Hong Kong to Shenzhen. VPNs are indispensable for bypassing these restrictions.
A surprising cultural shift was the reliance on QR codes for payments. Unlike in the UK, physical cards, cash, and familiar contactless options like Apple Pay or Google Wallet are largely useless. Payments rely on apps like Alipay and WeChat, which require scanning the merchant’s QR code. Despite installing Alipay, I faced glitches and unexpected logouts, causing frustrating payment delays or abandoned purchases. Setting up multiple payment apps before travel is crucial, but requires passport information and may be hindered by two-step verification systems imposed by some banks.
Jet lag added to the ordeal. Having never experienced it before, I was unprepared for the fatigue, nausea, and dizziness that followed crossing eight time zones—from London to China. Despite my best efforts to sleep strategically during the night flight, my body struggled to adjust to the 28°C, humid climate and constant movement in Shenzhen’s towering skyscrapers. Packing remedies like Pepto Bismol is wise for nausea, and adjusting your sleep schedule before you go can aid acclimatization. Staying longer than a week helps your body adapt fully.
What began as an exciting adventure quickly revealed how much planning and local knowledge are needed for travel to China. From entry logistics and digital restrictions to payment systems and jet lag, I faced a steep learning curve—but one that ultimately broadened my understanding of a fascinating and complex destination.