How to Fly to Beijing
With the proper preparations, getting a flight to Beijing is straightforward. Flights to Beijing are becoming more plentiful, but it is wise to book a flight at least two months in advance for the most economical Beijing flights. Many online travel sites feature Beijing flights from all major American airports.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
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1
Reserve a hotel room in advance of applying for a visa. The Chinese government insists upon having a local contact for any person visiting China. The hotel's address and phone number will also be required when filling out arrival documents, so keep a copy handy.
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2
Apply for a visa, which is good for 3 weeks upon entering the country. If a visitor is part of a tour, the travel agency can apply for a visa for individual tourists. Individuals traveling on their own to China must apply in person at the Consulate for their region. Visa applications will not be accepted by mail.
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3
Arrange your flight after receiving your visa. When booking a flight to Beijing, the day of the week determines the fare, so provide a range of dates to either a travel agent or online travel website. Many major American airlines partner with Chinese carriers for flights to China.
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4
Travel to Beijing. Nonstop flights take anywhere from 11 hours to 15 hours from the United States. International flights of this distance serve several meals. The first meals will be American cuisine and the subsequent meals will be Chinese. Stretch frequently and try to rest during the long period where the window shades are closed.
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Prepare all documents while in transit, including customs declarations and arrival documents. They should be legible and ready to hand to officials upon arrival. Keep documents and cash in a neck safe, or other convenient location.
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6
Exchange dollars for Yuan, also known as Ren Min Bi (RMB), at the airport currency exchange for the best exchange rate. Fill out the area of the exchange form with English and slide it under the glass along with your passport. Agents will check over the paperwork carefully and double check everything before returning your passport along with RMB.
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Tips & Warnings
Just before arrival, flight attendants will lead everyone in a nice round of exercise, which is shown on all the airplane's television screens. It is a refreshing way to end a flight.
