(1). Time zone between China and the United States is 16 hours difference for East coast, 13 hours difference for West coast. jet lag could be a problem for everyone. Eastward flights have stronger effects than westward. Avoid heavy food, alcohol, coffee and tea, be relaxed and go to bed a little earlier for a few days before departure.
(2). The electricity voltage is 220 in China. An adapter is needed if you need a battery charge for your video camera.
(3).Passport must be at least 6 months before expiration. Carry a copy of your passport in a separate place, in case your passport is lost or stolen.
(4).Be prepared for additional expenses and purchase, etc. with traveler's checks, credit cards and some cash. Bring few personal checks just in case. Carry money, credit cards and passport in a concealed pouch or money belt for protection.
(5).A copy of medical record in case if you need see doctors in China.
(6). Calling from the U. S., Country code: China-86, plus city code and phone numbers. Check with your long distance company for discount of Asian countries.
(7).Comfortable dress, in natural fibers to allow your skin to breathe. Bring more T-shirts and underwear (About a dozen pairs of T-shirts, socks, and underwear). Two pairs of pants, two pairs of shorts, and three outer shirts should be adequate. It will be warm for the most part during the scheduled tour. A light jacket or sweater is needed for cool evening in some areas.
(8). Bring sun glasses, raincoat or portable umbrella, also a pairs of sandals.
(9).Toilet paper is not provided in many toilet facilities. We suggest that you purchase about a dozen pocket packs of Kleenex tissues before departing, and carry one with you at all time.
(10).Avoid oversized luggage. Two medium-sized pieces are preferable, at least one of which should be "Carry-on" size. Shoulder and / or wheeled luggage will help during long walks through train station. Pack lightly -- Leave room for acquisition of pottery, books and other mementos of the tour. An extra, collapsible bag can be carried in your luggage for the return home.
(11). Slide films are difficult to buy in some small towns. Please purchase film in the U.S. before departure. We recommend at least one dozen rolls. 200 ASA is the most versatile for all exposure needs, but you may consider other films. Some 400 ASA is desirable for dark locations (Some museums and indoor sites, and for night or evening shots).
(12).Print your business cards with both English and Chinese (highly recommended, It costs about $12 for 100 pieces if printed in China. Please contact Guangzhen "Po" Zhou few weeks in advance).
(13).Biography, resume and 10 - 20 slides of your work for ceramic cultural exchange. Also, bring postcards / catalogs or magazines with your work. These are eagerly exchanged with Chinese ceramic artists. Small ceramic objects exchanged as gifts are also appreciated.
(14).Pay tips: About $3 for driver and tour guide everyday in recommended. Some additional tips for luggage carrying at hotel, airport or train stations.
(15).Crime is not a great problem in China, but pickpockets are common. Most train stations have nice "soft coach waiting rooms" for foreigners.
(16).For sanitation reasons, do not buy food on streets, do not drink water from hotel bathroom faucet. You may also want to purchase packaged moist "Towlettes" to wash your hands before eating, or sanitized packaged alcohol wipe for sanitizing any eating utensils you are worried about. It is also a good idea to carry your own chopsticks.
(17).Do not exchange money on streets. You may get counterfeit currency.