The Bund Travel FAQ
What about hotels in smaller cities or rural areas? Any hope for foreigner friendly options?
Tougher, but not impossible. In smaller cities, stick to well-known local chains like Jin Jiang or Vienna Hotel. They have a standardized process and may accept foreign cards. Avoid family-run guesthouses unless you read Chinese reviews confirming foreigner friendliness. Also, carry a printed address in Chinese to show taxi drivers. I helped a client book a Vienna Hotel in Lijiang recently — they took Visa and had one English-speaking staff member. But it required three calls to confirm.
I hear hotels in China often require a deposit in cash — is that true for foreigners?
Yes, it's common. Many hotels, even international chains, may ask for a deposit of 200–500 RMB in cash upon check-in. This is for incidentals. They'll return it at checkout. If you don't have cash, they may put a hold on your credit card, but that hold can take weeks to release. I always keep about $100 equivalent in RMB for deposits. Also, never rely on a debit card — it may not work. Cash is king for deposits.
How important is it to have a hotel with a physical front desk? Can I use Airbnb?
I strongly recommend a front desk for first-time visitors to China. Why? Because you'll need help with taxis, takeout food, and sometimes even minor translation. Airbnbs can be tricky: many require you to meet a host who doesn't speak English, and the WiFi may be locked. If you insist on Airbnb, book a 'Plus' property or one with multiple English reviews. Also confirm they accept passport registration (required by law). Some Airbnb hosts don't know how to register foreigners, which can cause problems with police.
What if the hotel loses my reservation? What's the best backup?
It happens. Chinese hotels sometimes overbook or their system crashes. My protocol: have Trip.com's 24/7 hotline saved (+86-21-34064888) — they can call the hotel directly. As a last resort, walk into any Marriott or Hilton nearby. They almost always have rooms, and they'll match or slightly beat the online price if you're standing at the desk. I've done this three times with clients, and it worked every time.
Do I need to print hotel vouchers? Will digital confirmations work?
Digital works fine. I always keep a screenshot of the booking confirmation on my phone. Hotels in China prefer to see the confirmation number and passport. That said, some smaller hotels might ask for a printed copy if their internet is down. Save a PDF on your phone just in case. Also, ensure your phone has the booking app (Trip.com) installed and logged in — they can look up your reservation there.
I'm on a tight budget — can I still find foreigner friendly hotels in China under $50 a night?
Yes, but you'll need to be strategic. Look at international chains like Ibis or Holiday Inn Express in second-tier cities (e.g., Chengdu, Hangzhou). They usually accept foreign cards and have decent WiFi. Book via Trip.com and filter by 'Credit Card Accepted' — though even that filter isn't 100% accurate. Call ahead. Also consider hostels like 'The Loft' in Shenzhen or 'Captain's Hostel' in Beijing — they're used to backpackers and may accept cards or cash only. Always bring enough RMB.
How can I avoid paying for overweight carry-on?
Weigh your bag at home, then weigh it again at the airport before check-in. Most airports have free scales in the luggage area. Also, leave a little room for souvenirs — you'll likely pick up something heavy in China. And remember, the 7 kg limit often includes your personal item on Chinese carriers. So a heavy laptop bag can push you over. Pack your electronics in a backpack that you're willing to check, or keep them in your pockets.
Can I take a power bank on a plane to China?
You must take it in your carry-on — it's banned from checked luggage. The power bank must be clearly marked with capacity. If it's 100Wh or less, you're fine. Between 100-160Wh, you need airline approval. Above 160Wh, no way. I always bring a label maker to put a clear Wh sticker on my power banks to avoid confusion.
Are there different carry-on rules for domestic flights within China?
Yes. On domestic routes, Chinese carriers often allow 7 kg instead of 5 kg, though size stays the same. Budget carriers like Spring Airlines are much stricter — limit 30 x 40 x 50 cm, and they usually weigh right at boarding. If you're flying a train too, note that high-speed rail has no strict size limit, but the overhead racks fit typical luggage.
What if my carry-on is 1 cm over the limit?
You entered the danger zone. Many gate agents will eye it, but some measure. If it's just 1 cm, you may squeeze it in — but don't bet on it. I've seen a 1.5 cm overage lead to a $100 gate check. Always aim for at least 1-2 cm margin. If your bag is full, push the side pockets inward with your knees to compress it before you get to the gate.
Recent Reviews
Had high expectations but the weather didn't cooperate – heavy smog made the skyline look gray and washed out. Couldn't even see the top of the Oriental Pearl Tower clearly. Also, construction scaffolding blocked parts of the walkway near the Peace Hotel. Disappointing for the amount of hype. Maybe better on a clear day.
Came here for an early morning jog and it was peaceful – totally different vibe from the evening chaos. The river breeze was refreshing and the sunrise colors over the towers were gorgeous. Only gave it 4 stars because the public restrooms were hard to find and a bit dirty. Bring your own water.
Loved the mix of old and new – the neoclassical buildings on one side and the futuristic Pudong towers on the other. Spent a couple hours just walking the promenade and reading the historical plaques. Free entry, well-maintained pathways, and plenty of benches. A must-do for first-time visitors to Shanghai.
Visited on a Saturday afternoon – huge mistake. Packed shoulder-to-shoulder with selfie sticks and tour groups. Could barely get a spot by the railing to see the river. The architecture is impressive but the experience was ruined by the crowds. Felt more like a theme park queue than a scenic walk.
Absolutely stunning at night! The skyline across the river is iconic, and the colonial buildings along the Bund are beautifully lit. Took a million photos and every single one looks like a postcard. Would recommend coming after sunset for the full effect – the energy here is electric even on a weekday.
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