Backpacking in China

Travel through China as a backpacker is certainly not without its challenges though, and purchasing travel insurance before you set out will ensure you have peace of mind while making your way through the countryside. You’ll want to try and reach some out-of-the-way destinations and not just stick to the major cities, and guide books like Lonely Planet and Let’s Go make great travel resources.

Recommended routes though China include backpacker favourites such as Guilin, Yangshuo and Longshen. Single trip discounted insurance These are all must-see destinations that are slightly off the beaten track but well worth diverging towards.

Named after a karst rock formation near to it, Yangshuo is bordered by the Lijiang (Li) River and often visited in conjunction with nearby Guilin. It’s a sublime destination for relaxing away from the crowds and taking part in outdoor activities like cycling, rock climbing on over 200 routes and cave exploration. Yangshuo has good amenities for travellers located along West street and the pedestrian-only Xian Qian street.

The breathtaking landscape of Guilin is graced with enchanting karsts, mysterious caves and lush tropical growth. The intimate city is popular for its clear waters and natural wonders, some of which you will find on display in the Stone Museum. An ancient city dating back 2,000 years, Guilin also features many cultural highlights.

Also of interest are the many ethnic minorities, which are found in greater numbers here than anywhere else in China. Longshen is also home to a vibrant collection of Dong, Zhuang, Yao and Miao ethnic groups.

Regardless of where you go in China, most who have backpacked in the country agree that it’s a great destination. The country is so massive that it can take at least several months to see all the major sights. As well as offering great value for money, China’s sights are diverse and include exotic gardens, impressive monuments and museums, striking temples and plenty of amazing natural landscapes.

One of the best reasons for travelling in China is the food. Although at times it can be bizarre, it is generally tasty and offers enough variety so as to please almost every palate. Backpackers should be careful of eating raw or suspect foods as good medical care is not available in all locations.

This is another good reason to take out travel insurance before travelling. China is a developing country and the cleanliness is not as you would expect from a Western country. Specialist backpacker insurance The country relies on coal for its energy and pollution is rife in the big cities.

Likewise, the infrastructure is only slowly improving and roads are not always safe, with the accident rate being extremely high. You should plan your travel route well and know what to expect ahead of time as much as possible.

China is a safe country to visit in terms of crime; however, backpackers should keep an eye on their bags and not be showy with valuable items. The Chinese are generally not physically aggressive. Regardless, it’s recommended that you have travel insurance while backpacking through China.