Frequently Asked Questions:
Does the package price include airfares?
No, it does not. Discover Camp China decided not to include airfare as part of the package because different families voiced different needs, such as preferences of airlines, departure cities, etc. However, we'll be glad to refer you to travel agencies that have expertise in selling airline tickets to China and other Asian countries. Discover Camp China would help you book the tickets as needed free of charge. Discover Camp China is not affiliated with any of the travel agencies. Price quoted at time of purchase reflects market price from the travel agency.
Are there any nonstop flights from NYC to Shanghai, China?
Currently from NYC, China Eastern Airline is the only airline that offers direct flights from New York JFK airport to Shanghai PuDong Airport. Starting in March 2009, Continental airline will operate the nonstop flight daily with a Boeing 777-200 aircraft. Flight 87 will depart Liberty Airport in Newark at 11:20 a.m. arriving in Shanghai mid-afternoon the following day at 1:45 p.m. The return flight 86 will depart Shanghai in the afternoon at 3:45 p.m. and arrive at Liberty in the evening of the same day at 6:20 p.m. Flying times will be approximately 14 hours and 30 minutes in each direction.
Do I need a Chinese visa? And how do I apply for a Chinese visa?
You must have a passport which is valid for at least 6 months after the date of departure. To enter China, you'll need a China Entry Visa. Tourism visa can be obtained from the Chinese consulate. Visa form can be filled out prior to visiting the consulate (Chinese Visa Application Form) . Please visit the NYC Chinese Consulate website for more information related to obtaining a tourism visa and its business hours. http://www.nyconsulate.prchina.org/eng/
How do I exchange currency?
Chinese currency is called Ren Min Bi (RMB) and is issued by the People's Bank of China. You cannot obtain Chinese currency outside of China. Our summer camp in Shanghai offers camper foreign currency exchange at market price. Credit cards are accepted in large cities like Shanghai and large stores. However, they are not widely used outside of major cities or small souvenir stores.
What's the climate like in Shanghai?
The average high and low temperatures in July and August are 90 and 73 Fahrenheit.
Can you drink tap water in Shanghai?
Tap water is still not safe to drink. However, bottled water and filtered water are widely available in Shanghai and surrounding cities. Most hotels and facilities provide “boiling water”, which is safe to drink. Shanghai water is on the other hand safe to brush teeth with.
Do I need to be immunized before visiting China?
Speak with your doctor or health care provider to determine your vaccine needs. The Centers for Disease Control and Preventions also has guidelines that will help you decide which vaccination to receive prior to traveling. http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinationChina.aspx
Does my small appliances operate under China's electrical systems?
China's electrical system operates at 220 volts. Most of the appliances from US will need a converter to work. Some of the newer appliances can work under 100-240v range. Please check your appliances specification before using it.
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