We spent 50 days traveling China independently and tested every app we relied on. Here is what actually worked for payments, transport, maps, VPN, and connectivity as foreigners in 2026.
We spent 50 days traveling across China as Canadians. Here is our honest take on safety, surveillance, police presence, scams, solo travel, and what daily life actually feels like as a foreigner in 2026.
We spent 2 days in Hangzhou and it was our least favorite city in China. West Lake, Qingshan Green Lake, Lingyin Temple — here’s our honest take.
Two days in Shanghai: crab roe dumplings, shengjian bao, Yu Garden, The Bund at night, and the spots that Instagram lied to us about. Real prices in CAD.
Explore Chongqing with our full travel guide. Wulong Karst, Hongya Cave, Liziba Station, old streets, food spots, costs and tips to plan your visit.
We spent 5 days in Chengdu: mala hotpot that destroyed us, tracking down Fubao the panda at Wolong, the Dujiangyan irrigation system at night, dan dan noodles at Huang Cheng Xi Ke, and a seafood buffet that ended us. Real prices, honest takes.
Most travelers start their China trip in big cities like Shanghai, Beijing, or Guangzhou. We started ours with something completely different. A five day rural tour. Join us as we explore quiet towns, hot spring retreats, mountain parks, and historic temples that most foreigners never visit.
