Tibet, Guilin and Zhangjiajie (Avatar Mountains) Travel Tour 686

Seoul

Language

• Korean is the official language in Seoul. English is spoken in major tourist areas, especially by younger people and in hotels, but learning a few basic Korean phrases will enhance your experience and be appreciated.

Time Zone

• Seoul follows Korea Standard Time, which is 16 hours ahead of Salt Lake City Mountain Time.

Electricity

• South Korea uses Type C and F outlets with a standard voltage of 220V. Bring a universal adapter if your electronics require a different plug type.

Climate

• Seoul experiences four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold and dry, while summers are hot and humid. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant. Pack appropriately for the season during your visit.

Health

• Travel insurance is highly recommended. Tap water is safe to drink in Seoul, but bottled water is widely available. Check for Travel Insurance Here

Currency

• The official currency in South Korea is the Korean Won (KRW). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for small purchases, especially in markets or smaller shops.

Transportation

• Seoul has an efficient and affordable public transportation system, including subways and buses. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Kakao T are widely available and reliable.

Safety

• Seoul is generally very safe for tourists, with low crime rates. Still, be cautious of pickpocketing in busy areas and always keep your belongings secure.

Visa Requirements

• Check your personal Visa requirements here

Cultural Etiquette

• Respect local customs and etiquette. Bowing is a common greeting, and removing shoes is expected in many homes and traditional restaurants. Avoid loud behavior in public, and be mindful of hierarchy and politeness in social interactions.

Tipping

• Tipping is not customary in South Korea, but it’s appreciated for exceptional service, especially in hotels and for private guides.

Cuisine

• Seoul offers a variety of flavorful dishes: try bibimbap, Korean BBQ, kimchi, and street foods like tteokbokki and hotteok. Every meal is a cultural experience.

General Note

• Seoul blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge modernity. Be prepared for a dynamic mix of history, culture, cuisine, and technology, and enjoy everything this vibrant city has to offer!

Lhasa, Tibet

Language

• Tibetan is the primary language spoken in Lhasa, while Mandarin Chinese is also widely used, especially in government and business. English is spoken in major hotels, tourist areas, and by some guides, but learning a few Tibetan or Mandarin greetings will be appreciated.

Time Zone

• Lhasa follows China Standard Time (CST), which is 15 hours ahead of Salt Lake City Mountain Time.

Electricity

• China uses Type A, C, and I outlets with a standard voltage of 220V. Travelers should bring a universal adapter and ensure their devices are compatible with this voltage.

Climate

• Lhasa has a high-altitude climate with strong sunshine, dry air, and large temperature differences between day and night. Summers are mild and pleasant, while winters can be cold but sunny. Bring layers, sun protection, and stay hydrated to adjust to the altitude.

Health

• Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Due to Lhasa’s elevation (over 11,000 feet), some visitors experience altitude sickness—rest and hydrate well upon arrival. Tap water is not safe to drink; always use bottled or boiled water. Check for Travel Insurance Here

Currency

• The official currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY or RMB). Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and shops, but cash is essential in markets, small restaurants, and rural areas.

Transportation

• Lhasa has taxis, local buses, and limited ride-hailing options. Most visitors rely on organized tours for regional travel due to permit requirements. Walking is common within the city, but pace yourself because of the altitude.

Safety

• Lhasa is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, respect local customs and regulations. Always carry your passport and travel permits, which may be checked at certain points.

Visa Requirements

• Check your personal Visa requirements here

Cultural Etiquette

• Tibetan culture is deeply spiritual. Always show respect in monasteries—remove hats, avoid touching religious objects, and walk clockwise around temples and stupas. Avoid political discussions, and ask permission before photographing monks or locals.

Tipping

• Tipping is not a long-standing custom in Tibet but is appreciated in the tourism sector—especially for drivers, guides, and hotel staff providing excellent service.

Cuisine

• Try traditional Tibetan dishes such as momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and yak butter tea. Many restaurants also serve Chinese and Nepalese cuisine. Food is hearty and suited to the mountain climate.

General Note

• Lhasa offers a profound mix of spirituality, history, and breathtaking scenery. From the Potala Palace to the Barkhor Market, it’s a place of deep cultural heritage and quiet beauty—an unforgettable experience at the roof of the world!

Guilin, China

Language

• Mandarin Chinese is the official language in Guilin, though the local Guangxi dialect and Zhuang language are also spoken by some residents. English is understood in major tourist areas, hotels, and by tour guides, but learning a few basic Mandarin phrases will enhance your experience and interactions with locals.

Time Zone

• Guilin follows China Standard Time (CST), which is 15 hours ahead of Salt Lake City Mountain Time.

Electricity

• China uses Type A, C, and I outlets with a standard voltage of 220V. Bring a universal travel adapter and ensure your electronic devices are compatible with this voltage.

Climate

• Guilin has a subtropical monsoon climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is warm and the landscape is lush and green. Rain is common during summer months, so pack a light rain jacket and breathable clothing.

Health

• Travel insurance is highly recommended. Tap water in Guilin is not safe to drink, so use bottled or boiled water. Mosquitoes can be present in summer—bring insect repellent. Check for Travel Insurance Here

Currency

• The official currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY or RMB). Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants, but smaller shops and local markets often require cash or mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay or Alipay.

Transportation

• Guilin has a well-developed transportation system, including buses, taxis, and high-speed trains. Bicycles and river cruises are popular ways to explore the scenic countryside. Ride-hailing apps such as Didi are also available.

Safety

• Guilin is very safe for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. As always, remain alert in crowded tourist spots and safeguard your valuables.

Visa Requirements

• Check your personal Visa requirements here

Cultural Etiquette

• Politeness and respect are highly valued in Chinese culture. A slight bow or nod is a courteous greeting. When visiting temples, dress modestly and avoid loud conversation. It’s polite to offer and receive items with both hands. Avoid sensitive political discussions.

Tipping

• Tipping is not common in China, but it is becoming more accepted in the tourism industry. It’s appreciated for exceptional service from guides, drivers, or hotel staff.

Cuisine

• Guilin is famous for its Guilin Rice Noodles, a local specialty served with savory broth and chili sauce. Other regional dishes include beer fish, stuffed snails, and osmanthus-flavored desserts. Don’t miss the street food stalls along Zhengyang Pedestrian Street.

General Note

• Guilin is celebrated for its stunning karst mountains, winding rivers, and tranquil countryside. Whether you cruise the Li River, explore the Reed Flute Cave, or visit nearby Yangshuo, Guilin offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and relaxation.

Zhangjiajie, China

Language

• Mandarin Chinese is the official language in Zhangjiajie. The local Xiang dialect is also spoken by many residents. English is limited outside of major hotels and tour services, so learning a few basic Mandarin phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful for communication.

Time Zone

• Zhangjiajie follows China Standard Time (CST), which is 15 hours ahead of Salt Lake City Mountain Time.

Electricity

• China uses Type A, C, and I outlets with a standard voltage of 220V. Travelers should bring a universal adapter and confirm that their devices are compatible with this voltage.

Climate

• Zhangjiajie has a subtropical humid climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June–August) are warm and humid, while winters (December–February) are cool and damp. Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting, offering clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Pack layers and rain gear, as weather can change quickly in the mountains.

Health

• Travel insurance is highly recommended, especially for hiking and outdoor activities in the national park. Tap water is not safe to drink, so use bottled or boiled water. Mosquitoes are common in warmer months—bring repellent.. Check for Travel Insurance Here

Currency

• The official currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY or RMB). Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and some restaurants, but cash or mobile payment apps such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are preferred for most local transactions.

Transportation

• Zhangjiajie has taxis, buses, and shuttles connecting major attractions like Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Tianmen Mountain. Many visitors also use guided tours for convenience. Ride-hailing apps such as Didi operate in the area but may require Mandarin assistance.

Safety

• Zhangjiajie is a safe destination with very low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in crowded scenic areas and on public transport. Follow all safety instructions on mountain trails, cable cars, and glass bridges.

Visa Requirements

• Check your personal Visa requirements here

Cultural Etiquette

• Show respect for local customs and natural sites. Avoid littering in the parks and follow posted conservation rules. Greet others politely with a smile or nod, and use both hands when giving or receiving items. Avoid sensitive political discussions.

Tipping

• Tipping is not customary in China but is becoming more accepted in the tourism industry. Tips are appreciated for good service from guides, drivers, and hotel staff.

Cuisine

• Zhangjiajie’s cuisine is known for its Hunan-style flavors—spicy, sour, and aromatic. Try smoked bacon, sour fish soup, and rice tofu. Local restaurants often serve dishes made with mountain vegetables and chili peppers. Street food vendors offer quick snacks and regional specialties.

General Note

• Zhangjiajie is one of China’s most breathtaking natural destinations, famous for its towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and mist-covered peaks that inspired the floating mountains in Avatar. Whether you’re hiking in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, walking across the Glass Bridge, or taking the Tianmen Mountain cableway, you’ll experience unforgettable scenery and adventure in the heart of Hunan Province.