Shenzhen

Due to China's strict internet policies, access to many popular Western websites and apps—such as Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Google services (including Google Maps), Skype, and others—is restricted. These websites are blocked as part of the government's internet censorship efforts, commonly known as the 'Great Firewall'. To bypass these restrictions, many travellers use a VPN (Virtual Private Network), which can help access blocked sites. However, it’s important to note that VPN use in China is legally complicated. While some VPN services are still used, unauthorized VPNs may be subject to scrutiny, and there have been reports of foreigners experiencing disruptions to their mobile service or being asked to visit the local police station if the use of a VPN is detected. It’s critical to comply with local laws and regulations regarding VPN usage. If you choose to use a VPN, ensure it’s approved by the Chinese government and used for legitimate purposes. Since Google Maps is often unreliable in China due to restrictions on Google’s services, travellers should consider using local alternatives such as Baidu Maps and AutoNavi (Gaode Maps). These apps offer more accurate and comprehensive mapping and navigation within China. However, most of these services are primarily in Chinese, so it might be helpful to familiarize yourself with their basic functions or use translation tools. Baidu Maps, in particular, is widely used and provides detailed information about public transport, routes, and traffic.

The best time to visit Shenzhen is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures between 20°C and 28°C. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities, making them perfect for exploring Shenzhen’s many attractions like theme parks, cultural sites, and nature reserves. Spring is especially beautiful, with flowers in bloom across the city, while autumn offers clear skies and cooler, more comfortable temperatures for sightseeing. Visiting during these seasons also means you can enjoy some of Shenzhen’s key events, such as the Chinese New Year celebrations in spring or the Shenzhen International Cultural Industries Fair in May.

Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport is located approximately 32 km from Shenzhen's city centre, with a travel time of around 30 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic conditions. The airport is well connected to the city by various transport options. The Airport Express metro (Line 11) provides a direct and efficient route, taking about 30 minutes to reach central Shenzhen. In addition, there are numerous bus services that link the airport to key areas around the city, including major transport hubs like Luohu Railway Station. Taxis are available 24/7, offering a more direct route to your destination. For those travelling to Hong Kong, there is a ferry service from Fuyong Port, close to the airport.

Shenzhen's public transport system is a reliable and affordable way for travellers to get around the city. The metro system is extensive, with 16 lines covering the majority of the city, including popular tourist spots. Buses also provide wide coverage, although it may be less intuitive for non-Mandarin speakers. Shenzhen has also developed a small tram network, though it is less prominent. For easy access, visitors can use the Shenzhen Tong transportation card, which works on the metro, buses, and even some taxis. The card can be topped up at stations and convenience stores, and it offers discounts on fares compared to single-ride tickets. For those who prefer convenience, contactless mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely accepted on all public transport.

Country code: +86 Area code: 755

In China, the standard voltage is 220V at a frequency of 50Hz. There are three kinds of sockets widely used in Mainland China: type A, C, and I. Type C, which has two round pins, is the one commonly seen in most European countries.