Single mother travel

Question

Hi all, in the early stages of thinking of two weeks in china with my two 11 year olds. We will be going to all the usual tourist spots. Nothing out of the way. We will go for Easter time (start of April)

Will I have any issues flying into Hong Kong and out of Beijing?

In general what are the safety levels?

Anything specific I should think of that would make this trip different from travelling in Europe/us?

Thanks in advance for any insights.

Answer

Traveling to China as a single parent with children is generally straightforward, especially if you stick to the main tourist destinations and plan ahead. Flying into Hong Kong and departing from Beijing should not present issues, as both airports are used to international travelers. Make sure that your travel documents (passports, visas if required) are in order and easily accessible for all family members.

Safety in China is generally high. Violent crime against tourists is rare, and urban areas like Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong have good infrastructure and visible security. That said, usual travel precautions should be observed.

Keep an eye on your children in crowded areas, such as public transport, markets, and tourist sites.
Use official taxis, ride-hailing apps like DiDi, or airport transfer services rather than unlicensed vehicles.
Keep a digital and paper copy of important documents, emergency contacts, and hotel addresses.

Some cultural and logistical differences compared to Europe or the US that may affect your travel:

Language: English is not widely spoken outside major tourist areas. Consider downloading translation apps or carrying a small phrasebook.
Cashless payments: Many places rely on mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay. Some international cards may not work, so carry some cash or check if your eSIM allows access to these apps.
Food and water: Tap water is generally not safe to drink; bottled water is recommended. Street food is popular and often safe, but supervise children when choosing food.
Weather and air quality: April in China can have variable weather; northern cities like Beijing can be cooler. Check air quality forecasts and have masks ready if needed.

Other practical tips for traveling with children:

Plan travel times around the children’s comfort—long train rides or walking-heavy days may require breaks.
Consider child-friendly attractions and parks to keep the itinerary balanced.
Emergency contacts: Know the local emergency number (110 for police, 120 for medical) and nearest hospital locations.

Overall, with planning, traveling as a single mother with children in China is safe and manageable. Sticking to tourist-friendly areas, being prepared for the local culture and payment systems, and keeping an eye on your children in crowded locations will make the trip smoother and enjoyable.

Single mother travel

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