A Comprehensive Guide for Filipino Landowners Traveling to Chengdu

A Comprehensive Guide for Filipino Landowners Traveling to Chengdu

Are you a landowner or property owner in the Philippines planning a trip to Chengdu? Whether you're going for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, Chengdu offers a wealth of experiences and opportunities. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your visit to this vibrant city.

#### Preparing for Your Trip

**Visa and Travel Documents:** Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay. Apply for a Chinese visa well in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.

**Health Precautions:** Check if you need any vaccinations before traveling. Having travel insurance is also a good idea, especially for unexpected medical needs.

**Language:** While many people in tourist areas speak some English, learning a few basic Mandarin phrases can be incredibly helpful. Consider downloading a translation app to ease communication. This we heavily used Google Translate using its Audio part.

**Currency:** The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). It's wise to have some cash on hand, but credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments. What we did was purely AliPay and WeChat payment. So make these installed and set them up with your on-demand turn-on-off credit card. We heavily used AliPay from Kowloon Place to 'Luck in Coffee'!

#### Packing Essentials

**Clothing:** Chengdu has a subtropical climate, so pack accordingly. In July, bring layers, comfortable walking shoes, like Skechers; band a light rain jacket or umbrella to be prepared for any weather.

**Electronics:** Don’t forget your chargers and adapters (China uses type A, C, and I plugs). A portable charger can be a lifesaver for long days out. USB charger mostly in hotels. Bringing a portable battery is indispensable. However these should be declared and shown and not the be checked in. Only hand carried:

Battery pack for iPhone 

Wireless earphones & its battery

Fan with battery 

Tooth brush with battery 

iPad - it must be shown out 

**Medication:** Bring any prescription medications you need, as well as a basic first-aid kit. Pharmacies are available, but it’s best to have your essentials on hand. Biogesic, Diatabs, Vitamin C

#### Getting Around Chengdu

**Public Transport:** Chengdu has an efficient metro system that's easy to navigate. Taxis are also plentiful and relatively inexpensive, making it easy to get around. Download Didi and use eSIM without VPN.

**Apps:** Download helpful apps like DiDi (for taxis) and Baidu Maps. WeChat is widely used for communication and payments, so it’s good to have it installed.

Have a month ExpressVPN. This is so you can access your office related apps should you need them. 

**Bikes and Scooters:** Consider using bike-sharing apps for short distances. It’s an eco-friendly and fun way to explore the city.

#### Must-See Attractions

**Pandas:** Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see these adorable animals up close. It's a unique experience you won't want to miss.

**Jinli Ancient Street:** Wander through this historic area, filled with traditional architecture, shops, and street food. It’s a great place to soak in the local culture.

**Wuhou Shrine:** This beautiful historical site is dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a famous military strategist. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

**Chengdu Museum:** Learn about the city’s history and culture through fascinating exhibits. It's an excellent way to get acquainted with Chengdu’s rich heritage.

**Mount Qingcheng:** A short trip from the city, this mountain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers beautiful hiking trails and temples. It’s perfect for a day trip to experience nature.

#### Culinary Delights

**Hotpot:** Chengdu is famous for its spicy hotpot. Try it at a local restaurant for an authentic experience. It's a must-try for any foodie.

**Street Food:** Don’t miss out on local snacks like Dan Dan noodles, Sichuan spicy wontons, and mapo tofu. Exploring the street food scene is a delicious adventure.

**Tea Houses:** Experience the local tea culture by visiting a traditional tea house. It’s a relaxing way to spend an afternoon.

#### Cultural Tips

**Respect Local Customs:** Be polite and respectful, especially when visiting temples and historical sites. Observing local customs shows respect and can enhance your experience.

**Bargaining:** It's common to bargain in markets, but do so respectfully and with a smile. It’s part of the shopping experience in Chengdu.

**Gift-Giving:** If you're invited to someone's home, bringing a small gift like fruit or tea is a nice gesture. It’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation.

#### Safety Tips

**Stay Connected:** Keep your phone charged and carry a portable charger. It’s also useful to have the contact information of your hotel and local emergency numbers.

**Health and Hygiene:** Tap water is not safe to drink, so stick to bottled water. Also, carry hand sanitizer and tissues for convenience.

**Scams:** Be wary of common tourist scams and always use reputable services. Staying alert can help you avoid unnecessary troubles.

#### Miscellaneous Tips

**Wi-Fi:** Free Wi-Fi is available in many public places, but having a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi device can be handy. Staying connected is crucial for navigating and communicating. eSIM for 7days with 7day data. This is an $8 eSIM installed yes, but activated on Xiamen airport 

**Time Management:** Allow extra time for travel between destinations, as traffic can be unpredictable. Planning ahead can save you from rushing. Domestic lead time immigration and checking in is at least 2hours.

**Enjoy the Local Culture:** Take your time to enjoy the slower pace of Chengdu life. Visit parks, enjoy tea, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

As a Filipino landowner, you might also be interested in exploring potential investment opportunities or networking with local businesses. Chengdu's rapid development and economic growth make it a city full of potential. Enjoy your trip, and may it be both enjoyable and fruitful!

Safe travels po! 

Summary of items:

1. Singtel data $8 for 6 days 

2. ExpressVPN a month subscription 

3.eSIM and $8 on Shoppee

4. App installed prior

Credit card set up prior to flight 

5. Wifi at your own risk on hotels

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Topped up live update!

Shangri-La Chengdu delivers a five-star experience with its stunning lobby, well-appointed rooms, and vibrant breakfast service. The courteous local staff add to the charm, always ready to assist. Thank You! Chengdu!

### Shangri-La Chengdu: A Five-Star Experience

Wow, five stars for Shangri-La Chengdu! I joined a corporate group and felt the power of Shangri-La extending to every corner and beyond. The locals in Chengdu are usually polite and familial, which adds a charming touch to the overall experience.

The lobby facade and the lobby bar are simply amazing. Small details in the double-sized bed bedroom, like auto-adjusting Aircon, WiFi (accessible in China, Hong Kong, and PRC), ready USB chargers, a heater, an iron and mat, all make a difference. The bathroom offers the usual five-star amenities, although there's no bidet. Rooms on the 9th and 25th floors provide stunning city views, facing the competitive MinYoun hotel. The proximity to the river gives the area a European-like feel.

Breakfast from 6:00 to 10:30 AM is energetic and vibrant with tourists like me. The food is awesome, and don’t forget to grab a double shot cappuccino at the bar – perfect for taking on the go after breakfast.

The local staff are incredibly courteous, and both Chengdu and I are blessed to have them. Whenever you need something, they are quick to approach – a wow factor for me as a traveler.

The only downside for my wife was the persistent tar smell of cigarettes that was hard to eliminate from the room or the pillowcases, and we encountered a bug. But we're sure this was just an isolated incident.

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