Shenzhen, China

Use toilets in shopping malls for a cleaner experience, especially if you have mobility issues.

Be prepared for squat toilets in restaurants, as many still use them despite the modern facilities in malls.

Be prepared for higher prices during peak seasons, especially for short-term rentals.

Using Alipay for taxi payments is essential; it's very affordable and works well.

If you're using Alipay, make sure to check if your account is set up correctly before trying to make purchases.

Take advantage of mobile payment systems like WeChat Pay and Alipay, which have become essential for transactions.

Make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity and two blank pages when arriving.

Be prepared for a hot climate; staying hydrated is key.

Be prepared for a long train ride; it's about 7 hours to get there.

Expect a quick immigration process with biometrics like thumbprints and facial recognition.

Consider looking for apartments a bit farther from the city center to find more options.

Be prepared for heavy traffic and crowds during public holidays; consider walking or biking instead of taking a taxi.

The taxi queue is very orderly, making it easy to get a ride.

Utilize the metro system, which features advanced technology like facial recognition for ticket payments.

Fill out the arrival form online to get a QR code for customs; it's essential for a smooth entry.

If you're unfamiliar with local apps, consider setting up a WeChat account to communicate effectively.

Expect to see a lot of surveillance cameras throughout the city; it contributes to low crime rates.

Be prepared for the language barrier; many vending machines and services may only be in Chinese, so having a translation app can help.

Be cautious of electric vehicles as they are very quiet; they can sneak up on you without warning.

Expect a wide variety of high-tech gadgets at affordable prices, which are often of better quality than what you find back home.

Look out for drone deliveries and driverless vehicles as they are becoming common in Shenzhen.

Take note of the modern infrastructure and how it contrasts with older cities like Hong Kong.

Be prepared for a tech-savvy environment where modern conveniences like drone deliveries are common.

Expect small living spaces as they are common in big cities like Shenzhen.

The city is known for its advanced technology, so be prepared for experiences like driverless taxis and AI interactions.

Be prepared for a chaotic yet organized atmosphere, especially during busy times.

Expect a beautiful and green environment in Shenzhen, with lots of high-rise buildings.

When arriving in Shenzhen, consider walking to get your first impressions of the city; it's a great way to explore.

Explore the city's infrastructure as it showcases cutting-edge technology and urban design.

Shenzhen is known for its green areas and modern architecture, making it a great place for leisurely exploration.

The city has a futuristic vibe with many new buildings, making it an interesting place to explore.

If you're visiting Shenzhen, try to have a better understanding of the city beforehand; it can enhance your experience.

The city lights up beautifully at night, making it a great time for evening strolls.

Be prepared for a vibrant atmosphere as many visitors are drawn to the theme parks and local attractions.

Be prepared for a shopping experience similar to Black Friday every day, especially in areas like Haang Bay.

If you're a light sleeper, bring an eye mask and earplugs to block out light and noise.

Expect a large influx of tourists, especially during the summer months, which can lead to crowded attractions.

If you have a reservation, make sure to confirm the details as it can be quite overwhelming.

If you're hoping to see the skyline lit up, check the schedule for light shows, as they may not happen every night.

The sleeper trains in China often arrive a bit earlier than planned, which is definitely better than being late.