Traveling to China

Q: How much does a Flight to China cost?

A: Flights typically cost around $1200. Better deals can be found if you reserve early and frequently check online price listings.

Q: Do I need to get any vaccinations before I come to China?

A: While currently no vaccinations are required to enter China, it is always a good idea keep up to date on your vaccinations. Check with your schools health clinic to see what vaccination services they offer.

Q: How do I apply for a Chinese visa?

A: First, you must have a passport valid for six months through the planned ending of your stay. YISA will then process an official letter of invitation for you and help you through the visa application process.

Q: Will my health insurance cover me while I am in China?

A: Check your plans individual restrictions. Some plans include international travel while others donÕt. YISA contracts with AIG I-next to provide a wide range of medical services for our students while China including: 24-Hour Medical Information & Assistance, Medical & Dental Referrals, Dispatch of Medication & Medical Supplies, Medical Monitoring, Insured Medical Evacuation, and Medically Supervised Repatriation. For detailed description of YISA student health insurance coverage go to www.inext.com/inextweb/guestpages/features/index.html

Q: What will happen when I arrive in China?

A: The YISA staff will pick you up at the airport in Nanjing and bring you to the apartments where you will live. We will give you a cell phone immediately. The first couple of days in China will include a tour of the local neighborhood, visits to some great historical sites in Nanjing, a orientation on living in China, and a group welcome dinner.

How-to Pack:

Q: How much personal spending money will I need in China?

A: You will need personal spending money to cover costs such as meals and shopping. The cost of food and basic living expenses can be much lower than in the U.S. Unlike Europe, where the cost of food can be much higher than the U.S., most students are surprised how far their dollar goes in China. You will typically need around $150-200 a month for food and personal expenses. Budget more if you plan to do lots of shopping/gift buying in China.

Q: What is the weather like in Nanjing?

A: The weather in Nanjing is very similar to Washington, D.C. During the spring and fall, the weather is very moderate and comfortable. In the winter, Nanjing will be quite cold. In the summer, it is hot and humid. Summer program students should pack clothes just for warm weather, while fall and spring students should pack both warm and cool clothes.

Q: How much should I pack?

A: More often than not, students who come to China feel like they over packed. You should try to bring no more than two suitcases, and a personal item. With all of the shopping for gifts, you should save room one your way to China. If you wear particularly large sizes of clothes or shoes, it will be harder to find your size here in China. Finally, bring a small bag for weekend trips.

Daily Life:

Q: What is the Crime rate like in China?

A: In general, China is a safe country. It has a very low rate of violent crime, compared to the U.S. However, petty theft is a concern at tourist sites and on crowded areas. Most students report they feel safer in Nanjing than back at home in the U.S.

Q: Do I need to buy a cell phone in China?

A: No, YISA will provide every student with a cell phone. Also, YISA staff are available for you to call if you need assistance or interpretation.

Q: What is the best way to call home while in China?

A: The best way to call home is to use Skype. Skypeout allows you to make calls back to the U.S. through your computer for only 2 cents a minute. It is by far the easiest way to keep in touch with friends and family while in China.

Q: How can I get access to money in China?

A: There is no need to bring a lot of cash with you to China. ATMs are widely available and will work with most bank cards. If you have a Bank of America checking account, you can withdrawal money from the China Construction Bank ATMs without an ATM fee. Otherwise, there will be a transaction fee of $4.00 to $8.00 per withdrawal. Do not bring travelerÕs checks. They are very hard to cash.

Q: Where will I be living?

A: YISA students will be housed at Wutai Garden, an apartment complex about a 15 minute walk away from campus. Room amenities vary slightly, but generally include a television, private rooms, wireless high-speed internet, washing machine, kitchen and refrigerator. Weekly housekeeping service will be provided.

Q: Can I continue my workout routine while in China?

A: There is a gym around the corner from the apartments with good equipment. Many students get a membership for a slightly higher cost than in the U.S.