China Travel Tips, Visas & Health

Important Information on Travel to China in Light of the Coronavirus

Goway’s primary concern has always been the health, safety, and security of our travellers.

Since starting as a family-run company in 1970, we’ve put the experience of our travellers above everything else. This year, as we celebrate our 50th Anniversary, this commitment hasn’t changed and remains a key pillar of our identity as an organization.

With this in mind, please be aware that we are closely monitoring the coronavirus situation unfolding in Asia. We have been working in close conjunction with our travel partners and local teams in Asia to come up with the best course of action in response to this virus.

In order to be completely transparent and help you with your travel plans, we’ve revised our booking terms and conditions. Below you’ll find updated information regarding changes and/or cancellations.

For travel to Mainland China from 6 February 2020 to end of April 2020

We are now offering travellers the opportunity to defer travel to a later date at no extra charge other than that imposed by the airlines. We’re also offering full cancellations without penalty for all land components for any travellers departing from and travelling to mainland China (and destinations within China).

For travellers heading to China from 1 May 2020 and beyond, we’ll issue a follow-up notice with more information in the coming weeks.

For travel to all other Asian destinations (including travel from another Asian destination to Mainland China on the same itinerary)

Currently, there are no US or Canadian government advisories that restrict travel to neighbouring countries, therefore, normal cancellation penalties would apply for travel to those areas.

However, we appreciate that you may have concerns over the unknown possibility of the further spread of the virus and its subsequent impact on travel. As such, our team of destination specialists at Goway is available to offer guidance to you and assist in working to determine the best course of action if you are considering deferring your travel plans or choosing an alternate destination with Goway.

Should you have any other questions, or concerns, or require assistance of any kind, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are available Monday to Friday from 9 am ET to 9pm ET and on Saturdays from 10am ET to 6 pm ET.

For more information about the coronavirus, we recommend you visit the World Health Organization (WHO) website.

Travel Tips for Globetrotters

At Goway we take all reasonable measures to ensure the safety and enjoyment of our “Globetrotters” while they're travelling with us. Our Travel Tips for Globetrotters, complied by the editors of Globetrotting Magazine, is a list of over 60 tips designed to further enhance your experience, and help ensure your own safety while abroad. 

What to Pack

When visiting China, it is important to pack depending on the season and the destination as the sheer size of China encompasses various climates. It can get very hot in the summer and can be cold in the winter. When visiting in the summer, clothing that is lightweight and made of natural, breathable fibres (cotton, linens) is recommended. Spring and fall in China experience similar climates to those in North America and Europe so lightweight jackets, sweaters and raincoats should be packed. If visiting in the winter, travel to southern China will require a sweater and lighter jacket, however, if visiting northern China, a heavy woollen or down winter jacket is required as are hats, gloves etc.

If travelling to Tibet, dressing in layers is key as temperatures can change within a day. If visiting Everest Camps or other trekking spots, a heavier jacket and comfortable, waterproof shoes are essential. A windbreaker is advisable, however, people in Northern Tibet wear heavier jackets all year. Evenings and early mornings can be particularly chilly. It is important to remember that Tibet is at a high altitude and therefore experiences powerful sun exposure, as such, sunglasses, hats and sunscreen are required.

Passports

A passport is the only reliable and universally accepted identification document, and it proves that you have a right to return to your country. You are strongly advised to always carry a valid passport when travelling to any foreign destination. Crossing international borders can be complicated and sometimes requires many different kinds of documents. Being prepared is the key to easing your way through this process, so make sure you know what documents you need, where to get them, and which ones will make your crossing quick and easy. 

Remember to:

• Carry a passport for all trips outside your country.
• Be sure that your passport is still valid.
• Check that your passport is valid for 6 months beyond your date of entry.
• Scan a copy of your passport and email it to yourself or carry it to a separate location 
• Leave a copy with a trusted friend or relative who is not travelling with you.
• Keep your passport safe while travelling.
• Do not leave it unattended in your luggage, vehicle, hotel or elsewhere.
• Carry it in your money belt, inside your coat pocket or purse, or lock it in your hotel safe.

For more information about passports, applications or renewals please visit the links below. For all other nationalities please check your local government websites.

CIBT Visa Service

Need a visa? At Goway, we are making it easier for you to get the travel documents needed for your trip. Goway has partnered with CIBT Visa Service, and its subsidiary VisaCentral, the largest and most well-established travel visa company in the world to assist you in obtaining your required documents for international travel.

 It’s the fast and easy way to obtain a travel visa and Goway travelers receive significant discounts on CIBT service fees. See below for more CIBT Visa information. 

Travel Health

According to the World Health Organization, more than 900 million international journeys are undertaken every year. It doesn’t come as a surprise that Global travel on this scale exposes many people to a range of health risks. International travellers should always be extra concerned about their health and safety, as every region and country around the world has its own risks, customs and level of health care. However, whatever your age or destination, properly preparing before you leave, and staying in good health while travelling, can help you have a happy and enjoyable trip.

At Goway we do our best to provide our clients with the most accurate and up-to-date travel health information for the region you will be visiting.  Some essential information on travel health risks and preventive measures is provided in the website links below. Finally, it is important that you get advice from your family physician or a specialist from a Travel Health clinic before travelling. Keep you and your loved ones healthy during your travels.

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

World Health Organization

National Travel Health Network and Centre

Public Health Agency of Canada

Government of Canada – Travel Health and Safety

Government of Australia – Smart Traveller

Country Travel Advice and Advisories

No matter where in the world you intend to travel it is always important to have the most up-to-date travel information. At Goway we do our best to provide our clients with the latest destination information when planning their trips. As well, most governments provide travel advice and advisory websites for their citizens. On the websites below you will find official information and advice from the Governments of Canada, the United States, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom on situations that may affect your safety and well-being abroad, as well as other important travel issues such as security, local laws and culture, entry and exit requirements and health.

Government of Canada - Country Travel Advice and Advisories

US State Department - Bureau of Consular Affairs

Government of Australia – Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Government of New Zealand - Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Government of United Kingdom - Foreign Travel Advice

CIBT can assist you in obtaining travel visas to over 200 countries

ASIA by Goway is an exclusive division that specializes in planning and organizing China tours, vacations and experiences. Choose from a simple city stopover, see the country highlights on one of our classic itineraries, enjoy a small group tour, a holiday of a lifetime, a stay of distinction and much more. We want to be your first choice when next you go globetrotting to China.