FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who/what is Citslinc?
Citslinc International, Inc. was established in June 1995 and operates out of Monterey Park, California. President of
the company Mr. Leo Liu had been coordinating tours to China for over 15 years and has partnered with Chambers
of Commerce since 2001. This year over 6,000 tourists visited China on Chamber sponsored tours such as this
one. To learn more, please visit www.citslinc.com.
Do I need to be a Chamber member to go on the trip?
No, everyone is welcome to join us on this exciting adventure.
When do I need to commit?
You must pay a nonrefundable $200 deposit to hold your spot when you register for the trip. ALL FINAL
PAYMENTS will need to be made by August 1, 2009. Side trips are arranged in country and cost $25 to $45 per
person.
What about travel documents?
You will need a passport and a visa. Visas can be arranged through the Metro South Chamber of Commerce
for a $150 fee. Visas are issued for a six month window. Passports can be purchased at the Post Office and must
have an expiration date that is a least six months after our return date from China (04/19/09). Your passport must
be current BEFORE you apply for your visa, so please plan accordingly.
What about travel insurance?
Travel insurance can be arranged by your local travel agent or you can use one of our chamber member insurance
agencies or travel agencies.
What is China’s weather like in October, how should I pack?
The weather is very much like it is here, average temperatures of about 65F during the day in Beijing. It is about 10
degrees warmer in the Shanghai area. “Casual” is the word for touring, but you may want to pack business attire if
you are planning to attend the business functions. We also recommend packing a fleece or sweater for cooler
evenings.
May I pay the Chamber by credit card?
Yes, we accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
Will I be able to use credit cards in China?
You will find very few ATM machines, but traveler’s checks and credit cards are accepted everywhere. It is
recommended that you leave your checkbooks and debit cards behind.
I am interested in investigating business opportunities in China. Is it possible to
do this on this trip?
Yes, there will be a reception one evening to meet and discuss business with local China businessmen. Fill out the
“Business Questionnaire” and the reception will be arranged by Citslinc at no cost.
How many others will be on this trip?
We have partnered with the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce to sponsor this trip. We are planning
on a block of 175 travelers for both Chambers. The individual groups from both Chambers will be sized at 25-30
and it is likely the only time you will see the others in your block will be in the evening.
Will I have the opportunity to travel outside of the tour group?
No, you may not leave the tour to do your own thing. There are exceptions when there is allotted free time and you
will be advised when it is okay.
How much money should I plan on taking?
How much you spend on those “I got to have it” items is of course up to you. Others who have gone on previous
trips have spent between $200-$400 for miscellaneous items.
Do I need any vaccinations?
There are no vaccination requirements at this time, but travelers should check with their physicians or the Center for
Disease Control Web site at www.cdc.gov/travel/vaccinat.htm to learn of any recommended vaccinations or updated
health-related news.
What are the limitations on luggage? How many pieces and how much weight is
allowed?
On Chinese domestic flights, each person is allowed 44 pounds of checked baggage. International flights permit
two pieces weighing 70 pounds total. We recommend packing light and plan on shopping later during the trip,
especially in Shanghai.
What about airport security?
The best information can be found at www.tsa.gov. Follow the prohibited / allowed link and you will find all the
information as to what you may take on board the aircraft.
What are the guidelines on tipping?
The bus captain will collect $25 from each traveler on the first day for the combined services of the tour guide, the
bus driver, and all hotel personnel. Unless you request special services, you should not expect to tip anyone else.
How can you do this for this price?
Several things are in play to keep the costs reasonable. First is the volume; Citslinc International, Inc. is able to
achieve discounts from the airline and hotels due to the large number of travelers they bring to China. Second, it is
the “off season” in China and the hotels/buses would be otherwise unutilized
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