Traveling to China...what do I need to do?

This summer, I plan to visit a friend of mine who lives in China. This will be my first time traveling out of the country. Does anyone know the steps I need to take to prepare myself for the trip to China (passport, visa, shots, etc.) or any websites that could provide me with the information? Thanks so much!

umm first get a visa from the chinese embessey...afterwards, i think your all set since thats what i did and i go back twice a year...just remember that the visa has an expiration date...

You'll need a visa, no shots are required if you are staying for less than 6 months.

Fly to Hong Kong first, check it out for a couple days, it's real cool. No visa required to enter Hong Kong. The hotel you stay at can get you a mainland China visa in less than 24 hours also there are plenty of travel offices in Hong Kong who can get you a visa in the same amount of time, 1 photo required I beleive. It is no hassle believe me, I am in China right now. Came through Hong Kong.

get the visa first

before you apply for a visa you need a passport. then contact expert visa services, inc. at 1-312-663-6667 in chicago, illinois 60604 and they'll walk you through the visa process. it only takes a week or so go get it..........the passport could take 6 weeks to get. so get going..........don't need shots to go to china........they don't bite........have fun.......

For US citizens, you need to have a passport: Valid 6 or more months with clear visa page.
1 Peoples Republic of China Visa Application
1 Color Photograph 2" x 2" with white or light background
1 Detailed business letter or invitation from company in China (business purposes only)

You can obtain a single, double or 6 month multiple entry visa.

The China Embassy or Consulates will no longer accept visa applications by regular or express mail or any other delivery services (FedEx, DHL, UPS,). Applications must be submitted in person, by an agent of the traveler or a visa service authorized to do business at the China Embassy and Consulates. You can get more info from this link: http://www.jiasdreamtours.com/tt_visa_em...

For single entry, $50; double entry is $75, multiple entry for 6 months is: $100.

The regular processing time is 4 working days. For express service, additional fees of $30 for 1 working day processing, and $20 for 2-3 working days processing will be charged.

Currently, there are no required immunizations for entry to China. However, it is best to consult your physician or international health advisories from the US State Department services Bureau of Consular Affairs in Washington.
You can visit their Web site at: www.travel.state.gov/travel.

If you have any more questions, please feel free to contact me at: Jia@Jiasdreamtours.com