FAQ for Foreign Travelers to China
1. How much does a Tibet or Xinjiang tour cost?
Tour prices vary depending on itinerary length, group size, accommodation standard, and whether you join a group tour or book a private trip. Your travel consultant will provide a final quotation after confirming details with you.
2. What is the deposit for Tibet tours?
A deposit is required to confirm your spot. The standard amount is around RMB 1,000 per person, but the exact figure will be confirmed by your travel consultant.
3. How do I pay the deposit?
Deposits can be paid by:
- Bank transfer (RMB or USD)
- WeChat Pay or Alipay QR code transfer
- PayPal (credit card payment). After confirming with your travel consultant, you will receive an online invoice link for secure payment.
4. When do I need to pay the balance (final payment)?
The balance must be paid before your departure date. Please confirm the deadline with your travel consultant, as it may vary by itinerary.
5. What payment methods are available for the balance?
You can choose from:
- Bank transfer (RMB or USD)
- WeChat Pay or Alipay QR code payment
- PayPal (credit card). A payment invoice will be sent once confirmed.
6. What are “agency booking fees”?
Agency booking fees cover the cost of tickets we help you purchase—such as flights, train tickets, or special permits. These need to be paid in full once confirmed.
7. How do I pay for flights or train tickets booked through the agency?
Agency booking fees must be paid in full after you confirm the booking. Payment options include:
- Bank transfer (RMB, TWD, or USD)
- WeChat Pay / Alipay
- PayPal (credit card, with invoice sent by your consultant)
8. Can I get a refund if the agency cancels the trip?
Yes. If the trip is canceled due to reasons attributable to the travel agency, all payments will be refunded unconditionally.
9. What if the trip is canceled due to force majeure (e.g., weather, political factors)?
In such cases, necessary handling fees will be deducted, but the rest of your payments will be refunded.
10. What if I cancel the trip myself?
If you cancel for personal reasons, the deposit is non-refundable. Additional cancellation penalties may apply depending on how close to the departure date you cancel.
11. What is the cancellation penalty policy?
- 31–45 days before departure: 30% of the tour cost
- 16–30 days before departure: 50% of the tour cost
- Within 15 days of departure: 100% of the tour cost
12. Are ticket cancellations (flights, trains, hotels) refunded?
Tickets and hotel bookings follow the specific cancellation policy of each supplier. Any refunds (after supplier penalties) will be processed back to your original payment method.
13. Do I need special permits for Tibet?
Yes. Foreign travelers must obtain a Tibet Travel Permit (TTB). Your travel consultant will apply for it on your behalf, but approval is not 100% guaranteed.
14. What documents are required to book a Tibet tour?
- Foreign travelers: Passport + Chinese tourist visa (color scans)
- Hong Kong/Macau residents: Home Return Permit (回鄉證) + passport scan
All documents should be submitted at least 45 days before departure.
15. Can you also arrange international or domestic flights for me?
Yes. We can book both international and domestic flights, as well as train tickets. All tickets are issued as e-tickets, and you only need your passport or relevant ID to board.
16. Do I have to join a group tour, or can I book a private tour?
Both options are available. If your group has fewer than six travelers, we recommend joining a group tour for better pricing. Larger groups often choose private itineraries for flexibility.
17. What should I prepare before traveling to Tibet?
- Warm clothing for large temperature differences (even in summer)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat to protect against strong UV rays
- Moisturizing skincare (the plateau climate is very dry)
- Optional: Rhodiola (紅景天) supplements a week before the trip to help with altitude
18. What are the road conditions and daily travel times like in Tibet?
Expect long drives. Most itineraries involve at least 4 hours of driving daily. Trips to remote areas such as Ngari (Ali) may require even longer hours on the road.
19. Are food and accommodation in Tibet the same standard as other Chinese tourist destinations?
No. Facilities in Tibet are generally more basic. Travelers should be mentally prepared for simpler meals and accommodations compared to highly developed tourist areas.
20. Is it safe to travel to Tibet and Xinjiang?
Both regions are generally safe for foreign travelers. However, Tibet is politically sensitive and subject to sudden restrictions. Please remain flexible, respect local customs, and follow your guide’s instructions.
