ŽTRANSPORT IN XI’AN

 There may be occasions when you travel by taxi or bus. Usually you will have a guide with you, but please carry your map, ‘Please take me to’ sheet with you at all times. Also please ensure that you and not your guide pays the taxi driver. Thank you.

 G  SITE-SEEING IN XI’AN

Arrangements can be made for individuals or groups to see some of the famous sites in Xi’an. Generally, if someone accompanies you, you are requested to pay for his or her transport, meals and entrance fees.

 ñ  AIR TRAVEL

   ·        Usually, you need to leave for the airport 2 hours before of your flight departure time.

1.      To the airport unaccompanied cost RMB.100 for a car.                       

2.      From the airport unaccompanied cost RMB.130 for a car.

3.      To or from the airport accompanied cost RMB.150 for a car, RMB.200 for a van.

   ·        There is also a departure tax, which is RMB.50 (for international flights, incl. Flights to Hong Kong, departure tax is RMB.90).

  ·        Most Airports have CAAC shuttle buses, located just outside the arrival hall. For those who enjoy travelling independently and are familiar with China. It’s actually worth getting that into the city centre and then taking another taxi – especially if you arrive late in the evening:

1.      Avoid haggling with taxi drivers. Some taxies do tours and pick up other passenger etc and haggle on price mid-way.

2.      So it is much safe to get the bus. From Xi’an International airport to the Xi’an City cost RMB. 25/person.

3.      There is also an airport bus (it will departure every O’clock from 6:00am to 18:00pm) which you are free to take if you feel confident that you can do this on your own and you don’t have much luggage. However, due to time constrains, it may not be possible to use this option if you are being accompanied by a worker. If you need further details, refer the NOTE for please take me to.

    ·        Most Airports have CAAC Free Over-night stay in Airport Hotel for very early flight departures.

 t  TRAIN TRAVEL

Train travel in China is rather different from that in your home countries, so the following briefing notes may help:

 Timing

      The overnight train departs 20:32 from Xi’an, due to arrive Hanzhong 07:02 the following morning. It is best to arrive at the train station by 20:00. The day train departs 12:38 from Xi’an, due to arrive Hanzhong 21:45. It is best to arrive at the train station by 12:00.

Terminology

    ·        Soft sleeper: These are 4 berth compartments. Your tickets will specify upper or lower bunk. There is a slightly different cost for each, but invoicing cost are averaged out, so you can decide between yourselves who prefers which bunk!

    ·        Hard sleeper: Bunks are 3 high and slightly narrower than on soft sleeper, though no harder! There are no private compartments; rather the whole carriage is open.

 Note: On hard-and soft-sleeper, also soft seat, sheet, blanket and pillowcase are provided. Scalding hot water is also available. So make own your cups/containers are heat proof.

 Essential Items To Take with you on the Train

·        Something to drink and cup if required. (On soft sleepers cups are provided but need to be well wiped before being used.) NB Do not let one drop of tap water on the train pass your lips.

·        Something to eat.

·        Toilet roll/tissues

·        Book to read

·        Torch( i.e flashlight)

·        Large pillowcase or extra towel to spread over pillow as it may have been used previously by someone else!

·        Lock for suitcase.

 

Things to be aware of

·        Any valuable items should be kept as close to you as possible.

·        When you need to go to the bathroom, ask someone you know to look after your valuable items of luggage.

·        Constant general awareness that there could be pickpockets around the station area. So be vigilant about valuables.

Modified 04-07-2003