China for families

China has long been one of the most attractive and exotic travel destinations in the world and for families looking to share with their children unique experiences of an important culture which is totally different to their own.

China provides the opportunity of a lifetime!

The world's most populous nation, China offers visitors a wide variety of experiences from modern dynamic cities, which are full of interesting and exciting child-friendly activities, and super efficient transport systems that makes getting around a breeze, to historical and ancient villages, spectacular natural wonders, tropical island beaches and sites of archaeologically importance.

China is a great place for kids, and the major cities of Beijing and Shanghai offer some excellent activities for when the kids get bored of touring, temples and shopping. With amusement parks, theme parks, ice skating, indoor and outdoor playgrounds, aquariums, zoo’s and wildlife parks, there is something sure to please every child.

And let's not forget the amazing Chinese cuisine that varies from north of the countr to the south and from east to west. You and the whole family will be amazed by the different types of food served in each region. Specialty dishes of any region, city or village are always a must during a visit. Most local families will be happy to show you their home and invite you for a meal.

Across the country, the cuisine is both tasty and cheap and even the fussiest of eaters will find something to please the palate. Restaurant offer a fantastic variety of food and street vendors serve up delicious and popular treats that make eating an adventure. Steering the kids towards the more fun and interesting local cuisine and trying new things is part of the joy of holidaying in China but if your kids would still prefer familiar food, western fast-food chains are in operation.

Chinese people are very hospitable and enjoy sharing food, stories and knowledge with those interested in learning. Meeting local families and learning their way of life would be the most authentic experience on your next trip to China.

If city life is what you are after, then you will be glad to find similarities with your home city in Australia, where modern elements, including pop culture, fast food chains, moder high-rise architecture, music and  the latest fads or fashion can be found.

On the other hand, if you are after some countryside peace and tranquillity, the Chinese landscapes are sure to take your breath away. Misty mountains, rivers, lakes, fishing villages, farms and charming quaint towns are all easily accessible via any city.

For a quick look and feel of what China has to offer the family, the recent 'Karate Kid' movie featuring Jaden Smith and Jacky Chan is sure to be an inspiration. In the movie, audiences are exposed to traditional Chinese cultures, food, way of life and you'll also get a glimpse of the amazing scenery that sweeps across China.

Let the following pages be your inspiration when visiting China for your next family holiday.

So now... the question is not why families should visit China, but WHEN?

An Australian Mother Daughter Experience in China

Colleen Hinch, a world traveller, and her 5 year old daughter Savannah accompanied their husband and Dad on a business trip to China recently. We spoke to Colleen to find out what the experience was like for the family.

They had their own adventures whilst Steve was working hard and highly recommend the experience to any other Australian families.

The Hinch family were in the city of Guang Zhou. It was a massive city so big no one seemed to know what the population was.

Even though the temperature was mild and pleasant the locals were really bundled up as it was so different from their humid tropical summer.

The family spent time giggling at everyone so rugged up in winter clothes when all they needed were light jumpers to stay warm.

The Garden Hotel provided the base for their stay. Colleen said it was the nicest hotel in Guang Zhou.The room and surrounds were spacious with lovely gardens for Savannah to explore.

The two girls did spend a lot of time mother and daughter shopping. Colleen mostly bought clothes for gorgeous Savannah.

Just across the road from their hotel was the biggest shopping mall they had ever been in. It had every style and price of clothes from high end designer to fun and funky local wear. Savannah became an instant hit wherever she went. She was even offered modelling jobs by several of the stores they visited.

The locals never seemed to tire of seeing them walking along together. Savannah got used to people stopping still to stare as they passed. She started to feel like a movie star and would smile and wave endearing her to everyone. The illusion was only furthered by the hundreds who snapped her photo as she skipped by.

Every day they ventured beyond the urge to shop and found it simple to catch taxis wherever they needed to go. The concierge was most helpful writing notes of destinations in Mandarin and Cantonese for the Taxi drivers.

A favourite destination was the Yuexiu Park, not so much a tourist destination but recommended by the concierge as great for Savannah. She loved the sculptures made out of plates and balls spoons, and a divine lake that you could rent a paddle boat. It was here that Colleen saw the true meaning of making friends.

Finding a little boy of a similar age in the park, Savannah played happily with him for over an hour both chatting away though neither could understand a word the other said. They were firm friends by the time it came to wave goodbye.

Another special moment was the evening dinner cruise the family enjoyed. A full banquet menu with loads of rice and noodles to keep Savannah happy, slowly moving down the shimmering evening waterways. Colleen said it was so beautiful it felt as if all the buildings had special lighting displays just for them. 

Colleen's safety tip:

Don't believe the zebra crossing instructions or crossings. Always use the overhead walkways if you can find them. It’s much safer.