China Business Tips

Traveling to China for business doesn't have to be a hassle! With the right communications tools, and a little bit of know-how, you can make your trip to China smooth, profitable, and fun!

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China Business Tip-Taxis

For business travelers in China, taxis are by far the most popular means of travel within a city. A cab ride is:

Air-conditioned Safe

Cheap.

Even in Shanghai, the first 3 km is just 11 RMB, about $1.40.

Generally reliable. Most cab drivers in the big cities are reasonably competent, and in Shanghai they have GPS.

Here are a few tips to make your China cab ride smooth and convenient:

Call a cab by waving your arm, palm down.

Do not ride in an unmarked "gypsy" cab. They wait at train stations and other places full of tourists. Stick to cabs owned by a big company, with a working meter, licensed driver, etc.

Have your destination clearly written in Chinese characters or at least pinyin with tone marks. If your cell phone displays Chinese characters, have someone send the address in a text message. No cabbies speak English (if they spoke English, they wouldn't be driving a cab).

If you feel the driver is cheating you, or has failed to obey the Rules of Conduct (printed in English on the dashboard or Plexiglas screen), you can call the Complaint Hotline. This also should be clearly visible in the cab.

ALWAYS take your receipt. If you feel that you have been cheated, or if you forget some luggage, the receipt is your only lifeline.

Chinese cabbies often smoke, spit out the window, or play the radio too loud. This is technically not permitted, and they will stop if you complain. Still, these behaviors are very common in China. Maybe you can use your time in the cab to get accustomed to this.

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