Culture Archives - Local Travelling China

Health insurance for foreigners in China — a foreign patient presents a social-security card at a VIP outpatient counter

May 20, 2026
Local Travelling China
Culture, Travel tips

Health Insurance for Foreigners in China (2026): UEBMI, Private & Expat Plans

As of 2026, the situation for health insurance for foreigners in China is defined by a strict division between the state-managed public system and the international private market. Foreign...

View of Shanghai's skyline from a high vantage point, featuring modern skyscrapers and the Huangpu River.

October 12, 2025
Local Travelling China
Culture

Decoding the Shanghai Lifestyle: Is the “Paris of the East” Right for You?

Shanghai. Just the name conjures up images of glittering skyscrapers, bustling markets, and a vibrant mix of old and new. As a travel writer who’s spent a good chunk...

Bronze lion statue in front of the Forbidden City, covered in snow, with traditional Chinese architecture in the background.

October 12, 2025
Local Travelling China
Culture

Navigating the Nuances: A Look at Beijing Life, the Good, the Bad, and the Unforgettable

Today, we’re strapping on our metaphorical walking shoes and exploring the ins and outs of Beijing life. As you guys know, I’ve been bouncing around China for years now,...

A person pours tea from a teapot into small cups on a wooden table in a serene tea house setting.

July 15, 2025
Local Travelling China
Culture

Sipping History: A Guide to Chinese Tea (茶 – chá) in Chinese Culture

This time, I’ve been diving deep into the world of cha (茶) – tea! And I mean really deep. We’re talking history, culture, varieties, the whole shebang. If you’ve...

Modern glass building in China featuring colorful signage and a clear blue sky.

July 15, 2025
Local Travelling China
Culture

Best Markets in Beijing for Foreigners: Panjiayuan, Silk Street, Pearl Market + 3 More (2026)

As of May 2026, last reviewed by an LTC editor. Beijing’s market scene is one of the city’s most underrated attractions for foreign visitors. Beyond the Great Wall, Forbidden...

Traditional Chinese wedding procession in red attire, set in a lush garden with lanterns.

July 8, 2025
Local Travelling China
Culture

Qixi Festival Guide for Foreigners: Chinese Valentine’s Day Origins + How to Experience It (2026)

As of May 2026, last reviewed by an LTC editor. Qixi Festival (七夕, qīxī — “Seven Evening”) is the traditional Chinese romantic festival, often translated as “Chinese Valentine’s Day”....

Dragon boat racers compete in a traditional festival on a river, adorned with colorful flags and decorative dragon heads.

June 28, 2025
Local Travelling China
Culture

Dragon Boat Festival Guide for Foreigners: Qu Yuan, Zongzi, Best Race Cities (2026)

As of May 2026, last reviewed by an LTC editor. The Dragon Boat Festival (端午节, Duānwǔ jié) is one of China’s three major traditional festivals — alongside Spring Festival...

Lion dancers celebrate with confetti during a traditional festival in China.

June 27, 2025
Local Travelling China
Culture

Experiencing the vibrant Lunar New Year festivities in China’s heartland

As a travel writer, I’m constantly chasing experiences that truly resonate, moments that burrow their way into your soul and leave an indelible mark. And let me tell you,...

A group of people toasting at a table filled with various Chinese dishes, including rice, vegetables, and meats.

June 24, 2025
Local Travelling China
Culture

Decoding the Chinese Dining Etiquette An Insight into Its Socio-Cultural Fabric

and food enthusiasts! If you’re anything like me, you believe that travel is about more than just seeing the sights – it’s about immersing yourself in the culture, and...

June 8, 2025
Local Travelling China
Culture

The Ultimate Guide of Sanda Boxing in China!

and martial arts enthusiasts! and this time, we’re diving headfirst into the exhilarating world of Sanda boxing in China. For years, I’ve been captivated by the diverse martial arts...