Business travelers usually let their business partner on the China side do all the planning for the trip. Folks who come to China on business usually let their partner or company choose their hotel, plan all the meals and fill up any free time they might have. The traveler may or may not build in a little time to do her/his own thing but after being handled for a week or two, it might be difficult to know where to start.
You've come to the right place. Don't just sit back; own your business trip. This may be the only time you ever get to China. Here are some tips to make your stay in China a little more enjoyable.
1. Pick some restaurants
Research restaurants, pick a place you'd like to try and recommend it to your hosts. They will probably be thrilled that you care and even more thrilled that they don't have to worry about what you will eat. There might be a special cuisine or even a certain dish you'd like to be sure to try.
Here are some articles to get your tastebuds thinking:
- Sichuan specialties
- Beijing Duck in, where else, Beijing
- Suzhou cuisine at one of its oldest restaurants, Song Helou
- Seafood in Qingdao
- Shanghai Restaurant Guide
- Beijing Restaurant Guide
2. Shopping
Ask the office ladies to take you out to their favorite shops one day after work. Markets close early but many shops stay open late. You'll probably need their help bargaining.



