Information note

Transfers | Visa Information | Health Requirements | Weather | Electricity | Insurance | Payment | Guilin

Transfers
The Workshop Organizing Committee will arrange transfers between the Guilin International Airport and the Workshop Venue. ,based on the detailed flight information.

Visa Information
Participants are requested to obtain entry visa before leaving for China. Information on visa requirements and procedures can be obtained from the Chinese diplomatic/ consular representations of the country of your residence.

Health Requirements
No special vaccinations are required, but those who have travelled from an infected area before coming to China should have vaccination records available for a Health Declaration form upon arrival.

The tap water is not drinkable in the hotel. Participants are recommended to drink boiled water or bottled water.

Weather
Guilin has a sub-tropical monsoon climate with four mild and distinctive seasons. Warm clothes are recommended for winter-wear, while in spring and autumn something lighter with a woolen sweater will be comfortable. Comfortable footwear suitable for walking outside is recommended for the field trip.

Detailed information about the Average, Maximun and Minimum Temperatures and the rainfall in Guilin.

Electricity
Electrical appliances will require an adapter that can change the shape of the plug prongs, as well as an electrical voltage converter that will allow a normal 110-volt American appliance to take 220 Volt Chinese current. Throughout China 220 volt is used.

Insurance
The Organizing Committee will make every effort to ensure that delegates and accompanying persons enjoy a safe and happy visit to Guilin. However, the Organizing Committee regrets that it cannot take responsibility for any accidents or damage that may occur during the workshop. All delegates are requested to make necessary insurance arrangements before arriving in Guilin.

Payment: Currency & Credit Cards
China's currency is the Renminbi (RMB), usually called Yuan. The current exchange rate is US $1 for RMB￥6.8, with slight daily fluctuations. The Bank of China has exchange desks for foreign currency and travelers checks with convenient hours at all hotels, airports, Friendship Stores, and other shopping areas.

Visa, Master Card, American Express, Diner's Club, Federal Card, Million Card, and JCB credit cards are accepted at most hotels and shops in the major cities. Travelers should be prepared to pay in Yuan when shopping in smaller shops and at restaurants.

Guilin
As a centre for tourism, Guilin boasts magnificent natural beauty and many precious cultural relics. The colorful ethnic background lends a touch of mystery that enhances its fame. Why delay - come and enjoy this huge natural theme park.

Attractions
-Li River
-Elephant Trunk Hill (Xiangbi Hill)
-Diecai Hill
-Seven-Star Park
-Reed Flute Cave

One of the top China's tourist destinations, Li River is honored to the most beautiful gallery of the world. The picturesque river is a major component of Guilin scenery. As it sparkles in the sunlight the river meanders through lush mountains like a liquid jade belt. To really appreciate the scenery a cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is a must and your voyage of discovery can be divided roughly into three sections:

The first of these is from downtown Guilin where you board the cruiser to Huangniu Xia (valley). As soon as you leave the landing stage you will begin to enjoy the natural wonder and local customs. Upon reaching Huangniu Xia (valley) the cruise enters upon the second section. This part is the very essence of Li River. The gorgeous mountains and the crystal water together with the romantic legends are certain to impress you. Shuiluo Village marks the beginning of the third and final section that ends at Yangshuo. Along this stretch of the river you pass through pastoral scenes unchanged for generations as the banks are lined with quaint fishing villages, farmland and bamboo groves.

Located at the confluence of the Taohua (Peach Blossom) River and the Li River, Elephant Trunk Hill is too famous to be missed. It is said to be the symbol of Guilin scenery and also a highlight in Li River.

Diecai Hill, also named Gui Hill, famous for its amazing scenery and stone caving, is one of the most attractive scenery in Guilin. The easiness for climbing makes great contribution to its popularity among visitors.

Seven-Star Park is located on the bank of Li River, crossed by Xiaodong River. The park got its name owing to seven peaks looking like Charles' Wain. This is the largest and most popular park in Guilin with the longest history. Hills, rivers, caves and stones are highlights of this park.

Reed Flute Cave is 5 kilometers (3miles) from downtown in northwest suburb of Guilin. Here the scenery is focused on caves, and their rural setting. Within the cave there are enchanting stalagmites, stone pillars, stele, stone curtains and stone flowers.