Recommend 7 apps to have on your phone when go to China

     These days, I see many Thai students planning or getting ready to travel to study in China. For some, it might be their first time traveling to China, so they might not know how to prepare.

      Today, I've gone ahead and found some must-have apps to download before heading to China. For anyone planning a trip or study there, save this post and do a quick check before your journey. Sharing is caring!

Applications to install when traveling to China

1. VPN

     Absolutely, China is the land of blocking - it's like a never-ending block party! When you visit China, you won't be able to use Facebook, Line, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Google, Disney+ Hotstar, Netflix, and many more apps. Having a VPN on your device will help you access blocked apps and websites.

     We recommends BullVPN, a popular VPN service among Thai expats in China. The app is designed for easy use from China on all devices, be it PC (Windows, macOS, Chrome Extension) or mobile (Android, iOS). Rest assured, it's fast and reliable!

     I recommend practicing using a VPN before traveling to China. As they say, China's firewall is quite formidable. If you start connecting for the first time in China, it might be a bit challenging. If you don't want any headaches while in China, start getting familiar with it in Thailand first!

Tips on Using VPN for Thai Travelers Heading to China

- Prepare before you go to China and how to unblock Chinese-blocked websites with BullVPN

- China Mode a new menu for Thai people in China

- Thai-Chinese Students Association (TCSA) that encourages Thai children to study in China

- How to access Instagram in China

2. Wechat

     It's a chat app for general communication that works even in China without the need for a VPN. So, if parents want to stay in touch with their children, I recommend downloading WeChat and registering while in Thailand. This way, you can easily add each other as friends and stay connected when traveling without any communication issues.

3. Didi

    t's a taxi-hailing app. When you arrive at the airport, it can be a bit challenging to find a taxi. With this app, you can call one easily. Super convenient!

4. Baidu map / Gaode Map

     Both apps are as easy to use as Google Maps. Wherever you want to go or which bus to take, just open these apps. No more getting lost for sure. Plus, they have an English version.

5. Alipay / WachatPay

     It's an app for making payments in China. Because in China, they are a 'cashless' society now, making payments by scanning QR codes (similar to Thailand).

     WeChatPay is already available within the WeChat app; no need for additional downloads. Just remember to activate it, and you're good to go, even while in Thailand!

     As for Alipay, you'll need to link it to a Chinese bank account. Download the app beforehand, then once you open an account in China, you can link your bank account number to the app.

     Alternatively, if anyone wants to open an account while in Thailand, you can do so with ICBC BANK. You can also withdraw money from this bank in China, and our parents can transfer snack money to us through this account. It's a win-win! As for exchange rates, they depend on the global market at that time, no worries!"Alternatively, if anyone wants to open an account while in Thailand, you can do so with ICBC BANK. You can also withdraw money from this bank in China, and our parents can transfer snack money to us through this account. It's a win-win! As for exchange rates, they depend on the global market at that time, no worries!"

6. Line Dictionary / Pleco

     It's an online dictionary, a handy tool for students studying in China. Use it to look up words or understand sentences you find tricky. The app even provides example sentences. It's a great homework helper!

     Or, if you're traveling in China, you can connect BullVPN and use Google Translate to communicate with locals. It works like a charm!

7. MetroMan China

     Because most of your travel in China will involve using the subway, this is another app you should have when going to China. It helps calculate and organize your journeys, giving you the best routes

     These are the top 7 must-have apps that I recommend everyone to download. You won't be disappointed, I promise! And if you don't want to miss out on news, content, movies, and series from Thailand, don't forget to connect to BullVPN to access apps and websites blocked in China."These are the top 7 must-have apps that I recommend everyone to download. You won't be disappointed, I promise! And if you don't want to miss out on news, content, movies, and series from Thailand, don't forget to connect to BullVPN to access apps and websites blocked in China."