Luxembourg

Luxembourg Overview

Chinese Name: English IPA: Location: Population (city): Language: Zip code: Tel code: Time zone:

To travel from Luxembourg to the main cities of China, you’ll need to take connecting flights, as there are no direct flights from Luxembourg to China. Here’s a detailed guide on how to plan your trip:

1. Visa Requirements for China

Before traveling to China, you’ll need to apply for a Chinese visa. Here’s how to do it:

How to Apply for a Chinese Visa:

  • Complete the Visa Application Form: Download and fill out the application form from the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) or the Chinese embassy’s website.
  • Documents Required:
    • Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date.
    • Passport-size Photo: A recent photo as per the embassy’s requirements.
    • Flight Itinerary: Proof of return flight bookings.
    • Hotel Booking: Confirmation of accommodation in China.
    • Financial Proof: Recent bank statements showing that you have sufficient funds for the trip.
    • Travel Insurance: Some visa types require proof of travel insurance.

Submit the Application:

  • Where to Apply: You can submit the application to the Chinese Embassy in Luxembourg or at the Chinese Visa Application Center in nearby cities.
  • Processing Time: It generally takes 4-7 business days, but it may vary.

2. Flights from Luxembourg to China

Since there are no direct flights, you’ll need to take connecting flights. Below are some common flight options via major international airports:

Luxembourg to Beijing (Capital City):

  • Airlines: Lufthansa (via Frankfurt), Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul), Qatar Airways (via Doha), Emirates (via Dubai), Air France (via Paris).
  • Flight Duration: Around 13-16 hours, including layovers.
  • Arrival: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK).

Luxembourg to Shanghai (Commercial Hub):

  • Airlines: Lufthansa (via Frankfurt), Qatar Airways (via Doha), Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul), Emirates (via Dubai), Air France (via Paris).
  • Flight Duration: Approximately 14-17 hours, including layovers.
  • Arrival: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG).

Luxembourg to Guangzhou (Southern China):

  • Airlines: Lufthansa (via Frankfurt), Qatar Airways (via Doha), Emirates (via Dubai), Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul).
  • Flight Duration: Approximately 14-16 hours, including layovers.
  • Arrival: Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN).

Luxembourg to Hong Kong (Special Administrative Region):

  • Airlines: Qatar Airways (via Doha), Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul), Emirates (via Dubai).
  • Flight Duration: Around 14-16 hours, including layovers.
  • Arrival: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG).

3. Booking Flights

  • Online Travel Agencies: Use platforms like Skyscanner, Google Flights, Expedia, or Kayak to compare prices and book flights.
  • Airline Websites: Booking directly on airline websites can sometimes offer better deals or more flexible options.
  • Travel Agents: If you prefer personalized service, travel agents can assist with booking flights.

4. Transportation within China

Once you arrive in China, traveling between cities is easy due to a well-developed transportation system.

High-Speed Trains:

China has an extensive and fast high-speed rail network. For example, traveling between Beijing and Shanghai by high-speed train takes approximately 4.5 hours.

Domestic Flights:

For long distances, like Beijing to Shanghai or Shanghai to Guangzhou, domestic flights are available and take around 2 hours.

Public Transportation:

Most major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou have efficient metro systems. It’s a quick and affordable way to get around.

Ride-Hailing Apps:

In most cities, you can use Didi Chuxing (similar to Uber) to call a taxi or private car.

5. Currency and Payment Methods

  • Currency: The currency in China is the Renminbi (RMB), also known as Chinese Yuan (CNY).
  • Payment Methods: Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted in major cities, but mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used. It’s advisable to have a China UnionPay card or use mobile payments.
  • ATMs: Available in airports, shopping centers, and tourist spots.

6. Cultural Tips

  • Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language, and English is not widely spoken in many areas outside tourist spots. Having a translation app or learning basic Mandarin phrases is recommended.
  • Etiquette: Politeness and respect are highly valued. Use formal greetings when meeting new people, and always address others with respect.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not a common practice in China, but small tips may be appreciated in upscale hotels and restaurants.
  • Time Zone: China operates on China Standard Time (CST), UTC +8.

7. Weather and Packing Tips

  • Weather: China has a diverse climate:
    • Beijing: Very cold winters and hot summers.
    • Shanghai: Humid and hot summers, mild winters.
    • Hong Kong: Subtropical climate, hot summers, and mild winters.
  • Packing: Pack layers for winter travel, an umbrella for rainy weather (especially in cities like Shanghai), and sunscreen for hot summers.

8. Health and Safety

  • Travel Insurance: It’s strongly recommended to have travel insurance, including health coverage.
  • Vaccinations: Ensure you are up-to-date on any recommended vaccinations before traveling to China.
  • Emergency Numbers:
    • Police: 110
    • Ambulance: 120
    • Fire: 119

9. Recommended Cities and Attractions

  • Beijing: Famous for the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square.
  • Shanghai: Known for the Bund, modern skyscrapers, and historical landmarks.
  • Guangzhou: Famous for Cantonese cuisine, and Canton Tower.
  • Hong Kong: A blend of Eastern and Western cultures, with a vibrant skyline, excellent shopping, and food.
  • Xi’an: Home to the Terracotta Army and ancient city walls.
  • Chengdu: Famous for pandas and Sichuan cuisine (hotpot).
  • Guilin: Renowned for its picturesque karst mountains and Li River cruises.

Traveling from Luxembourg to China involves connecting flights through major international hubs such as Frankfurt, Istanbul, or Doha. Be sure to secure your Chinese visa, book your flights well in advance, and prepare for an exciting and enriching experience in China. Whether you’re visiting historical landmarks, bustling cities, or natural wonders, China offers an unforgettable travel experience.