Money Issues
Money Issues
Chinese currency is called Renminbi (RMB) and is issued by the state bank, the People's
Bank of China. We suggest that you bring a combination of cash (US$1's, US$5's,
US$10's and US$20's) and travelers' checks for your trip. It is not a good idea
to bring only travelers' checks since only 50% of exchanged value can be converted
back into USD. US dollars in cash form are accepted at many places while travelers'
checks must first be converted into RMB.
There is a limit on the amount of foreign currency that you are permitted to bring
into China. Credit cards are not widely accepted in China but are becoming more
popular in major cities. International hotels and department stores and shops frequented
by foreign tourists generally accept them. Taking cash advances by credit card is
not common and is only possible at a few selected banks.
When you exchange currency in China, keep the receipts that the bank gives you because
you need them to change the money back at the end of your journey. Note that once
you leave the country with Chinese Renminbi, it is not possible to exchange it.
Pre-trip essentials
