Accommodation Guide in China for Canadian Travelers

As China continues to open up and become more internationalized, an increasing number of international visitors are traveling to the mainland for tourism, work, and study. Upon arrival, one of the first issues to address is accommodation. It's well-known that not all hotels in mainland China can accommodate foreign guests, and checking into a hotel requires valid identification and registration for temporary residence for foreigners. For Canadian tourists planning a trip to China, understanding the accommodation options and booking procedures is crucial for ensuring a comfortable and worry-free stay. This guide provides detailed information on when and where to book hotels, how to choose the right accommodation, the necessary documents, registration, and the check-in process.

1. When to Book a Hotel?

Booking your hotel well in advance is crucial, especially during peak travel seasons such as Chinese New Year (January or February), National Day (October 1-7), Labour Day (May 1-5) and summer holidays (July-August). These periods see a significant increase in domestic travel, leading to higher demand for accommodations. To secure the best options and rates, aim to book your hotel at least one to two months before your planned travel dates. 

For less crowded times, booking two to three weeks in advance should suffice, but earlier booking is always safer to ensure availability and to get better deals.

2. Where to Book Hotels?

There are several reliable platforms where you can book hotels in China:

Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Websites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Agoda offer a wide range of hotels with detailed reviews and ratings.
Chinese Platforms: Ctrip (Trip.com) is the most popular Chinese booking sites that often provide competitive prices and a broader selection of local accommodations.
Hotel Websites: For chain hotels, booking directly through their official websites can sometimes offer exclusive deals and perks.

Make sure to compare prices across multiple platforms to find the best deals.

3. How to Choose a Hotel?

When choosing a hotel in China, you need to consider the following factors:

1. Foreign Guest Acceptance: Not all hotels in China are licensed to accommodate foreign guests. Ensure that the hotel you choose explicitly states that it accepts foreign travelers.
2. Comfort Level: For a comfortable stay, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the local conditions, opt for four-star or higher-rated hotels. These hotels usually offer better amenities, service, and English-speaking staff.
3. Location: Choose a hotel that is conveniently located near public transportation, major attractions, and dining options. This will save you time and travel costs. In cities like Beijing and Shanghai, staying near a subway station is particularly advantageous.
4. Reviews and Ratings: Check reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor and Booking.com to get a sense of other travelers’ experiences regarding cleanliness, service, and overall comfort.

4. Required Documents for Accommodation

Passport: Your passport with a valid visa is essential. Hotels will scan your passport for registration purposes.
Hotel Booking Confirmation: It’s helpful to have a printed or digital copy of your booking confirmation.

5. Accommodation Registration

Foreign travelers are required to register their accommodation with the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) within 24 hours of arrival. When you stay at a hotel, the staff will typically handle this registration process for you. They will scan your passport and visa and submit the necessary information to the authorities.

If you’re staying in a private residence, such as an Airbnb or with friends, you will need to visit the local PSB office yourself to register. This involves filling out a registration form and presenting your passport and visa.

6. Check-in Process

The check-in process at Chinese hotels is straightforward but involves a few key steps:

1. Arrival at the Hotel: Upon arrival, head to the reception desk with your passport and booking confirmation.
2. Document Scanning: The hotel staff will scan your passport, and you may need to fill out a registration form.
3. Deposit: Many hotels in China require a refundable deposit at check-in, which can be paid by credit card or cash. This deposit covers any incidental charges during your stay.
4. Room Assignment: Once the registration is complete and the deposit is paid, you will be given your room key and information about hotel facilities.
5. Baggage Assistance: Most mid-range to high-end hotels offer baggage assistance to take your luggage to your room.

During your stay, always carry a copy of your passport with you and keep the original in a safe place in your room. This is important for identification purposes if required.