Let’s Talk Travel Prep
Alright, the countdown’s real. With just one day before BIBF kicks off, here’s what you need to know to hit the ground running—well-rested, well-packed, and ready for anything.
First, let’s talk jet lag. Beijing runs on GMT+8, which puts it 12 hours ahead of New York and 15 ahead of LA. If you land during the day, do your best to stay awake until bedtime. Hydrate on the flight, skip heavy meals or alcohol, and try an app like Timeshifter to start adjusting your sleep ahead of time. The night before you fly, go to bed a little earlier and get some morning sun to ease the shift.
What to Pack:
- Light, breathable clothes (T-shirts, linens) for warm, hazy June weather
- 1–2 business-casual outfits for the fair
- A light sweater or scarf (AC inside the halls can get cold)
- A good notebook and pen (for notes, names, and contact info)
- Universal power adapter (China uses Type A/C/I plugs, mostly Type I, 220V)
- A stash of your business cards
Must-Have Apps (download before you land):
- WeChat (微信): For messaging, payments, and calling a DiDi (ride-hailing)
- Alipay: Alternate payment option accepted almost everywhere
- Baidu Maps: Reliable local navigation (Google Maps is hit-or-miss in China)
- Trip.com (Ctrip): Easy booking for hotels, trains, and more
- Pleco or Google Translate (offline mode): Language support
- Dianping: Like Yelp, but for finding good local eats
Getting Around:
Beijing has two major airports.
- Beijing Capital (PEK):
- Airport Express to Dongzhimen (¥25, ~20 min)
- Subway Line 2 or taxi from there (¥100–¥150 depending on time)
- Daxing Airport (PKX):
- Express train to Caoqiao station (¥35, ~22 min)
- From there, transfer to Line 10 or 19
- Taxi to central Beijing costs around ¥220 and can take 80–90 minutes
Once you’re in the city, the China National Convention Center (CNCC) is in Olympic Green. Nearest subway stop is Olympic Sports Center Station on Line 8 or 15. If you’re still booking accommodation, check hotels near the Bird’s Nest like Crowne Plaza or Hilton—they’re close and convenient.
Money Tips:
- Currency: Chinese Yuan (RMB)
- Use airport ATMs—but tell your bank in advance to avoid blocks
- Many places still take cash, but WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate
- Tipping isn’t expected—a simple “xie xie” (thank you) goes a long way
- For a thank-you gift:
- Avoid white flowers or clocks (symbolize funerals)
- Safe options: pens, bookmarks, small souvenirs, local sports merch
Cultural Quick Hits:
- Handshakes are the standard greeting
- Use titles (Mr./Ms.) unless told otherwise
- Let your host pour the tea at meetings—don’t jump into business right away
- Avoid sensitive topics (like politics or human rights)
- Slurping soup is fine—it’s considered polite
- Don’t split the bill—the host or senior person will pay
Passport? Check. Tickets? Packed. Business cards? Ready. Now just get a good night’s sleep—you’re about to step into one of the most exciting publishing events in the world. From massive halls full of stories to late-night hotpot under neon lights, this one’s going to be unforgettable.
Let the Book Fair begin.