As we are preparing for travel for our second little girl from China (from the same province!), I wanted to try to write down the tips and tricks that I remember so I don't forget during this crazy time.
First, don't forget to download a VPN (Virtual Private Network) BEFORE you go on your ipad, iphone, or pc (our favorite is Express VPN). This allows you to access your blog and the internet in China. You'll log into the VPN before logging into your browser. Thank you to those who blogged about it before we went to pick up our daughter 2 years ago....it was a life-saver and we were helping others try to download it while in China (what a pain).
Pack Light!!!! It is OK to wear the same clothes, their are laundry services, and it is easy to wash out a few light-weight things in the sink and hang them to dry. Makes it so much easier. Remember, you'll be hauling those suitcases and your little one around the airport. Bring coats that are compact and light if needed.
Bring some snacks for you and baby that are easily portable. You're on the go as well as you can get tired of all the "authentic" food, and just want something familiar (like dark chocolate). It is also good for baby and bonding.
Baby Einstein videos are great simple entertainment for any age with little or no words. Also, a few stack-able toys, balloons or beach balls that can be blown up to play with, etc. The halls of the hotel are excellent play areas as well!
Strollers are sold in China for about $20. Easier than lugging one around before you have your baby.
Go shopping in China...and not just where they take you on your tours. It is fun! A great experience! Even though they no longer have you stay at the White Swan, go to that island and shop. It is fun to heckle on prices! If you are getting a little girl, buy her a fresh water pearl necklace and earrings in Guangzhou to give her when she turns 16. Thank you, Flarey family, for that advice!
Tours can be crazy....don't feel like you have to do them all. They can be fun, but so can taking a nap with your new little miracle, or swimming at the hotel pool.
If you're flying out of Hong Kong, take the train from Guangzhou. We haven't tried it, but those who did loved it! If you can, spend an extra day in Hong Kong so the flight isn't so miserable home. Sleeping in the airport in Hong Kong is awful!
Sleeping pills are an excellent way to get some sleep the first two nights! What a lifesaver those were! Helps you more quickly adjust before gotcha day.
Disposable bibs are AWESOME! Don't need washing, can toss if they're dirty or re-use if clean. Highly recommend! As well as wet wipes in the bags and not the container. They're easier to pack and toss when empty.
I'm sure I'll be adding to the list as more comes to mind! I am so excited to be going back to China!
No comments:
Post a Comment