How should I prepare for my trip to Chongqing?
If you are visiting Chongqing for the first time, it is recommended that you check the local weather forecasts carefully. Chongqing is very hot in summer, with temperatures reaching above 40 degrees Celcius or above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The humidity is also very high, especially in July, August and September and the temperature can feel even higher. While the locals are accustomed to the temperature and the humidity, first-time visitors should be mindful of being outside for long periods of time.
While the street food in Chongqing is generally safe to eat, it is also advised to spend at least the first day eating food in larger restaurants and establishments, to allow your stomach time to get used to the new kinds of food. The locals are very fond of Sichuan peppers and if you are not used to this kind of spicy food, your stomach might feel uncomfortable after eating it.
Do people in Chongqing speak English?
While the younger generation learns English in school, many of the older people do not speak English. Street signs are generally written in Chinese characters and in Pinyin but they can still be tricky to navigate. Using the rail transit system is by far the most convenient way of transport as all the signs, and the ticket machines are in English as well as Chinese. English is slowly becoming more common, and don't be afraid to engage in conversation with the locals, as they are very friendly and helpful. Make sure you have access to a dictionary or google translate on your phone, and you'll be well prepared.
What are some of the must-see attractions in Chongqing?
Some of the most famous attractions in Chongqing include the Ancient City of Ciqikou, Hongya Cave, The Three Gorges, Dazu Rock Carvings, and the Wulong Karst National Geological Park. We suggest you take a look through our tourist attraction listing here to see more suggestions.
Are taxi's safe in Chongqing
Yes, taxis are safe in Chongqing. Driving in China is generally a little more wild than what many westerners are used to, but there are very few traffic accidents and taxi drivers are very helpful, especially to new visitors. However, many taxi drivers do not speak English so it is advised to have the address written in Chinese when you are going somewhere. Most apps like Google Maps and Baidu Map will show the Chinese address for locations in Chongqing and you can show that to the taxi driver.
An alternative to taxis, you can use car-hailing apps like Didi, which also comes in English. Didi allows you to select your destination before the car arrives to pick you up, so there is no need to communicate directly with the driver.
What is the food like in Chongqing?
Chongqing has its own unique style of food. Much like other provinces in China. We recommend you read more about Chongqing's food here.
Where can I find the bilingual clinics in Chongqing?
Bilingual Health Hotlines (Chinese and English) Opened by Chongqing’s First Designated Hospitals Serving Foreigners:
In order to create ultimate living experience and make Chongqing a hub of international exchanges in Western China, the Chongqing Municipal Health Commission now makes public the following bilingual health hotlines (Chinese and English) operated by Chongqing’s first designated hospitals to serve foreigners. These 24/7 bilingual hotlines will offer services like guidance on seeing a doctor, pre-examination and triage, in-hospital assistance, etc.
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1 |
The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University |
18623389261 |
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2 |
The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University |
023-63693024 (Yuzhong Campus) |
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3 |
Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University |
18983288441 |
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4 |
Chongqing General Hospital |
19923167939 |
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5 |
Chongqing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital |
18008344356 |
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6 |
Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University |
023-88860178 |
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7 |
Chongqing Emergency Medical Center |
023-63692498 |
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8 |
Chongqing University Cancer Hospital |
19923597600 |
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9 |
Chongqing University Three Gorges Hospital |
023-58999120 |
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10 |
Qianjiang Central Hospital of Chongqing |
023-79221120 |
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11 |
The People’s Hospital of Dazu, Chongqing |
023-43780184 |