Catherine & Richard

June 14–17, 2024 • Shanghai, China

Catherine & Richard

June 14–17, 2024 • Shanghai, China

Q + A

Do I need a visa to visit Shanghai?

It's wise to check your local Chinese Embassy's website early on for the specifics. But here’s a bit of good news:


If you have a passport from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, or Spain, you're in luck. As of December 1, 2023, you can enter China without a visa for tourism and family visits if your stay is shorter than 15 days, lasting until November 30, 2024. Quite convenient for our occasion!


For those with US, Australian, or Swiss passports, you'll likely need to apply for a tourist visa. A quick visit to your local Chinese Consulate's website should provide you with a list of required documents and details for the L visa, which is for tourism. Plan for at least two weeks from application to receiving your passport back.


If you're in need of an invitation letter or any other documents for your visa application, don't hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help make your journey as smooth as possible. We have a few experts on hand ready to assist with your specific situation, ensuring your journey to us is as smooth as possible.

Are quarantines and travel restrictions still a worry?

We totally understand your concerns, but good news! Having jetted back ourselves last December, we're happy to report that things are back to normal – no quarantines or health-related travel restrictions to dampen your spirits. Landing at Shanghai Pudong PVG International Airport was quite straightforward, really. The excitement truly begins once you exit the airport. You might consider the high-speed maglev train for a bit of thrill – though, to be honest, we've never actually tried it ourselves. So, take that more as a suggestion rather than a hearty endorsement.

What's the best way to navigate from the airport to our hotel or the heart of Shanghai?

Shanghai greets you with a variety of travel options to whisk you from the airport to the bustling city center or your cozy hotel room:


Public Transport: Boasting a top-tier subway system that rivals Tokyo's for efficiency and reach, Shanghai offers extensive public transit options, including the famed maglev train. First-timers, be warned: the subway map can appear daunting, and navigating mobile and digital payments might leave you scratching your head. A little prep and patience will go a long way if you opt for this adventure straight from the airport.


Mobile App Taxi: For a seamless experience, download DiDi - Greater China from your app store before you depart. It's user-friendly, supports English, and accepts international credit cards, making it a breeze to get around once you land.


Airport Local Taxi: While the availability and policies of airport taxis can fluctuate, hopping in a traditional taxi line at PVG usually does the trick. Fares are generally fixed for airport departures, and surprisingly, cash is still accepted in some parts of Shanghai.


Private Pickup or Limo Service: For those inclined towards a touch of luxury, arranging a private car service could be your ticket to a stress-free arrival. Plus, if the thought of organizing such a ride seems daunting, we’re here to lend a hand. Just reach out, and we can coordinate a pickup for you and your loved ones, perhaps even syncing with other guests for a grand entrance.


Navigating from the airport to your Shanghai destination can be an adventure in itself, but with these options, you’re sure to find a route that suits your style and needs.

Is there anything else I should keep in mind?

As the big day approaches, we'll be sending out a more comprehensive guide, including an extended list of FAQs to ensure you're fully prepped. For now, the most important thing is to double-check that all your paperwork for entering China is up to date. And of course, start getting excited! There's so much to look forward to, and we can't wait to share this special moment with you.