How can I stay connected by phone and internet in China?
In China, you can buy a SIM card before departure (My Mobile In China from €54) or on-site from China Telecom/China Mobile (50 yuan). Use free wifi in hotels and apps like WeChat. Note: Facebook and YouTube are blocked; a VPN is required.
Solutions before departure
My Mobile In China offers "smart sim" cards for travelers starting at 54€. You receive:
- Unlimited data, calls to China and internationally
- A Chinese number for your local contacts
- A French number with free call forwarding
- English-speaking customer service
- Delivery in 2-3 days
Buying a SIM card in China
SIM cards are easily available in hotels, 24/7 stores, specialized shops and newsstands. China Telecom and China Mobile are the two main operators, equivalent for a trip. Price: around 50 yuan.
Important: disable the internet connection on your French phone to avoid roaming charges.
Wifi and communication applications
Free wifi is available in hotels, train stations, airports and cafes. Useful applications:
- WeChat: the essential Chinese messaging application
- WhatsApp: for messages
- Viber: the only application allowing free calls
Remember about internet censorship
Facebook, YouTube and many Western websites are blocked in China. A VPN is essential to access your usual social networks.