China preparations

While thinking that this trip to China was becoming a distinct possibility, I didn't have a clue to what was required to travel there.

I was under the impression that all that was needed was a passport and an airline ticket.

I had been researching airfares for a several months and found a good package deal to Shenzhen, which included hotel, through Orbitz.

I purchased the tickets and thought that I was ready for my trip, since I already had a passport.

It was only after discussing my trip with a friend, who told me that a visa was also required, did I realize how wrong I was.

I did some research online and discovered to my horror, that not only was this true, but a passport with at least 6 months eligibility was also required. My passport expired in 4 months.

So, with less than a month before my trip, I was in panic mode.

First, I found a local passport office (luckily in my neighborhood post office) and payed an extra fee for expedited processing. I was fortunate to receive my passport in about a week.

I then went to the Chinese Consulate office in New York to apply for my visa.

I again payed for the expedited service after arriving when the office opened.

I was able to receive my visa later that afternoon. The gods were shining on me!

This China trip was meant to be!

When it became clear that I was indeed going to be coming to China, I told my China contacts,

Joyce and Shirley(pictured) that I was on my way.