So I have a one-way plane ticket to Beijing for Sept 2. But that doesn't guarantee that I'll be going to China.
Getting a visa to China (and you must get one before you go--no visas on arrival) has gotten a lot harder in the last month or so. According to official rules, one must present proof of return travel (one-way ticket doesn't cut it) and proof of booked accommodation. I had no intention of restricting my time in China, let alone figuring out my entire itinerary before I got there. I don't even know where I'll be going after China (most likely Southeast Asia). These crackdowns are said to be lasting until after the Olympics. The gap between when the Games end and when I'm supposed to be going is very narrow, and wouldn't allow for my to get a visa.
So what does this mean? I'm not sure yet. I will attempt to get a visa here in Wellington at the embassy next week. There's a good chance they will be relaxed with the rules (Americans pay more for their visa than any other nationality). If it seems like this is going to be a struggle, I might have to change my travel plans. I'll cross that bridge when I get there.
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Hmm... What a shock. China makes it difficult for Americans to visit their country? Especially if there's no promise that they'll leave? And in your case Justin, I don't know if I blame them. Kidding! Just kidding!
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