China: Overview

Travel Warning: Olympic Games Security - Earthquake - Restricted Travel - Guidebooks Confiscated

Security procedures on subways, roads and at airports have started to tighten in the lead up to the Beijing Olympic Games to be held August 6-24. In certain areas of the city, road security cordons have been established to check vehicles and luggage - police are reportedly using x-ray machines at some locations. Travellers should expect much tighter security at airports and be aware that the some visa issuing requirements are subject to change due to the Games.

An earthquake measuring 7.9 in magnitude struck China's southwestern Sichuan province on 12 May, killing more than 67,000 people, injuring thousands more, leaving more than five million homeless, and causing massive damage to buildings, bridges and roads. Travellers are advised to avoid the affected area if at all possible.

Following violent pro-Tibet riots in Sichuan, Gansu, Qinghai and Yunnan provinces in March, travellers are advised to check with their government advisory agency before visiting these areas, which may be closed to foreigners in the lead-up to the Olympic Games.

Travellers entering China by road or rail across the southeastern border, particularly the Vietnamese frontier, report that Lonely Planet China guidebooks have been confiscated by border officials. This is due to sensitivity regarding maps of China that do not include Taiwan. Travellers should consider putting a cover on the book to make it less recognisable and just to be safe, copy down any crucial details you might need while in the country.

For good advice from other travellers check out the Thorn Tree travel forum.

severity: Mid-level alert