The best time to visit China really depends on the regions you intend to visit and the weather you prefer, because China is a large country with various unique climates.

In winter, most parts of China will be cold, especially in the north. In spring or summer, it gets very hot throughout China. Your clothing should be casual and comfortable. During the rainy season, from May to August, a raincoat is necessary. For more detailed information, please refer to the table below. Don't forget though that China is a large country, and in one season the temperature varies depending on which part of the country you are planning to visit (i.e. the south is usually a lot warmer than the north!)

Before you leave make sure to have a useful checklist:

1. Make sure to bring enough money with you.

2. Do your research into political, cultural and economic conditions of the countries to which you will be traveling. Ask friends who have been there, travel agents, foreign missions, and consult guidebooks before you leave.

3. Draw up a flexible itinerary and budget. Leave a copy with someone at home.

4. Find out about weather conditions. Pack appropriate footwear and the minimum of clothing.

5. Purchase a supplementary health insurance plan that is appropriate for the type of trip that you are making.

6. Carry proof of insurance coverage.

7. Know how to contact your insurer, and make sure that your traveling companion(s), travel agent and someone at home know how to do so as well.

8. Photocopy the identification page in your passport. Keep a copy separate from the passport, and leave another copy with someone at home.

9. Ensure that you have all the required vaccinations.

10. Keep any medication that you require in its original container, and carry a doctor's prescription for any controlled drug.

11. Carry a medical certificate for syringes if you require them for medical purposes.

12. Ensure that you have the required visas. Make photocopies of your visas, and keep them separate from the originals.

13. Investigate whether or not you or any of your family members are also considered nationals of any of the countries you plan to visit.

14. Learn a few phrases in the language of the country you plan to visit.

China is a vast country with people speaking a wide range of different dialects. The official and most widely used language is Putonghua, called Mandarin by many westerners. Another major language widely spoken in south China and Hong Kong is Guangdonghua (Cantonese). If it's your first time traveling in China, especially in major cities, you will be surprised to find many city dwellers are able to communicate in English. Many of them want to practice English with foreigners. Chinese people are generally open and friendly, willing to lend a hand to foreigners. So, it's not necessary to learn Chinese before coming China. However it's always a good idea to learn some common phrases.

China is a vast country, so you cannot expect to see everything. On the first trip, you'd be best visiting the major cities. Refer to this list of the major attractions:

• Travel to Shanghai and Beijing and visit the small cities around them.

• Explore Tibet.

• Visit Xi'an, Luoyang and Kaifeng. These are all Chinese ancient capitals.

• Visit famous Chinese mountains such as Lushan, Huangshan, Taishan and Wuyishan.

• Enjoy the beaches in Hainan, Dalian, Xiamen and Qingdao.

• Go to Guilin, Zhangjiajie or Jiuzhaigou to view the beautiful landscape.

• Take a ride down the Yangtze River from Chongqing.