China Travel Forum

[Tim]

in April I'll be in China (specifically, Shanghai) for the first time - previous travel outside the US/Canada has only been to Europe. I'd appreciate any info to help answer some questions:
1) Will I be able to get around knowing only English? I understand in Shanghai, many signs are in English (and I think my hotel, where I will spend most of my time, will be OK), but are people likely to know English (not fluently, just basic, so that I could reasonably get directions or assistance at some places)? I guess I worry mostly about transportation (taxis, buses, trains, etc.)
2) Will I be able to withdraw Yuan from ATMs very easily in Shanghai? Is there a preferred way to change currency?
3) Is it reasonable to travel for a day to Hangzhou from Shanghai? This would be mainly business (Zhejiang University), not sightseeing - I'm wondering if transportation (I've heard of both buses and trains) is reliable and easy enough to use between the two cities that I could plan to, say, travel from Hangzhou to catch a return flight at the Shanghai airport. How much time should I allow? Will I be able to read the schedules/find the right trains/talk to those selling tickets in English?

[Daisy]

Shouldn't be difficult without any knowledge of Chinese language.. if you get need to ask for info.. try to ask young people and most of them can help you with basic English..
But for taxi drivers.. most of them, I would say 99% of them won't understand English.. so yes.. it is a great idea to have someone who knows English to write down the place in Chinese before you get the cab..
No problem to get CNY from ATM as long as the ATM has the Visa or Master sign.. otherwise you can go to the counter at bank of China.. but don't forget to bring your passport..
Hangzhou.. I would say one day is pretty much in a hurry. not sure if it is possible.. probably better you plan a night over there.. it takes more than 2 hours by bus.. I think longer by train..