??Questions??

Do we know what hotel we are staying at yet? I thought I remembered something about that, but can't find any info. CJ The Beijing Zhejiang Hotel

Should we take our laptops? I am planning to take mine. JE

You will want to take adapters for your power cables. (lz) ~Target has some for $20-$40, by the suitcases

United Airlines have EmPower DC outlets at our seats to plug in laptops. However, you have to have an EmPower adapter (these are different from the ones we need to plug things in in Beijing). I've searched and can only find ones for over $100, anyone else know anything about EmPower???? JE

JE I don't see the airbuses long distance as having the EmPower DC outlets, where did you find this information? KKZ United Airlines Website Our plane over is a 777, but I guess you're right its only in 1st or business class maybe... JE

"If you are leaving China by air, there's a departure tax of Y90, payable only in local currency, so be sure you have enough yuan to avoid last minute scramble at the airport money changing booth." I found this info on one of the websites. Dr. Z, do you know anything about this? JE

JE--that airport tax is very common. I have paid it in Chile and Guatemala. It would be wise to keep the Y90, for it sounds wise.

Advice from a friend who goes to China a lot: carry tissues or small rolls of toilet paper with you when you go sightseeing since public restrooms don't provide toilet paper, or even paper towels sometimes. She said she carries some packages of moist towelettes in her purse too.

Also, dress in layers since their idea of a comfortable indoor temperature is different from ours. Longjohns are a good idea.