Do lots of people speak English in China?
English is taught in all Chinese schools but most of the population can not speak English. It takes years of full time study for most people to be able to speak English so that they can be understood. Even in the big cities English is very limited so part of our job is to make it easier for our customers to get the most out of their tour by reducing the communication gap as much as possible. We also want to assure that Chinese people want to communicate with you. Its amazing how much can be achieved with signs and gestures when buying and bargaining for your souvenirs.
This a short guide to what level of English can be expected as you explore China.
Tour Guides: All English speaking guides have to have passed a national exanimation and should be quite fluent English speakers. The standard of English spoken by guides in more remote areas like Tibet or the Silk Road may not be as high. Drivers rarely speak English.
Hotels
Tourist Class: Limited English may be available at the reception desk but it is unlikely that any other employees will speak English.
Deluxe Class: English should be available at the reception desk and other employees may speak limited English.
Superior Class: English will may be available at the reception desk and other employees should be able to speak English.
Local Restaurants: Little or no English is spoken at most local restaurants, however some may have English menus. Our guides will be available to assist when you visit a local restaurants as part of your tour.
Taxi Drivers: As a rule taxi Drivers do not speak English. Always carry the "Take me to" card from the hotel or ask the hotel to write a note.
Tourist Attractions: As a rule staff at tourist attractions do not speak English. Our guide will always be available to take care of admission and guiding you though the attraction.
Local Markets & Shops: No English will be spoken at most local shops. Tourist markets or places with high tourist traffic may have limited English especially "Hello" or "lookie lookie".
- Updated: 2007-9-18 20:39:00
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