Xuena Zhang

Reporter

Articles from the author

‘Karaoke sets you free,’ explain East Asian expats

The music rooms are gaining in popularity across communities in Dubai

Gulf News spoke to UAE-based expats from Japan, Korea and China to find out why karaoke has such a lure? Picture used for illustrative purposes.

Drinking hot water is good for you: Fact or fiction?

Hot water as part of the diet has immense value in China, Japan and India

At the beginning of November, 2022, Japan’s food and beverage giant Asahi introduced bottled hot water to the public. Picture used for illustrative purposes.

Think before sending a smiley emoji to a Chinese Gen Z

Learning to communicate right, across generations

Not all smiley face emojis convey pleasant messages to a Gen Z receiver in China. Picture used for illustrative purposes.

How to use WeChat as a visitor in China

Sign up using your foreign phone number and link your foreign bank card for payment

WeChat is used for multiple purposes in China, from booking taxis and plane tickets to ordering food online.

Travel to China without Covid-19 test now

You will still need to fill in the digital health declaration card

Starting August 30, 2023, China will no longer require a negative Covid-19 test result for incoming travellers. However, you will still need to fill in and submit the health declaration form online.

Chinese footbath might be answer for good night's sleep

The importance of feet in Chinese medicine and detoxification

There is a saying in Chinese medicine, ‘Growing a tree begins with taking care of its root. Maintaining good health starts with one’s feet.’

How to claim VAT refund via WeChat

Check your eligibility and the documents needed

Chinese travellers can claim tax refund via WeChat on Planet platform.

Travelling to China? Is it okay to tip?

Decoding the tipping culture and etiquette

As much as you want to show your appreciation towards a good meal, or good service in a Chinese restaurant, tipping might not always be the ideal way to go. You will need to understand the current tipping culture in the Chinese community first.

Chinese customs rules when travelling to the country

List of prohibited items, those that you need to declare when you land in China

Are you travelling to China from the UAE? Then you will need to know the customs regulations in China.

Decoding the culture and popularity of Chinese hotpot

Watch: Learn how to make it at home with our exclusive recipes

‘Hotpot’ is not what the Chinese call this popular dish. They call it ‘Fire Pot’ (Huo Guo).

81 nationalities in UAE can visit Macau visa-free

Tips on where to go and what to see in Macau

Ruins of St. Paul's in Macau. Citizens from 81 countries can visit Macau for a stay of up to 14, 30, 90 and 180 days.

20 e-visa countries Chinese expats in UAE can visit

Check out which portal to use and how much the visa costs

If you are a Chinese ordinary passport holder living in the UAE, who is looking for a vacation without complicated visa procedures, you should check out these 20 countries that allow you to apply for an e-visa in advance.

LOAD MORE

TRENDING STORIES