The language barrier can intimidate those traveling to China for the first time, but it’s possible to get by well with simple preparation. The right apps, a few key phrases, and local habits solve most everyday situations.
The answers below are objective and focused on planning and logistics: what to download before leaving, how to use it for transportation, hotels, and restaurants, and which phrases actually help.
Do I need to speak Mandarin to travel?
No. In tourist areas, hotels, and airports, basic English is available. Outside this circuit, English decreases significantly — and that’s where translation apps and visual communication come in. With a charged phone and essential phrases saved, the trip flows smoothly.
Which translation apps work best (including offline)?
Ideally, combine two types of apps:
- **Camera translation**: to read menus, signs, and packaging. - **Voice translation**: for quick conversations with taxi drivers, reception, and shops.
Before traveling: - Download **offline Mandarin packages**. - Test **camera translation** with printed text. - Save favorite phrases for quick access.
Practical tip: bring an extra app as a plan B in case one fails without internet.
Internet and apps: what to download before departure?
Planning avoids headaches:
- Offline translation (text, voice, and camera). - Maps with city downloads (subway and main points). - Urban transport app (subway/bus) with an English interface. - Local payment app, if you plan to use it.
Activate everything while still in Brazil and confirm it works without a connection.
Useful phrases that solve 80% of everyday situations
Save these in the app or in your phone notes:
- **Hello** — 你好 (nǐ hǎo) - **Thank you** — 谢谢 (xiè xie) - **Sorry / Excuse me** — 不好意思 (bù hǎo yì si) - **I don’t understand** — 我不懂 (wǒ bù dǒng) - **Do you speak English?** — 你会说英语吗？(nǐ huì shuō yīng yǔ ma?) - **How much is it?** — 多少钱？(duō shǎo qián?) - **I want this** — 我要这个 (wǒ yào zhè ge)
Perfect pronunciation is not necessary; showing the written phrase works very well.
How to use translation for transportation (subway, taxi, and train)
- **Subway**: stations usually have names in English. Use offline maps and check the line color. - **Taxi**: show the address in Chinese on your phone. Avoid trying to explain by speaking only. - **Trains**: tickets and platforms use numbers. Confirm the car and seat by showing the ticket in the app.
Addresses in Chinese save time
Ask the hotel for its name and address in Chinese and save it as an image. This solves late-night returns and quick boarding.
Restaurants and ordering without stress
- Camera translation on the menu solves most cases. - Photos on menus are common: point and confirm the quantity with your fingers. - To avoid spicy dishes, show: **不要辣** (bú yào là) — “no chili”.
If something isn’t clear, smile and ask for help by pointing. Willingness goes a long way.
Quick etiquette when using translation apps
- Speak short, paused sentences. - Show the screen respectfully; wait for the person to read. - Avoid speaking loudly in enclosed places.
This combination of preparation + visual communication keeps the trip light and efficient, even without speaking Mandarin.
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