As a digital nomad, the internet is my beste friend and biggest nemesis. While China and its citizens are very much online, their experience is a lot different and the Great Firewall of China is definitely a thing. There are some remedies to this dilemma though.
How to use the internet as a Digital Nomad in China
I used my paid Surfshark VPN to access the internet in China and it worked like a charm. Even the VPN locations I could select were limited, so I couldn’t use Germany as my location as I normally would. But the UK, US and even Hong Kong are all viable VPN options for virtually barrier-free access. Wi-Fi is widely available at hotels and coffee shops, so the only hindrance would be the restrictions if you plan on working remotely in China.
On mobile phones, accessing the internet in China is a whole other thing. While you would have the same restrictions using a local Chinese SIM card, travel eSIMs have completely changed the landscape of what’s possible. Since eSIMs use data roaming in China from other networks to avoid the need for users to register, there’s also no restriction. At least that’s how I explain it for myself. I used Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook and all other websites, which would have otherwise been blocked. I also navigate around Beijing using Google Maps, because I foolishly had all my pins there. My phone and I made it to the Forbidden City, even without a prebooked ticket.
How to Use eSim in China
I recently got a new iPhone and can finally take advantage of the ease of eSIMs. This was an amazing option because I was online before even leaving the plane. I used Nomad, and it was the best eSIM for China in my case. I only spent a few days in Beijing on transit to South Korea and was able to get a package of travel eSIMs: China, South Korea, and Japan, without wasting a day or GB.
In conclusion, internet restrictions in China are definitely a thing, but with a few little tricks and the right preparation, including a VPN for China because – surprise! – all download pages for VPNs are blocked in China, and an eSIM for travel, you can find directions on Google Maps, send pictures from the Great Wall to your friends and even work as a digital nomad from China.
Digital nomad essentials for life on the road
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Flights
I normally book my flights via Skyscanner or Kiwi. These search engines for flights show all the best connections and even include budget airlines for transfer hacks that can save you even more money.
Hotels
I normally use a good mixture of booking.com and Agoda to get the best deals. I like booking for its user-friendly interface. But for Asia, I’ve found that Agoda has a wider selection of hotels.
If you’re on a budget, Hostelworld will be your best bet because they focus on dormitory-style accommodation.
Tours
GetYourGuide is perfect for locally guided tours or if tickets are already booked. I saw the famous Last Supper painting by Leonardo Da Vinci with them in Milan and had a very smooth experience.
Klook is a great option to book bus tickets in South Korea. This can be such a hassle, especially if you want to book before you actually get to the country. Klook allows you to book a bus ticket online for pickup at the station. You can also reserve SIM card packages with them an arrange airport pickup, with is super convenient because it’s already paid for.