Our Recommended Apps in China
One small but essential part of modern life are phone apps. Choosing the right ones can make your everyday life in a new country that much easier. Unfortunately, some apps are still blocked but there are still ways to stay connected with friends and family. We have put together a list of our favorite apps to help make everything more comfortable abroad. App list A list of must have apps to download before your phone takes off.1. Express VPN
From our own experience and our clients, express VPN seems to be the most reliable VPN client. It allows you to sign up to 3 devices at the same time so allows an effortless connection abroad. You will have no issues accessing Facebook, G mail, Google, Instagram or YouTube.
2. WeChat 微信
Used by almost everyone in China, WeChat is the number 1 messaging and communication platform of the country. Find groups, send photos, create a timeline and even make payments and enter marketing. This app is not blocked in China so you will have no issues using it. This is definitely our favorite out of our recommended apps in China.
3. Baidu Maps 百度地图
Although Google maps will work fine with a good VPN and apple maps with no issue, Baidu Maps is the Chinese equivalent and it works just like Google maps, it even has an English option. You could check bus schedules and show you the price of a taxi.
4. Didi Chuxing 滴滴出行
Didi Chuxing acquired Uber back in 2016 and is the biggest ride sharing service in China. If you integrate your WeChat account with your bank, you will even be able to make payments using the app.
5. Taobao 淘宝
An online retailer that is similar to Amazon. They deliver direct to your door and even have an English setting. They are normally much cheaper than in store products and sometimes ship the same day you order.
6. China Train Booking
If you plan on travelling around more conveniently, then this China Train Booking is an essential app to have. You will have access to the bullet train and other train services to book and check times.
7. Pleco
A great app for helping you get to grips with Chinese mandarin. Pleco is an intuitive dictionary to help you learn new vocabulary and reinforce meanings.
8. Booking.com
A great app that works fine in China just like it likely does in your home country. You will be able to easily find accommodation during your trips throughout the country.
9. Google Translate
Although many Google services are blocked, Google translate works fine and is fully functional so it will help you to read and get about a lot easier.
10. Dianping 大众点评
Similar to Yelp, it has restaurant reviews and includes a search feature to find highly rated places to eat in your area. Dianping will help expose you to new cuisine.
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