Frequently Asked Questions

We are not a volume-based booking engine. Nihao Serica is a boutique cultural concierge founded by Wendy, a theatre producer and cross-cultural storyteller. We don’t simply book trips; we curate human connections. Whether you choose a digital companion or a fully guided journey, you are entering a network of trusted insiders, cultural practitioners, and local experts.

Wendy is the founder of Nihao Serica and a cultural producer whose work spans theatre, translation, and international cultural exchange. After leaving home at sixteen to study in Australia, she became deeply aware of how misunderstood China could be abroad. Nihao Serica grew from her belief that real understanding comes through story, lived experience, and meaningful encounter.

It is our hybrid concierge service designed to give you a 'soft landing' in China. Unlike a full tour guide who is with you 24/7, the Companion is a support layer—offering digital assistance (WeChat/WhatsApp) for logistics and emergencies, with options to add physical ground support (drivers, airport VIP) as needed.

You are added to a dedicated WeChat or WhatsApp group with our bilingual support team. You can send voice notes, photos of menus, or location pins. We reply instantly to translate, give directions to your taxi driver, or re-book a cancelled train.

Yes. If you start with 'Lite' (Digital Only) and realize you need more hands-on support, you can upgrade to 'Plus' or request ad-hoc services like a private car or an interpreter for a day. We remain flexible to your needs.

These are not standard tour guides. They are professionals in their fields—art critics, historians, retired chefs, and architects—who collaborate with us to offer deep-dive experiences. They are the 'Spine' of our service, providing access that is usually 'invitation only'.

Absolutely. The China Companion is ideal for business travelers who have their own meetings but need a logistical safety net. We handle the friction (transport, dining, translation) so you can focus on your work.

Multi-Day Trips are holistic expeditions (7-14 days) exploring a region or theme. Day Tours are flexible, single-day deep dives into a specific city, perfect for adding onto a business trip.

Yes. Our itineraries serve as a 'Master Plan' which can be tailored. Our 'Premium' concierge tier specifically focuses on end-to-end bespoke design.

It depends. Many travelers can now use the 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit policy if entering via major hubs like Shanghai or Beijing. We provide consultation on this, but always check with your local consulate.

China is nearly cashless. We assist you in setting up Alipay or WeChat Pay before departure, linking your international credit card so you can pay like a local everywhere.

Yes. We recommend setting up a reliable eSIM (like Holafly) which bypasses the firewall, allowing access to WhatsApp, Google, and Instagram.