China

Done at the Chinese Consulate in London.

Was told we needed to show tickets in and out of China but they didn't ask to see it at the consulate.

We asked for 30 days but others have told us if you put 60 days you may get it. It will ask where you want to visit. If you enter a long list of places, they may issue a longer visa. Don't put Tibet on your list even if you plan to go there just to avoid the questions. They don't check where you go after you get your visa.

You will need a double / multiple entry visa if you intend to go to Hong Kong and then back to China.

Visa took 3 days and was 30 pounds for a double entry but is more expensive for UK or USA citizens.

You can also easily get a Chinese visa in Hong Kong in 1 or 2 days for cheaper than in the UK from many travel agents. This can also be done in Bangkok by travel agents which is much easier.

Chinese visas need to be explained so you don't get caught out as we did.

If you get a double entry visa, you must enter China both times before the expiry date on your visa (which is three months after issue). This is not the same as entering twice during the 30 days your visa is valid for once you enter China. Our visas expired while the 30 days was still valid, we would have had no problem if we didn't leave China but had to get another visa as we were in Hong Kong. If you have a double entry, you will be given 30 days at each entry. Bear this in mind if you are wanting to stay longer than 30 days. Some people say you can ask for 60 day and just write more places you are going to stay in so it looks like you definately need longer. This seemed to work better in European countries other than the UK, but you can try. If you are going to Hong Kong first, don't bother getting your Chinese visa anywhere else as you can organise it in one day there.