THE GUAC BLOG

Be ready when you land.

Practical guides to mobile data, calls, and the apps you need abroad.

China · Maps & apps

Google Maps in China: what to use instead

Choose your map, save your hotel, and arrive with a route you can rely on. Getting online is only part of the answer.

Updated August 24, 2026 · 17 min read

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Phone setup · Calls & SMS

How to make calls with a data-only eSIM

Get online, call the hotel, and keep your usual number reachable. Those are three different jobs, and your setup should reflect that.

Updated August 24, 2026 · 12 min read

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China

Using WhatsApp in China

WhatsApp is blocked on ordinary mainland China connections. Learn which eSIMs can make it work, what fails on Wi-Fi, and how to prepare before you fly.

Updated August 30, 2026 · 10 min read

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China

Do you need a Chinese phone number?

Use Alipay, WeChat and DiDi with your foreign number. Learn when you need a Chinese SIM and how to prepare for your trip with a Guac China eSIM.

Updated September 30, 2026 · 13 min read

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Plan your trip

Choosing an eSIM for international travel

Compare Guac with Airalo, Holafly, Saily, Nomad, Ubigi, and GigSky. See which travel eSIM is best for data, hotspot use, calls, and value.

Updated July 31, 2026 · 16 min read

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Plan your trip

ETIAS and EES: what travelers need to know

ETIAS is scheduled for Q4 2026 but applications are not open. See how it differs from the live EES, who is affected, and how to avoid scams.

Updated August 30, 2026 · 16 min read

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From the archive

Golden Week 2026: archived guide

Golden Week 2026 has ended. This article is a dated record of the October 1–7 holiday, not advice for an upcoming trip.

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