Cigarettes and alcohol from duty free on the plane or at a duty free shop.

Name brand anything. Coach would be a good brand (not as expensive as Gucci or Armani) Wallets are not as expensive as purses and they are easy to pack.

Women likes cosmetics. Chinese women do not use Mascaras, so you can skip that. Lipsticks (Chanel and Shisedo are good brands). But you don't need to go overboard with this one. I think anything facial care you can buy at a Drug Store would be good enough, namely Olay's facial peel. Lotions and creams are always good, especially with high SPF.

Scarves and ties are easy to pack, but those are very subjective, so your friends may not use them.

Basically, anything will do. It's the thought that counts. Make sure anything you buy does not have "made in China" stamped at the bottom.

We are taking our small children to China. Would it be appropriate for us to take small toys or candy for my 5 year old to give to other kids? (Moon Pies are made here in NC) Of course, here in the US we would not like a stranger to offer our kids food. Thoughts?

Some people have the view that as tourists we should not be doling out sweets and gifts to the locals. I don't see anything wrong with giving sweets especially if given by your little child. It would most probably be warmly welcomed.

saraf - "moon pies" and mooncakes are totally different animals.

Chinese, in the cities at least, are wary of foodstuffs and cigarettes from strangers, as they fear being drugged. Should be no problem in the country side though.

sarahf,

Just out of curiosity, why would you encourage your child to give out sweets and toys in China while you would not do the same in the US?

Is that for some children you know personally or for total strangers? It makes sense if the former, but probably not the latter IMHO.

I for sure would refuse if someone I don't know--either adult or child--doling out sweets to MY kids.

Hi,

Once my ex-boss told me about the following simple idea and I started to practice. Results have been very interesting in all areas of the world where I have been (not much). A nice coin of your home country as a reminder for them that they have someone that will be remembering them after the trip. Regardless the coin itself, the words make the difference.

I apply this with people that were close to me like guides or people who showed uninterested friendship or families that hosted us at their simple home.

My two cents...