Hi!
I know it's not safe to drink the water in China - or even to brush your teeth in it. Then how come everyone drinks the tea? And what about coffee?
Thanks!
Joyy

Boiling water kills bacteria, viruses and parasites.

You might want to educate yourself about food and water precautions. Take a look at www.cdc.gov/travel

Don't drink it if you manage to make tea and coffee with tepid tap water!

I am aware that boiling water solves the problem. I guess my question is "Can we be sure all restaurants, tea houses, etc. actually BOIL the water. Has anyone out there gotten sick drinking beverages that they THOUGHT were safe which proved not to be?
Thank you!

We stick to beer.

If you don't feel comfortable drinking coffee or tea, then don't. Only you can decide what you are comfortable with.

No, I've never gotten sick from drinking tea (I don't drink coffee) nor do I know anyone who has gotten sick from it. Use your powers of observation (you'll need them a lot on this trip). Is the tea you are being served steaming hot or is it tepid? Do the dishes and cups look clean, or did the server just wipe out your cup with a dirty apron? Those may sound like silly questions, but keep your eyes open. Know what food and water precautions are, and make a conscious decision if you choose to violate them.

Refrain from salads of raw veggies and peel your fruits. Bring some over the counter pills in case you have cramps or miserable bowel movements; if it gets out of control, ask someone to call you an ambulance and head to ER.

An old Chinese remedy for diarrhoea is very strong Chinese tea!