Chengdu

Chengdu serves as the referral center for complex care across western China. Waiting times and living costs can be lower than in Beijing or Shanghai, while West China Hospital ranks among the very top hospitals in the country.

Practical tips

• Chengdu has two airports: Tianfu (TFU), which handles most international flights, and Shuangliu (CTU).
• Local food is famously spicy. If you are on a restricted diet, ask for dishes that are not spicy: “bù là” (不辣).
• The climate is mild but often humid and overcast.