Hi Joyce
Hotels (and banks) will usually change money for you though you might not get the best rate. It's probably the most convenient way to do it though.
Note that Some hotels are refusing to accept Travellers' Cheques with the following logos:
- Visa T/C’s issued by Interpayment Services Ltd
- Master Card T/C’s issued by Thomas Cook Ltd
Your bank's advice about Sterling Travellers' Cheques sounds sensible.
As you say, you can also use your debit/credit card at cashpoints, though this will be more difficult in rural areas where cashpoints are scarce. Check with your bank if you card is suitable. This would save you all the bother of buying and changing Travellers' Cheques.
Bear in mind too that you are allowed to take 6,000 yuan in cash into the country (about £400), so if you think you might spend that much, I would recommend ordering this amount from your bank or the Post Office.
Personally, I would take the full 6,000 yuan in cash and also my bank debit card in case I needed a bit more.
I hope this helps.
Kind regards,
Olly, your editor