Johnep 1-I just got my 3rd visa last week at the LA consulate and they never asked for hotel or airline info. I waited less than 5 minutes each time (to drop off my passport and to pick up my passport with the current visa). I’ve never seen so few people at the consulate. If the consulate traffic is any indication, the number of people going to China is way down during this time period. I’ve also been able to change our airline tickets several times so there’s availability on flights also. I also got visas for my hubby and friends over the past two years and was never asked for any info for them either. But that may just be the LA office. I also think it won’t be difficult to get tickets once you’re over there to some of the events. Someone’s always got extra tickets, especially at the last minute.