Originally Posted by
joer1212
Since we're derailing threads, I'll give it a shot at derailing my own.
Can anyone give me advice on how I should prepare in the event that my Air China LifeMiles award (PEK-JFK) is not honored once I arrive at Beijing Capital airport for my flight back home?
Will I be able to buy a ticket at the airport using my U.S. credit card (are they accepted in China?), or will I have to carry thousands of dollars in cash?
How exorbitant would a last-minute ticket like this cost?
As I've mentioned in another thread, there have been horror stories of CA stranding passengers on mileage awards.
This will be my first time in China, so I'm a bit apprehensive of this potential scenario.
What do you mean with "not being honored"? Never heard of any "horror stories" regarding those. Same background as your "friend" telling you stories on how about this thread originated?
You get an award ticket on CA. No difference to a paid ticket.
(Western) credit cards are widely accepted at hotels and (bigger) chains in modern malls. For airline tickets, using credit cards is perfectly normal.
For smaller amounts and local shops, it's better to have WeChat Pay or AliPay setup, since cash really is a hassle and so outdated.