[Max]

The charges of obtaining a Visa for the P.R.C. depend on the nationality of the applicants. Citizens of some 22 (i think, and this includes the US, and UK) countries have to pay a correspondingly higher rate to obtain a visa and their requirements for such passport holders are a little more, um...'stringent' than others. They put it down to "reciprocal arrangements" as an explanation.

If you find it convenient to go through a travel agent, then by all means do so, but be sure to opt for one that is reliable. My advice would be to bite-the-bullet and approach CTS directly for visas. Another (slightly cheaper) way to obtain China visas would be to apply through the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (phew!). They are located in Wanchai in the China Resources Building on the 7th Floor.

Tel no.34132300
www.fmcoprc.gov.hk

my visa? HK$600 for a 3 year multiple entry. Beat that!