I have applied for my Chinese visa this morning the procedure was about as easy as it can get.

1. Go to travel agent in the hotel courtyard.
2. Give him to passport, photos and money.
3. Sign bottom of Visa application form.
4. Come back on Friday evening to collect visa.

I must admit I am a little apprehensive about all this but I have dealt with this agency before and never struck trouble before. So fingers crossed.