Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Guilin, Guangxi, China

All Topics about Guilin All Cities in China

1. Tourist Trap Restaurants

Restaurants near popular sites often overprice meals. Be aware and check reviews before dining.

Price Check: Always compare prices of meals with other restaurants in the area
Review Verification: Check reviews online and verify if a restaurant is highly recommended
Location Awareness: Locations near tourist attractions tend to be overpriced, so consider exploring less crowded areas for dining

Unlicensed guides may offer their services, potentially leading to scams. Only use licensed guides registered with local tourism boards.

License Verification: Ask for a guide's license and registration number, and verify it online
Tourism Board Recommendations: Book tours through reputable tourism boards to ensure licensed guides
Ask for References: Request references or recommendations from fellow travelers and locals

Avoid buying souvenirs from street vendors to ensure authenticity.

Shopping in Established Stores: Buy souvenirs only from reputable shops and stores
Check for Quality: Check the quality of the item, as counterfeits often have poor workmanship
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other souvenir shops to ensure fair pricing

Some taxi drivers may overcharge or take longer routes. Use apps like Didi for fair prices.

Use Reputable Apps: Book taxis through Didi or other reputable ride-hailing apps
Ask for Receipt: Always request a receipt and compare the price with the app's estimated fare
Know Fare Estimates: Understand fair prices for common routes to avoid being overcharged

Some sellers may provide fake or non-functioning SIM cards. Buy from official retailers.

Purchase from Official Retailers: Buy SIM cards only from official China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom stores
Check Functionality: Test the SIM card's functionality immediately after purchase
Ask for Receipt and Warranty: Always ask for a receipt, and check if the SIM card comes with a warranty

Some money changers may offer unfavorable exchange rates. Research and use reputable money exchanges.

Research Exchange Rates: Check the current exchange rate online before changing your currency
Use Reputable Money Exchanges: Exchange money at banks or reputable money exchange kiosks in shopping malls
Check the Environment: Avoid changing money on the street, as these transactions are more likely to be risky

Book accommodation only through trusted platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb.

Use Reputable Platforms: Always book your accommodation through reputable online travel agencies
Check Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews and check ratings before finalizing a booking to ensure quality service
Secure Payment Methods: Opt for secure payment methods, like credit cards or verified bank transfers

Avoid buying lottery tickets from strangers. Only purchase them from authorized retailers.

Purchase from Authorized Retailers: Buy lottery tickets only from official China Sports Lottery sales outlets
Check Ticket Authenticity: Ensure that the ticket has a serial number, barcode, and the China Sports Lottery logo
Avoid Buying from Strangers: Never buy lottery tickets from strangers or unauthorized vendors

Be cautious when donating at temples, as some may ask for unreasonable amounts.

Research Suggested Donations: Research suggested donation amounts before visiting temples
Donate at Official Collection Boxes: Only donate using official collection boxes or envelopes provided by the temple
Avoid Pressure to Donate: Do not let anyone pressure you into donating more than you are comfortable with

Be cautious when using ATMs, as some may be tampered with to steal your card information.

Use ATMs in Banks or Secure Locations: Always use ATMs located inside banks or well-lit, secure areas
Monitor Your Account Activities: Regularly monitor your account activities for any unusual transactions
Use Credit Cards or Debit Cards with EMV Chip Technology: Use credit cards or debit cards with EMV chip technology, as they offer enhanced security features

Buy bus, train, or boat tickets only through authorized vendors.

Purchase from Authorized Vendors: Buy transportation tickets only from authorized ticket offices
Check Ticket Validity: Ensure that the ticket has a valid seal and is non-transferable
Stay Alert During Transit: Remain vigilant during transit, as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas

Avoid massage parlors without a license or clear signage. Look for the '菲律坦洽美（FIJI）' logo.

Check for Licenses and Signage: Ensure that massage parlors have a license and clear signage
Look for 'FIJI' Logo: Massage parlors with the '菲律坦洽美（FIJI）' logo are typically licensed and reputable
Avoid Solicitation on the Street: Do not accept offers for massages from people on the street, as they may lead to unlicensed parlors

Only buy tickets from authorized sellers. Look for the 'Li River Tourism Development Company' logo.

Purchase from Authorized Sellers: Buy Li River cruise tickets only from authorized ticket offices or agents
Look for 'Li River Tourism Development Company' Logo: Tickets sold by the Li River Tourism Development Company are legitimate and safe
Check Ticket Validity: Ensure that the ticket has a valid seal and is non-transferable

Avoid buying souvenirs from street vendors during local festivals. Buy at authorized shops instead.

Purchase at Authorized Shops: Buy souvenirs only at official festival shops or reputable stores
Check Quality: Counterfeits often have poor workmanship, so check the quality of items before purchasing
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other souvenir shops to ensure fair pricing

Be cautious of overly friendly locals who offer help, as they may lead to scams.

Maintain Awareness: Remain aware of your surroundings and be cautious when interacting with strangers
Do Not Share Personal Information: Avoid sharing personal information, such as credit card details or accommodation addresses
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels suspicious, trust your instincts and avoid the situation