Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Zhugang, Zhejiang, China

All Topics about Zhugang All Cities in China

1. Counterfeit Taxi Scam

Unlicensed taxi drivers overcharge unsuspecting tourists. Be wary of taxis without official markings.

Official Markings: Taxis should have a license plate, logo and meter.
Avoid Night Travel: Avoid using taxis at night for safety reasons.
Pre-book Taxis: Pre-booking a taxi through reputable services can reduce the risk of scams.

Unlicensed tour guides may offer cheap tours and lead tourists to overpriced stores. Ask for official documentation.

Official Certification: Tour guides should have an identification card issued by Zhugang Tourism Bureau.
Research Tour Companies: Choose tour companies with good reviews and reputations.
Stick to Major Attractions: Stay at well-known tourist spots to avoid being lured into scams.

Vendors sell counterfeit products at popular attractions. Be cautious when purchasing souvenirs.

Look for Quality: Check the quality of the product before buying.
Shop at Official Stores: Official stores sell authentic merchandise.
Bargain Responsibly: Bargaining is common, but be aware of extremely low prices that may indicate counterfeit goods.

Unlicensed money changers may offer lower exchange rates or exchange fake currency. Use banks or reputable exchange shops.

Licensed Shops Only: Choose exchange services licensed by Zhugang government.
Check Exchange Rates Online: Compare exchange rates with the current market rate before making transactions.
Count Your Money: Always count your money after exchanging to ensure you receive the correct amount.

Landlords may rent out substandard accommodations or overcharge tourists. Book through reputable online platforms.

Booking Platforms: Use well-known booking websites with good reviews.
Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests before booking.
Visit the Accommodation: If possible, visit the accommodation before finalizing the booking.

Cybercafés may install keyloggers on computers to steal personal information. Use cafes with good reviews and secure computers.

Secure Computers: Choose computers with security software installed.
Check for Keyloggers: If possible, check the computer for keylogger software before using it.
Secure Wi-Fi Connections: Use secure Wi-Fi connections with passwords or VPN services when browsing sensitive information.

Thieves may target tourists in crowded areas. Keep personal belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables.

Secure Bags: Use bags with zips, or carry them in front of your body.
Avoid Distractions: Stay alert and avoid distractions when in crowded areas.
Keep Valuables Hidden: Keep your wallet, phone, and other valuables hidden from view.

Restaurants may serve low-quality or cheap substitutes for popular dishes. Research restaurants and choose busy ones.

Busy Restaurants: Choose restaurants that are busy with local customers.
Menu Prices: If a dish's price is significantly lower than average, it may be of poor quality or a substitution.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on good restaurants to eat at.

Fraudulent temple workers may ask for excessive donations or direct tourists to specific stores. Do research on the temples and their customs.

Donation Guidelines: Check if there are any official guidelines for donations at the temple.
Avoid Pressure: Do not feel pressured to make large donations.
Donate Wisely: If you choose to donate, ensure the money goes towards maintaining the temple and its traditions.

Counterfeit transportation tickets may be sold at a lower price. Always purchase tickets from official ticket booths.

Official Ticket Booths: Buy tickets from authorized ticket booths.
Check for Holograms: Legitimate tickets have holograms and barcodes.
Avoid Uniformed Impostors: Do not buy tickets from individuals in uniform as they may be scammers.

Unlicensed local guides may overcharge or take tourists to unwanted locations. Ask for official documentation.

Official Certification: Tour guides should have an identification card issued by Zhugang Tourism Bureau.
Research Local Guides: Choose local guides with good reviews and reputations.
Stick to Major Attractions: Stay at well-known tourist spots to avoid being lured into scams.

Landlords may rent out substandard accommodations or overcharge tourists. Book through reputable online platforms.

Booking Platforms: Use well-known booking websites with good reviews.
Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests before booking.
Visit the Accommodation: If possible, visit the accommodation before finalizing the booking.

Vendors may serve low-quality or cheap substitutes for popular street food. Research popular street foods and their vendors.

Popular Street Foods: Stick to well-known and popular street foods.
Busy Vendors: Choose vendors that are busy with local customers.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on good street food vendors.

Rental shops may rent out bikes in poor condition or overcharge for rentals. Research bike rental companies and their reviews.

Research Bike Rental Companies: Choose bike rental companies with good reviews.
Check the Condition of the Bicycle: Inspect the bicycle for any damage or faults before renting.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices with the rental company to get a fair deal.

Strangers may offer to take your photo and demand payment for it. Politely decline or negotiate the price.

Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices with the photographer before they take your picture.
Avoid Gathering Crowds: Avoid posing for photographs in crowded areas to avoid being targeted by scammers.
Use a Selfie Stick: Take your own photos using a selfie stick to reduce the risk of being scammed.