Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Hechi, China
1. Taxi Scams
Avoid overpriced or unofficial taxis. Always take a registered taxi with meter.
- Registered Taxi: Ensure taxi has official logo and license plate.
- Meter Usage: Demand the driver uses the meter for fair pricing.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Ask hotel or local authorities for recommendations.
2. Counterfeit Souvenirs
Beware of cheap and low-quality souvenirs. Buy from reputable shops or markets.
- Reputable Shops: Look for well-established shops with good reviews.
- Local Markets: Visit local markets known for authentic souvenirs.
- Price Checking: Compare prices with other shops or research beforehand.
3. Unlicensed Tour Guides
Use only registered and licensed tour guides. Verify their credentials.
- Licensed Guide: Check for a tour guide license issued by the local government.
- Registration: Ask your accommodation or travel agency to recommend registered guides.
- Reputation: Choose guides with good reviews and positive feedback from previous clients.
4. Fraudulent Currency Exchange
Exchange money only at official banks or authorized exchange centers.
- Official Banks: Look for banks with official logo and license.
- Authorized Centers: Choose centers recommended by your hotel or travel agency.
- Fair Rates: Compare exchange rates with other establishments and online.
5. Street Food Scams
Avoid street food that looks unappetizing or poorly prepared. Stick to busy and popular food stalls.
- Busy Stalls: Choose stalls with many customers indicating popularity.
- Cleanliness: Look for clean work areas and food preparation practices.
- Recommendations: Ask locals or fellow travelers about good street food spots.
6. Accommodation Rip-offs
Book accommodation in advance from reliable sources. Verify the location and services provided.
- Reliable Sources: Use booking websites or trusted travel agencies.
- Location Verification: Check the address on a map and ask for directions.
- Service Confirmation: Ensure the accommodation offers necessary facilities and amenities.
7. Transport Ticket Scams
Purchase train or bus tickets from authorized ticket counters. Be wary of strangers offering discounted or fake tickets.
- Authorized Counters: Look for ticket counters with official logos and signs.
- Discount Wariness: Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true.
- Ticket Validation: Check the ticket for authenticity before boarding.
8. Friendly Strangers
Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering help or assistance. Keep your belongings secure.
- Secure Belongings: Carry a bag that can be worn across your body.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-lit and populated areas, especially at night.
- Travel in Groups: Travel with a companion or group when possible.
9. ATM Scams
Use ATMs at banks or secure locations. Cover the keypad while entering your PIN.
- Bank ATMs: Prefer ATMs located inside banks or in well-secured areas.
- Cover Keypad: Protect your PIN from potential thieves.
- Limit Cash Withdrawals: Withdraw smaller amounts to minimize risk.
10. Faux Guidebooks
Purchase guidebooks from reputable bookstores or online retailers. Be aware of counterfeit or pirated versions.
- Reputable Stores: Look for established bookstores with good reviews.
- Authentic Versions: Check for the publisher's logo and official seal of approval.
- Online Research: Research the guidebook before purchasing to ensure its authenticity.
11. Overpriced Wi-Fi Spots
Avoid paying for internet access at restaurants or cafes. Use free Wi-Fi hotspots instead.
- Free Wi-Fi Hotspots: Look for public Wi-Fi networks provided by local authorities.
- Wary of Free Offers: Be cautious of free internet offers that may require personal information or have malware.
- VPN Usage: Use a VPN to secure your connection and protect your online privacy.
12. Unlicensed Massage Parlors
Visit only licensed massage parlors. Check for proper credentials and hygiene standards.
- Licensed Parlor: Ensure the massage parlor is registered with local authorities.
- Hygiene Standards: Look for clean work areas and well-maintained facilities.
- Recommendations: Ask locals or fellow travelers about good massage parlors.
13. Overpriced Bottled Water
Buy bottled water from supermarkets or convenience stores. Avoid street vendors selling expensive water.
- Supermarket Water: Purchase water at grocery stores for a fair price.
- Avoid Street Vendors: Beware of street vendors selling expensive bottled water.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it as needed.
14. Counterfeit Medication
Purchase medication from pharmacies only. Inspect the packaging carefully for any irregularities.
- Pharmacy Purchases: Buy medication from licensed pharmacies.
- Packaging Inspection: Check for proper packaging, seals and labels on the medication.
- Prescription Medication: Use only prescription medication when necessary.
15. Money Exchange Scams
Exchange money at authorized banks or exchange centers. Be wary of strangers offering to exchange currency for a fee.
- Authorized Exchanges: Exchange money at banks, post offices, or authorized exchange centers.
- Avoid Strangers: Be cautious of strangers offering to exchange currency for a fee.
- Fair Exchange Rates: Compare exchange rates with other establishments and online.