Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Beihai, China

1. Beihai Taxi Scams

Watch for overpriced fares or unofficial routes. Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps.

License Check: Always check for a valid taxi license and vehicle number.
Fare Comparison: Compare prices with reliable sources or ask locals for fair pricing.
Prepaid Fares: Prepay the fare at the start of your journey to avoid overcharging.

Avoid markets selling counterfeit goods. Support local artists and shops instead.

Legal Status: Stay away from illegal or unlicensed marketplaces.
Quality Concerns: Counterfeit goods are often of poor quality and may not last long.
Ethical Issues: Buying counterfeit goods supports illegal activities, harming local economies.

Be cautious when eating street food. Look for busy stalls with fresh ingredients.

Hygiene Standards: Ensure the food is prepared in a clean and hygienic environment.
Ingredient Quality: Check that the ingredients are fresh and properly stored.
Busy Stalls: A busy stall often indicates popular, safe food choices.

Be wary of unlicensed tour guides. Ensure your guide is registered and recommended.

Guide Registration: Ask for the guide's registration number and verify it online.
Tour Company Reputation: Choose a reputable tour company with positive reviews.
Itinerary Customization: Ensure the itinerary is tailored to your preferences, not just theirs.

Avoid low-cost hotels with dubious reviews. Look for quality accommodations instead.

Online Reviews: Read reviews from multiple sources before booking a hotel.
Location: Choose a centrally-located hotel for easy access to attractions.
Facilities: Check if the hotel offers basic amenities like Wi-Fi and room service.

Choose well-lit, secure ATMs in banks or shopping centers. Be cautious of skimming devices.

Location: Avoid dark or isolated ATM locations.
ATM Type: Use ATMs with a physical keypad, not ones that require inserting your card and then entering PIN.
Protect Your Card: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to protect from potential camera scams.

Avoid street currency exchangers. Use banks or authorized exchange centers instead.

Exchange Location: Exchange money in a secure location, such as a bank.
Rates Comparison: Compare exchange rates with multiple providers to find the best deal.
Exchange Receipt: Always receive a receipt for your currency exchange.

Be cautious when approached by beggars, especially in crowded areas. Avoid giving money or valuables.

Crowded Areas: Avoid giving to beggars in crowded areas, as they may be part of a scam.
Local Response: Observe the local response towards the beggar or situation for clues.
Reporting Beggars: If concerned, report suspicious activities to the local authorities.

Avoid walking alone along beachfronts or watersides at night. Stick to well-lit areas and travel in groups.

Group Travel: Travel with others for safety, especially at night.
Well-lit Areas: Stay in well-lit areas to avoid potential threats.
Report Suspicious Activities: Inform local authorities if you witness any suspicious activities.

Choose reputable internet cafes. Be cautious of unknown USB devices or public Wi-Fi networks.

Cafe Reputation: Select a well-known and popular internet cafe.
USB Precautions: Avoid using unknown USB devices in public computers.
Password Protection: Use strong, unique passwords and don't save them on public computers.

Buy transportation tickets from official outlets. Be cautious of ticket sellers offering discounted or fake tickets.

Official Outlets: Always purchase tickets at official stations or kiosks.
Ticket Inspection: Be prepared for ticket inspections during your journey.
Refund Policies: Understand the refund or exchange policies before purchasing tickets.

Be cautious when taking photos of locals or landmarks. Ask for permission and be respectful.

Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions while taking photographs.
Permission Requests: Ask for permission before taking photos of people or private property.
Safe Locations: Avoid taking photos in dangerous or restricted areas.

Rent equipment like bicycles or scooters from reputable shops. Inspect items before use and take photos for proof.

Shop Reputation: Choose a well-reviewed rental shop.
Item Inspection: Inspect the rented items for any damages before use.
Photographic Evidence: Take photos of the rented item to document its condition.

Join registered tours or activities. Avoid unlicensed or unofficial tour guides.

Tour Registration: Ensure the tour is registered and has a valid license.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommended tours or activities.
Safety Precautions: Check if the tour company provides necessary safety equipment and instructions.

Book travel arrangements through reputable agencies or websites. Verify the agency's credentials.

Agency Credentials: Check for valid licenses and affiliations with recognized travel organizations.
Customer Reviews: Read reviews from previous customers to assess the agency's reputation.
Payment Security: Ensure secure payment methods, such as credit card or PayPal.