Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Fenyang, Shanxi, China

1. Taxi Scam at Fenyang Train Station

Unscrupulous taxi drivers may overcharge tourists at the train station. Be aware of this to avoid unnecessary costs.

Prepaid Meters: Always ensure the taxi has a prepaid meter.
Authorized Taxis: Only take taxis from authorized taxi stands or apps for safety and legitimacy.
Negotiation: Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

Some tour guides may charge exorbitant prices or lead tourists to unnecessary shops. Be cautious when hiring a guide.

Licensed Guides: Ask for the guide's license and check it for authenticity.
Tour Operators: Book tours through reputable tour operators or travel agencies.
Research: Research the attraction ahead of time to know the standard prices and common scams.

Some souvenir shops in Fenyang Market may sell counterfeit goods. Be careful when shopping for souvenirs.

Brand Authenticity: Check for brand authenticity and look for any irregularities in the packaging.
Shop Reputation: Avoid shops with low reputation or those selling goods at unusually low prices.
Local Knowledge: Ask locals for recommendations on trusted souvenir shops.

Some street food stalls may overcharge or serve subpar food. Be vigilant when dining in the streets.

Ask Prices Upfront: Always ask for prices before ordering.
Busy Stalls: Choose busy stalls as they are more likely to have good food and be honest.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on the best street food stalls.

Some guesthouses may charge more than agreed or provide poor service. Be careful when booking accommodation.

Online Reviews: Read online reviews before booking a guesthouse.
Payment Methods: Choose a gueshouse that accepts payment methods you trust.
Contract: Always get a contract outlining the terms and conditions of your stay.

Some ticket sellers may sell fake or overpriced tickets for the theatre. Be cautious when buying tickets.

Authorized Ticket Outlets: Only buy tickets from authorized outlets.
Online Booking: Book tickets online through the theatre's official website.
Ticket Price Comparison: Compare ticket prices with other outlets to avoid overpaying.

Some locals may offer friendship in hopes of receiving money or gifts. Be wary of overly friendly strangers.

Gifts and Money: Never give money or gifts to strangers.
Personal Information: Avoid sharing personal information with strangers.
Common Sense: Use common sense and trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

Some ATMs may skim or charge high fees. Be careful when withdrawing money.

Secure ATMs: Only use ATMs located in secure areas, such as banks or shopping malls.
Bank Fees: Check your bank's fees for using foreign ATMs before traveling.
Card Safety: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN and be aware of your surroundings.

Some mobile stores may sell faulty SIM cards or overcharge for services. Be cautious when purchasing a SIM card.

Official Stores: Only buy SIM cards from official stores.
Package Comparison: Compare different packages to find the best deal.
Warranty and Support: Check for warranty and customer support before purchasing a SIM card.

Some internet cafes may install malware on your devices or charge for unnecessary services. Be cautious when using public computers.

Secure Computers: Avoid using computers with sensitive information saved.
Security Software: Install security software on your devices before using public computers.
Payment Methods: Choose internet cafes that accept payment methods you trust.

Some street vendors may offer fake lottery tickets. Avoid participating in street lotteries.

Authorized Lottery Outlets: Only buy lottery tickets from authorized outlets.
Legitimate Lotteries: Check the legitimacy of the lottery before participating.
Common Sense: Use common sense and trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

Some people may ask for donations under the guise of charity. Be careful when giving money to strangers.

Authorized Charities: Only give to recognized, authorized charities.
Donation Receipts: Ask for a receipt for your donation.
Research: Research the charity before giving to ensure your money is going to a good cause.

Some car rental companies may charge hidden fees or provide damaged vehicles. Be careful when renting a car.

Reputable Companies: Rent from reputable and well-known car rental companies.
Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the vehicle before driving away.
Contract Review: Review the contract carefully and ask questions about any unclear terms.

Some bus drivers may charge more than the actual fare or cheat on change. Be aware when taking the bus.

Prepaid Cards: Use prepaid cards to avoid overpaying.
Ask for Change: Always ask for change when paying the fare.
Bus Route Knowledge: Understand your bus route and destination to avoid being tricked.

Some hotels may charge for services not agreed upon or provide subpar rooms. Be cautious when booking a hotel room.

Contract Review: Review the contract carefully before signing.
Room Inspection: Inspect the room thoroughly upon arrival.
Hotel Reputation: Choose hotels with good reputations for quality and service.