Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Gaozhou, China

1. Gaozhou Taxi Scam

Avoid overcharging by taxis by using a taxi meter or agreeing on the price beforehand.

Be cautious when purchasing goods from street vendors, especially in bustling markets.

Exchange money at official exchange centers and banks to avoid overcharging or receiving counterfeit bills.

Official Exchanges: Ensure your currency is exchanged in an authorized location
Counterfeit Detection: Learn to identify counterfeit bills
Comparison: Compare exchange rates with other establishments before deciding

Research hotel prices online and negotiate with the accommodation provider to get a fair price.

Online Research: Compare prices of accommodations in Gaozhou
Negotiation: Ask for discounts or negotiate the price with the accommodation provider
Reputation: Choose accommodations with good reviews and ratings

Book guided tours through reputable travel agencies to ensure an authentic experience.

Agency Reputation: Choose a well-established and reputable tour agency
Tour Guide Qualification: Ensure your guide is certified or licensed by Gaozhou Tourism Board
Itinerary Review: Review the itinerary and discuss any concerns with the tour agency

Avoid restaurants that do not display prices or menus openly and always ask for the bill before ordering.

Menu Availability: Check if a menu is readily available
Price Transparency: Ensure prices are clearly displayed or agreed upon beforehand
Food Quality: Ask locals for recommendations on good restaurants in Gaozhou

Purchase tickets at official attraction booths or websites to avoid buying fake tickets.

Official Sources: Buy tickets only from official sources
Ticket Inspection: Inspect your ticket for any obvious signs of being fake
Attractions Information: Research the attraction to know where official ticket booths are located

Buy SIM cards at authorized retailers or official service centers to avoid getting a faulty or overpriced card.

Official Retailers: Purchase your SIM card from an authorized retailer
Service Center: Visit an official service center for assistance if needed
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other retailers before making a purchase

Use prepaid transportation cards to avoid being overcharged on public transportation.

Prepaid Cards: Purchase a prepaid transportation card for convenience and savings
Ticket Machines: Use ticket machines to buy tickets at standard prices
Avoid Peak Hours: Try to travel during off-peak hours to save money

Be cautious when gambling in casinos, as some may have unfair rules or practices.

Be cautious when using public computers at internet cafes as some may have malware or viruses.

Antivirus Software: Use antivirus software before accessing sensitive information
Reputable Cafes: Choose reputable internet cafes with good reviews
Password Protection: Protect your passwords and accounts when using public computers

Visit licensed massage parlors to avoid receiving subpar or inappropriate services.

Licensing Information: Look for signs of a licensed massage parlor
Reputation: Choose a well-reviewed and reputable massage parlor
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or fellow travelers for recommendations on good massage parlors

Choose street food vendors that are busy and have clean surroundings to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Busy Vendors: Select vendors with a steady stream of customers
Clean Environment: Observe the cleanliness of the vendor's area and equipment
Cooking Methods: Avoid vendors who use potentially unsafe cooking methods

Rent bicycles from authorized rental stations or shops to avoid bike theft or damage.

Authorized Stations: Rent bikes only from authorized rental stations
Damage Inspection: Inspect the bike for any damage before starting your ride
Return Procedure: Understand the return procedure and requirements to avoid penalties or issues

Purchase souvenirs from reputable shops or authorized vendors to avoid buying fake items.

Authorized Vendors: Buy souvenirs only from authorized vendors or reputable shops
Authenticity Inspection: Inspect the quality and authenticity of items before purchasing
Bargaining: Negotiate prices for souvenirs to get a fair deal