Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Haikou, China

1. Tourist Trap Restaurants

Overpriced meals disguised as authentic Haikou cuisine. Avoid establishments near major tourist spots.

Fraudulent taxi drivers may overcharge or take longer routes. Use only licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps.

Fraudulent tour operators offering low prices but delivering subpar experiences. Book tours through reputable providers.

Provider Reputation: Research the tour provider's reputation before booking.
Price: Be wary of tours priced significantly lower than competitors.
Reviews: Read reviews from verified sources to assess the quality of the tour.

Unlicensed street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Avoid purchasing electronics, branded items, or souvenirs from street markets.

Location: Avoid purchasing from street markets or unauthorized shops.
Price: Counterfeit goods are often priced significantly lower than authentic items.
Guarantee: Legitimate retailers offer warranties or guarantees on their products.

Fraudulent SIM card vendors may sell invalid cards. Purchase SIM cards only from authorized retailers.

Retailer Location: Buy from authorized retailers, such as mobile carrier stores or airports.
Documentation: Ensure the vendor asks for valid identification before selling a SIM card.
Network Coverage: Check that the network coverage suits your needs before purchasing.

Fraudulent ATMs may skim or trap cards. Use only ATMs located within banks or reputable retailers.

Location: Use ATMs located within banks or well-established businesses.
Cameras and Coverings: Check for cameras, covers, or other suspicious attachments on the ATM.
Card Reader: Ensure the card reader is not damaged or tampered with before using the machine.

Fraudulent hotels may overcharge for subpar accommodations. Book through reputable providers or websites.

Provider Reputation: Research the accommodation provider's reputation before booking.
Price: Be wary of accommodations priced significantly higher than competitors.
Reviews: Read reviews from verified sources to assess the quality of the accommodation.

Fraudulent massage parlors may offer services that are not legal or safe. Visit only licensed massage establishments.

License: Ensure the massage parlor has a valid license and displays it prominently.
Reputation: Research the massage parlor's reputation before visiting.
Services Offered: Avoid establishments that offer services not commonly provided by massage parlors.

Performers may demand payment after a seemingly gratis performance. Be firm about not paying unless the performance was agreed upon in advance.

Payment Requested: Only pay for performances agreed upon in advance.
Location: Avoid performing artists near major tourist attractions.
Language Barrier: Communicate clearly and assertively to avoid misunderstandings.

Fraudulent guides may overcharge or lead you to unauthorized attractions. Book guided tours through reputable providers.

Provider Reputation: Research the guide's reputation before booking.
Price: Be wary of guides priced significantly higher than competitors.
Certification: Ensure the guide has a valid certification and carries it with them.

Fraudulent sellers may attempt to pass counterfeit money. Familiarize yourself with the proper appearance and feel of Chinese currency.

Currency Features: Learn about the features of Chinese currency, such as holograms and watermarks.
Feel and Weight: Counterfeit money often feels lighter or has a different texture compared to real currency.
Money Exchange Services: Use reputable money exchange services for exchanging foreign currency.

Fraudulent souvenir vendors may overcharge. Compare prices at multiple shops before making a purchase.

Price Comparison: Compare prices for the same item at various shops to find a fair price.
Location: Avoid purchasing souvenirs near major tourist attractions, as they may be overpriced.
Guarantee: Legitimate retailers offer warranties or guarantees on their products.

Unscrupulous money changers may offer a lower exchange rate. Research exchange rates in advance and use reputable services.

Exchange Rates: Research current exchange rates before traveling.
Location: Use reputable money changers, such as banks or authorized exchange centers.
Commission Fees: Ask about commission fees before exchanging currency.

Fraudulent ticket vendors may sell counterfeit or invalid tickets. Purchase tickets only from authorized outlets or official websites.

Ticket Source: Purchase tickets through authorized outlets or the attraction's official website.
Price: Be wary of tickets priced significantly lower than the normal price.
Hologram and QR Code: Check for a hologram or QR code on the ticket to verify its authenticity.

Petty theft is common in crowded areas. Keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings.

Awareness: Stay alert to your surroundings, especially in crowded places.
Valuables Storage: Keep your valuables securely stored and out of sight.
Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover lost or stolen items.