Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Leshan, China

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid overcharging by unscrupulous taxi drivers. Fixed prices from airport are a scam.

Prepaid Taxis: Pre-book prepaid taxis from the airport to avoid overpricing.
Metered Taxis: Insist on using a meter in normal taxis during your journey.
Negotiated Fares: Negotiate the fare before starting your journey with drivers offering 'special deals'.

Be cautious when receiving change or paying for goods. Counterfeit notes are common.

Checking Notes: Check notes carefully, looking for signs of inferior quality.
Using ATMs: Use ATMs from reputable banks to withdraw official currency.
Exchanging Money: Exchange money at reputable exchange offices or banks, not street vendors.

Some tour guides may overcharge or take you to stores for commissions. Choose reliable guides.

Licensed Guides: Choose licensed, registered tour guides for your trips.
Reviews and Ratings: Research reviews and ratings of potential guides before booking.
Agency Recommendations: Book through reputable agencies for guided tours.

Friendly locals may try to lure you into shopping scams or overpriced services.

Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Trust your instincts.
Stick to Known Places: Avoid venturing into unfamiliar areas with strangers.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from your hotel staff or other trusted sources.

Some restaurants may overcharge tourists. Be cautious when dining out.

Avoid Street Vendors: Street food can be delicious but may be overpriced for tourists.
Reputable Restaurants: Dine at reputable restaurants recommended by locals or travel guides.
Price Checking: Check menu prices before ordering to avoid surprises.

Some ticket offices for attractions may be fake and sell counterfeit or overpriced tickets.

Official Ticket Offices: Only buy tickets from official ticket offices at the attraction.
Online Bookings: Book tickets online in advance to secure genuine tickets.
Ask for Receipts: Always ask for a receipt when purchasing tickets.

Some rickshaw drivers may overcharge tourists or take you to certain stores for commissions.

Negotiated Fares: Negotiate the fare before starting your journey with rickshaw drivers.
Avoid Unfamiliar Areas: Stay in well-known tourist areas and avoid venturing into unfamiliar areas alone.
Reputable Rickshaw Companies: Use reputable rickshaw companies recommended by your hotel or travel guide.

Some accommodations may overcharge tourists, especially around popular attractions.

Booking in Advance: Book your accommodation in advance to secure the best rates.
Reputable Agencies: Book through reputable agencies for accommodation reservations.
Price Comparison Websites: Use price comparison websites to find the best deals on accommodations.

Some souvenir shops may sell counterfeit goods. Be cautious when shopping.

Avoid Street Vendors: Street vendors may sell counterfeit goods. Visit reputable shops instead.
Check Labels: Check for labels, certifications, and quality to ensure authenticity.
Haggle Prices: Haggling prices can help you get a fair deal on souvenirs.

Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport.

Secure Valuables: Keep valuables hidden, not easily accessible.
Stay Aware: Be aware of your surroundings and people around you.
Use Secure Bags: Use bags with zippers or anti-theft features for added security.

Some bars and clubs may overcharge tourists or add excessive fees to your bill.

Check Prices Beforehand: Check prices for drinks before visiting a bar or club.
Ask for Itemized Bills: Insist on an itemized bill to avoid unexpected charges.
Stick to Known Places: Choose reputable bars and clubs recommended by locals or travel guides.

Some market vendors may try to sell you overpriced goods and refuse fair bargains.

Research Prices: Research prices of items before visiting markets.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices with vendors for the best deals.
Walk Away if Necessary: If negotiations are unsuccessful, be prepared to walk away and find another vendor.

Some internet cafes may install keyloggers or overcharge for services.

Secure Devices: Use a VPN and avoid logging into sensitive accounts.
Check Prices: Compare prices with other internet cafes in the area before choosing one.
Avoid Using Credit Cards: Use cash to pay for services at internet cafes.

Some hotels or restaurants may charge excessively for Wi-Fi access.

Check Prices Beforehand: Check prices for Wi-Fi before choosing an accommodation or restaurant.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices for Wi-Fi with hotel staff or restaurant managers.
Use Alternative Connections: Use portable hotspots, SIM cards, or free public Wi-Fi spots as alternatives.

Some people may approach you pretending to collect for charities, but pocket the money.

Verify Charities: Research charities before donating to ensure they are legitimate.
Donate Directly: Donate directly through the charity's official website or drop-off points.
Be Skeptical: Use caution when approached by people asking for donations, especially in tourist areas.