Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Qingyuan, China

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid overcharging and fraudulent routes by agreeing on price beforehand or using metered taxis.

Price Agreement: Prevent overpricing by setting a fixed rate with the driver before starting your journey.
Metered Taxis: Use metered taxis for fair pricing and avoid unnecessary charges.
Avoid Unmarked Taxis: Be wary of unlicensed or unmarked taxis to prevent scams.

Avoid purchasing counterfeit goods at street markets by checking for authenticity or buying from reputable stores.

Check Labeling: Look for official labels, packaging, and quality that suggests authenticity.
Reputable Shops: Purchase from well-known stores with a good reputation to ensure the products are genuine.
Ask Locals: Ask locals for recommendations on reliable shops, especially for high-value items.

Protect your card and PIN by using ATMs located in banks or reputable locations, and avoiding machines with signs of tampering.

Bank ATMs: Use ATMs inside banks for the highest level of security.
Reputable Locations: Choose well-lit, crowded areas with good visibility to minimize risk.
Signs of Tampering: Inspect ATMs for signs of tampering or modified components before use.

Purchase tickets only from authorized vendors or official ticket booths to avoid fake tickets.

Authorized Vendors: Buy tickets from officially authorized sellers, such as tourism bureaus or event websites.
Official Ticket Booths: Purchase tickets at official ticket booths near attractions to ensure they are genuine.
Event Websites: Check event websites for ticket availability, prices, and authorized vendors.

Avoid foodborne illnesses by choosing busy, popular food stalls with clean environments.

Popular Food Stalls: Choose food stalls that are busy and have a good reputation among locals.
Clean Environment: Check for cleanliness in the food preparation area before making your purchase.
Food Quality: Observe how fresh and well-prepared the food looks before eating.

Avoid overpriced meals by researching typical prices or negotiating with restaurant staff.

Typical Prices: Research menu prices at popular restaurants before dining out to have an idea of what to expect.
Negotiation: Discuss pricing with the restaurant staff if you feel that a price is too high.
Avoid Peak Hours: Dine during off-peak hours to reduce prices and avoid overcrowded restaurants.

Avoid substandard or fraudulent accommodations by booking through reputable online platforms.

Reputable Online Platforms: Book accommodation through well-known and trusted online travel agencies.
Read Reviews: Thoroughly read reviews from previous guests to understand the quality of service and cleanliness.
Contact Host: Communicate with the host or property manager before arrival to ask questions and verify details.

Avoid fraudulent tour guides by booking through reputable travel agencies or researching online.

Reputable Travel Agencies: Book tours through established and well-known travel agencies.
Online Research: Research tour guides, their credentials, and customer reviews before booking a tour.
Meet in Person: Meet your guide in person to verify their identity and ensure they are providing the promised service.

Avoid unhygienic or illegal massage parlors by seeking out licensed establishments.

Licensed Establishments: Visit only massage parlors that are officially licensed and regulated.
Check for Licenses: Verify the presence of a valid license or permit before entering any establishment.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on reputable massage parlors to ensure a safe and pleasant experience.

Exchange money at banks or authorized exchange centers to avoid receiving counterfeit bills.

Banks: Exchange currency only at banks for a secure and reliable service.
Authorized Exchange Centers: Use authorized exchange centers that are affiliated with reputable financial institutions.
Check Bills: Thoroughly examine new bills for signs of tampering or defects to avoid accepting counterfeit money.

Secure your belongings and be aware of your surroundings to minimize the risk of pickpocketing.

Secure Belongings: Keep your belongings close at hand and avoid leaving them unattended in public places.
Avoid Distractions: Stay aware of your surroundings and be wary of people trying to distract you, especially in crowded areas.
Use Travel Wallets: Use travel wallets or money belts to store essential documents and valuables.

Protect your personal information by using secure networks or antivirus software when accessing sensitive data.

Secure Networks: Use secured, password-protected Wi-Fi networks whenever possible.
Antivirus Software: Install antivirus software on your devices to protect them from malware and viruses.
Limit Sensitive Data: Avoid accessing sensitive data, such as banking or personal information, on untrusted networks.

Verify the credentials of shamans and research their backgrounds before participating in healing sessions.

Credentials Verification: Ensure that the shaman has proper training, certifications, or affiliations with respected organizations.
Background Research: Research the background and reputation of the shaman among locals and other travelers.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or your tour guide for recommendations on reputable shamans to ensure a safe and meaningful experience.

Donate only to legitimate charities or organizations by verifying their identities and asking for official documentation.

Legitimate Charities: Research the charity, its mission, and its reputation before making a donation.
Official Documentation: Ask for official documentation, such as registration papers or licenses, to verify their legitimacy.
Avoid Street Collectors: Be wary of street collectors, especially those who solicit donations without an affiliation with a legitimate organization.

Avoid overpaying for souvenirs by negotiating prices or shopping around at different stores.

Negotiate Prices: Haggle with vendors to find a fair price that suits both parties.
Shop Around: Visit multiple stores to compare prices and find the best deal for your desired souvenirs.
Ask Locals: Ask locals about the reasonable price range for popular souvenirs to avoid overpaying.