Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Wenling, China

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid taxis without meters. Watch for overcharges or detours.

Metered Taxis: Ensure the taxi has a meter and it is running during your trip.
Prepaid Taxi Booths: Use prepaid taxi booths at major tourist attractions for fixed prices.
Download Maps: Download maps to check routes and avoid unnecessary detours.

Avoid buying branded items from street vendors, risk of counterfeits.

Official Shops: Purchase branded goods only from official shops or authorized dealers.
Licensed Markets: Visit licensed markets for souvenirs and local goods.
Bargain Wisely: Be cautious when bargaining, as low prices may indicate counterfeits.

Stick to reputable tour companies. Unlicensed guides can scam tourists.

Licensed Guides: Verify that your guide is licensed and registered with the local tourism board.
Reputable Companies: Book tours through established, reputable travel agencies.
Online Reviews: Research tour companies and guides online for feedback from other travellers.

Avoid street exchange booths. Ensure the exchange rate is fair.

Banks and Authorized Shops: Exchange currency at banks or authorized shops.
Online Research: Research the average exchange rate before traveling.
Avoid Hasty Exchanges: Take time to compare exchange rates and avoid rushed exchanges.

Use ATMs in banks or well-known establishments. Be cautious of skimming devices.

Secure ATMs: Check for a secure, covered area around the ATM.
Monitor Transactions: Monitor your account for unauthorized transactions after using an ATM.
Protect Your Card: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN and beware of card readers that don't fit properly.

Book accommodations in advance to avoid overpaying.

Online Bookings: Book hotels or hostels through reliable online travel websites.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices for short-term rentals and homestays.
Avoid Street Solicitation: Avoid booking accommodations through street vendors or solicitors.

Use public transport for short trips. Bargain when hiring private transportation.

Public Transport: Use buses, trams, or trains for short trips within the city.
Bargain Wisely: Negotiate prices when hiring private transportation.
Avoid Street Solicitation: Avoid booking private transportation through street vendors or solicitors.

Avoid touristy areas for dining. Explore local eateries.

Local Restaurants: Seek out local, family-owned restaurants.
Street Food Markets: Visit street food markets for affordable and authentic meals.
Avoid Dining Near Major Attractions: Dine away from major tourist attractions to avoid overpriced menus.

Avoid massage parlors without proper licenses. Be cautious of services offered.

Licensed Massage Parlors: Visit licensed massage parlors only.
Avoid Private Visits: Avoid private visits to massage parlors, especially without recommendations.
Research Locally: Research local regulations regarding massage parlors before traveling.

Keep belongings secure at all times. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Secure Bags and Purses: Carry bags or purses with zippers, and keep them close to your body.
Avoid Displaying Valuables: Keep phones and wallets hidden from view.
Use Safe Deposit Boxes: Store valuables in hotel safe deposit boxes when possible.

Purchase tickets directly from the attraction or its official website.

Official Ticket Counters: Purchase tickets at the official ticket counter of the attraction.
Avoid Street Vendors: Avoid buying tickets from street vendors or unauthorized sellers.
Check Online Reviews: Research the attraction and read reviews for any scam warnings.

Avoid restaurants near major attractions. Seek out local eateries.

Local Restaurants: Seek out local, family-owned restaurants.
Street Food Markets: Visit street food markets for affordable and authentic meals.
Avoid Dining Near Major Attractions: Dine away from major tourist attractions to avoid overpriced menus.

Book tours through reputable tour companies. Verify their licenses.

Licensed Guides: Verify that your guide is licensed and registered with the local tourism board.
Reputable Companies: Book tours through established, reputable travel agencies.
Online Research: Research tour companies and guides online for feedback from other travellers.

Stay in well-lit areas at night. Avoid engaging with officers who ask for personal belongings.

Avoid Isolated Areas: Avoid walking alone in isolated or dimly lit areas, especially at night.
Verify Officer's Identity: Police officers should be able to provide proper identification.
Stay Vigilant: Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

Avoid leaving valuables unattended in internet cafes. Use secure Wi-Fi connections.

Secure Wi-Fi Connections: Use a VPN to protect your data and sensitive information.
Secure Your Belongings: Keep personal belongings close by while using internet cafes.
Avoid Leaving Valuables: Avoid leaving valuable items in lockers or unattended at internet cafes.