Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Xiangyang, Shaanxi, China

1. Taxis in Xiangyang

Avoid overpriced or misdirected taxis by using licensed apps like Didi Chuxing.

Price Regulation: Licensed apps follow government-regulated pricing
Driver Identification: Drivers are identified on the app and have license plates
Complaint Mechanism: There's a mechanism to report any issues or complaints

Enjoy authentic Xiangyang cuisine while avoiding foodborne illnesses by choosing busy, popular vendors.

Busyness Level: Popular vendors have a high turnover and fresh ingredients
Hygiene Standards: Busy vendors often prioritize hygiene to maintain customer base
Customer Reviews: Look for reviews from previous customers to gauge vendor quality

Avoid overpriced items or counterfeits by bargaining wisely and researching market prices.

Bargaining Skills: Know the base price and have a maximum you're willing to pay
Market Research: Research common prices for items before bargaining
Asking Around: Ask locals or other shoppers about fair prices and vendors

Choose reputable accommodations by reading reviews on trusted websites like Booking.com.

Online Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to gauge quality
Location: Choose accommodations in safe, central locations
Secure Payments: Use secure online payment methods when booking accommodations

Ensure a legitimate tour by booking with reputable companies or through local tourism boards.

Company Reputation: Book tours from well-established, reputable companies
Local Tourism Boards: Tours offered through local tourism boards are often reliable
Reading Reviews: Check reviews from previous tourists to gauge the quality of the tour

Avoid overpriced or malfunctioning sim cards by purchasing them at authorized retailers.

Authorized Retailers: Purchase sim cards from authorized retailers, such as telecom stores
Asking Locals: Ask locals for recommendations on where to purchase a sim card
Checking Coverage: Ensure the sim card has coverage in the areas you plan to visit

Avoid overpriced or counterfeit currency by using reputable exchange centers.

Location: Choose exchange centers in central, busy areas
Reputation: Ask locals for recommendations on reputable exchange centers
Check Rates: Compare exchange rates with online tools or other centers before exchanging money

Enjoy local events without falling for scams by researching the event details and staying informed.

Event Details: Research the event, dates, and location to ensure its legitimacy
Local Information: Ask locals or consult local tourism boards for information on events
Security Measures: Be aware of security measures and precautions during the event

Enjoy a meal or drink without worry by choosing busy, popular bars and restaurants.

Busyness Level: Popular bars and restaurants have a high turnover and maintain food safety
Hygiene Standards: Busy bars and restaurants often prioritize hygiene to maintain customer base
Customer Reviews: Look for reviews from previous customers to gauge quality of the establishment

Avoid overpriced or misdirected public transportation by using licensed apps like Xiangyang Public Transit.

Price Regulation: Licensed apps follow government-regulated pricing
Route Information: Use the app to check routes and schedules before traveling
Driver Identification: Drivers are identified on the app and have uniforms

Enjoy religious sites without falling for scams by researching the temple and its offerings.

Religious Knowledge: Learn about the religion and customs associated with the temple
Local Information: Ask locals or consult tourism boards for information on the temple
Offering Guidelines: Understand offering guidelines and traditions to avoid offending anyone

Ensure a legitimate guide by booking through reputable companies or local tourism boards.

Company Reputation: Book guides from well-established, reputable companies
Local Tourism Boards: Guides offered through local tourism boards are often reliable
Reading Reviews: Check reviews from previous tourists to gauge the quality of the guide

Avoid overpriced items or counterfeits by bargaining wisely and researching market prices.

Bargaining Skills: Know the base price and have a maximum you're willing to pay
Market Research: Research common prices for items before bargaining
Asking Around: Ask locals or other shoppers about fair prices and vendors

Avoid overpriced or misleading listings by using reputable platforms like Airbnb.

Platform Reputation: Use well-established, reputable short-term rental platforms
Location: Choose accommodations in safe, central locations
Secure Payments: Use secure online payment methods when booking accommodations

Protect your personal information by using reputable internet cafes and being cautious of public computers.

Reputation: Choose internet cafes with good reviews
Security Measures: Be aware of security measures and precautions while using public computers
Using Trusted Devices: Use your own device for sensitive information if possible