Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Xindi, China

1. Temple Street Night Market Scam

Beware of overpriced goods or counterfeit items at this bustling market.

Knowledgeable Vendors: Some vendors may not disclose original prices, aiming to exploit tourist ignorance.
Counterfeit Goods: Be cautious when buying branded items as they might be counterfeits.
Bartering Skills: Practice your bargaining skills to get a fair price for goods.

Unscrupulous taxi drivers may overcharge unsuspecting tourists upon arrival.

Prepaid Taxis: Opt for prepaid taxis to avoid being overcharged.
Official Rates: Ask the driver to use the meter or agree on a fixed price before starting the journey.
Legitimate Companies: Choose taxis from reputable companies with visible logos and licensing information.

Some shopping mall attendants may ask for payment for using the elevator.

Free Access: Always remember that using elevators inside shopping malls is generally free.
Ignoring Requests: Politely ignore requests for payment if an attendant asks for money.
Mall Management: Contact mall management or security personnel to report any issues.

Unlicensed tour guides may offer their services at historical sites, often providing misinformation.

Official Licenses: Ask to see the guide's official license and double-check with the site administration.
Research beforehand: Research the sites you plan to visit, so you can spot potential scams more easily.
Legitimate Tour Companies: Book guided tours through reputable tour companies for a worry-free experience.

Be wary of fake currency exchange shops in tourist areas.

Reputable Shops: Exchange money at reputable banks, hotels, or authorized exchange centers.
Check the Money: Always check received currency for authenticity before leaving the shop.
Secure Transactions: Ensure secure transactions by counting money in a public and well-lit area.

Some rickshaw pullers may overcharge or take longer routes.

Agreed Price: Always agree on a price before starting your journey.
Stick to Main Routes: Request the driver to take you along main routes and avoid side streets.
Negotiation Skills: Practice your negotiation skills to secure a fair price for your ride.

Some food vendors may use excessive seasoning or even serve leftovers.

Popular Dishes: Choose popular dishes from well-known vendors with positive reviews.
Hygiene and Cleanliness: Check the cleanliness of food stalls, and avoid those with poor hygiene conditions.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on street food vendors to ensure quality and safety.

Unscrupulous tour bus operators may take longer routes or stop at overpriced shops.

Research Tour Companies: Choose reputable and well-reviewed tour companies for your trip.
Avoid Unsolicited Offers: Ignore unsolicited offers from strangers offering tours or deals.
Itinerary and Price: Confirm the itinerary, price, and duration of the tour before booking.

Buying tickets from unofficial vendors may result in denied entry or overpaying.

Official Ticket Booths: Purchase tickets only at official ticket booths.
Online Bookings: Book tickets online in advance to avoid scams and secure entry.
Ask for ID: Ask the ticket seller to show their official identification if necessary.

Some hotels may overcharge or offer lower-quality rooms.

Reputable Hotels: Choose reputable and well-reviewed hotels for your stay.
Book in Advance: Book your hotel room in advance to secure a fair price.
Room Inspection: Inspect the room for cleanliness and any discrepancies upon arrival.

Be wary of strangers offering lottery tickets or winnings.

Legitimate Lotteries: Only purchase lottery tickets from official outlets.
Scam Identification: Avoid offers of quick winnings and be cautious of strangers offering lottery tickets.
Reporting Scams: Report any suspected scams to local authorities immediately.

Some petitioners may exploit tourists' generosity.

Charity Research: Research charities and causes before donating to ensure your funds are used effectively.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Avoid isolated areas when donating to prevent any potential scams or confrontations.
Official Charities: Donate only to official charities and avoid unofficial petitioners.

Some street performers may demand excessive tips.

Fair Tips: Give fair and reasonable tips based on the performance quality.
Ignore Pressure: Do not feel pressured to give excessive tips, especially if the performance was poor.
Legitimate Performers: Support legitimate and talented performers who add value to the local culture.

Some fortune tellers may exploit superstition for personal gain.

Research Fortune Tellers: Research and choose reputable fortune tellers with positive reviews.
Avoid High-pressure Tactics: Do not feel pressured to return for multiple sessions or purchase expensive items.
Report Suspicious Behavior: Report any suspicious behavior or scams to local authorities immediately.

Some souvenir shops may overcharge tourists for common items.

Shop around: Shop around to compare prices and find the best deals.
Negotiation Skills: Practice your negotiation skills to get a fair price for souvenirs.
Avoid Overpriced Items: Be wary of overpriced items and walk away if the prices are unreasonable.