Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Xingtai, China

1. Tourist Information Center Scam

Some tour guides may offer you fake or overpriced tours. Always check with the official Tourist Information Center in Xingtai.

Official Source: Always confirm that the information is coming from the official Tourist Information Center.
Price Comparison: Compare tour prices with other reputable sources to ensure you're not overpaying.
Tour Guide License: Ask to see a guide's license and verify it with the information center.

Some attractions may sell fake or overpriced tickets. Only buy from authorized vendors at the attraction.

Official Vendor: Buy tickets only from authorized vendors at the attraction.
Attraction's Website: Check the attraction's official website for ticket prices and purchasing options.
Ticket Validation: Ensure your ticket is properly validated before entering the attraction.

Some taxis may overcharge tourists. Use taxi apps or negotiate prices beforehand.

Taxi Apps: Use local taxi apps like Didi or Yidao Yongche for fair pricing.
Price Negotiation: Negotiate the price before starting your journey to avoid any surprises.
Avoid Peak Hours: Try to avoid traveling during peak hours when prices may be higher.

Some currency exchange places may give you less money than promised. Use reputable establishments or banks.

Reputable Establishment: Exchange currency at reputable establishments like banks or authorized exchange offices.
Compare Rates: Compare exchange rates with other reliable sources before making your transaction.
Check Your Money: Count your money immediately after the exchange to make sure you received the correct amount.

Some souvenir shops may sell low-quality or fake items. Buy from reputable stores in tourist areas.

Tourist Area Shops: Buy souvenirs from shops located in tourist areas or well-known department stores.
Check Quality: Inspect the item carefully before purchasing to ensure its quality.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or other tourists for recommendations on where to buy souvenirs.

Some food stalls may serve low-quality or overpriced food. Try local restaurants instead.

Local Restaurants: Eat at local restaurants that are frequented by locals and have good reviews.
Price Comparison: Compare food prices with other establishments to avoid overpaying.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or other tourists for recommendations on good places to eat.

Some accommodations may offer poor quality or overpriced rooms. Use reputable booking platforms.

Reputable Booking Platforms: Book your accommodation through reputable online platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, or Expedia.
Read Reviews: Read reviews from other travelers to ensure the quality of the accommodation.
Verify Location: Check the location of your accommodation before booking to make sure it's safe and convenient.

Some friendly strangers may try to guide or help you for personal gain. Be cautious of unsolicited assistance.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Avoid isolated areas or poorly lit streets, especially at night.
Report Suspicious Activity: Report any suspicious activity to local authorities or your hotel staff.

Some ATMs may skim your card information. Use ATMs located at banks or well-lit areas.

Bank ATMs: Use ATMs located inside banks or in well-lit and secure locations.
Check Your Card: Inspect your card carefully after withdrawing money to ensure it's not tampered with.
Monitor Your Account: Regularly monitor your account for any suspicious activity.

Some telephone calls may attempt to scam you. Hang up on unsolicited calls.

Don't Answer Unknown Calls: Don't answer unknown or international calls, especially if they ask for personal information.
Use a VPN: Consider using a VPN to protect your phone and data from cyber threats.
Report Scams: Report any suspicious calls or messages to local authorities.

Some internet cafés may install keyloggers or spyware. Use trusted Wi-Fi networks instead.

Avoid Internet Cafes: Avoid using public computers in internet cafes to protect your personal information.
Use VPN: Consider using a VPN when accessing the internet on untrusted networks.
Secure Your Devices: Regularly update your device's security software to protect against threats.

Some festivals may charge exorbitant prices for food and drinks. Plan your spending ahead.

Budget Your Spending: Budget your money for the festival to avoid overspending.
Bring Snacks and Water: Bring snacks and water with you to avoid overpaying for them at the festival.
Research Festival Prices: Research the average prices of food and drinks at the festival before attending.

Some bicycle rental shops may charge exorbitant prices or rent damaged bikes. Use reputable shops.

Reputable Shops: Rent bicycles from reputable shops with good reviews.
Check the Bicycle: Inspect the bike before renting to ensure it's in good working condition.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices with the shop owner before renting to avoid any surprises.

Some public transportation may charge tourists higher fares. Use local transit cards or apps.

Local Transit Card: Purchase a local transit card for discounted fares.
Transit Apps: Use local transit apps to plan your journey and pay for fares conveniently.
Ask for Help: Ask locals or hotel staff for help if you're unsure about the fare prices.

Some guided tours may not deliver on their promises. Choose reputable tour companies.

Reputable Tour Companies: Choose a reputable and well-reviewed tour company for your guided tour.
Compare Prices: Compare prices with other tour companies to ensure you're getting a fair deal.
Read Reviews: Read reviews from previous customers to gauge the quality of the tour.