Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Yan’an Beilu, Xinjiang, China

All Topics about Yan’an Beilu All Cities in China

1. Taxi Overcharging Scam

Avoid getting overcharged by unscrupulous taxi drivers. Always use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps.

Registered Taxis: Officially registered taxis have a meter and are easier to identify.
Ride-Hailing Apps: Using apps like Didi Chuxing or Kuaidi Dache ensures fair pricing.
Avoid Street Taxis: Street taxis often charge higher prices without using a meter.

Avoid purchasing fake goods from street vendors or unauthorized markets.

Authorized Markets: Purchase goods only from authorized markets and shops.
Quality Assurance: Authentic goods come with quality assurance, unlike counterfeit items.
Health Risks: Counterfeit goods can pose health risks due to poor materials and manufacturing processes.

Avoid unauthorized tour guides who may lead you to overpriced attractions or shops.

Licensed Guides: Always hire a licensed tour guide recommended by your accommodation or travel agency.
Unfamiliar Attractions: Be wary of attractions you've never heard of, as they may be scams.
Shopping Scams: Some guides receive commissions for leading clients to specific shops.

Avoid getting less than the official exchange rate when exchanging money.

Authorized Exchanges: Exchange money only at banks or authorized currency exchange centers.
Check Rates: Compare exchange rates before choosing a place to exchange your money.
Credit Card Usage: Use credit cards wherever possible for transactions, as they offer better exchange rates.

Ensure your accommodation booking is confirmed to avoid being stranded.

Bookings with Confirmations: Always book accommodations through reputable channels and confirm the reservation.
Scammers: Some scammers may rent out non-existent or overbooked rooms.
Overcrowded City: Yan'an Beilu can get crowded, so book well in advance to avoid any issues.

Avoid street food that looks or smells off to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Reputable Street Vendors: Choose vendors with a good reputation and hygienic conditions.
Fresh Ingredients: Avoid food that has been sitting out for too long or looks unappetizing.
Symptoms of Illness: If you start feeling unwell after eating, seek medical attention immediately.

Protect your bank card from skimming devices by choosing well-lit, busy ATMs.

Busy and Well-Lit ATMs: Choose ATMs that are in well-lit, high traffic areas to avoid skimming devices.
Cover your Hand: Cover your hand while entering your PIN to prevent anyone from seeing it.
Monitor Account Statements: Regularly monitor your account statements for any suspicious activity.

Avoid purchasing SIM cards from unauthorized vendors.

Authorized Vendors: Buy SIM cards only from authorized vendors or official stores.
Check your SIM: Ensure the SIM card is activated and working properly before leaving the store.
Check Billing Information: Double-check the billing information to prevent fraudulent charges.

Be wary of overly friendly strangers who may try to scam you.

Stay Aware and Alert: Always stay aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas.
Decline Invitations: Decline invitations from strangers, especially if they ask for money or personal information.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect someone is trying to scam you, report them to the local authorities.

Avoid buying tickets from unauthorized vendors for attractions or events.

Authorized Vendors: Always buy tickets from authorized vendors or the venue's box office.
Check Ticket Authenticity: Ensure the ticket is genuine and has all necessary information.
Avoid Overpriced Tickets: Scalped tickets are often overpriced, so be cautious when buying from unauthorized vendors.

Keep a close eye on your bags and belongings at train stations to prevent theft.

Secure Luggage Storage: Use secure luggage storage facilities if you have time before boarding your train.
Avoid Leaving Belongings Unattended: Never leave your bags or belongings unattended, even for a moment.
Lock Your Bags: Lock your bags to prevent easy access and deter potential thieves.

Know the fair market price for items before bargaining to avoid being overcharged.

Know the Market Price: Research the fair market price for items before visiting Yan'an Beilu.
Negotiate Confidently: Start bargaining at a lower price and work your way up to find a fair deal.
Walk Away if Needed: If you can't agree on a fair price, walk away and find another vendor.

Avoid restaurants near popular tourist attractions as they often have inflated prices.

Local Recommendations: Seek recommendations from locals for affordable and delicious dining options.
Avoid Attraction-Near Restaurants: Stay away from restaurants near popular tourist attractions to avoid overpriced meals.
Street Food Alternatives: Consider street food options for budget-friendly and authentic dining experiences.

Avoid overpaying for internet access by using your mobile data or finding free Wi-Fi hotspots.

Use Mobile Data: Use your mobile data for internet access to avoid getting scammed.
Find Free Wi-Fi Hotspots: Look for free Wi-Fi hotspots in cafes, libraries, or public areas.
Avoid Street Vendors: Avoid buying internet access from street vendors as prices may be inflated.

Be aware of fake tourist police offering help and asking for personal information or money.

Real Tourist Police Identification: Ask to see identification if someone claims to be a tourist police officer.
Stay Calm and Alert: If something seems off, stay calm but remain alert and cautious.
Report to Real Authorities: Report any suspicious activity to the real tourist police or local authorities.