Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Zhaoqing, China

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid overpriced taxis by using reputable companies or apps like Didi Chuxing. Be aware of unofficial 'tourist' taxi drivers.

Price Check: Always check the meter and agree on a price before starting your journey.
Legitimate Taxi: Ensure the taxi is licensed, has a working meter, and displays the company logo clearly.
Reputable Apps: Use reliable apps for safer, more affordable rides in Zhaoqing.

Beware of counterfeit goods sold at some markets, especially the night market in Zhaoqing. Check for obvious flaws or seek advice from locals.

Quality Inspection: Inspect items carefully for signs of poor craftsmanship.
Reputable Shops: Purchase goods from reputable stores or vendors.
Ask Locals: Seek advice from locals to help you avoid counterfeit goods.

Be cautious when eating street food in Zhaoqing. Some vendors may use inferior or unsafe ingredients.

Health Check: Look for clean cooking conditions and avoid vendors with poor hygiene.
Popular Vendors: Choose vendors that are popular among locals, as they typically offer safe food.
Cooking Techniques: Avoid street food that is not freshly cooked or has been sitting out for a long time.

Be wary of unofficial tour guides in Zhaoqing who may charge exorbitant prices or take you to scam locations.

Official Guide Licence: Check for an official guide's license and dress code.
Pre-Booked Tours: Book tours through reputable agencies to ensure you are receiving a genuine service.
Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from your hotel or hostel staff, or other travelers who have had positive experiences.

Avoid purchasing tickets for attractions from unofficial vendors in Zhaoqing. They may sell fake or overpriced tickets.

Official Ticket Booths: Purchase tickets at official ticket booths.
Ticket Price Check: Compare the price with that listed on attraction websites or ask staff for confirmation.
Check Online Availability: Reserve tickets online in advance to avoid scams and ensure availability.

Be cautious when exchanging currency in Zhaoqing. Some money changers may offer unfair exchange rates.

Money Changer Reputation: Choose reputable money changers with good reviews.
Compare Exchange Rates: Compare exchange rates between different money changers to find the best deal.
Ask for Receipt: Always ask for a receipt when exchanging currency.

Use ATMs inside banks in Zhaoqing to avoid skimming and card trapping scams. Monitor your account for unusual transactions.

Bank ATM Use: Use ATMs located within banks or reputable branches.
Transaction Notifications: Set up notifications for your bank account to monitor transactions.
Card Security: Keep your card secure and covered at all times.

Be cautious of beggars in Zhaoqing who may attempt to distract you while others pickpocket. Keep your belongings secure.

Secure Belongings: Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuable items.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Avoid isolated areas or poorly lit streets, especially at night.
Trust Your Instincts: Trust your instincts and be aware of your surroundings.

Be cautious when using public computers in Zhaoqing. Some internet cafes may install keyloggers to steal your information.

Reputable Internet Cafes: Choose reputable and well-maintained internet cafes.
Anti-Virus Software: Use anti-virus software on public computers to protect yourself from threats.
Secure Passwords: Always use secure, unique passwords for your accounts.

Be wary of tours in Zhaoqing that offer unrealistic itineraries or extremely low prices. Research before booking to ensure authentic experiences.

Tour Reputation: Choose reputable tour operators with good reviews.
Itinerary Reality Check: Check the itinerary for realism and ensure it aligns with your expectations.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other tour operators to ensure you are getting a fair deal.

Be cautious when using public transportation in Zhaoqing. Some drivers may overcharge or take long routes.

Price Check: Know the standard fare for your journey and negotiate before boarding.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Avoid isolated areas or poorly lit streets, especially at night.
Trust Your Instincts: Trust your instincts and be aware of your surroundings.

Be cautious when giving out your business card in Zhaoqing. Some people may use your information for fraudulent activities.

Selective Giving: Only give out your business card to trusted individuals or businesses.
Secure Information: Keep sensitive information secure and avoid sharing it with strangers.
Follow Up: Follow up on any contacts made to ensure they are legitimate.

Be cautious when donating at temples in Zhaoqing. Some scammers may offer to 'bless' you for a fee.

Voluntary Donations: Make donations voluntarily, without being pressured.
Avoid Unsolicited 'Help': Avoid accepting help from strangers at temples unless it is unsolicited.
Research Cultural Norms: Research cultural norms for donating at Chinese temples to avoid any misunderstandings.

Be cautious when booking accommodation in Zhaoqing. Some places may be overpriced or unsanitary.

Reputable Booking Sites: Book through reputable sites like Booking.com, Airbnb, or local travel agencies.
Online Reviews: Read online reviews to get an idea of the accommodation's quality and reputation.
Secure Payments: Use secure payment methods, such as credit cards or reputable booking sites.

Be cautious when donating to street performers in Zhaoqing. Some may ask for more than expected or offer fake merchandise.

Fair Donations: Donate a fair amount based on the performance's quality.
Avoid Unsolicited Items: Avoid accepting unsolicited items from street performers.
Research Cultural Norms: Research cultural norms for donating to street performers in China.