Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Zhongli, Taiwan

All Topics about Zhongli All Cities in Taiwan

1. Zhongli Train Station Taxi Scam

Unlicensed taxi drivers approach foreign tourists at the train station offering low fares, but often drive to unspecified locations or overcharge.

Unlicensed Drivers: Avoid taxis without official city taxi signs and license numbers.
Prepaid Meters: Insist on using prepaid meters to prevent overcharging.
Established Taxi Stands: Only take taxis from established taxi stands for safety and convenience.

Crowded night markets like Shuangxi can be targets for pickpockets. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Beware of Crowds: Be cautious in crowded areas, especially near ATMs or money exchange booths.
Zipper Safety: Keep your bags zipped and pockets closed when walking through the market.
Travel Insurance: Consider travel insurance that covers lost or stolen items.

Skimmers are devices attached to ATMs to steal card information. Use ATMs in secure locations and check for any suspicious attachments.

Secure Locations: Use ATMs inside banks, shopping malls, or well-lit areas.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN to prevent hidden cameras.
Monitor Your Account: Regularly monitor your account for unusual activity and report any discrepancies immediately.

Counterfeit goods are common in local markets. Be aware of the quality and authenticity of items before purchasing.

Check Labels: Look for official labels, holograms, or serial numbers on branded items.
Price Check: Compare prices of similar items in different shops to ensure reasonable pricing.
Buy from Reputable Shops: Purchase from established, reputable stores or markets for peace of mind.

Internet cafes may install keyloggers to steal your information. Use secure Wi-Fi or avoid using sensitive information online in internet cafes.

Secure Connections: Use a VPN when accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi.
Avoid Sensitive Data: Do not log in to sensitive accounts or use credit cards while connected to public Wi-Fi.
Check Certificates: Ensure websites are secure by checking for the HTTPS prefix and site certificates.

Unlicensed or dishonest tour guides may overcharge, take you to unwanted destinations, or provide incorrect information.

Check Credentials: Ensure your guide has a valid license from the Tourism Bureau of Taiwan.
Read Reviews: Research the tour company and read reviews before booking a tour.
Prearrange Destinations: Discuss and prearrange destinations with your guide before beginning the tour.

Some landlords or accommodation providers may overcharge foreign tourists. Research prices and compare with other accommodations in the area.

Check Online Prices: Compare prices of similar accommodations online to ensure you're not being overcharged.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices before agreeing to rent a room or apartment.
Check for Hidden Fees: Ask about any additional fees, such as cleaning or utility charges.

Some street food vendors may use expired ingredients or manipulate scales to charge more. Stick to reputable food stalls and vendors.

Check Hygiene: Look for clean, well-stocked food stands with good hygiene practices.
Ask Locals: Ask locals about popular and reputable street food vendors.
Consider the Price: If a dish is significantly cheaper or more expensive than others, it may be a scam.

Unlicensed currency exchange booths may offer unfavorable exchange rates. Use authorized exchange booths or banks.

Check for Authorization: Ensure the exchange booth is authorized by the government.
Compare Rates: Compare rates with other exchange booths or banks in the area.
Count Your Money: Count your money immediately after exchanging to ensure you received the correct amount.

Some temples may charge tourists for incense or other offerings without providing any service in return.

Research Temple Customs: Understand the customs and traditions of Taiwanese temples before visiting.
Ask for Receipts: Request a receipt for any purchases made at the temple.
Don't Feel Obligated: Do not feel obligated to purchase offerings, especially if the price is not clearly displayed.

Unlicensed taxi drivers may pose as taxis inside the night market. Use only official city taxis or ride-sharing services.

Official Taxis: Only take taxis with official city taxi signs and license numbers.
Use Ride-Sharing Services: Consider using ride-sharing apps for a more reliable service.
Avoid Dark Corners: Avoid dark corners or unlit areas inside the night market where unlicensed drivers might hide.

Rental companies may charge for damage that was already present or overcharge for rental fees. Thoroughly inspect the scooter before renting.

Inspect the Scooter: Thoroughly inspect the scooter for any existing damage before renting.
Check Rental Fees: Compare rental fees with other companies to ensure you're not being overcharged.
Take Photos: Take photos of the scooter and any existing damage before renting.

Some street performers may pressure tourists for donations or sell low-quality items. Enjoy the performance but be cautious about participating.

Observe Performance First: Watch the performance before deciding to participate or donate.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices for any items being sold during the performance.
Avoid Pressure Tactics: Do not feel pressured to donate or purchase items you're uncomfortable with.

Some souvenir shops may overcharge tourists for traditional Taiwanese items. Research prices and compare with other shops before purchasing.

Check Prices: Compare prices of similar items in different shops to ensure reasonable pricing.
Ask for Discounts: Negotiate prices or ask for discounts before making a purchase.
Buy from Reputable Shops: Purchase from established, reputable souvenir shops for peace of mind.

Some cultural experiences may be overpriced or misrepresented. Research the experience and compare prices with other companies.

Check Reputation: Research the company providing the cultural experience and read reviews before booking.
Compare Prices: Compare prices with other companies offering similar experiences.
Check Inclusion of Fees: Ensure that all fees, such as transportation or equipment costs, are included in the price.