Staying Safe in China
Local Laws
When you're traveling in China, it's really important to be aware of and follow their local laws, which are quite strict. You absolutely must carry your identification, like your passport and visa, with you at all times. Officials might ask to see these, and if you can't show them, you could face penalties.
If you're staying in a private home, you're legally required to register your presence at the closest police station within 24 hours of arriving. Hotels usually take care of this for you when you check in, though.
China has a very firm stance on drugs, meaning zero tolerance. The penalties for possessing, using, or dealing drugs are severe and can include long prison sentences or even the death penalty, no matter where the drugs were used.
They also keep public order very tightly controlled, so it's best to steer clear of any confrontations and avoid causing disturbances in public. It's also against the law to participate in, photograph, or film protests and demonstrations, and doing so could get you arrested or deported. Bringing in anything that criticizes the Chinese government is also illegal.
When you're crossing streets, remember that vehicles often have the right of way, so be extra cautious. When you visit religious or cultural places, please show respect for local traditions by dressing modestly and keeping your behavior quiet and respectful.
LGBTQ+ Travellers
China is generally a safe destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, with same-sex sexual activity being legal since 1997. While public displays of affection are not common for any couples in China, discretion is advisable for LGBTQ+ individuals outside of specific gay-friendly venues, primarily found in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai.
Although social attitudes are becoming more accepting, particularly among younger generations, there are no comprehensive anti-discrimination laws, and same-sex marriage is not recognized. Therefore, understanding cultural norms and exercising caution in public settings can enhance the travel experience.
Scams
When you're traveling, it's good to be aware of some common tricks people might try to pull. You might find yourself approached by friendly young folks, especially if you're traveling alone, who want to practice English or show you local spots like teahouses, karaoke bars, or restaurants. Just be aware that these places can sometimes hit you with surprisingly high prices for what you order.
You'll also want to be cautious of "black taxis," which are basically unlicensed cabs you might see near train stations or popular tourist spots. They're known for charging too much, using faulty meters, or sometimes even trying to drive off with your belongings.
When looking for tours, be wary of ones that seem too cheap. They often turn out to be disorganized, with guides who are more interested in getting you to buy things at inflated prices from specific shops or attractions.
You might also come across people posing as monks or beggars asking for donations, or clinics offering traditional Chinese medicine that turn out to be expensive and offer no real benefit.
Other things to watch out for include pedicab drivers who try to charge more than you agreed on, getting counterfeit money back as change, and even QR codes on rental bikes being swapped to send your payment elsewhere. Sadly, some travelers have also reported being drugged and robbed after accepting food, drinks, or rides from people they didn't know.
Crime
While serious crimes against foreigners in China are uncommon, and violent incidents are rare, you'll want to be mindful of petty theft, especially in busy spots. Pickpocketing is a particular concern in places tourists frequent, like on public transport or in bustling shopping areas.
It's not unusual for thieves to work together, using one person to distract you while another makes a move. They often go for cellphones, wallets, cameras, and laptops. Keep an eye out for purse snatching too, and if you have a pricier bicycle, be aware that theft is a possibility.
To help keep your belongings safe, I've found it's best to keep valuables tucked away in front pockets or secure, zipped bags, and to avoid flashing expensive items. Simply being aware of what's going on around you in crowded areas, and politely declining any food or drinks offered by strangers, can go a long way in staying safe.
