Destinations › China › Xiamen › Scams
Xiamen, China
10 reported scam patterns travellers run into in Xiamen, what they look like, and how to sidestep them.
Island ferry and 'private tour' packages sold by street agents that omit compulsory scenic-area fees, collected in cash on landing.
Seafood restaurants on the island tourist strips charging by weight far above quoted rates, with the bill presented after the meal.
Unlicensed guides on the heritage island charging for commentary on public streets.
Ferry and attraction tickets sold by touts at markups over the published fare.
Pickpocketing in the dense pedestrian crowds on the heritage island at weekends.
Photography and costume-hire services on the heritage island quoting one rate and charging several times more.
Counterfeit notes given as change in night markets and by street vendors.
Imitation tea and 'local speciality' packs sold at inflated prices with false grade claims.
Unlicensed cars at the railway station and ferry terminals quoting fixed fares above metered rates.
Guesthouse bookings downgraded on arrival with the original rate charged.
