Expert tips on safety in China
While booking a vacation to the Middle Kingdom to explore its world wonders, verdant landscapes and futuristic cities, you may be wondering ‘is China Safe?’ In general, it’s a country with very little crime and violence. Nevertheless, there are still a few things worth noting down before you jet off.
It’s not unheard of for pickpockets to operate in busy areas throughout China. When you’re roaming around the country’s hectic metropolises, keep your belongings close to you at all times and avoid carrying large sums of money. Be extra cautious on public transport, in particular buses and trains at night. If you have an expensive mobile phone model or camera, avoid getting it out in busy public places where it could be easily snatched.
Scams are also a big problem in certain cities, too. Common ones include young girls taking tourists to tea houses and then making them pay for meals or art students encouraging visitors to purchase their work for exorbitant sums of money.
If you’re hoping to do some souvenir shopping at a Chinese market, be wary of locals overcharging for cheap items or telling you designer items are authentic when they’re most likely not. Don’t settle for the first price a vendor suggests and try to shop around before you buy anything.
Road Safety in China
If you are planning to drive or be driven around then it’s natural to wonder ‘is China safe for drivers’? In general, driving around China is not usually recommended, especially in cities where the roads can be very congested and drivers seem to abide by their own rules. If you’re crossing a road, note that drivers don’t have to give way to pedestrians. Be extra cautious before stepping into the road, always look both ways first and try to use crosswalks where possible.
Is China safe for solo travelers?
China is a popular Asian country for solo travel. If you’re traveling around China on your own though, make sure someone back home knows where you are at every stage of your trip. It’s not uncommon for thieves and con-artists to target solo travelers (particularly women). Where possible, stick with your tour group and don’t wander around alone after dark.
Food Safety in China
Your safety and security in China is our topmost priority. With us, you are always in good hands. If you have any questions about your safety during your tour, our travel consultants are always happy to advise you. During your trip, you can always contact your local guide or your Trip Coordinator who is available around the clock throughout your trip.
China’s cuisine may be some of the most delicious on the planet, but it’s not always safe to consume. Health and safety standards when it comes to food are not as strict in China as in other parts of the world. Take on board the following advice:
- Be careful eating street food. If you’d like to try it, make sure it’s piping hot and looks like it’s been prepared in sanitary conditions.
- Visit restaurants which are busy. They’re usually popular for a reason and less likely to make you ill if they’re tried and tested by locals.
- Carry hand sanitizer (particularly on public transport) and use it before you eat if you’re unable to wash your hands.
- Having a Hepatitis A vaccination before you leave your home country is a good idea as the virus can easily be transmitted through contaminated food and drink.
Emergency Contacts in China
If you’re in an accident or need assistance from the Chinese emergency services, the local hotlines are:
- Police – 110
- Ambulance service – 120
- Fire service – 119
If you are injured or become ill during your China vacation, you’ll want to choose which hospital you visit carefully as some are better than others (especially in the more rural areas). Have the number of your insurance company handy and let them know straight away if you need medical care so they can recommend the best health facility to visit at your location.
Still have questions about safety in China? Contact our team for all the safety details and more inputs before you book your exciting adventure around this culturally rich nation.
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