Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Safe Travel
Generally speaking, Běijīng is a very safe city compared to other similarly sized cities
around the world. Serious crime against foreigners is rare, although on the rise.
Crime
Guard against pickpockets, especially on public transport and crowded places such
as train stations. A money belt is the safest way to carry valuables, particularly when trav-
elling on buses and trains. Hotels are usually safe places to leave your stuff and older es-
tablishments may have an attendant watching who goes in and out on each floor. Staying
in dormitories carries its own set of risks, and while there have been a few reports of
thefts by staff, the culprits are more likely to be other guests. Use lockers as much as pos-
sible.
Loss Reports
If something of yours is stolen, report it immediately to the nearest Foreign
Affairs Branch of the Public Security Bureau (PSB). Staff will ask you to fill in a loss re-
port before investigating the case. If you have travel insurance it is essential to obtain a
loss report so you can claim compensation. Be prepared to spend many hours, perhaps
even several days, organising it. Make a copy of your passport in case of loss or theft.
Road Safety
The greatest hazard may well be crossing the road, a manoeuvre that re-
quires alertness and dexterity. It often seems like a mad scramble on the streets as vehicles
squeeze into every available space. Traffic often comes from all directions (bikes, in par-
ticular, often ride the wrong way down streets), and a seeming reluctance to give way
holds sway. If right of way is uncertain, drivers tend to dig in their heels. Ignore zebra
crossings; cars are not obliged to stop at them, and never do. And take care at traffic light
crossings; the green 'cross now' light doesn't necessarily mean that traffic won't run you
down, as cars can still turn on red lights and bicycles, electric bikes and motor bikes rarely
stop at red lights.
Scams
Tea Houses
Be wary of anyone luring you to cafes, tea houses or art galleries on Wang-
fujing Dajie, Tiān'ānmēn Sq and other popular tourist areas. Foreigners have been
scammed by English-speaking people who invite them to vastly overpriced tea ceremon-
ies or art shows.
Taxis
At Capital Airport never take a taxi from touts inside the arrivals halls, where a
well-established illegal taxi operation attempts to lure weary travellers into a ¥300-plus
ride to the city (one man acts as a taxi pimp for a squad of drivers). Also beware of fraud-
