11 things you should avoid doing in Beijing while traveling in China

Beijing, the capital city, has several issues that could impact your enjoyment. Let's explore 11 things you should avoid doing in Beijing while traveling in China to ensure a smooth and memorable trip.

Don't take the subway during rush hours

Rush hour on the subway in one of the largest cities in the world can be extremely crowded. During your China trip, you really don't need to take the subway at these times. Major transit hubs can turn into major bottlenecks, making your journey unpleasant.

Avoid illegal taxis

If you're waiting for a taxi and someone pulls over to offer a ride, don't trust them unless it's a licensed taxi with a meter. Illegal taxi drivers can be dangerous as they may scam you in the worst case. These rules also apply at airports and train stations. Sometimes, airport staff may try to lead you into an unregistered taxi. Stay vigilant and wait for a legitimate taxi to arrive.

Avoid visiting the Great Wall or the Forbidden City during National Day

During national holidays, Beijing is crowded with groups of Chinese tourists. Visiting these two famous sites during this time of the year can be overwhelming. The best advice is to avoid national holidays when planning your trip.

Don't forget to bring toilet paper

The general rule in Beijing is to always carry toilet paper with you. This is because most public restrooms do not provide it. The exception is high-end restaurants and hotels that cater to foreign visitors.

Avoid eating Western food (unless you know a good restaurant)

Not all Western restaurants in Beijing serve great food. Instead, opt for Chinese cuisine. If you're choosing randomly, pick a restaurant that looks popular and busy.

Avoid drinking tea with strangers you've just met

This is one of the most common scams in Beijing. Anyone who seems overly friendly at famous tourist spots in China is likely trying to make money off you in one way or another.

Don't cross the street without paying close attention

The streets in Beijing can be quite chaotic. Cars are allowed to turn right at any intersection, even when the pedestrian light is green. This means you must always stay alert, even when crossing the street during the green light.

Don't eat at Wangfujing Snack Street

While this food street is a great place for souvenirs, it poses a risk of food poisoning. You'll have a much better experience trying authentic Beijing-style street snacks. These can be found at street vendors throughout the city.

Don't trust weather forecast apps

The weather in Beijing can be quite unpredictable. Especially during the summer, a sudden rainstorm can hit at any time. Sometimes these storms can last for several days and cause minor flooding in some areas. Therefore, don't leave the house without an umbrella.

Don't forget to haggle

Remember that the price quoted to you at markets around the city is not the final price. You will need to haggle when shopping. Sometimes, you can lower the price to a quarter of what the vendor originally asked!

Don't just stick to bars on Sanlitun Bar Street

Although Sanlitun has some Western-style bars, it would be a shame to limit yourself to just this area. The famous alleyways of Beijing offer a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars serving high-quality cocktails and drinks. Be sure to check out a list of bars in Beijing before traveling to China!

Source: Mytour.vn

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Reference: Mytour.vn Travel Guide