BEIJING
THE ASIAN SERIES PT11
Summary:My travels took me through Beijing, where I discovered its iconic sites like the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, all while facing the honeytrap scam. I also reflected on the differences between Beijing and Xi’an, providing travel tips for those wanting to experience China’s fascinating history and vibrant culture.
I have been really looking forward to the Great Wall since I made plans to visit China. When I was in Shanghai, Steve Kerr mentioned that you can actually do tours that get you into North Korea! Something I really want to do but really don’t have the time, with Japan already being booked in 10days time.
WHERE IS BEIJING?
Honey trap scam in Beijing
Checked into the Happy Dragon hostel and signed up for the Great Wall tomorrow. It’s not a tour as such but rather transport and food. Had a bit of time as it was still only 4 pm, so went to see Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, two huge parts of China’s history.
The Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace in Beijing are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each showcasing China’s rich history and cultural heritage.
THE CAFE SCAM
Before coming to Beijing, I was warned countless times about the cafe trick. It’s where a woman would approach a foreigner and, after a little conversation, would ask to go for coffee to help with her English. She’ll then order a few drinks and leave for the bathroom at some stage, but not return. You are then left with a bill of around $300, which you have to pay. The Beijing Tea House Scam is a common Chinese honeytrap that most foreigners face when they visit.
Honey trap scam in Beijing
RELATED READ: ANOTHER SCAMMING IN BANGKOK
APPROACHED
Walking off the tube, I was immediately greeted by this woman. Knowing what the deal was straight away, she continued talking and asked where I was from. ‘Ah, the U.K.,’ she says, ‘the land of handsome men.’ Oh, here we go, I thought. Honestly, I did want to go for coffee at a Starbucks or something, as she wouldn’t be able to carry out the honeytrap scam there. But since it was my first day and I had things to do, I told her I was meeting my friend.
Not satisfied with this and eager to scam two foreigners, she asked where my friend was from. When I told her they were Chinese (I wasn’t meeting anyone), she turned around and walked back to the metro. If you think about it, this is bizarre since she had just gotten off the train! Clearly, she was in search of her next victim.
TIPS FOR TRAVELLING IN BEIJING:
- Be sure not to bring a bag with you around Beijing, as you will be stopped and searched more times than enough!
- Be aware of the honeytrap scam; always suspect people who approach you.
- Locals will try to take a photo of you without your permission. Personally, I don’t mind, as the Chinese have generally been very nice. However, this is up to you.
BEIJING FACTS:
- Beijing means “Northern Capital” and was also called “Dadu.”
- It is the 2nd largest city in China.
- Beijing is one of 4 great ancient capitals of China.
- Beijing is referred to as the “City of Three Revolutions” for its role in key 20th-century political movements, including the May Fourth Movement and the Chinese Cultural Revolution.
TIANANMEN SQUARE
My luck had it that the square was closed, but you could still see it. It’s nothing special to look at, but it’s the history and the events that unfolded there that make it a place of interest.
In 1989, after Hu Yaobang’s death, many students gathered at Tiananmen Square to call for more freedom of speech and economic reform. Over several months, the demonstrations gained nationwide momentum across nearly 300 cities, with many participants going on a hunger strike.
The government became concerned that it was turning into a serious political threat. On June 4th, they sent the military to remove the protesters by force, killing demonstrators and bystanders in the process. Initially, the government reported around 300 deaths, but later estimates put the toll at over 2,000.
FORBIDDEN CITY & ANOTHER SCAM
I headed to the Forbidden City next, but it was closed as well! It wouldn’t have mattered, though, since you need to bring your passport with you anyway. On my way back, I encountered the same scam again with another woman. I simply told her no before she could say anything. So far, it’s been much less friendly than Xi’an.
NEXT UP
The Great Wall of China, Click to read.
SAFE TRAVELS, DS x
31/229
This episode is part of The Asian Series. Click to view episode1.
Question Time
- Have you been to Beijing, what did you think?
- Have you ever been scammed?
Let me know in the comments below . . .
