Precautions
- Safety
Generally, Beijing is a pretty safe city. However, as it’s a massive city of over 13 million people, I wouldn’t rule out any danger concerns. If you are unfortunate enough to come across any sort of danger, it’s probably more of getting misdirected, tricked and conned in financial terms rather than being gunned down and stabbed to death. With that said, I would just advise you to watch your valuable belongings and try to use as much common sense as possible.
- Traffic
This is one thing you definitely should watch out for. Traffic lights are not treated with any respect in Beijing. If no policeman is present, motorists will usually drive on red light and you could get run over any minute of the day. Taxis are particularly notorious and they know little about the concept of pedestrian safety.
- Beggars
When you see little kids running around trying to get cash out of people, it is simply plain sad. If they approach you, try to be nice but do not give them money. Instead, you should just buy them something to eat or drink, and make them finish it before sending them away. Do not show any hostility to them as they’re all just kids after all. If you can speak a bit of Chinese, they have great stories to tell.
- Pollution
Pollution is a major concern in Beijing and this is twice as bad in winter months when millions of people heat their rooms with coal. These days, more and more polluting cars are adding to the trouble. I wouldn’t be surprised if you get a headache after a while of walking, so make sure you take some aspirin with you.
- Taxis
Most taxi drivers in Beijing are exceptionally friendly and helpful but be warned some of them do and often take advantage of the language barrier and at every opportunity try to rip tourists off by driving in circles or worse taking you to some unknown destinations.