Originally Posted by
PTravel
You're exactly right. There are a couple of posters who, for some reason, seem to really dislike China and never miss an opportunity to slam it. I've been going to China regularly since 1994, usually once or twice a year, and my experiences have always been positive. I've never been scammed or even had anyone attempt a scam (except once -- someone once tried the goo-on-the-shoe scam near People's Park in Shanghai). I'm convinced that the difference between my experiences and those of the China haters comes down, primarily, to
how one travels. A little knowledge makes a huge difference -- I've never been scammed on my travels anywhere, whether Europe, South America, North Africa or Asia. Attitude also makes a big difference; if you're a young, single male out to hit on young women, you're going to have a very different experience whether it's China or the Czech Republic.
China is an amazing country with amazing people. Just as in any country, a tiny, tiny fraction of people are con artists who prey on tourists. Knowing the cons and avoiding them is not hard. Thinking you're an exception to the cons because you're so handsome and witty, however, will get you conned every time.
And, of course, assuming that every single person is out to get you will guarantee an absolutely miserable time.
How one travels
is important. I feel part of my mission is to give the locals a laugh. And I'm pretty good at that! Embarassing situations don't bother me (much). They're part of what makes it fun & memorable. And as I've said before, if someone has a laugh at my expense, what did it really cost me?
I think people, in general, have a desire to help other people. Sometimes the most-important thing we can do, when traveling, is to allow someone to help us, which means trying to help them communicate and enjoy the experience. Try to keep frustration at bay. They
are trying. Usually. There was the time I got to watch a ticket agent in a paris subway intentionally harass and misconstrue everything this poor woman (traveling with a couple of kids) was saying. It was so obvious what she wanted, and this idiot was having none of it because she didn't speak French. I ended up helping out; my own dreadful French (just words pieced together in maybe the right or wrong order) is easily enough for anyone who wants to understand to get what I'm saying (and have a laugh!). But this guy... geez... Troi carnet billets sil vois plait?
But the stereotypes about the French and their regard to Americans isn't true either. That guy was atypical; I'm sure he went to work each day looking forward to harassing people, and he'll go to his grave with exactly what pleasant memories?
I'm looking forward to China, although being part of a small group (10?) plus guide, I'm guessing I'll be fairly insulated from real transactions with real people. For my first trip, that's fine. I'll learn how systems work, and then, if I come back, I'll be on my own and have some fun.
