Avoid the Tea House Scam

The teahouse scam is a con that happens in large Chinese cities.

It involves Chinese students — usually friendly, pretty, young women — befriending foreign tourists. After chatting, the women will invite the tourists to attend a traditional tea ceremony with them.

After a few hours of drinking tea, discussing local culture and trading language tips, the foreigner is presented with a bill for hundreds of dollars, far more than the actual value of the tea.

The scammers will claim to be shocked and unable to pay for more than a small part, leaving the tourist on the hook for the rest. Or they may insist that it’s traditional for the guest to pay, leaving the victim of their scam to pay the whole bill on his or her own.

To avoid being taken in by the tea con when visiting China, be wary of being approached by young students who offer to show you the sites. If a stranger befriends you on the street, then offers to take you to a teahouse or bar, there is a strong chance they are planning to scam you.

These con artists know that tourists carry more cash than locals, and they are counting on the fact you will be nervous about offending local customs or acting rude. But if someone seems suspicious, don’t be afraid to excuse yourself and leave.

If you’re not sure whether the person you are talking to is a scammer, suggest an alternate restaurant or a museum you could go to. If they insist you go to their destination, it is likely they are con artists, and it’s time for you to walk away.