Shanghai Solo: Safe For Americans?

Shanghai is considered a safe destination for tourists, with a rich culture, breathtaking scenery, and culinary delights. However, it's important to be aware of certain risks and take necessary precautions. While violent crime rates are low, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching are common in tourist areas and public transport. Unlicensed taxis without taximeters pose a risk, and traffic accidents are frequent due to heavy traffic congestion. There is also a risk of scams, such as fake money and inflated bills, especially in tea ceremonies. As a foreigner, it's essential to respect local laws and avoid political demonstrations, as China has strict internet censorship and public surveillance. Overall, staying vigilant, keeping valuables safe, and being cautious while crossing roads will greatly enhance your safety in Shanghai.

Shanghai is safe for solo female travellers

Shanghai is considered safer than many other large cities, with little to no street crime. However, it's still important to keep an eye on your belongings, and be cautious when venturing out alone at night. Be wary of pickpockets in dense crowds and on public transport, and avoid unnaturally friendly people who may be looking to scam you.

It's also worth noting that the US State Department has issued a travel advisory for China, warning of the arbitrary enforcement of local laws and the risk of wrongful detentions. This is largely due to the possibility of arbitrary detention of foreigners, especially US citizens, by the Chinese government. While this may be alarming, many travellers report that as long as you don't do anything to insult the government, you are unlikely to be bothered.

Overall, with some common sense and awareness of your surroundings, solo female travellers can feel safe and comfortable exploring all that Shanghai has to offer.

There is little to no street crime

Shanghai is considered a safe destination for tourists, including those travelling alone. One of the world's most populous cities, Shanghai sees very little street crime.

You can feel secure walking around Shanghai, even at night, alone. The city is well-lit and busy with people and traffic most of the time. Of course, it is always advisable to be aware of your surroundings and keep your wits about you, especially in crowded areas. But in general, you are unlikely to encounter any issues.

Pickpocketing and bag-snatching are not common in Shanghai, but it is always good to be cautious and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy tourist spots and on public transport. Violent crime is rare, and muggings are uncommon, but it is always best to be vigilant and keep yourself informed.

Shanghai is a modern, bustling city, and you will likely encounter no problems during your visit. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the city has a lot to offer in terms of culture, food, and attractions. So, you can look forward to a safe and enjoyable trip to Shanghai.

Shanghai has a good safety record

Women can walk alone at night without fear, and residents and tourists alike can walk the streets without worrying about being mugged or harassed. This is due in part to the heavy police presence and extensive surveillance in the city.

While the Chinese government has been known to arbitrarily detain foreigners, especially US citizens, this is unlikely to affect the average American tourist. As long as you don't do anything to insult or criticise the government, you are unlikely to be bothered. There are thousands of US citizens in China at any given time, and the vast majority do not face any issues with the authorities.

However, it is important to be aware of the political situation and to avoid any activities that could be seen as subversive or critical of the government. This includes participating in or photographing protests, as well as making negative comments about the government online or in person. It is also important to be cautious when taking photographs, as pictures of military or sensitive sites could be seen as suspicious.

In terms of health and safety, it is important to be aware of the risk of Covid-19 and to follow local guidelines and regulations. Shanghai Airlines has a good safety record, with no major accidents in the last 10 years and no accidents with fatalities. The airline also received a high rating for its Covid-19 safety measures.

Arbitrary enforcement of local laws

Shanghai is one of China's safest cities, with little to no street crime. However, the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 3 Travel Advisory for Mainland China, urging travelers to reconsider their plans due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws and the risk of wrongful detentions. This includes the issuance of exit bans on U.S. citizens without a fair and transparent legal process.

The Chinese legal system is a civil law system with roots in the German civil law system and the Soviet Union's legal system. Since the formation of the People's Republic of China in 1949, the country has lacked judicial independence as the courts' authority is limited to what is granted by the National People's Congress. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) maintains effective control over the courts and their personnel through its Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission.

The arbitrary enforcement of laws in China can result in U.S. citizens being detained without access to consular services or information about their alleged crimes. Interrogations and detentions may occur for reasons related to "state security," and security personnel have the authority to detain and/or deport individuals for sending private electronic messages critical of the Chinese government.

To mitigate these risks, travelers are advised to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier for authorities to locate them in an emergency. Additionally, it is recommended to carry a U.S. passport with a valid Chinese visa at all times and to avoid discussing sensitive political topics or engaging in activities that authorities may interpret as constituting an act of secession, subversion, terrorism, or collusion with foreign entities.

Scams and tourist traps are prevalent

Shanghai is a safe city with very little violent crime, but tourists should be aware of the prevalence of scams. The most common scam is the "tea ceremony" scam, where tourists are approached by well-dressed young people who strike up a conversation and invite them to a local tea shop. The tourist is then presented with a bill for over RMB$1000. When they protest, they are threatened with police involvement. Tourists should also be wary of anyone offering to sell them art, particularly if they claim to be art students. These "paintings" are usually cheap prints with a tenfold mark-up.

Another scam to be aware of is the "need money for taxi" scam, where young people pretend to be students who have lost their money and need money for a taxi. Tourists should also be cautious of anyone offering "special services" or personal massages, as these are illegal in China.

Begging is not common in China, but tourists may be approached by beggars, sometimes with small children. Tourists should ignore these people and, if necessary, inform restaurant staff or the police. Tourists should also be aware that taxi drivers sometimes give fake change, so it is important to look carefully at the watermark on any notes received.

When shopping, tourists should be wary of anyone who approaches them offering to help, as these "helpers" usually get a commission of up to 50%. Tourists should also be aware that prices are often hiked for foreigners, so it is a good idea to haggle and be prepared to walk away if the price is too high.

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