Travel to Xi'an: Must-Know Travel Ideas

Always check if the tour operator has the proper certifications and if their vehicles are legally registered. It's also wise to read the reviews from other travelers to gauge the reliability of the service.

To stay safe, book tours through reputable travel operators that follow local regulations. Ensure that the vehicles provided are well-maintained, and the drivers are experienced and licensed.

Our vehicles are legal, insured, and well-maintained, and our guides are fully licensed. They share their local knowledge and experiences with you and do not treat you as a money tree.

Forced shopping is a common concern for travelers, but you can avoid it by choosing a reputable tour operator. Here's how:

• Book with a Reliable Travel Operator– Choose a trusted company, which prioritizes your experience and never includes forced shopping in its itineraries.
• Check Tour Inclusions Carefully – Avoid tours labeled as "budget" or "low-cost", if they seem too cheap, as they may rely on commissions from shopping stops.
• Read Reviews & Testimonials – Look for feedback from past travelers to ensure the operator has a strong reputation for ethical practices.
• Ask Directly Before Booking – Confirm with your tour operator whether shopping stops are included. A professional agency will always provide a clear and honest answer.
• Choose Private or Custom Tours – Private tours offer more flexibility and control over your itinerary, ensuring no unwanted shopping detours.

So, "super cheap" China tour packages often come with hidden costs and unpleasant experiences. These types of tours lure travelers into buying their tour packages, only to trap them in forced shopping stops, substandard accommodations, and unexpected fees. Also, these types of cheap tours are often provided by unlicensed tour operators, who usually over-promised but under-deliver on what they promised.

Proper China tours offer an authentic culinary experience, taking you to local restaurants where you can savor traditional dishes. From Yangrou Paomo , a hearty lamb soup served with crumbled flatbread, to cold noodles (liangpi), a freshing dish made with cold wheat noodles, sesame paste, and chili oil. These proper tours ensure you taste the true flavors of Xi'an, giving you a deeper connection to Xi'an's rich food culture.

When you contact a tour operator directly via email, there are no middlemen. If the price seems too high compared to others, middlemen may be involved. If it's slightly higher, ask for details on the itinerary, hotel selections, and meal options to see if it's value for money.

Be cautious of drivers who approach you at airports, train stations, or tourist spots offering rides. These are often “black taxis” operators who charge excessive fares. Either head to the designated taxi queues, use official taxi booking counters available at transportation hubs or use ride-hailing apps like DIDI (China’s version of Uber) to avoid being scammed by these taxis.