CCA gives advice to summer travellers

China Consumers Association (CCA) issued a consumer warning to remind tourists to choose legitimate travel agencies and be aware of safety risks during the coming summer tourism season on July 3.

With the high temperature and rainfalls in summer, tourists are recommended to have prior knowledge of the weather in their destination. For the sake of safety, travellers are not advised to venture into unexplored areas. In the danger-ridden scenic sites, do pay attention to warning signs and stay away from places of no admittance.

The association also recommended tourists to carefully select high-risk recreational activities and take care of belongings, identity cards, passports and other documents.

The association stated that it is the travelers’ duty to practice public manners during travel. Consumers should also make sure to keep tickets and invoices in case of wrangles with travel agencies. If negotiation does not work, then consumers can voice complaints to the tourism authorities or local consumers association.

For consumers who sign up for package tours, the association warned them that they should pick well-established, large-size and legal travel agencies. Consumers and travel companies should agree on food, housing, transport, shopping, insurance and other essential matters. The contract under the supervision of the tourism authorities should be concluded. In this contract, self-funded activities, accommodation standards, dining standards and other items should also be made clear. The claim for invoices should also be included.

For individual tourists, the association advised them that they be well prepared for the tour, such as learning about weather and traffic conditions in their destination, taking water, food, medicine and the like in case of emergency and checking on cars before departure. If self-service travellers reach their destinations late at night, it would be wise for them to go out only after daybreak. Those who love self-driving tours should avoid driving while tired.