Weekend warning: Pubs and passports
Question: Do I really need my passport when I go out in Beijing?
Answer: Yes. Most definitely, absolutely, unequivocally yes. Well, unless you like taking unnecessary risks, talking at length with the local authorities, and possibly making a visit to the police station.
Several Sanlitun bar owners told me today that the authorities will be making the rounds and checking patrons’ ID, and that bars are now expected to check patrons’ bags for anything “dangerous.” Add in the general increased security measures in Beijing ahead of The Games and the previous crackdowns in the city, and carrying your passport or a copy of it should be a ‘no brainer.’
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I never ever carried my passport with me when going out in China. For the past three years nobody ever asked me any ID, except when in the hotel or at the bank.
And now, after I heard what happened at Sanlitun bars I decided to have at least a copy of my passport in my wallet all the time.
Serge,
Most people I know haven’t carried ID the past few years but this place isn’t exactly ‘business as usual’ heading into the Olympics, so best to play safe.
Cheers, Boyce