Scarlett Mao — Excellent Rating on TripAdvisor - Private Guide in Shanghai

Member Since 2026 Country: China I conduct tours in cities: Huangshan, Shanghai Airport Transfer: YES Hotel Reservation: YES Translation Service: YES Languages: English, Mandarin Education: Bachelor’s in Tourism Management in China From 2012-2015 Master’s in Psychotherapy in Australia From 2023-2025 Experience: Started working as a guide in 2015, founded Scarlett Mao Tours in 2016. Guided until 2020, then helped clients with procurement during the pandemic. Pursued Master of Psychotherapy in Sydney. Licenses, Training and Certifications:

China National Tour Guide (Licensed)
Driving License Holder
IELTS 7.5 (near-native English Speaker)
Trained and worked as a person-centred therapist in Sydney
First AID Certificate
Creative Play Therapy with Children

Additional services of this guide:

Design Your Travel Plan: A well-arranged travel plan saves you time and money, and prevents regrets. I offer a service to design your travel plan, with suggestions and real information.

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Languages: English, Mandarin

Since 2015, I've collected over 110 genuine 5-STAR reviews on TripAdvisor by doing one thing: treating my guests like friends, not tourists.

I started Scarlett Mao Tours because I was frustrated with rigid itineraries, hidden costs, lack of direct communication and care—tours that felt like a factory line. As a deep traveller for over 14 years, I offer what I myself would love on holiday.

With a Bachelor's in Tourism Management in China and a Master's in Psychotherapy in Australia, I don't just show you worthwhile attractions and local culture—I create experiences based on your personality and preferences. I combine sightseeing with authentic moments, tailor itineraries to your interests, weave food tastings throughout our tours, and offer storytelling rather than lectures. I encourage spontaneity and safe exploration.

More importantly, I know how to create an emotionally safe space for you to explore without concerns. My psychotherapy training helps me create a space where you feel truly seen and comfortable—connecting more deeply with Shanghai's hidden corners, its people, and me. Your needs are welcome, not troubles.

In my personal life, I love travelling, architecture, antiques, fashion, cooking, psychology and philosophy, classic old rock music & films, animation, literature, exploring new places, and more. I'm the type of person who knows a 'little bit about everything' :)

I will respond to your inquiry within 24 hours. Please feel free to reach out.

Warm regards,

Scarlett Mao