26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler

InfectedVoice 4 years ago

Never heard of a fake ATM here, you want to check for any attachments for card cloning etc but not a thing here in Brit.

6points

Salma Hernández 4 years ago

I am from Mexico. If you need ATM and you dont find a bank, search for a Walmart or a 7 eleven or similar stores. Normally they have ATM

18points

cybermerlin2000 4 years ago

Also tug the card slot. Fake fronts are often used and pulling the front off will reveal a card scanner and sensor to read your pin as you type it in. Also watch out for people lingering around cash machines for long periods of time

8points

Leigh C. 4 years ago

I'm going to warn those travelling to Canada, TD atms will swallow your card if you take more 15 seconds to grab it. Your card could be sticking out, waiting for you to take it and the machine will suck it back in and there's no way you're getting it back.

8points

Sam Chilton 4 years ago (edited)

That's a security protocol. Same here in Belgium; if you notify the local branch, you should have your card back in a few days.

3points

Mazer 4 years ago

If a machine are my card, I would return with a crowbar

4points

Mike Ieva 4 years ago

Never seen one of those in my 35 years living in Mexico city... There are fake readers in the ATM but not fake ATM

3points

A B C 4 years ago

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sloniu21 4 years ago

In Poland we have BLIK system. You can take money from ATM without insert a card. You must only generate one-time 6 digit code in your bank app (it is valid only for 2 minutes) and can take money. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blik

2points

Cee Mor 4 years ago

I recommend always using one at a bank

1point

Merritt Verrill 4 years ago

Who in their right mind would ever go to Mexico to begin with?

0points

Anne 4 years ago

Plus you know the ATMs inside a bank have video surveillance.

0points

#2

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Rome, Italy: When you go to a restaurant and there are no menus. What they're actually doing is making you get something without looking at the menu so that you don't know the price and they can double it. I would just say "I'll wait until I can get a menu".

chiarapanama , MargaretNapier Report

Final score:

103points

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Hugh Willie Mungous 4 years ago

All restaurants in Rome display menus with price lists. It is the law. It is policed by The Finance Police (Guardia di Finanza).

71points

Casey Burns 4 years ago

Ha. Just like it's illegal for criminals to have guns. The law only applies to just people. A lot of people aren't just.

14points

Thomas Turnbull 4 years ago

The UK is the same

0points

A B C 4 years ago

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cybermerlin2000 4 years ago

Uncle and Aunt went to Rome and had this pulled on them. They asked for a menu 3 times but in the end got up and walked away without buying anything after sitting there for 45 minutes. They would definitely agree with this

10points

Rose the Cook 4 years ago

If there are no menus or no prices on menus common sense would tell you to go elsewhere.

6points

Bob Belcher 4 years ago

The idiots dressed like old Roman soldiers. Stay away from them. If they smile and walk toward you, them them no an walk off quickly. They will offer to take a picture with you and then demand 20+ euros. They split up me and my wife and I about fought one.

4points

Mike Ieva 4 years ago

How can someone ask in a restaurant without the menu...

3points

Miguel justino C 4 years ago

It happens people! That’s all he’s saying

2points

Treessimontrees 4 years ago

There's a story every summer of someone getting rinsed for 70 Euros for two ice creams as there was a table charge too that wasn't mentioned when the customer sat down.

2points

Leo Domitrix 4 years ago

This is BS. The menus are displayed. Many restaurants don't have individual menus, but a displayed one. Good grief.

2points

Myrkur 4 years ago

You also should avoid restaurants (in every country) where they come outside and try to talk you into sitting at a table. Usually way too expensive, they know how to pick out tourists

0points

Anne 4 years ago

This human traveled to Italy thirty years ago..

0points

#3

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Madrid, Spain: Fake police: scammers will come up to you with a fake police badge and will ask to see your wallet to check if you have any counterfeit money. This scam would generally happen at night, when most tourists go out to get a drink. While checking your wallet for fake euros, they'll actually take those euros. To avoid this, tell them you'll show them your wallet if they take you to the nearest police station.

chiarapanama , Caleb Oquendo Report

Final score:

98points

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Mike Ieva 4 years ago

What??? Again never heard or see them in Madrid

30points

María Hermida 4 years ago

Nowhere in Spain. Pickpockets? Yes. But "fake police", never.

0points

Bob Belcher 4 years ago

Same, I was in Madrid for over a week and never had this or heard about this

0points

Monica Martinez Castañeda 4 years ago

Me neither...

0points

Janet C 4 years ago

This is not a thing in Madrid. Did the person who wrote this actually visit any of these places?

5points

Sigrid Johanesdóttir 4 years ago

Oh it is a thing and not only in Madrid, as a half Spanish travel agent I can assure you that as there are many police corporations in Spain that they stole even cars from tourists when they cross the border from France to Spain

0points

Chich 4 years ago

Encountered fake cops twice in Kenya. First time I clued into what what going to happen and avided it. Second time I was detained on a street corner. Asked to see ID. 40ish short fat guy had a worn card of a young tall thin guy. Just about this time a group of real police showed up responding to something across the street. I was hurriedly told to 'be on my way' and they ran off.

3points

Nor 4 years ago

Thieves are so inventive, instead of using all this for good instead of self gain

3points

purple zebra 4 years ago

I wouldn’t be going anywhere with a stranger

2points

Nope 4 years ago

I live in Madrid and never heard of this

2points

Wistiti 4 years ago

In any place, a police will never ask to take your wallet. ID, yes. Driver's licence, yes. Wallet? No.

1point

Lav Oravaf 4 years ago

fake police is everywhere...

1point

Samantha PandaNotBored 4 years ago

Really ? you need to tell us more about it. Some people are just weirdos .

0points

GAP GAP 4 years ago

I have lived in Madrid for 50 years, that is, all my life and I have NEVER seen or heard anything like it. This deception is told by someone who has never been to Spain and less to Madrid.

0points

Cybele Spanjaard 4 years ago

Really..how do the police handle this ?

0points

chiarapanama , South China Morning Post Report

Bored Panda reached out to Chiara Igoe, a devoted traveler and content creator who has been sharing useful traveling advice, tips, and tricks on her TikTok. “I’d say I plunged into the traveling environment since birth, which is something I’ve always been thankful for,” Chiara, who was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina told us. “My dad being French and mom American, I was given all three nationalities. I then constantly moved as a child due to my father’s career, from living in Argentina, to France, to the US, and finally Panama.”

“Having grown in a constant multicultural environment, I grew fond of it and decided to make it a career. I’m currently studying international communications and languages and aspire to discover the world through my profession,” Chiara said.

#4

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Seoul, South Korea: In the streets, you might run into fake monks. These people will offer you a "lucky amulet" or a good luck charm and in return ask for a donation. They can also show you a picture of a temple and a book full of names of donors that can influence how much money you want to give them. No real monk would give you that on the street and ask for a donation.

Final score:

90points

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Kira Okah 4 years ago

Very common in Beijing too.

16points

Bob Belcher 4 years ago

Very common right outside of Disneyland too. Wish they would control this.

4points

Daria B 4 years ago (edited)

Never seen them in my 10+ years of life in Seoul and Gyeongi-do. I did, however, see the cultists who will try to get you into their church.

7points

PixieVonBehr 4 years ago

I had this happen to me in London. I keep the "lucky amulet" on my desk as a daily reminder to practice saying no :)

4points

Cappy 4 years ago

Yeap, London is where I got mine too in January 2014..still have that plastic piece of junk.

0points

Blogwave 4 years ago

This comment has been deleted.

4points

Kira Okah 4 years ago

The picture is from London and from a different video

6points

Shelli Aderman 4 years ago

Happens EVERYWHERE! 🤣

2points

CV Vir 4 years ago

Found one of these in Edinburgh.

2points

Kerri Peek 4 years ago

They do this in Denver CO.

1point

Adina Derrick-Weinstein 4 years ago

Yes happened to us outside a Starbucks in Seoul

0points

Adina Derrick-Weinstein 4 years ago

Yes!! Happened to us outside a Starbucks in Seoul!

0points

Cuervo 4 years ago

Seen this in Chicago! They are aggressive too.

0points

#5

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Dubai, UAE: Spiked drinks are very common. Because of the laws of extramarital affairs being very strict, the court might not always have your back if something happens, so keep an eye on your drink at all costs.

chiarapanama , Oleg Magni Report

Final score:

83points

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Daphne 4 years ago

What is wrong with those men? Frustrated much?

52points

Becky Samuel 4 years ago

Their upbringing. In one study they asked Egyptian boys aged 10 if they believed that it was a woman's or a man's job to prevent sexual assault and 90% believed that it was a woman's problem because they had been taught that men were incapable of controlling themselves sexually.

30points

Schern Hanley 4 years ago

It’s mainly expat white men that do this, and they work in gangs . They pay off the waiters to turn a blind eye. My very good friend got spiked but luckily she was with a group of girls and they had only gone out for 1 drink, as soon as she started slurring her words and could not speak they took her straight to the hospital for a blood test , they were then able to prosecute the hotel as there was cctv footage of the bar man putting something into her drink.

1point

María Hermida 4 years ago

Where have you read the word "men" or "women"? I've heard of men being drugged by girls in bars on order to rob them. And a friend of mine, a man, was drugged by a group of girls just for fun, to have a laugh. Perhaps it happens more often to women, but everybody must be very careful with their drinks, especially in a foreign country, where they don't understand the local customs and might not be aware of the dangers.

-1point

Tom Robson 4 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Kay blue 4 years ago

I've heard of several cases where women tourists were sexually assaulted, they reported it to the police and they ended up in court for sex outside of marriage. To make matters worse, nothing happened to the men responsible.

21points

Tee Witt 4 years ago

Easy to believe when so many women from these countries are stoned to death, never the man's fault

12points

Alan Gale 4 years ago

Watch your drink EVERYWHERE!!

14points

Helen Haley 4 years ago

Why would anyone go to dubai?

8points

Jarzan 4 years ago

This is global pehnomenon. Never leave any drink unattended anywhere in the world or accept a drink that's not being poured by the wait staff from just opened bottle or tap in front of you.

7points

Marianne Luginbuhl 4 years ago

Better yet, refuse to travel there til they treat women like humans. If you are raped YOU can end up in prison for having sex outside of marriage.

3points

Radek Suski 4 years ago

I thought alcohol is prohibited in UAE

2points

Karen Grace 4 years ago

I'm pretty sure they can spike a non alcoholic drink as easily as an alcoholic drink.

4points

Roxanne D'souza 4 years ago

Every place needs a license to serve alcohol. Usually most places in malls (even if it's Chilis or TGIF) won't have them, but there are many pubs and clubs that serve all kinds of alcohol.

1point

boredkoala 4 years ago

Places for tourists serve alcohol, such as hotel bars.

1point

Radek Suski 4 years ago

Thanks Y'all for clarification

0points

Christina Kelly 4 years ago

If something happens....you mean if you are raped. Let's not minimise rape to being just something

0points

Ben Hughes 4 years ago

your problem is going to dubai in the first place.

0points

Thomas Sweda 4 years ago

Can you even drink in an Arab country?

0points

Anton Montaut 4 years ago

Yes only Saudi Arabia is alcohol outlawed (but can still be found for the right price)

3points

#6

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler London, UK: The contactless card reader: as you're walking through the streets, someone will have a contactless card reader in their bag. They'll brush up against your bag or your pocket with that and take money from your credit card. There is a limit on the contactless reader (£30) but they can still take a lot of money from you. This will happen in very crowded areas, like the streets or the subway. To avoid this happening, if you have a purse, just put it in front of you, or put your wallet in your front pockets.

chiarapanama , SoyaCincau Report

Final score:

81points

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KJ 4 years ago

The limit is £45 now, going up to £100 in October.

33points

Vicky Z 4 years ago

I hate that they keep raising these limits!!! It's not safe! Meanwhile they ask hell of a lot of things and documents for "our safety". Banks don't give a s**t about our safety!! They just want to know everything about all our personal info!

2points

GC 4 years ago

According to Halifax bank this has never happened and there is no reported case of this ever happening. Also the ‘pickpocket’ would need a legitimate business account and a registered terminal to take any payments. What’s more, card readers will turn down transactions if they encounter other objects, such as other cards, keys and phones. The thief would have been incredibly lucky to pick up any money this way.

21points

Robert T 4 years ago (edited)

Whilst this is technically possible, it's not something I've heard of. You can only make so many contactless transactions before you will be asked to enter your PIN. Your bank monitors your card use and too many transactions in quick succession or at the same terminal will cause the card to be blocked. But the one key thing here is NEVER KEEP YOUR WALLET IN YOUR BACK POCKET - not just for this, but because it is so easy for it to be stolen.

18points

Radek Suski 4 years ago

it's technically only possible if you have a single card with this function. I have 4 by now

1point

Kerri Peek 4 years ago

Get an RFID reader proof wallet, bag, luggage etc. Have a pin on your smart watch/phone. Ways to avoid this.

10points

cybermerlin2000 4 years ago

I have an RFID wallet that prevents scanning. My phone transactions need to be unlocked using biometric sensors to authorize transactions

7points

Bill Dolman 4 years ago

The other option is to get RFID blocking sleeves, and put every one of your credit and debit cards into them.

6points

FABULOUS1 4 years ago

Well I keep my card in my bra, so if you are getting that close to me be prepared to get slapped.

5points

Radek Suski 4 years ago

It works only if you have a single card with wireless payment. As far as you have 2 it won't work anymore.

2points

Jyri Hakola 4 years ago

Better answer 1) Buy protected vallet - Better answer 2) Keep your old wallet, buy a dedicated protector card that blocks/jams the communication to nearby cards and slip that to your wallet.

2points

Leigh C. 4 years ago

Those are everywhere now. Get yourself a wallet that is stamped with RFID and don't let anyone handle your card, including the cashier.

2points

chiarapanama , José Romero Silva Report

“The day I decided to start sharing information about travel scams was shortly after I had witnessed pickpocketing in the metro,” the traveler recounted. “Even though I didn’t live the scam that day, it hit me that something which can seem so small can truly ruin someone's vacation, and we have all been victims of it, generally without our knowledge.”

#7

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Buenos Aires, Argentina: You can find a lot of motochorros, two people riding one motorcycle. One of the guys will get off at a stoplight and run to a nearest cafe or terrace, steal someone's laptop or anything of value, run back on the motorcycle and go, or they'll just pickpocket tourists that are heavily equipped.

Final score:

76points

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M. Brown 4 years ago

This happened twice in front of the place I stayed at on my first day in Argentina. Generally, it's not a dangerous place for personal safety but there is a lot of petty crime. Every house has bars on every window. I ended up living in Argentina for a while and you did have to make sure you didn't leave something unattended. My Argentine friend was accosted by two people like this when she was with her boyfriend in Santa Fe, Argentina (5th biggest city). The boyfriend stood up to them and gave them an ass kicking...no, he ran away leaving her standing there. She ended up running the other direction from him and got away. She never spoke to him again.

19points

Tee Witt 4 years ago

This also happens in Spain

2points

Vicky Z 4 years ago

How is that a scam? This is a traditional old fashioned stealing with two thieves on a motorbike!

1point

Cybele Spanjaard 4 years ago

Thieves who have no other life but to use others ..

0points

Ziiiiiing 4 years ago

Sounds like London tbh

0points

Eric Mac Fadden 4 years ago

They've learned from Brazil. Just Google for "dois caras numa moto"

0points

#8

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Athens, Greece: The coffee spill: You're walking down the street and accidentally there's a guy who comes up to you and spills coffee all over you. They work in pairs, so one is going to help you clean up your shirt, and the other one is going to steal your wallet. Or they'll offer to clean your bag and just run off with it. Tell them you're fine and you don't want help.

chiarapanama , Jon Tyson Report

Final score:

73points

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Rose the Cook 4 years ago

I wouldn't let a stranger, male or female, touch me or my bag. if they tried I would scream.

23points

Katinka Min 4 years ago

Don't underestimate the element of suprise. We can plan all we want, but when we are in a situation our mind or body might react totally differently.

2points

Vicky Z 4 years ago

OK I'm Greek and never ever heard that scam before! First of all we love coffee!! We are coffee people!! We never waste it!! That would be bigger shame than the stealing!!!

4points

Thomas Sweda 4 years ago

Yep, I too prefer the good ole U.S.A. , where they shoot you first.

4points

Alex K 4 years ago

i am greek and i've never heard of this happening to anyone (and i work for the news)

2points

GoneCrazy 4 years ago

How long ago was this scam? I spent three weeks in Athens in 2019 and never once had anyone spill coffee on me and never saw it happen. Now the gypsies on the other hand, are everywhere trying to give you a rose, bracelet, or something. Never accept any of it and tell them a firm NO when they walk towards you. Did a lot of people watching at the entrance to the Plaka and most times they do run in pairs or more.

2points

Natassa Anagnostopoulou 4 years ago

Only gypsies do this trick and more other tricks. Just stay away from gypsies who approach you..🇬🇷

1point

Leo Domitrix 4 years ago

Oh FFS... ONLY place I ever saw this attempted was in the US. DC, to be exact.

1point

Daphne Williams 4 years ago

This is actually popular all over the world - it happened to one of my relatives in Argentina.

3points

Χρηστος Λεο 4 years ago

These are all so funny. Now it's my turn to say that this is fake. I have never heard of this. I live in Greece and this has never happened to a single soul here. Someone would rather take your bag and start running. But this? this is so fake.

0points

Cuervo 4 years ago

How about you beat their butt for spilling coffee on you?

0points

Cybele Spanjaard 4 years ago

When travelling there is no way I would leave my bag /money holder etc with easy access to bag snatchers they would have to take me too..

0points

#9

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Athens, Greece: Beggars on the side of the streets will purposefully use see-through cups and put it pretty far out on the sidewalk so that you accidentally kick it. They are really good at making you feel like utter s**t for it, so then you're like "oh God, let me give you some money". Try not to get guilt-tripped into it, they did that on purpose.

chiarapanama , Alex Proimos Report

Final score:

61points

POST

Tweetysvoice 4 years ago

Be aware of your surroundings! Most of these can be avoided if you watch where you're walking or observing people around you. Be in the NOW, not in the phone pics you'll never look at twice.

17points

Leo Domitrix 4 years ago

Beat me to it. Live life. Don't phone it.

0points

ElenaK 4 years ago

It happened to me in Brussels, at Grand Place. I just helped the lady by collecting the coins and did not give her any extra money. You don't have to look at your phone to kick the cup. It can easily happen while you are sightseeing.

2points

Mattie 4 years ago

there's a boy who's been doing just that for years near where I used to live. I found it so annoying, and I usually crossed the street whenever I saw him just to avoid that. It never occurred to me that this was on purpose, though.

1point

Richard Head 3 years ago

In Victoria BC, I'd pull up to a parking meter, get out and a Guy with an upside down hat full of quarters would say "Spare Change" I'd always thank them for their quarter as I fed my meter. Our beggars were generous this way....

0points

Cybele Spanjaard 4 years ago

Watch where you walk all the time..

0points

chiarapanama , ·˙·ChinaUli2010·.· Report

“I’ve personally felt that Europe in general and France in particular has a huge amount of scammers,” Chiara said and added that “France being a tourist hub and always greeting tourists, opens a wide variety of opportunities for scammers.” Moreover, the traveler said she doubts that will change any time soon.

#10

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Beijing, China: Beijing is known for having a lot of 5 star hotels. Because of this, hotels with no star service will offer really big discounts. Most of the time, they lure you at the airport, by telling you they are a good hotel but they just don't have any stars so you'll get a much cheaper price. Most of the time they just end up bringing you to a hostel or a motel.

Final score:

61points

POST

LH 4 years ago

I don't get this one....so the hotel-tout at the airport tells you they can take you to a cheap hotel with no stars, you agree, and then they take you to a cheap hotel with no stars? What's the scam?

66points

Danielle Terese 4 years ago

They say it's a nice hotel that just isn't gone through the star verification process yet, which is why it has a discount. As if in five star hotels you just overpay for the star verification.

18points

Laylay 4 years ago

Hostels and motels are not five star HOTELS. different experiences

4points

TM 4 years ago

Right?! I would never ever believe that…

0points

Natalie Brown 4 years ago

Who would even go without booking a hotel beforehand?

11points

Vicky Z 4 years ago

Exactly! I don't get that! I arrive at the airport and wait for suggestions for hotels?

1point

Anne Mitchell 3 years ago

Are you not supposed to have a pre arranged destination address when at immigration check? Both times I have landed in Beijing it was required or you are not admitted.

1point

SydneyGirl 3 years ago

This seems odd to me, China is a communist country and you have to be “invited” to visit. Entry visa requires you tell them before arrival of your accommodation plans.

1point

Cybele Spanjaard 4 years ago

Many used to 'family' homes with a room to rent to tourists. I found them clean and friendly

1point

Mayrene Chester 3 years ago

Probably will not arrive into China without a hotel booked already so....

0points

Wanh 4 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

chiarapanama , Tambako The Jaguar Report

#11

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Amsterdam, the Netherlands: It's a pretty pricy city to go visit, especially when it comes to renting an Airbnb or booking a hotel room. A lot of scammers take advantage of this by putting up fake accommodation listings on Facebook and always ask for payment through Western Union. To avoid this, book only through official websites.

Final score:

60points

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Ba Loeloe 4 years ago

Why would you book a Airbnb through Facebook? Use Airbnb!

43points

tuzdayschild 4 years ago

Phoney discounts lure people in

1point

María Hermida 4 years ago

Because people are greedy, and they stop thinking when they see the word "discount". Other people think they are more intelligent than the rest of us, because they have found a bargain while the rest of us idiots pay full price. In general, I don't feel sorry for the people who are scammed in Facebook.

0points

Kris Bienkens 3 years ago

Why book Airbnb at all? Just get a hotel room. They cost the same and don't double it with all these ridiculous fees.

-1point

Robert T 4 years ago

Let's keep this really simple. Never pay for anything via a Western Union transfer. If you can use a credit card, as there is normally some form of buyer protection with them.

8points

Kiki Castro 4 years ago

NEVER use Moneygram or Western Union to send money to stranger in exchange for something. 100% of the time it's a scam

2points

rumade 4 years ago

It's not that pricey at all for Europe. And there are still lots of backpacker hostels if you need a cheap option.

2points

Kantami Blossom 3 years ago

Never pay through separate companies, the amount of people I've seen complain they've been scammed when they want something off websites but pay through separate sites is unbelievable(I've known people that would buy something of places like eBay or Facebook marketplace but not use PayPal only to complain that they've been scammed and never received the item even after they've been told several times to always use PayPal because of the protection it offers).

0points

Meami 4 years ago

Lots of great places to stay in Amsterdam without going through FB! Most reputable sites such as Airbnb list them. Crap, even Trip Advisor lists apartments, etc.

0points

Ben Hughes 4 years ago

a sucker is born every minute.

0points

Wanh 4 years ago

People who fall for this = natural selection. How dumb are these people 😫

-2points

#12

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Dubai, UAE: When you're taking a taxi, make sure it has a meter. A lot of the times they'll tell you that it's not working or that they don't have one. That's just because they're trying to charge you more.

chiarapanama , pxfuel Report

Final score:

57points

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Sam Chilton 4 years ago

I was in London (about a decade ago) and the cab drive I usually took between two points was around £13, so I'd just pay £15 each time. One of the cabbies forgot to turn his meter on (he must have been new; he seemed quite stressed). Charged me only a tenner, but I let him keep the change, they're decent folk.

26points

Robert T 4 years ago

London cabs are licenced and are quite strictly controlled. They are however not cheap for longer journeys. Private hire vehicles are also licenced, but must be pre-booked as they can't pick up from the street, and are generally cheaper. Don't be tempted to get in any other kind of taxi that you haven't pre-booked, as these are likely to be a scam, or at the very least not properly insured.

10points

Vaida Kuodytė 4 years ago

This is a thing EVERYWHERE.

6points

Anirudh Vineet 4 years ago

This is very old. Doesn't happen nowadays. In fact to deter it further taxis have stickers in the front and back, where passengers can see them, clearly stating that if the meter is not operational that your ride is free. The Roads and Transport authority are very strict here and taxi drivers can get into serious trouble for stunts like this. Also the drivers details and taxi serial numbers are visible for all to see to make reporting easier and majority have cams installed in them now.

3points

Vicky Z 4 years ago

This is not only in Dubai and also the meters are not always reliable! I try to use only public transportation when i travel

2points

FABULOUS1 4 years ago

They do this in Las Vegas also. Or they will try and take the longest route possible to keep charging you.

2points

Zaineb Bookwala 4 years ago

Hire official / Hala taxi only. Also available on app now. Don't get in unmarked cars. Pretty much a good rule for anywhere.

2points

Elaine N 4 years ago

Then you have to download the ‘Careem’ app.

2points

Cybele Spanjaard 4 years ago

meters are not always honest!!

1point

Marco Conti 4 years ago

With every phone equipped with GPS, I have to imagine it's a bit hard to pull this time honored scam. That said, there are enough people too distracted or naive to check on it, I am sure.

1point

Schern Hanley 4 years ago

Not true !!!!

0points

According to Chiara, tourist traps are a global problem, “scams exist because people are in need of money, and find that a way is through said traps. Anywhere you travel to, you could run into them, and because of it being so popular, it has become part of the travel experience yet it shouldn't mean that it should stay part of it.”

#13

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Dubai, UAE: It's really popular to buy gold souk, but a lot of unregistered stores will sell you fake gold at too good of a price for it to actually be real gold. Make sure that the store has a registered number.

chiarapanama , Theodore Scott Report

Final score:

56points

POST

Daphne 4 years ago

I thought thievery was dealt with harshly there?

22points

John Dilligaf 4 years ago

thievery against locals - sure; thievery against gullible foreigners and tourists, probably not so much

13points

Brihat A. 4 years ago

Yeah i live in dubai how is this possible

2points

Anirudh Vineet 4 years ago

Yes it is, but crime finds a way. The police and government is very strict and deals a heavy hand if these people are caught.

1point

Sharifah Lee 4 years ago

Stop believing Hollywood

0points

Kantami Blossom 4 years ago

If it seems too good to be true then it is, if you think someone is going to sell you something expensive for cheap then you're too stupid to have money.

4points

Samantha PandaNotBored 4 years ago

I hate that colour gold. It’s ugly

3points

Bender Bending Rodríguez 4 years ago

If you have any "that colour gold" you want to get rid of I'll take it off your hands for free. :)

5points

Sarah 4 years ago

I bought gold at the mall. Fair prices and no pressure. The Gold Souk was just so overwhelming, high-intensity pressure and aggressive salespeople. I went to the mall and had a wonderful experience. There is a section of the Dubai Mall also called The Souk that is all jewelry. When shopping I found the staff at the various stores very helpful, attentive to what I said I was looking for, and never once tried to get me to buy something that was more than I was willing to spend. One guy in particular just made my day. He showed me his recommendations first, then asked me a zillion questions about who I was buying for, what they like, what I wanted to spend, and everything he showed me after that was so perfect for what I wanted that it was hard not to buy them all. Wish I could remember the name of the particular store that was; I'd love to recommend it.

1point

Louise Wilkerson 4 years ago

buyer beware

1point

Guido Pisano 4 years ago

if it is too good to be true...

1point

Anne Mitchell 3 years ago

After being mobbed by the gold sellers and unable to even look in peace we just left. Whole holiday spoilt by greedy, grabbing hands wanting to get us into their stores. Refused to buy anything.

0points

Kantami Blossom 3 years ago

People seriously need to remember the old saying "if it looks to good to be true, then it probably is" it would save so many problems if common sense and logic was applied to most of these situations.

0points

Azure Adams 4 years ago

what's souk

0points

Mohsie Supposie 4 years ago (edited)

Market. In Dubai, there is actually a market full of gold shops.

1point

Kevin Hickey 4 years ago

Gold and diamonds are both scams.

0points

#14

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Beijing, China: The tea house: a beautiful man or woman will come up to you in the street and invite you for a cup of tea. Most of the time they're just promoting a cafe. Once you go in and place an order without seeing the menu (of course), they leave and you're stuck paying more than a $100 worth of yuan.

chiarapanama , Trey Ratcliff Report

Final score:

54points

POST

Axanthron Myre 4 years ago

I think commenters are misreading the scam. You place an order, your new 'friend' leaves and the Tea House charges you for the equivalent of over $100 in yuan (646 Yuan/£73)

18points

Cheesenacho 4 years ago

This actually happened to a friend and me while we were working on Shanghai…”please take our picture!” Then get invited to a tea house with a menu in Mandarin. My Spidey sense was in over drive and I knew better but we went anyways. About $170 to get out of there and to this day I am still irritated I didn’t use my common sense…

2points

Tweetysvoice 4 years ago

Confused.. how to the scammers make money off this one? Do they get a cut of the tea sale?

2points

Dave P 4 years ago

the scammer is the Cafe, the person on the street is the lure

8points

Mayrene Chester 3 years ago

I was approached by a lady and a photographer man in Shanghai who claimed I was supermodel quality and he would like to take some pictures of me. The lady grabbed my arm to pull me somewhere and I pushed her off quite strongly and said no very loudly and left. Not sure what that scam was but either I lose some money or I end up unconscious somewhere.

1point

Anne Mitchell 3 years ago

Why would anyone go anywhere with a complete stranger??????

1point

Cybele Spanjaard 4 years ago

I don't drink teas..

-2points

Vicky Z 4 years ago

Me neither! Wouldn't work for me😅😅😅

0points

Douglas Campbell 4 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Taylor Davis 4 years ago

100 dollars worth of yuan is $100. One hundred yuan is a little over $15.00

10points

Wanh 4 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Oscar Bravo 4 years ago

If you actually read it properly, it's just over £73..

8points

chiarapanama , Karolina Grabowska Report

#15

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Madrid, Spain: The lucky rosary: an older gypsy lady will come up to you with a rosary and as soon as she gets the chance she's going to start telling you your fortune. As soon as she's done she's going to ask you to pay between €5-€25. Avoid this scam by just not letting her give you the rosary and walking away.

Final score:

52points

POST

Nope 4 years ago

I've seen another version of this, they also offer you a sprig of rosemary saying it will bring good luck, even placing it on your hand, then asking for money. If you refuse they threaten to curse you. In Madrid i've seen this lots of times

11points

J-A Laine 4 years ago

Oh, no... a curse... (^^,)

2points

Marilyn Ransberry 4 years ago

Also in Seville

0points

Waldo 4 years ago

Happened to me in Seville as well. When I tried to give them a 2€ coin they started yelling "paper only!" so I just repeated "give me the coin back" until another in their group finally pulled them away.

0points

Charmwashere 4 years ago

I've had two ladies do this to me in Zaragoza. I flipped the tables on her and grabbed her hands and with tears in my eyes, I said in a haunting voice, that her eldest son will meet a terrible fate in the next 7 days. In order to avoid this, she must cross the Puente de Piedra ( a bridge by old town) twice a day for the next 7 days. Once as the sun raises and once as the sun sets. As she gets to the middle of the bridge she must prick her finger and let a drop of blood fall into the river. Her and her sister about fainted and asked who I was. I told them I was the one they have known but never had met. 🤷🏻‍♀️ It seemed to work. They seemed very thankful I had warned them and she gave me her rosery as thanks. I was not bothered for the rest of my stay even though there were many sisters about.

2points

LiuLiu Premium 4 years ago

I got cursed in Spain because I would not hand over money to a Romany

1point

Nanette Kettle 4 years ago

Happened to me in Seville. The lady handed me a sprig of rosemary and offered to do a palm reading for $5. Held both my hands and then asked for $10 because she did both hands. We argued back and forth for awhile before she laughed and said ok. I gave her the $5. I knew it was a scam but a cheap one and I enjoyed it. I still have the rosemary in a zip lock bag somewhere.

1point

Kantami Blossom 4 years ago

Say "thanks, I need all the luck I can get because the police found were I his the bodies" they'll run away.

1point

Caroline Starr 3 years ago

This happens in England at horse race meetings too, specially the big ones, Cheltenham Festival, Epsom Derby, the Grand National.

0points

GAP GAP 4 years ago

Estas chorradas no pasan en Madrid y poco en el resto de España.

0points

Niall Mac Iomera 4 years ago

...just don't pay?

0points

Seb Benson 3 years ago

What can happen is that a "witness passing by" suddenly appears and corroborates their story after they've got the Police involved and, well, you're stuck.

1point

i put the pan in panic 4 years ago

this is good to be warned about, but isn’t g*psy racist?

0points

BaconBenchPress616 4 years ago

I believe the preferred way to refer to them is Roma.

3points

Shane S 4 years ago

Again, don’t accept anything someone tries to give you. It’s never really “free”.

0points

The best way to protect yourself from tourist scams is staying informed about the country. “It should always be on your list before going, everywhere you go there are scams and with more and more knowledge of them, they’ll lower in size.” Moreover, “knowing the country's cultural values, economy and way of life can already make your trip a lot easier as well.”

#16

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Mexico City: There are a lot of fake taxis generally run by local criminals who just borrowed a taxi. These people have been caught sexually abusing the passengers. These taxis can also be the starting point of Secuestro Express which means express kidnapping. The best thing to do is just hire an authorized taxi or take an Uber.

chiarapanama , andresmh Report

Final score:

48points

POST

Salma Hernández 4 years ago

This is specially dangerous if you are a woman and you are alone. Official taxis has the ID in the window, bis enough for you to see it. A personal recommendation is always share with some people your location if you are alone, no matter what.

27points

Davis the Greatest 4 years ago

Just borrowed, or stole?

2points

YoyoSthlm 4 years ago

Why can't they do the same thing in an Uber??

1point

Rale 4 years ago

Or don't go to Mexico.

0points

Cuervo 4 years ago

Chicago is more dangerous. Depends where you go. Mexico is a beautiful country. Kinda ra cist comment.

1point

#17

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Mexico City: As soon as you stop your car at a traffic light, a guy will come up to your windshield and just start cleaning it, even if you don't want him to. Right before you're going to be able to drive again, he's going to come up and ask you for money. Instead, lower your window and say "No quiero que me limpies mi caro" - "I don't want you to clean my car".

chiarapanama , Timmy Karter Report

Final score:

46points

POST

Grant Barke 4 years ago

I prefer to keep my finger on the windshield washer button.

41points

ElenaK 4 years ago

I agree! They do not take no for an answer and they are usually gypsies. I just move once my windshield in this case , and they leave.

2points

Nor 4 years ago

This happens in Souh Africa as well and the guys can become really agressive if you don't pay them

8points

Myrtille rat 4 years ago

same in France once a guy sprayed his" washing" soap on my screen without my consent and as I was saying nope nope don't do that the bast*rd changed for another spray full of motor oil or something like that ,I had to park to clean it as I could; fearing that his buddies would come to steal whatever they could. not a pleasant experience

5points

Caitlin McCauley 4 years ago

This is a big problem in Baltimore City. They can get really aggressive if you refuse to pay and they will often ignore you if you say no or shake your head when they approach your car and will clean the windshield anyway. Then get mad when you don't pay.

5points

Ray Martin 4 years ago

This is not exclusive to Mexico City. We get these in New Zealand, and they're usually youths associated with criminal gangs, or wanting to be. Just shake your head no.

4points

Marco Conti 4 years ago

This was a common scam in Rome when I lived there. I had my cleaning fluid nozzles pointed outwards, so before they got close to cleaning my windscreen, they would get a good soaking. Lots of people started doing the same thing and by the time I left Italy,m there weren;t many window cleaners left. I also found the same scam in a lot of other capitals, but I wasn't as well equipped.

3points

Kiki Embryonic 4 years ago

This happens in literally every major city on the planet :|

2points

BasedWang 4 years ago

This is in any city... And the gas pumpers

2points

Salma Hernández 4 years ago

This are a plague. It is common with kids. Personal recommendation is ignore them. don't low the window. Just tell them a NO with your head or hand. But as a revenge they will put water with soap in the window and they wont clean. Then they will go.

2points

VG. Premium 4 years ago

This happens in lots of countries

1point

Natassa Anagnostopoulou 4 years ago

Same in Greece....

1point

#18

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler London, UK: This scam is around music festivals. Around the Wembley arena, or around the Roundhouse, people will sell you fake tickets to enter the music venue. Avoid scalpers and just try to get the tickets online.

chiarapanama , Steve Baker Report

Final score:

45points

POST

viola hello 4 years ago

Happens in USA too.

20points

Honu 4 years ago

Yep. That's not just for tourists. Locals get scammed like that, too.

1point

Robert T 4 years ago

Not necessarily fake, but resold tickets at a higher price, and frequently resold tickets are no longer accepted when you come to try to get in. London also used to have people trying to sell used day tickets for the tube, though I don't think these are so prevalent now with the use of Oyster cards (electronic travel cards that you top up).

2points

JuniorCJ82 4 years ago

This is most definitely NOT just a UK thing.

0points

Sportsgal 4 years ago

Happens a lot in NYC streets for attractions

0points

Miguel justino C 4 years ago

Since man had a paid event people were scamming it

0points

Thomas Sweda 4 years ago

Or avoid that s****y music in the first place.

-1point

Chiara said that every time she visits a country as a tourist, she tends to dress accordingly, because “doing so makes it harder for scammers to spot you out of the crowd which tends to mean you won’t be the victim of a scam.” TikToker concluded that she hopes her content will help fellow travelers to not feel scared to visit other countries and make them want to travel more.

#19

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Beijing, China: Counterfeit cash: the Chinese over the past years have realized that a lot of visitors don't know what a yuan looks like, so when you get your change back, you might get this counterfeit cash. Try to avoid shady streets and buy at official stores.

chiarapanama , Mussi Katz Report

Final score:

45points

POST

#20

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Istanbul, Turkey: When taking a taxi, know that there are a lot of "scenic routes" in Istanbul, so the drivers can take you on a longer trip. Before you go somewhere, ask anyone how much it would cost generally to get from point A to B, so when you get into a taxi, you already have a price in mind.

chiarapanama , Iker Merodio Report

Final score:

44points

POST

Cigdem Kanburoğlu 4 years ago

Do not trust a taxi in İstanbul, even the locals do not trust them. Use public transportation which is easy to use (apart from rush hour)

33points

Myrtille rat 4 years ago

that's a worldwide scam not only in Turkey

7points

Dora But Not Explorer 4 years ago

Ten times more in Istanbul. As a local, I never even take a taxi in Istanbul.

2points

Charmwashere 4 years ago

Just say I have x amount of money. How far can you take me? But try not to use them if you can.

0points

Natalie Seaton 4 years ago

That's true for every touristy city, tho.

0points

#21

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Athens, Greece: Book on the table: while you're outside on a terrace in a restaurant, a guy will come up and he looks like he's reading a book or purposefully selling something, he'll come up and put this stuff on your table and offer to sell it, or he will just talk to you, stack the book or whatever they were selling on whatever is yours and then leave with it.

chiarapanama , Andrea Piacquadio Report

Final score:

39points

POST

BasedWang 4 years ago

this one might actually be helpful to some. If not paying enough attention they can be slick

11points

Fee Hofmann 4 years ago

Even before the pandemic I implemented the 6ft rule. I don't let strangers get closer to me than that if I can avoid it. I'm very polite about it, but I don't f-around.

3points

Chich 4 years ago (edited)

I have on occasion allowed people like this to get away with it. What they end up with is a fake wallet or item I've made up. When they open it they find papers covered in sigils and other devices. Many of these people can be very superstitious if you pick the right locale. I like to think they have a few sleepless nights.

2points

Dave van Es 4 years ago

Or use a map of the area, and they ask you to help them find a location

0points

Stanley Judd 4 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

#22

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Istanbul, Turkey: If you're at a restaurant, a music group might come up and serenade you while you pay the check for your food, so you'll get distracted. When you expect your change, they'll tell you you paid the exact amount. Always pay by card or the exact amount.

chiarapanama , Marko Milivojevic Report

Final score:

39points

POST

Cigdem Kanburoğlu 4 years ago

do not eat at Sultan Ahmet's touristic areas. Go to where local people go. You will avoid tourist scammers this way.

22points

Vicky Z 4 years ago

Visiting places where mostly locals go, is the best rule for traveling generally!! All countries have touristic traps

2points

cybermerlin2000 4 years ago

Here's a fun little trick. When they turn up and start playing... stop paying! Turn and smile and enjoy the music until the server shoos them off because they are distracting you from paying them, making it look like their trick backfired

7points

#23

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Seoul, South Korea: Fake high end bags being sold. In Ewha Womans University, women have been caught selling fake cosmetic products only to foreigners. Only buy from established retail owners.

chiarapanama , Teemeah Report

Final score:

39points

POST

John L 4 years ago (edited)

The thing about "fake" bags and clothing being sold in Korea, is that at one time they were legit. Foreigners (Gucci, Prada, etc.) came in and built factories to make these products, then left once wages rose. The factories were still there so they kept making product. Still every bit as good as an original, just not sanctioned. Fake is a bit of a misnomer, in this instance. Don't know anything about the fake cosmetics, though.

27points

Enamelcamel 4 years ago

No. Using the Gucci logo to sell a product when it is NOT made for or by Gucci is theft - more or less the actual DEFINITION of a "fake".

2points

Honu 4 years ago

I can't know for sure because I've never been there or seen this. I am a bit skeptical if the quality will be the same since the manufacturer is no longer held to that by contract. As long as it looks passable to their mark, they can cut corners and make more money.

2points

Timothy Leung 4 years ago

15+ years ago a famed Hong Kong singer (lady) attending an LV event, wearing a fake LV pouch...

0points

Makajha Banjjjak 3 years ago

Prices of the high end bags is a scam on it's own

1point

Becky Samuel 4 years ago

At least half of these are unsubstantiated, not specific to any one place, or just downright urban myths. This is a very lazy article.

0points

julien 4 years ago

NO SCAM IN THE USA ??? interesting...

-1point

Honu 4 years ago

Several of the things I've seen here are very common in the USA, including selling fake designer bags.

3points

chiarapanama , Thank You (21 Millions+) views Report

#24

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Buenos Aires, Argentina: The cabaret scam: while walking down the street, a beautiful woman may come up and offer you to see a free show. You go, have a great time, order a few drinks and then when you close out the tab you get a receipt with a bunch of things you didn't order. They're still going to make you pay for it.

Final score:

38points

POST

Samantha PandaNotBored 4 years ago

Hmm , half of these are just made up.

12points

InfectedVoice 4 years ago

Common in Amsterdam with the sex clubs as well.

6points

Vicky Z 4 years ago

You would think that by now we would know that NOTHING is free in life

3points

Cory Tollman 4 years ago

A typical bar scam, even here in the US, is a woman gets you to buy her a drink. If you aren't paying attention she will order something incredibly expensive and you'll be on the hook for it when you go to close out your tab. There will be all kinds of threats, getting the police involved etc... The woman who asked you to buy her a drink more or less works for the bar as part of a scam.

3points

Jeffrey 4 years ago

Had this happen in Paris.

3points

Bob Belcher 4 years ago

Am I the only one that plans out my vacations? I have things to do, I don't have time to see a "free" show.

2points

Evan Martin 4 years ago

Would paying for the drinks as they come instead of opening a tab bypass this issue?

1point

Raj Kuthrapali 4 years ago

ha ha ha ha! a Free show?! sure. Why not go for it? People don't need money. Just the joy on your face, the wonder in your eyes is payment enough.

-1point

#25

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Rome, Italy: The glamorous (wo)man: they come up and introduce themselves with an Italian accent and ask where the Colosseum is. They'll tell you they work for Versace, Gucci or any other major brand, and they'll offer you a free product if you help them get there. They'll give you the product, and ask you for money, like "can you give me $20 for gas". The product is fake. Don't take it and don't help them.

chiarapanama , EVG Culture Report

Final score:

36points

POST

Ba Loeloe 4 years ago

Why would a Italian ask you, a tourist, where the Colosseum is?

67points

Guido Pisano 4 years ago

not all italians live in Rome and know its streets...

12points

Honu 4 years ago (edited)

Being asked for directions is incredibly rare these days in places where having smartphones and decent connectivity is standard. That right away would make me suspicious. You work for Versace and don't know how to get directions on your phone? An Italian asking a foreigner rather than another Italian would also be weird. That would take it to absolutely the heck no.

8points

John C 4 years ago

You're on vacation, in a good mood, and maybe not as "on guard" as you should be, so these questions don't pop into your mind at the time. Besides, I've lived in Chicago for close to 20 years now, and I bet your average tourist downtown knows where all the touristy sites are better than I.

6points

Rose the Cook 4 years ago

Someone would have to be dumb not to ask exactly that.

1point

Marilyn Ransberry 4 years ago

Exactly

0points

John L 4 years ago

It's to make you feel good. What could make a tourist feel better than helping a "local". If they stop to think about it, it makes no sense, but tourists are usually in awe of their surroundings and are not keeping up their guard.

0points

Kantami Blossom 4 years ago

Nobody is going to give you a Gucci or Versace item for giving them directions, if your dumb enough to fall for that then you deserve to be robbed.

5points

Kiki Embryonic 4 years ago

This is so stupid. Who would fall for this?

0points

Kiddo Oh 4 years ago

Italian people introducing themselves with an italian accent... the mother of red flags...

0points

Shelli Aderman 4 years ago

How, “DUH” could this be? 🤣🤣🤣🤦🏽‍♀️

0points

BasedWang 4 years ago

Sheeeeeit just buy summa the bootleg stuff in the subway.. Those people probably need it more anyway, and some have decent "gucci".. I can literally say I got my gucci belt in Italy.

-2points

#26

26 Of The Most Used Tourist Scams That Still Work Because Not Enough People Are Aware Of Them, As Shared By This Traveler Istanbul, Turkey: Shoe cleaners: a lot of times an older man will be walking in front of you and "accidentally" drop a brush. If you pick it up, he'll offer you to clean your shoes. You're going to think that's free, but nothing is free.

chiarapanama , Alaskan Dude Report

Final score:

36points

POST

Cigdem Kanburoğlu 4 years ago

they do not charge you more than 2 dollar. The worst would want 5 (the scammer ones). And anyone could have thought it is not free, they are trying to earn for living. It is hardly a scam.

45points

Rale 4 years ago

Bit stil dishonest way to get customers

3points

Lunar Bicycle 4 years ago

Why on earth would anyone assume that someone would clean your shoes for free?

14points

Samantha Lomb 4 years ago

Hey if the guy could actually get my shoes clean it would be quite a feat. Mud season in Kirov trashes footwear

5points

Kantami Blossom 4 years ago

Not really a scam, just a bad way of selling their services.

4points

LH 4 years ago (edited)

In Rio this one is much more unpleasant. As you are walking along the street, some "helpful" shoe-shiner will tap you on the shoulder, and point out that you have an enormous clump of dog-doo on the TOP of your shoe, and offer to clean it. Gosh, I wonder how that got there....? (this scam involves a second person dropping the doo on an unsuspecting shoe just within sight of the shoe shiner....) Happened to me, and a couple of colleagues, in Ipanema.

2points

Kantami Blossom 3 years ago

That's not really a scam, more like entrapment so they can offer you a service.

0points

Johnny Rodriguez 4 years ago

Nothing..

0points