Tourist Or Easy Target?
A vacation should be about taking in new experiences, not getting played like a chump. But let's be real. Tourists are seen as easy targets at many prominent destinations around the world. Some scams are so smooth that you won't even realize you've been fooled until it's way too late. So, If you're heading to any of these cities—stay alert! Scammers are practically part of the local experience.
1. Bangkok
In Bangkok, Tuk-tuks weave through traffic with ease. While it's a fun way to explore the city, some drivers use cheap rides as bait. The moment the trip begins, unexpected detours to gem shops and tailors unfold. Hidden commissions fuel this scam. So, always confirm the price and refuse unnecessary stops to avoid overpayment.
2. Paris
Tourists engulfed in the city's charm may get approached by clipboard-carrying petitioners. Soon, a friendly smile turns into a pushy demand for money. Some even use this moment to pickpocket unsuspecting visitors. By the time you stop feeling bad for them, it's too late.
Cheng-en Cheng from Taichung City, Taiwan on Wikimedia
3. Rome
Gladiator costumes add to the Colosseum's historic appeal, but this does not mean that the performers should demand the outrageous fees they usually do after you take a picture with them. The friendly act quickly vanishes when you raise eyebrows about the amount they're asking for.
4. Barcelona
A crowded metro ride or a packed street market is prime territory for expert pickpockets in Barcelona. A person might just bump into you while their partner slyly steals your belongings. Distractions like a spilled drink or a 'gift' could serve as part of the trick. So, stay alert and keep your luggage secure.
5. Istanbul
Hospitality is part of Turkish culture. Still, you might come across shopkeepers who use it as a sales trap. If you get an invitation for tea, just remember it can become an aggressive sales pitch, often for overpriced carpets or jewelry. Just say something polite and save yourself the trouble.
6. Marrakech
In Marrakech, you'll see market vendors eagerly calling out to visitors. They offer vibrant textiles, spices, and trinkets. Bargaining is expected, but tourists can start at a massive disadvantage with inflated prices. Some sellers become pushy when you reject them. So, all you can do is confidently walk away to show you're uninterested.
Esteban Palacios Blanco on Unsplash
7. New York
Broadway's bright lights attract dreamers to New York, some disguised as scam artists. Fake black market ticket sellers tend to lure in eager theatergoers with 'exclusive deals.' The disappointment sets in only when they reach the venue and are denied entry.
8. Mexico City
In Mexico City, a short taxi trip can turn costly when a driver claims their meter is 'broken' or takes an unnecessarily long route. Some even operate fake taxis that drop passengers at unsafe locations where their partners are usually ready to rob the passengers. Sticking to app-based rides or official taxi stands is the best option here.
9. Dubai
Tourists have reported being stopped by fake officers who demand on-the-spot fines for supposed infractions. Real Dubai police do not operate this way. In such cases, politely asking to resolve the matter at a police station often exposes the scam.
10. Shanghai
Tea culture is a highlight here. Just watch out for casual invitations, though, as they can quickly turn into a high-pressure scam. Strangers approach tourists, inviting them for tea at an unknown shop. Prices skyrocket, and refusal isn't an option.
11. Bali
When in Bali, choose hotel spas or confirm rates upfront when anyone offers you a massage at the beach. Beach massages seem like the perfect vacation treat, but some masseuses have other plans. Prices appear cheap at first, only to jump dramatically after the service. Arguments soon follow, with threats of police involvement.
12. London
Ever heard of fake monks? You might find them in London, where they hand out small trinkets or prayer beads and then push for donations. These imposters can also become aggressive when you refuse to pay them. Real monks neither ask for money this way nor drop this low.
13. Prague
The best thing is to withdraw cash from an ATM or exchange money at a bank. Don't fall for great deals promised at the Currency exchanges in Prague because the fine print may tell another story. Tourists often receive poor rates or are handed useless foreign bills instead of local currency in this city. The trick? It's in the misleading signage.
14. Las Vegas
Is someone offering you a VIP ticket to an exclusive party in LA? If it looks too good to be true, reject the offer. Most of the time, they are fake. Excitement runs high on the Strip, and scammers know how to cash in. Try to buy directly from the club or official promoters to avoid wasting money on a fake pass.
15. Athens
Once again, with the broken meter scam. Athens also has taxi drivers who claim their meter is not working, while others take unnecessarily long detours. Airport routes and major tourist hubs are hotspots for this scam. Just find registered taxis or use ride-hailing apps to always get a fair price.
16. Rio de Janeiro
A guided tour should offer local insight, but what if a self-proclaimed guide provides nothing but a hefty bill? Worse, what if they take your money and disappear mid-tour? In Rio de Janeiro, go for certified guides only, those who carry official identification and work with registered agencies. Verify their credentials before the reservation of a tour to prevent disappointment.
Wilfredo Rafael Rodriguez Hernandez on Wikimedia
17. Cairo
Are all ancient-looking papyrus scrolls the real deal? The answer is a big no. Some street vendors sell copies. They use chemically treated banana leaves or tea-stained paper to mimic authentic craftsmanship. On the other hand, shopping at museum gift shops will help you purchase a genuine souvenir.
18. Delhi
Jewelry shops in busy markets offer shiny gemstones at 'special' tourist prices. You may even find sellers who provide fake certificates to make the stones seem valuable. The safest option is to buy from trusted jewelers with established reputations and verifiable authenticity guarantees. So, do some solid research before you go jewelry shopping in Delhi.
19. Ho Chi Minh City
Street games seem like harmless fun until your wallet goes missing. In Ho Chi Minh City, travelers are often lured into interesting bets while an accomplice picks pockets. A slight distraction, like a sudden cheer or an accidental bump, is all it takes.
Steffen Schmitz (more photos) on Wikimedia
20. Venice
Want to enjoy a meal by the canals? Beware of restaurants that slip extra charges for service, seating, or unordered bread and water. The hidden fees turn an affordable dish into an overpriced meal. Ask for a menu with prices and check the bill, or else the surprise fees may make you feel like you were better off dining at a fancy restaurant after all.
