Beware of Travel Scams
When Traveling to another country, you should be aware that there are many scammers out there. They are waiting for you the tourist.There are many travel scams out there so beware. Scams are easy to avoid if you recognize them. But remember, even the smartest traveler can get conned into a trap. Don’t let it ruin your trip, i have put together some tips that may help you avoid such scams.
Tip 1 – The Scuffle Pickpocket. Assume beggars and pickpockets use distractions such as a scuffle or fight to take your belongings. If you stop for any commotion or fight, put your hands in your pockets before the theives do. Theives will set up these scams regularly on the busiest streets. For Example, i was walking down the streets of Barcelona when i saw a women being, what looked like, attacked by a mugger, she yelled for the police, a man dressed in a police uniform came over and tackled the man gave her the purse she lost back. Little did i know, half the large crowd watching were losing there wallets. The so called cop, women and mugger, were all in on the pickpocket scam. The good news is you can avoid such scams. Most Pickpockets look like well dressed buisnessmen. Some pose as tourists with backpacks, and cameras. Best bet, is to always wear a money belt.
Tip 2 – Street games. Avoid playing any street games with the vendors. Many places in other countries have street vendors with games and magical tricks that are designed to take your cash. I think we have all seen the “find the ball in the cup game”. You Pay to guess where the ball will end up in the cups. You can be sure that the players are all being scammed, and the winners are set up by the theives. You will only be throwing your money away. Another subtle scam is that of the street performers/magicians. These theives are trained in the art of dissaperaing money. Stear clear of performers, cuz you will walk away with no money in your wallet.
Tip 3 – Taxi Cab – This can be the most rampant scam in other countries. Many taxi drivers overcharge tourists for a taxi ride. Sometimes they will drop a big bill, and grab a smaller bill, and say you underpayed. They will charge you night rates on the meter, and expect gratuity, even in the day. To decrease your odds of getting ripped off, try looking for Taxis at Hotels and make sure they have a phone number for you to call. You can always agree on a price, without even running the meter. This helps for no confusion later. If the cabbie wont give you a ride for your price, get out and leave, most cabbies will want your buisness and say ok.
Tip 4 – Police scam – Many Police in other countries use there power to take the cash of tourists. They will ask to search your belongings for drugs, or your wallet for counterfeit money. When really all they are doing is taking your stuff. Also beware of fake cops, they will flash there counterfeit badges, and do the same routine. A good rule is, just because someone looks official it doesnt mean they are. Dont let the gun, badge, and uniform fool you.
Tip 5 – Be Alert – Whenever cash is involved in traveling, always stay alert. the theives want you to be distracted. Whether your on a train, in a hotel, or just roaming the streets, etc… Always be on the lookout for something to get taken. Never open your door to anyone in a hotel. Never make good friends with someone on a train, who is just feeding to get your information. When at a Bank, always go in, and dont use the ATM. Be careful once inside the bank, never give more info than you need to. The word NO is known in most of the world, and its a powerful word that gets people off your back.
The world is generally not a dangerous place, but always be aware that theives want to seperate you from your money and belongings no mater where you go. Don’t let it ruin your trip, by all means enjoy your travels.