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Scams against tourists are found universally, and the traveler is vulnerable as he is in unfamiliar surroundings and at times is exposed to being “assisted” by a native “friend”. That, coupled by the fact that there are folks in practically each tourist location who build their living on the unsuspecting vacationer, and it can leave a damper on what is meant to be an ideal happening. Here are 5 frequent scams against tourists, and how to avoid them. 1. Travel Deal Bait and Switch. Beware of the hotel offering complimentary meals at its restaurant, then changing the provisions when you reach your destination, perhaps even waiting until when you check out and then saying the first package was invalid. Be sure when checking in to spell out the stipulations of the package arrangement, and each time get your arrangement in print and also have it with you. If you receive disreputable behavior from the hotel, each time possible record your problems on the hotel commentary. "Trip Adviser" is one I repeatedly utilize. Most savvy travelers read these previous to booking, and this type of operator will soon be out of business. 2. Insurance. Generally travel organizations are on commission to sell you insurance, and unfortunately some misinform the traveler. A Consumer Association investigation recently reported 81 % of consumers didn’t have their coverage accurately explained to them by their travel agent, 55% weren’t informed regarding their additional expenditure and 65% weren’t asked with reference to any existing medical complaints that might have left them exposed. For car insurance, possess a copy of your insurance protection rather than having to take insurance from the rental agency, that may cost practically as much as the rental itself. 3. Counterfeit Merchandise. You might visit some travel spots that make available great shopping opportunities, where merchandise is on sale for only a fraction of its charge in another place. These versions are nearly always fake or knockoffs. This may not be a big deal to you, but just take into account, if the buy feels too good to be true, it is. 4. Money Exchanges. There are frequent scams against tourists concerning exchange booths, and there are times when you are required to utilize them. I've found, too, that their exchange rates can often (but not at all times) be better than banking institutions. The largest part are authentic, but be careful when they count out bills in very small denominations or the site or individual that you are dealing with is not obviously permanent. Accordingly each time obtain a receipt, and choose permanent premises, so when you have difficulties with phony money you will have someplace to bring the law enforcement to. 5. Unauthorized Taxis. The last of our 5 common scams against vacationers is getting into unofficial taxis; in no way, ever utilize one. The best thing that will occur is you are going to be overcharged. The worst could be the horror tales of being kidnapped and robbed (predominantly in Central and South America), but you are open to this everywhere. Sadly, the old traveler's custom of sharing cabs to economize is no longer safe, as gang members or accomplices can pose as travelers getting into that taxi with you. These are just 5 frequent scams against tourists. That obviously does not mean the only way to avoid these unscrupulous individuals is to not travel. But being forewarned helps, and in my dealings with them a blueprint appears to be to pray on your sense of greed (a great deal you can’t pass up), or your sense of goodness. So only accept “bargains” from people you already know who you are dealing with and you understand fully what the deal is. Click HERE for more tips on travel deals, and for some excellent information when traveling in Europe, click HERE. Jim O'Connell is a writer and travel enthusiast living in London.
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