A chance to get away from the miserable weather back home, it is only natural for us to seek out warmer pastures every year.
Holidaying can be a great way of relaxing, unwinding, and forgetting the troubles of life.
However, there are a number of scams that happen to unsuspecting tourists that can almost certainly ruin a holiday entirely.
With that in mind, experts at Scams.info have provided expert tips on how to avoid the most widespread scams targeting tourists abroad:
Pickpocket. pic.twitter.com/r29IiGV16w
— Jan Wouters Esq. 🇧🇪 🇺🇦 @[email protected] (@layoutdokter) July 11, 2023
Transport
When taking trips abroad, it’s vital to consider how you will travel throughout the country beforehand. Unregulated airport taxis could take advantage of the fact that you aren’t local and may be uneducated on typical fares. As a result, you could be charged extremely high rates or taken to the incorrect destination which pays the taxi a finder’s fee, rather than the hotel, restaurant or particular business you requested.
To avoid this, travellers should always research reliable, licensed taxi firms rather than getting into the first one they see. In most countries, taxi drivers are required to carry and display their ID badge in the vehicle. Always ask the driver what the fare will be, before starting the journey. If the driver refuses to show you their ID or pre-warn you of fares, book with another taxi firm and do not enter the vehicle.
This Gorgeous Spot Is Known As The Maldives Of Europe And It’s Incredibly Cheap To Visit – Chriskings https://t.co/7k1H1LDOhf
— Chris King Travel Agency (@chriskingus) July 15, 2023
Hotel and Accommodation
When booking accommodation online, ensure to fully research the facility before booking. Look for reviews with images and check to make sure it’s a registered building. More and more adverts are appearing to show accommodation that isn’t real, outdated and different to the visuals provided. By booking through reputable travel agencies, you can avoid illegitimate accommodation as the agency will cover all of the above bases for you.
Public Wifi
Most hosts will offer holidaymakers the services of their shared public WiFi. Whilst this is convenient, it’s key to remember that public WiFi may not be as secure as your private network at home. When browsing the internet, make sure you don’t use sites and apps that input personal information, like contact or bank card details.
Alternatively, you can download a VPN, which will allow you to block any unwarranted third-party companies from accessing your data.
Pickpockets
Pickpocketing is the oldest scam in the book, but now more than ever, scammers are becoming increasingly creative. Scammers may interact with you directly, to allow time for a third party to steal from under your nose whilst you’re distracted. When in crowded, public spaces, it’s always vital to keep your personal belongings close by. It’s best practice to leave valuables at home, but if you must bring them with you, store them in a money belt or bum bag to prevent theft.
Activities and excursions
When booking excursions or additional activities during your trip, always book through an official company. Some illegitimate companies may lack the health and safety precautions necessary to keep you safe abroad. The safest option is to book any extra activities or excursions directly through the official travel agency that you booked your trip with. If you choose to book with a third-party, thoroughly research the company beforehand and always look at previous customer reviews.
#SarkaruVaariPaata #kalaavathi this casino scenes in spain 💥💥 pic.twitter.com/kjhn5AOKLz
— urstrulychaitanya ❤️🔥 (@SriChai84096869) February 19, 2022
Photography
It’s important to note that no landmark will have official photographers. Companies that claim to do so are likely to insist that only their photos are permitted, but this is just a ploy to force you into paying them for something that is otherwise free.
To avoid this, always consult staff working in or nearby landmarks as they will likely have great general knowledge of the area and be able to advise you on any photography regulations.
Gambling
Make sure to thoroughly research any casino games you may take part in whilst on holiday, to avoid being scammed.
Casino staff may explain a game to you in a lengthy way to take advantage of the fact that you lack knowledge in this area, and may favor the casino.