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Scams to Avoid when Traveling
You know those recipe blogs where you have to scroll down three CVS receipts before you get to see the recipe? Well, this article is the polar opposite of that because who has time for that when it comes to travel safety? Not me and definitely not you. Especially when it comes to scams, the most important thing is recognition so don’t expect a laundry list of explanations. With that said, here are the top scams you need be wary of whether traveling domestically or internationally.
*This article will be organized by scams that I can recall and experience, not by country because some are universal. As I visit new places and observe the same or new scams, I will add to this article. So, unless noted by a citation, the countries listed are based on my observations. While the featured destinations may be somewhat narrow for now,* rest assured you can undoubtedly gain valuable insights and learn to hone in on the key indicators.
Firstly, I want to acknowledge that there is extreme poverty everywhere, even in the most beautiful and touristy places. You never know what someone is going through, their past etc. This is a tough topic because some people just have to hustle to make it by. With this, keep in mind I do not know what is going on in their lives, and no one does as an observer.
The best example I can give is when I felt the most morally challenged in Cancún, México, because the economy relies heavily on tourism, forcing many locals in areas around Cancún, to work in the tourism industry. This is reflected through sales behavior because sales are “pushier” and more involved/up close with foreigners. Where I struggled was thinking about if I did not buy from them, how would it effect their life that day or month (not that I have that much power, but on a micro scale there’s no way to know). In west Europe, it was not nearly as personal or involved, so keep this in mind. Additionally, while tourism might be a very large industry in many places, it’s not the only prominent one.
I would love it if ya’ll comment on your experiences facing scams and, or the moral battle of these interactions which we are privileged to even “deal” with.
The Clear Cup Scam
Often seen in France, this scam is typically located on the most bustling streets with the narrowest sidewalks. I personally have seen “veterans” be the scam orchestrator and in the south of France, there is a very consistent one by Garibaldi who has a dog (which breaks my heart).
What do they do? They place a clear cup with money in it and place it in front of them with the hopes that you knock it down while you are walking by (the scammer is usually sitting down). This way you can hear or feel it happen. Then they ask you for money because you should feel bad for kicking down their earnings. Another thing they may do is pick pocket you when you bend down.
Countries observed? France, various sources also include: Greece (Athens), Belgium (Brussels)…
The “Spread” Scam
Depending on where you are, this may be a scam or a vendor unknowingly copying the same layout as other vendors around them to make the street look cohesive. Now that I wrote that I don’t believe that coincidence… I found these pictures I took to demonstrate.
What do they do? These vendors will spread out their goods they want to in sell in high traffic areas to target tourists and, similar to the clear cup scam, this “spread” can cause you to trip or run into their goods.
Often, you’ll find these in tourist spots like the Sacré Coeur or along busy streets in the center of town. The “spread” ranges from fake designer merchandise to live artists. I do believe some of these vendors, like the artists, aren’t necessarily scamming? (I hope) but the whole concept is for it to be an inconvenience and in the way. It forces you to look at their products as you’re walking by. I’ve seen people selling figurines, landmark items like the Eiffel Tower or the leaning Tower of Pisa, you get the point. However the price points are usually ridiculous, and I would avoid these. Honestly, I even try to avoid looking in their direction.
I have to assume they’re not bad people, but they are going to try to upsell to foreigners. Most of the merchandise they sell they get from supermarkets or souvenir shops. Nothing they sell is usually unique. I have seen this in México but not displayed in the streets. Meaning, most souvenir shops in Cancun sell the EXACT same products.
Countries observed? France,
The Rose/Flower Scam
This one is very common everywhere. Keep an eye out for men (typically) who target women who are alone or men who are traveling with a woman (bonus points if you’re a couple)!
What do they do? This scam orchestrator will walk around with a bunch of roses and hand you one while complimenting you, and unassumingly, people might think they are a gift (they’re not). They will say sweet nothings into oblivion, and I have even seen them walk into restaurants harassing people during their meal. At night, they will roam the streets outside of bars.
Once, some girls I had met in Paris and I encountered it and they told me after the harsh exchange that this man in particular did not ask them if they wanted one but told them something along the lines of “here, 5 euros”, as if it was not an option. It’s not always roses but that is the most common. Save yourself some time and go get flowers from the market stalls. As a general rule of thumb, if anyone is attempting to “gift” you something in highly touristy areas, then there’s going to be a cost along with a very awkward conversation. This leads me to the next scam,
Countries observed? France, Italy,
The Wrist Scam
Continuing on,
What do they do? Instead of flowers, these scammers will put a bracelet on your arm as a “gift” but then demand payment. I separated this one because it often involves direct physical contact while the rose scam is about convincing and an in-your-face sales pitch. There is rarely a time where the person will ask you if you want the bracelet before placing it on you, while the flowers, something people might be more emotionally enticed to buy, won’t be forced on your hand (in most cases). If you are a parent, be extra careful because I have seen them target kids, which I believe is taking it too far.
Fun fact, I have noticed many boyfriends buy a rose for their partner as an act of “kindness” but also to show they’re supporting the “less fortunate” (an exact quote I heard from a boyfriend in France). It’s definitely in the ego and a peculiar way of “impressing” someone.
Countries observed? France, Italy,
Services Scam
What do they do? Generally, these scams have a range of ways of showing themself. There isn’t one specific thing to look for, but a very common example is taking pictures. If a local is offering to take your picture or can see you are struggling, they will offer. It only becomes a scam in places of high traffic. If you haven’t noticed, most of these situations will only happen in high traffic areas with a lot of tourists, not to say it won’t happen in less popular areas, so just be aware.
If a person or people are trying to offer some kind of service, it often is going to be at a cost. Taking pictures is the most common way I have seen foreigners give up money or feel obligated to pay them something. I mean when someone is holding your phone with the chance to escape, wouldn’t you?
Countries observed? All,
More Coming Soon…
good luck and safe travels<3!
(I’m just going to email you when I publish a new article 😉
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