Getting scammed when on vacation is one of the things that has the power to ruin a sweet holiday. Being new in a destination, you are most likely to get ripped off by some shady locals.
Most times, some locals use every opportunity available to scam tourists. In one way or the other, travelers are usually getting ripped off without even knowing because they know little or nothing about their new destination. From paying outrageous prices for some items to getting charged more than you should by taxi drivers or store owners, tourists are scammed EVERYWHERE they go to!
To stop being victim of these shady people when next you travel, here are few tips to help you avoid them.
DO YOUR RESEARCH ABOUT A COUNTRY VERY WELL
New to an environment, it may be very difficult to know the areas and type of people to dodge, so it is important to carry out a good research.
Before leaving for a destination, always take your time to research everything your need to know about the place. Go online to get more information and if you’re not satisfied with the information you get, ask locals all the necessary information you need to know before you arrive. That way, you have a good idea of what you will be paying for or buying.
DO NOT BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU SEE
Not everything that glitters is gold. Seeing beautiful things, places does not mean they are exactly the way you see them. Nowadays, people like to package their products and services in a deceptive manner that attracts tourists. Before getting anything, paying for your accommodation, renting things, etc, make sure you just don’t settle for the beauty they show you. Go further to get reviews about the product or service to be sure it is exactly the way they show you.
BARGAIN VERY WELL BEFORE BUYING ANYTHING
Market sellers are good at ripping tourists off, so bargain well. When purchasing some things from a store, do not settle for whatever price they give you (they know some tourists get carried away by the beautiful items they are about to purchase and wouldn’t mind paying any amount for it, so they tend to hike the price of the goods). Always cut down the price little by little till you get a favourable cost. Bargaining is very important when purchasing items from locals at your destination.
TALK TO A TRUSTED PERSON
Not everyone can be trusted to be honest, not even your guide. Because you have a guide that takes you around does not mean he/she cannot scam you. I’m not saying your guide cannot help you around, but sometimes don’t trust whatever they tell you (some are just concerned about what they will get). Make sure you know, get information and make use of advice from a trusted person (preferably, let someone recommend a good person they have used in that same destination for you).
No one is too smart not to be scammed. Anybody can be scammed anywhere! So always ensure you are filled with enough information when you are going on a trip.
