Scammers are everywhere these days no matter the place. Scams also keep changing with the times, technology, and the place. There is no certain way to know what scam you might encounter on your way. You come across such incidence when least expected. It sure is frustrating to fall for such scandals. Tourists are the main targets when it comes to scams because they do not know the surroundings and the culture. They fall prey to lies easily. To avoid any potential risk to you and your belongings, here are some important and generalized tips which would be helpful in any situation:
1. Check terms and conditions when booking a flight or accommodation
Hotel booking and transportation booking are the necessary evil of a trip. It is necessary to check the terms and conditions of the site through which you are making your arrangements. Don't pay or sign anything until you are sure. To avoid being scammed by the hotels you can manage your booking through well-known sites.
2. Not every free offer is good
Free offers could sometimes be so tempting that you can forget to be cautious. Of course, traveling is costly and you might want to save some money here and there but nothing comes for free. There are always hidden charges and sometimes even consequences. So don't fall for offers that are too good to be true because they generally are that way.
3. Talk to the locals and gain information
The locals in any place would have experienced these scams so they are the best source of information. The safest people to ask for the correct information are people with their families, and people working in the local shops and markets. They know the place best. Generally, the fishy people are detectable so that depends on your judgment. Talking to locals will save you from scams or even overcharging by local vendors or shopkeepers because sometimes even they can be misguiding you.
4. Beware of your valuables
Scamming can happen by distracting you or pushing you in crowded places as this way it's easy for the thieves to steal your wallet, phone, or bag. So, if possible stay away from crowded places and keep your things close by. Staying aware of your surroundings is very important. Don't carry all your cash or valuables with you. Leave some of the money at your accommodation safely. Also, avoid places that are fishy or empty.
5. Strangers might not always be the right people
Strangers can sometimes be God-sent angels who may have helped you when you needed it the most. That's not always the case sometimes strangers can be your worst enemies. If someone is being over-friendly with you or is too keen to help you, better stay away from them as they are not respecting your boundaries. These people might have something to gain from helping you. People who want to help will not be pushy about it.
6. Use official taxis and public transport
Don't travel in just any vehicle. They might overcharge you and most of all could rob you. It could also prove to be fatal. Taking taxis is a much better option as the fares are fixed and sometimes you can also confirm the fare online. Take public transport like trains, buses, metros, etc. they are safer and even cheaper.
7. Reach out to a friend at the destination
Having a friend abroad or the place that you wish to travel to is such a blessing. They might not be available to help you with sightseeing or staying with you but they can help by providing you with local information. Ask them about the fares of the place, attractions, possible scams, good hotels, restaurants, and everything that you need. if you can't think of anyone who can help you with all this information try to network or ask around if anyone else has a connection there.
8. Watch vlogs and read blogs
In this era of the internet and connectivity, it is very easy to access information. So, what are waiting for? Do just watch videos of the particular place you wish to visit. Generally, there are videos with such information which you can trust. Read travel blogs of the place it generally provides the experiences related to scams.
9. Don't share your personal information
Know what personal information can be shared and with whom. Know the common law of the place which might tell you whether certain information about you is needed by the officials or the hotel staff or not. Officials can also be fake when it comes to scams. Always ask for their identity card only then fulfill any demand by them. Already research what a police batch looks like.
10. Don't get drunk alone
A sober person can be robbed so easily so it becomes all the easier to scam a drunk individual. Being drunk can mess your head up and cloud your judgment. You might even be less capable of protecting yourself in such circumstances. So better have someone trustworthy accompany you who can stay sober while you can enjoy those drinks. So be drunk responsibly.
Being alert and acting smartly is the key. Yes being stressed on vacation or paranoid would do you no good but a little bit of precaution can save you from loss. Not just monetary loss but the loss of fun and peace. Better be safe and sorry later.
