Graffiti Wall: Tourist Scam Alert

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Tourist Scam Alert: 2005

Tourists are targeted by scam and rip-off artists everywhere in Europe. If you know the games (spilling the mustard, bus 64 in Rome, and so on), you're less likely to be a victim. By sharing the latest scams (and learning from each others' mistakes) we'll all travel more safely. What cons and scams have you encountered?

Remember, pickpocketing attempts throughout Europe can be expected unless you wear a moneybelt under your clothing. Smart travelers leave wallets at home and store their credit cards, passport, paper money and rail ticket(s) in a secure moneybelt. Visit our Travel Store for Rick Steves' recommended moneybelts.

Read the Distillation: Tourist Scams, 2005

Athens City Bus
We arrived in Athens 11/04/05 and took the city bus from the airport to Syntagma Square. We were traveling with two backpacks and two daypacks. Much to our horror, we could not find one of our daypacks upon departing the bus at Syntagma. After several moments of confusion, we decided to leave the phone number of our hotel in Nafplion with the bus service ticket agent. I was sure that we had been ripped off, as a pack of similar color to our was left on the bus, and it appeared to be filled with "junk". Much to our surprise, when we reached our Nafplion hotel, the city bus line had called to inform us our pack had been returned. Apparently a passenger had inadvertently picked up our pack. He even called our home phone in the US (we had an address/phone tag inside the pack)! We were able to retrieve the pack, and all the contents were intact.

Just think about it - how many cities in the USA of 4 million plus population would something like this happen?

Our thanks to the Greek citizens involved in this event, who proved their honesty and integrity.
Bruce <email>
Manitou Springs, CO USA Wed 12/21/2005

tourist scams
As for taxis anywhere, I always get the fare set before entering the cab. If they pull an "additional charge: deal on me, I ask them to explain it, while I jot down their info on their ID card displayed in the cab. Once arriving at the destination, I get my stuff out of the taxi first, then display what amount I'm paying to them in full view, counting it. You can always waive someone over if you're being dropped off at a hotel, airport etc... Most taxis are cool, but there are quite a few that take advantage of tourists. William
William
USA Wed 12/21/2005

Rome Taxis
We took several taxis over the course of 5 days while in Rome to the various sites around the city. The fare was very low and was truly worth every penny. The one time we were totally ripped off was when we arrived back in Rome from Florence for our last night. We took a cab from Termini to our hotel and those "additional" charges were tacked on at the end. Yes, the cabby's fingers start pushing the buttons on the meter like the buttons on a calculator. In a flash the fare was escalated by 30 Euro.

My advice is to stay away from taxis at the AIRPORT and at Rome TERMINI if you can (and it is possible).

From the airport either take the train (which unfortunately ends up at Termini) or prearrange a private driver or shuttle bus to pick you up at your arrival. Try to prearrange the same kind of shuttle from Termini if you know your arrival time.

Just know that you are highly likely to be ripped off at those 2 places. Everywhere else, taxis were wonderful!
Tim
USA Wed 12/21/2005

Beware of Official Taxis adding charges
My only bad experience in Rome was the ride from the airport via Taxi. I took a white official cab form the taxi queue as recommended and asked for the meter as recommended. The cabbie must have pegged me for a tourist and proceeded to add 35 EURO to the "additional charges" column of the meter. (Thanks Rick's simple italian phrase book as this was in there.) At my destination and during the ride I asked the cabbie what those charges were for (seeing that the fares are clearly stated in English in the cab). He said it wasn't a fare- it was the time (hilarious). When we arrived at my hotel, he added this to the base fare making the total bill nearly 100EURO! I made sure to get my bags out and then demanded a better explanation, indicating I was paying only required surcharges and the meter (plus some tip). FYI, the required surcharges looke dto be less than 10 EURO and the base fare was 40 EURO. When I handed the man the money, he promplty pulled a switcheroo and palmed my 50Euro claiming I only gave him a 5. When I demanded change, he took off. Since I was forewarned and demanded explanation and stood my ground in spite of my fatigue and jet lag, I ended up only paying what it should have cost me, so not net loss and my resumed it's very high note and this was forgotten for the duration.

Thanks on the advice and still be vigilant about this scam fellow travelers.
Scott <email>
Odenton, MD USA Tue 12/20/2005

Re: Rental Car
Contact Eurocar and tell them what happened. Most likely the will credit your credit card. It probably was a mistake and not an outright scam.
Barb
Seattle, WA USA Fri 12/16/2005

rental car gas level
The trouble is that at small British airports you just park the car and hand the keys in at the desk. There is rarely any company representative present when you drop the car off who will inspect it. USD88.00 works out at over GBP50.00. I'd like to see the rental car that holds that much fuel in it's tank. Even if you dropped the car off with nothing but fumes in the tank they couldn't have got that much fuel into it.
Al Bishop
Nottingham, UK Thu 12/15/2005

rental car gas level
why don't you just have the employee indicate on the rental paperwork that the tank is full on return of rental. this is what i have done in the past and i can say on the hertz paperwork thaere is a section indicating if tank is full or not. protect yourself by getting it in writing.
ro
USA Tue 12/13/2005

Gas Scam
Michael Backlund: Why would you say that "this is not really a scam". I would sure consider it a scam in a big way. Yes, always use a credit card. Also take a picture with your digitial camera of your full tank indicator as you pull into the car rental return area.
Tim
USA Tue 12/13/2005

car rental
We rented a car for a week in Scotland from Eurocar. No problems with the rental until a month later when the Visa bill came in. We had been charged $88 to refuel the car. We had stopped on the way to the airport and filled the car, but paid with cash. No reciept. This is not really a scam. But, I would recommend that a credit card be used for the final fillup. That way even if you lose your reciept you will still have proof.
Michael Backlund
Sulphur, LA USA Mon 12/12/2005

ATM Theft
Before leaving on any trip outside of the US, I call my credit card companies before I leave the states and tell them what countries I will be in and when. This helps keep the account from being accessed illegally in a country that I won't be in. If I'm not going to be in Italy and there is some kind of transaction trying to be made there, it won't go through. Of course, this all depends on which company your credit cards are with and how diligent they are.

On a side note: I've attached industrial strength velcro to a small wallet and also the bottom of my leather backpack. This keeps it in one place and is very difficult to remove without also spilling all the contents - a great deterent for would-be thieves. I only keep the money that I would spend for that day in it. I keep the rest in my money belt along with my credit cards.
Lisa <email>
Page, AZ USA Wed 11/30/2005

Car Ambushes
"A motorbike pulled in front of the car and a second man opened the back door of the car and quickly stole their expensive camera and a wallet with passports and credit cards. The first man drove around the car, picked the second man up and took off."

Lee, Kansas City: The same thing happened to me in Nice, France. I was waiting for the light to turn green and before I knew it, I was robbed in the same way you describe.

Lesson learned. I now make sure that all the car doors are locked, both at home and in Europe.
Ginny T.
Montreal, USA Wed 11/30/2005

Overall Crime Danger
For all reading these, realize that these are worst case scenarios. Don't cancel your trip, just be aware.

Yes, street crime is very prevalent in Europe, especially in the big cities. But they're looking for easy marks. Don't be the easy one, and they'll likely pass you by.

Take the precautions advised here - money belt or similar (I use an inside-the waistband extra pocket that attaches to my belt. My wife uses a leather pouch around her neck and under her shirt) with just daily spending cash in your front pockets. Leave valuables at home or in the hotel safe/safe deposit. Stay aware. Assume every commotion is a distraction. And keep close hold of your camera (a small in-front waist pack is a good idea, but I prefer it around my neck and tucked into my jacket when not in use).

Educate yourself before you go, and ask lots of questions (how do I get a subway ticket? What should a taxi cost from here to the airport) of your hotel clerk (even when you make your reservation), local police officer (in most countries, I have found them extremely helpful) or TI clerk.

Carry small bills so you can make exact change, or close to it - As soon as I arrive at a new country, I hit the ATM, stash most of the bills in my inside wallet, and then buy something cheap from a kiosk/snack bar so that I have small bills. Then when I get to the hotel, I break the other big bills.

The majority of the more pushy/dangerous crime is going to happen as it does in the US - near places you should avoid anyhow. If you hang out in shady areas, expect to meet shady characters.

Be wary? Yes. Cancel my trips and miss out on the experience? I think not!
Pat
American in Greece Mon 11/28/2005

Turkey Taxis and More
Just returned from a trip to Istanbul. Normal street smarts and info found on this board will keep you safe there - lots of pickpockets and scammers trying to find the easy mark. Just don't appear easy, and you'll miss 90% of it. Keep your eyes out at big tourist spots, trams, busses, and stairs - the kids tend to work in packs, just like in every other big city in Europe/Asia.

One couple got taken by one of the taxis - he didn't have exact change to pay the taxicab driver (big mistake), and while the taxicab driver was giving him his change, the 2nd taxi bumped him from behind - lots of confusion, and as both taxis sped away, he found out his 10 New Lira (YTL) change was actually a two very crisp 250,000 Old TL bills (worth 0.25YTL each) - they look just like 5YTL bills when folded. We knew that the old TL are still valid until 2014, but didn't realize bills smaller than 1,000,000 YTL even existed.
Pat
Greece Mon 11/28/2005

Glass Factories in Murano
Be very careful with glass merchants in Venice. We recently travelled to Venice and took a "free" water taxi to one of the glass factories in Murano. My advice is DON'T DO IT. If you want to go, go on your own. If you do buy something, be very sure about the conditions of the sale. I found a website that everyone should read before making an overseas purchase. http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/travel/overseas/overseas.txt
Julian Moore
New York, NY USA Sun 11/27/2005

ATM Theft
For a moment I thought Sandy's post had been written by my husband. Ditto to what she said. We had a wonderful time in Italy until we came home and discovered that our checking account was 'way overdrawn! The transactions were all from Marseilles, France. The bank refunded the money, including the ATM charges, but the experience was a nasty way to end an otherwise great vacation.

We are sure of when and where this happened. One rainy night in Rome, after we had withdrawn cash, a fellow approached the ATM and called after us that we had left behind a 50 euro bill and that we had to close the transaction by re-entering our card and pin. My husband, confused and suspicious, wanted to make sure we had not left our account open somehow and did what the stranger suggested. He tried to shield the keypad, but these guys don't have to see the numbers to know where your fingers are going. I was VERY uncomfortable with the whole thing, especially the way the stranger kept moving around. There was someone else waiting to use the ATM standing at a distance. He may or may not have been an accomplice.

I later checked our account online and nothing fishy showed up, so we just figured it was something screwy with that particular machine and that the guy was a "good Samaritan" after all. We even got to keep the 50 euros. The thieves, on the other hand, got to keep $1500.

We asked the bank rep why the thieves were able to:

1) use our account at an ATM without the physical card. (They either hack into it with a computer or counterfeit a card.)

2) withdraw more in a single transaction ($475) than we can (our limit=$300) (Seems you can do anything with a computer... Well, maybe not you or me, but THEY can.)

3) withdraw from the same account in France on the same day we did in Italy. (Like I said, anything goes in the computer age...)

Without encouraging paranoia, I would urge everyone to take precautions with any money or credit/debit card transactions and pay attention to that little red flag in your mind.
Marilynn <email>
Willits, CA USA Sat 11/26/2005

ATM Scam Update
I wrote in last week about the ATM scam in Rome. We thought that since my husband got his cash, plus his ATM card back from the machine, no real harm was done. 2 days after we got home he tried to use his ATM card but it wouldn't work. He checked his account and found that there was a huge amount of activity (from Italy and France) on the card, and the bank automatically shut it down. Over $4,000 worth of charges. Since it was a debit and "check card" the thieves were able to use the card like a regular credit card on the internet. We couldn't figure out how they did it without having the card. According to reps at the bank, the guys probably did a very quick carbon copy swipe behind his back while my husband was being distracted by the first guy. It swiped his account number as well as expiration date. These guys are fast and very good at what they are doing. Thank goodness the bank reimbursed us for all fraudulent charges against the account.
Sandy
Columbia, MD USA Tue 11/22/2005

Pompeii
In this post we are warned by Fred 'Also, avoid the hotel booking office in Stansted London Airport: they add 20GBP commission.' Holy Smoke - what were you expecting ? This isn't a scam. This is a perfectly legitimate company offering a perfectly legal and very necessary facility. Of course you are going to pay them a fee. How else are they going to earn a living ? Do you work for free ? Of course not and neither do these people. A scam is something illegal and deliberately dishonest. This is an honest service provided by honest hard working, tax paying, people.
Al Bishop
Nottingham, UK Mon 11/21/2005

St. Martin scratch-off tix
When alighting in St. Martin (French side) you get approached by these people giving scratch-off tickets. You win, you win a shopping spree at a souvenir store - but first you have to attend a timeshare presentation. It was pretty annoying because you're in port only for a certain number of hours, and if you're like me, you want to see both the Dutch and French sides of the island. As well, I _believe_ that recission laws work differently over there than in the US. Just avoid the scratch-off tickets at all costs.
Hart
Toms River, NJ USA Sun 11/20/2005

Pompeii
In the Naples CircumVesuviana Station I paid 16E for a "combination" train/entrance ticket for Pompeii. The ticket requires that you redeem it far from the nearest entrance to Pompeii and costs a few Euros more than buying the tickets separately. Also, avoid the hotel booking office in Stansted London Airport: they add 20GBP commission.
Fred
Kaunas, Lithuania Fri 11/18/2005

Pisa Short Change Artist
I bought a ticket at the Field of Miracles from a very nice, helpful middle-aged man--he was oh so nice and helpful. A few minutes later I realized that he had failed to give me the 10 euro change I was due. I stewed with myself about it for a few minutes then decided to go back and ask for my money. I said, "I think you forgot to give me my change." He reached into his cash drawer and handed me a 10 eu note without even hesitating. I guess that man walks home with quite a bit of extra cash at the end of his day.
Swan
USA Tue 11/15/2005

London souvenir shop scam
During a trip to London, I purchased souvenirs at two shops right of Picadilly Circle. I used my Visa debit card at both; other than that I had used cash the entire trip. The next day I went to withdraw cash and my checking account showed a zero balance. I was able to contact my bank from London, only to find out that my account was overdrawn $1500 by a third party in another country. The staff at one of the souvenir shops apparently took my card info and then passed it on to a "colleague" who made Internet purchases using my card information. Ever since that, I rely on getting small amounts of cash each day from an ATM in my hotel or inside a bank, and never use a debit card to make purchases.
RB
Seattle, WA USA Mon 11/14/2005

ATM scam
In Rome, my husband was withdrawing cash from an ATM. This was the only time he did this alone since I was with him all other times. As the machine started issuing the money, two young men came up to him, one of whom used his own wallet to block the slot where your card is inserted, using it to gesture towards the money, and saying at the same time, "Signore, this is where you get your money." Of course, my husband's eyes were on the slot where the money was coming out since he suspected the 2 men were going to try to take it. He soon realized that they were more interested in his ATM card; when he tried to get it out, nothing came out. The first man had slipped it out when the money came out, then must have handed it over to the second man. My husband loudly challenged them and demanded to see inside his wallet. The first man pretended to be very insulted and they argued. Meanwhile, the second man obviously re-inserted the card into the machine when my husband was preoccupied with the argument. Suddenly, the card was back in the slot. The two men took off.
Sandy
Columbia, MD USA Mon 11/14/2005

Don't forego Italy, I agree
I agree that there's no reason to forego Italy. Use a moneybelt or other secure method of your choice and use common sense and enjoy this beautiful country.

In respect to the hotel scam described below, more details would be useful. Many hotels can be obtained for reasonable rates in Italy, and there are also B&Bs, convents, and hostels.
Traveler
Canada Mon 11/14/2005

For Bruce, please reconsider!
If you are serious, that is, about cancelling your planned Italian vacation! I was there for five weeks, and had read these postings for months beforehand. Other than one pushy rose guy by the Trevi fountain, there was never a single incident. There were beggars, mostly gypsy women, here and there, mostly outside the churches. But they were not agressive. Consider: I live in a medium- sized west- coast city and today driving home there were people begging on every single corner. The times I used taxis they were honest and professional. The one time a taxi driver was less than honest it was painfully obvious- outside a train station he was trying to convince me the bus wouldn't get me where I needed to go and he would give me a special rate of like several hundred euro! All the same kinds of things can happen to you in the US- I hope you don't deny yourself such an opportunity!
Karen
USA Sun 11/13/2005

Amsterdam Taxi Ripoffs
The N. African taxi mafia are clearly at it at Central Station in Amsterdam. Three weeks ago they refused to carry one tourist 1.5 miles to his hotel for less than 100 Euros (One Hundred) and asked us 80E for 2 miles. The police will tell you that they are helpless because the city repealed or will not enforce any of the requirements that taxis carry you anywhere. The cabal at the Central Station prey on foreigners and those they perceive as "rich." This is a terrible problem according to the GM of our hotel. The black eye this gives a newly arrived visitor to Amsterdam is impossible to overstate. The taxi drivers in Prague are positively agreeable and honest by comparison.
100 countries and counting
Missouri, MO USA Sun 11/13/2005

Pierre Cardin jacket scam in Rome
I found this site googling a scam that my dad and I encountered recently in Rome. I just thought I'd mention that Michell of the Pierre Cardin "leather" jackets in Jim's post (15th July 2003) is still looking for the colusseum, although we found him on Via Cavour. Exactly the same thing: overly friendly guy in a car, in Rome on business, asked for directions, (on finding out we were British) said his wife was from Bristol, asked our heights, tried to give us a "leather" jacket and a (really ugly) tartan "silk" one, he said that he couldn't get cash with his french visa card and could we give him some. At this point we became very interested in something further up the street. I'm not sure what the point was but it definitely felt dodgy.
Rebecca <email>
Leicester, UK Sun 11/13/2005

amsterdam taxi scam
i just had an 80 euro taxi from amsterdam central station to schipol airport ... the driver claimed the main road was closed and that we had to take an alternate route. i was stuck between the unfortunate choices of missing my flight or getting ripped off by this guy. i have his cab no. and licence plate so will try to follow through but i'm not very optimistic about what options i have from afar.
md
nyc, USA Sat 11/12/2005

Shady deals
With all the crime I've read about in Italy I've decided to cancell my trip. The problem started when I inquired about rates at a few select hotels. When it was found out I was inquiring from the U.S. all of a sudden the rates increased 30-40 Euros! That did it for me. My plans are on definite hold as I am a target for rip off scams.
Bruce <email>
Charlotte, NC USA Sat 11/12/2005

Car Ambushes near Pompeii
A friend of mine just returned from Italy a week ago. She and her husband stayed in Hotel Grillo Verde near Pompeii.

One day, driving away from the hotel, they stopped at a train crossing. A motorbike pulled in front of the car and a second man opened the back door of the car and quickly stole their expensive camera and a wallet with passports and credit cards. The first man drove around the car, picked the second man up and took off.

My friend was told that they were lucky: if they had locked the back door, they may have had their tires slashed or been held up with a weapon.

So please beware! The whole operation was well planned.
Lee
Kansas City, Mo USA Fri 11/11/2005

Pickpockets in Rome
We recently returned from 10 days in Italy. On a really, really crowded metro in Rome I had someone's hand in my pocket. Fortunately, I only had a few coins and a cancelled metro ticket. I felt something on my leg and when I put my hand to my pants pocket, I discovered the metro ticket half way out of my pocket! As we exited the metro my wife turned around and berated this guy in back of her. She didn't realize his hand was in her pants pocket until she moved forward. The pickpockets are very skilled. Luckily, we lost nothing. After this incident, we only used the 1st or last car on the metro or waited for the next, less crowded train.
Dan <email>
Sioux Falls, SD USA Thu 11/10/2005

Pickpockets in Rome
Be careful on the metro in Rome! My friend and I both had our cameras stolen. The thieves also took two memory cards, cash, and a credit card from me. Pick pocketers are everywhere in Rome- never let your guard down! I wish I had taken that advice more seriously before my trip. Be careful.
Jessica <email>
Reston, VA USA Thu 11/10/2005

Florence and Rome
My husband and I had a chance to go to France and Italy in September. While we had read and heard many stories about the scams and pickpockets in Florence and Rome, we had no problems at all. We were very cautious, wearing a money belt, and kept mini combination locks on the zippers of our backpacks. I carried my camera but always had the strap across my chest and kept my hand on it the entire time. Making eye contact is key and know where you are going in advance. The key is to be smart and they will not target you - they will look for the tourists who are oblivious. We saw a lot of people asking for change or selling things on the street, but we were never hassled at any time. They left us alone when we said "no."
May
Winnipeg, Canada Sun 11/06/2005

Europe versus Egypt hassles
You want to know what real scams, annoyances, and salesmanship are like? Go to Egypt. I've been to over 20 countries, mainly in Europe, and this was the absolute worst. I read ahead in the guidebooks about how things are negotiable and how to deal with touts politely and firmly. Yeah, right! Here you are standing in front of the Pyramids and they are literally throwing things in your hands, asking you to pay them something. Got rid of him? Great, now here comes five others getting in your face. Knowing a few Arabic words does nothing to help. This was non-stop. Every sight. I had to pretty much walk away from many places becuase it was simply impossible to be left alone. Made me long for the rose sellers of Rome. It's back to Europe for me, thank you.
SM
MD USA Fri 11/04/2005

Rome subway tickets
There is always a real nice gypsy lady standing near a ticket vending machine to help you purchase your subway tickets from the machines for the Roma Metropolitana. She offered to work the machine for me to get me my 3 euro ticket. I said, "What?" and she corrected herself... Only 2 euros for the ticket. I speak Italian. I bought my own 1 euro ticket.
Bob C. <email>
N Little Rock, AR USA Wed 11/02/2005

Stupid Rose Pushers
If somebody puts a unwanted rose (or flower) into your hand then just drop it on the ground and keep on walking. Worked for us!
Tim
USA Wed 11/02/2005

Scams in Paris and Rome
In Italy earlier this year, my wife was constantly approached by a guy in front of the Trevi Fountain who wanted to give her a rose. Knowing that if she accepted we would have to pay him a ridiculous ammount of money, we politely said no thanks and kept walking to avoid drawing attention to the matter.

He continued to follow us and kept bothering her to take the rose. When I told her in Greek (of all languages) to ignore him he responded to me in Greek that I should be a man and buy my wife the rose and forcefuly put the rose in her hand while demanding I pay him 50 Euro since she took the rose. When I threatend him (in Greek and a polite smiling manner so as not to cause a scene) he took the rose back and ran. Next time I'll try Spanish and see if I have better luck.
Tom
Chicago, IL USA Tue 11/01/2005

Rome pickpocket beggars
In Rome, on the steps above the Colosseum Metro stop a couple weeks ago, we got to see the pickpocket game at work. I saw a crowd of teens-20s, some with babies, cardboard in hand, start down the stairs in front of us, so instead of taking the stairs, we went above and watched the setup. They talked among themselves, making sure they were on both sides of the stairs, covering about 20-30' of the area. When people would walk by, the girls with babies would try to distract by begging, while others would reach for dangling items or accessible pockets.

With all of our items stowed securely, we finally braved the gauntlet. A couple of Italian women were walking up as we were walking down, and they were targeted - we saw a pouch get grabbed, and I yelled "Ladro!" - the crowd scattered, the Italians turned around, and the thief, cornered with nowhere to go, handed the pouch (which she had already rifled in less than a couple seconds) back saying that the woman had dropped it. Evidently nothing of value lost - the women went on their way as did we.
Pat
Temporarily in Greece Tue 11/01/2005

Scam? For sure.
This is a scam and a rather nasty one at that. The wounds are fake ( although some minor self mutilation does take place ). It's not my business to tell other people how to spend their money. I never give to this nasty sort of begging.
Al Bishop
Nottingham, UK Mon 10/31/2005

Scam? For sure.
I'm sure the injuries were fake. People with injuries like you described would be lying around in shock, not standing around begging. People who train emergency workers have very convincing props called "moulages", which are molded from real injuries and include pieces of bone poking out and tubes pumping blood like severed arteries.

These props are expensive, which shows that begging must be a lucrative business.
USA Sat 10/29/2005

Scam?
This is the most desparate move for money I have seen,(or a very convincing make-up job!) When I was in Rome I saw people with gaping and huge exposed wounds on the street begging for money to help. I don't know if the wounds are self inflicted or what but it was by far the most disturbing thing I saw on my trip. I saw an old woman outside the Vatican with a crater-like wound the size of half a baseball, two men with leg wounds that looked like the ER was the only thing to be of any help. I saw this a few times in Rome. I really hope they were fake, but I believe they are not. Hard to call this a scam necessarily, but it is a cry for money.
Sierenitty
Tacoma, WA USA Sat 10/29/2005

Licensed Cabs in London [Black Cabs]
A lifelong wish came true this past May when my husband and I travelled to Great Britain and Ireland. I was dismayed to read some of the negative/scam/feelings of being overcharged comments about the black cabs. We caught a licensed cab [black cab] outside Heathrow - travelled to the Kensington Hilton - Holland Park area - cost was 41 pounds. This is exactly the price we were quoted by the hotel, our travel agents and by the london transit authority website. During our 3 week vacation we spoke to many of the locals who warned you NEVER get in an unlicensed cabs - there are horror stories daily about sexual assaults, robberies/muggings. Black Cabs are "licensed" for your safety and comfort.
Pat
Maple Ridge, BC USA Sat 10/29/2005

Wedding ring scam outside Orsay Museum
Just returned from Paris. On Tueday, a woman apparantly picked up a large gold ring opposite the Orsay and offered it to us. Demonstrated it was too big for her finger. I suspected a scam but was not sure. We refused and walked on.
Brian
Dorchester, Dorset UK Fri 10/28/2005

Paris Wedding Ring Scam Near Orsay Museum
A woman walking towards us "picked up" a gold wedding band on the street and the claimed she just found it. She claimed that she couldn't keep it because of her religion and it also happened to be her Birthday. She then gives you the ring and suggested that you give her a bit of money in exchange, afterall she did just give you a gold ring stamped with 18K on the inside... Thankfully we only had about 3 Euros on us. We ran into the same woman selling a gold ring to someone else about an hour later. She recognized us and unfortunately got away with the man's 10 Euros before we could warn him. We shared a good laugh with the gentleman and have a souvenir that we'll never forget.
Roemary
Norwood, MA USA Wed 10/26/2005

Hassel Free!
Just got back from a week in Florence and Rome. Had no trouble whatsoever w/ gypsies, packs of children, etc. that Steve mentions in the book. We did see gypsies in both cities, but they were easy to spot and didn't seem to be doing much more than asking for change. We were both wearing money belts but carried a backpack every day - no problems with the backpack either. We kept the zippers secured with twistie ties that you use on trash bags. We were so annoyed at having to un-twist and twist them to access our bag, that we figured no one else would bother, and it worked! The worst thing was men trying to sell umbrellas in the rain (by shoving them in our face) or trying to give out roses or flowers at major attractions and then demanding money for them. Just keep on saying NO loudly and you'll be fine!
Norfolk, VA USA Mon 10/24/2005

Cisalpino from Zurich
We flew into Zurich on September 3, 2005 and purchased a rail ticket to Venice with a connection in Milan. The Zurch-Milan portion of our trip was to be on the Cisalpino. When we were to leave Zurich we were told that the Cisalpino had mechanical problems and was replaced by other conventional equipment. Instead of a modern train we ended up on a coach that wasn't even air conditioned. In spite of assurances that we would still arrive in Milan on time, we arrived 45 minutes late: missing a connection for we paid extra for a reservation. The reason I see this as a ripoff is that we paid a supplement for the Cisalpino. What's worse, when I wrote to both Cisalpino and Swiss Railways stating that I should be refunded the supplement portion of my ticket, neither one saw fit to even respond. Take my advise: pay for a regular train and forget the Cisalpino. I have been checking the train status and note that cancellations occur regularly. The equipment is obviously not reliable.
Brian Huzel
Winnipeg, MB Canada Sun 10/23/2005

B&B Novecento in Florence scammed me!
These people charged my credit card for days i never stayed there 2 weeks after i left Italy without my consent or knowledge over $300. They took my card for the night I stayed and next thing I know there is a charge two weeks later. SCAMMERS and the place is way overpriced to begin with.
John
New York, NY USA Sun 10/16/2005

Re: Taxi
I found this past July when I was in Paris and London that taxi drivers now charge extra for your luggage. There was a set fee for me, the lone passenger, plus extra for my luggage, which included RS rolling suitcase, RS backpack and a purchased large suitcase for all the books/souvenirs bought (I'm a French teacher and brought back many school items). It was still cheaper than shipping the items home. Yes- next time confirm the price so there are no surprises - but this is not a scam on American tourists.
Debbie
Ontario Canada Sun 10/16/2005

Taxi in Paris
Having just returned from a fabulous 3 week tour of Ireland, UK, Italy, France and Spain, we only encountered one incident we label as a scam. Arriving in CDG in Paris late at night we took a cab to our hotel. Upon arrival the meter showed a fee of 9.50 E, but the driver asked for 14E. When we ponted out that the meter read differently, he argued that the extra was for our luggage. Instead of belaboring the point, I asked him to wait while I checked it out with hotel staff. He then wentr into the hotel and started jabbering with everyone he could about the luggage fee. The staff could no ( or would not) give us any info but did indicate that this was a normal fee. We paid the extra 5.50E but still feel that anyone taking a cab from the airport will have luggage and in our travels abroad and in the US have never been asked for a fee to transport luggage. Gave us a bad taste for a city notorious for scamming Americans. Next time will establish price up front as many here suggest.
Jackie
NC USA Sat 10/15/2005

they work in teams
frends of mine ( a couple and 6 year old son)visiting amsterdam were in a resturant. the father went to the mens room. a man came over and started showing the child porn pictures , distracting the mother. another person came and took their camera bag which had their passports. they spent the rest of the day getting new passports
vin
hamden, ct USA Fri 10/14/2005

Restaurant wine scam.
That wasn't a scam, far from it. You went to a restaurant thats selling point was it's use of local produce. I would expect this to include locally produced wine. A good restaurant owner will visit the vinyards personally and buy the wine. He/she will probably buy a cask if the wine is considered worthy ( bulk purchasing keeps the cost down ). The owner of the vinyard will include some labelled bottles ( so that he gets the publicity ). Back at the restaurant once the wine has settled and is ready to drink it is tapped straight from the cask or barrel into the bottles. In this instance no cork is required. You, as a customer, have asked for a bottle of local wine and that is exactly what you have received. All that is left to do is sit back and enjoy the wine - no scam has occured.
Al Bishop
Nottingham, UK Wed 10/12/2005

Rome menu switch
We went to a restaurant next to the Vatican. The guy waving us in should have been a clue, but we went in and ordered. The menu said service was included (in English). The food was high-priced, but wouldn't have been unreasonable for a good meal. This was the worst meal we had the whole time we were in Italy. We watched as table after table argued with the waiter, then an Italian lady, about their bill. Besides the food being overpriced, they switched the menus on us! The first menu they gave us said "Cover charge included". When we disputed the extra charge, they showed us a second menu that showed a 15% charge. We decided to just pay it. As we left, I found the first menu. We showed it to him and asked about it. He said the charge was for sitting inside instead of outside. I'd heard about many scams, but I wasn't prepared for that one. Be sure to look carefully at the menu before entering a restaurant.
Pam
Chicago, IL USA Mon 10/10/2005

restaurant wine scam?
On my first trip to Italy we went to Chianti and one of the first places we stayed was Greve in Chianti, a lovely area. One restaurant in the square is caled Giovanni da Verrazzano and their sign outside the door extolls (in Italian and English) what wonderful local produce they have, so we decided to have dinner there.

As part of dinner we ordered a bottle of wine and it showed up at our table, cork already removed! I looked around and most other customers were getting their wine the same way. At the time I was too surprised to react, mindful of Rick Steve's admonition that things may be different in other countries. But thru the rest of our time in Italy wine was always uncorked right at the table.

So I can't say I'm sure it was a scam, but it does seem pretty darn suspicious. Other travelers visiting restaurant Giovanni da Verrazzano in Greve might want to insist on an unopened bottle!
Mike
San Francisco, CA USA Mon 10/10/2005

Taxi scams in Rome!
Rome was great but BEWARE of taxi scam artists! The meter is normal until you get to your destination and then it magically increases! I arrived from Termini station got in a cab with my sister, hotel was 10 minute drive from the station and one minute before we arrived the meter read 6 euros. when the cab stopped it was 16 euros. I asked my sister about this and she thought it was a luggage fee (I had two bags with me). We were in denial I guess! lol But to make matters worse when I went to pay with 20 euro bill (its blue and white) the cabby tried to make me think that I gave him only a 5 euro bill (also blue and white but a bit smaller). At first I didn't know what he was trying to say, so after 5 minutes he finally gave up and gave me the correct change! What a scam artist!
Lena Matheou
Charlotte, NC USA Fri 10/07/2005

Train pickpocket
While boarding a train in Krakow a man helpfully lifted my rollaboard onto the train. When the train left the station I discovered that he had also unzipped my handbag, removed my wallet and rezipped the bag!
Ruth Russell
Orinda, CA USA Fri 10/07/2005

Paris Metro Short Change
Returned yesterday from 8 days in Paris. Was out 10th trip. Take usual precautions with money belt etc. Have never had a problem. Was not prepared to protect against Metro ticket sellers. Was short changed 7 Euros when purchasing a carnet. Seller counted on the fact that I was not familiar enough with coins to catch the error until too late because of the crowd pressure to move before counting. She got me. Pay with an amount near the actual cost and count change.
Tom
GA USA Fri 10/07/2005

show the money in Moscow
A similar con to several I see here was played on me in Moscow. One guy dropped a packet of money (US$ rolled up in a baggie), another guy picked it up and asked if it was mine. The first guy turned around and insisted that he had two packets of money, and wanted me to open my wallet to prove I didn't have the other one. Obviously a scam at this point. But up walks a guy with a badge who very gruffly demands an explanation. He asks to see all of our passports, and then wants to look in all of our wallets. I was perfectly aware he could have been in on the scam, but had no idea what kind of trouble I might get into by challenging a real Russian policeman. I still don't know, but feel certain it was a 3-man team. In any event, being broke made it all moot.
Jim
San Francisco, CA USA Thu 10/06/2005

High fines?
Regarding a previous poster's comments about fines for buying bogus goods, we saw signs to that effect in Florence. I think it's a little strange; if the undercover police can nab the buyers, surely they could nab the sellers. Maybe the sellers can't afford the 1000 euro fine...

We got careless in Florence, but dodged a bullet. While walking to the train station, I caught some movement out of the corner of my eye, near my wife's backpack. I stopped to look and found the backpack open and our camera in plain view. I apparently caught the young girl just as she opened it because nothing was missing. Still kicking myself; we were much more careful after that. Two other times I got the distinct impression that we were being sized up.

Rick's advice is to constantly be on guard, assume you're being stalked, and then relax and have fun. I know he's joking, but it does detract a bit from the experience. That being said, we had a great time seeing the sights, and would do it again. I just wouldn't exactly consider it a relaxing experience.
Steve
Lake in the Hills, IL USA Wed 10/05/2005

:( dancing card rip- offs
Another reason this graffiti wall is so helpful! I bought my little "Anime" paper figure (5 euro)in Rome...I couldn't be fooled by the roses or street vendors of fake guccis but alas I now know to stop trying to figure out how to get my little dude to dance to entertain my class for a treat! It's not much money but because they are so cheap, portable and child- friendly someone might be tempted to buy at least several as "cheap" (hah!) presents for kids as the last poster warned. I watched the vendors pack up their stuff in seconds when they saw a police car and then the second the police left they just set up again. It was sad- several were in the seats behind us on the train and they got kicked off for not having a ticket...
USA Tue 10/04/2005

Venice, High Fines new laws and scam
I have a warning for those of you that enjoy shopping.

If you are planning on going to Venice to do a bit a shopping, DO NOT purchase any false products from African men off of the streets. They are selling knockoff handbags, sunglasses, belts etc for 20Euro and up, however, it is now ILLEGAL to buy them and you will be fined up to 10,000 Euros if caught. There are pamphlets being passed out and can be found in hotels now however if you stay in a rental you may not see this information.

Some of my clients just got fined 1,000 Euros and are trying to fight it. Just because they "didn't know", doesn't mean they won't have to pay. Its a serious situation here now and I spent all day with them in the police dept. last week. We actually warned them when they arrived but I guess they just couldn't resist a lovely Gucci wallet for 25 Euros. Police are even disguising themselves as tourists so watch out.

Another scam are the dancing Mickey and Minney mouse cards that seem to dance beside radios. If you've been here you know all about these.

These are fakes and are tied to a string, (have a close look). You won't be fined, but your children will be disappointed when you get them home to see they don't dance.

Venice is a wonderful city and there are lots to do and see and enjoy but even the best of cities have their little problems too.

Have a wonderful and safe vacation.

Denise Marie
Denise <email>
Venice, Italy Tue 10/04/2005

SPAIN PETITION/PALM READING
I don't know about in other countries, but in Spain, people will spot you as an outsider and come up to you with a clipboard, asking you to sign their "petition". As they explain it to you, either they or an accomplice will pickpocket you. Also, especially in Southern Spain outside sites such as the Alhambra, Spanish gypsies will come to you with a "gift", a sort of natural "magic" leaf. They will try to give it to you and "read your palm fortune" while pickpocketing you. The best defense is to ignore both and keep walking. Don't be afraid of hurting their feelings, they're trying to steal from you. Never sign their petitions. I've always walked right past them and have never been pickpocketed. Also, wear a moneybelt and you'll never get pickpocketed!
Jordan
Oklahoma CIty, OK USA Sat 10/01/2005

Paris
Right at the base of the Eiffel Tower there are hordes of people trying to sell things. One man came up to me with a basket of roses and attempted to "give" me one. He forced it into my hand and I dropped it. He didn't miss a beat. He picked it back up and waved it in my face. I kept saying "Non merci" but he persisted. Finally my husband and I walked away. We knew darn well that rose wasn't free.
Shelly
Frederick, MD USA Fri 09/30/2005

Carrying Money
I'm staying at a B&B in Palermo. My "landlord" suggested that I leave my passport in my room and carry only about 20 Eu. He thought my money belt would be safe enough for the passport. I left my wallet in my room (empty), crammed a couple of bills into my coin purse, and carry that in a small back-saver bag. I think I am probably being short-changed a little at the fruit market (for some strange reason everything costs exactly one euro, no matter the weight). I'm not going to quibble as long as only a small amount of money is involved.
Swan
USA Fri 09/30/2005

Why do so many people carry wallets?
Carrying a wallet with you is so convenient for the thieves! I can't understand why a traveler would carry one. I only carry a small amount of cash in my front pockets. Everything else (incl passports, etc.) goes in a light money belt INSIDE of my underwear. If anybody approaches you in the street, assume they are con artists. To be safe, smile, say something incoherent that sounds polite, but never slow down or stop. By stopping you increase their confidence.
Rufo <email>
L.A., CA USA Wed 09/28/2005

In the thick of it Dublin/Rome
I was in the thick of it this Aug/Sept with the crowds and the heat. Dublin airport was so busy, you couldn't sit.Stayed 4 days in Dublin, visited all the tourists spots, flew to Rome, went by train to termini sta. caught another train to Foggia, came back to Rome for two days, one of those in torrential rain. Heavy tourists traffic rain or shine. I took the buses around , taxis, I even went in a gypsy cab down Via Nationale. I was in the galleria mall, used the ATM's. Ate at the tourists trap in Campo di Fiori. No incidents whatsoever. None. It was a joyful rollercoaster ride all the way. Flew back to Dublin and left the next day for home.
Marie
Verona, NJ USA Wed 09/28/2005

London Taxis
I travel to London quite frequently and rarely use anything but the tube; however 1:45 a.m. Christmas morning 2004 found me in search of a cab with my infirmed mother outside of Westminster Abbey. We tried in vain for over an hour to get a cab, but they where either full, off-duty or not willing to go all the way to Canary Wharf. Finally an off-duty cab took pity on us and altho' he was going home in the opposite direction, and his wife had dinner waiting, he took us all the way to Canary Wharf, even helping me with my mother, and then tried to refuse the tip I gave him for being so kind! He said it was the spirit of the season, altho' as a member of the Hindu faith he celebrated Dilwali...(I forced it on him anyway, lol...)The drivers of London's "Black" cabs are gems as far as I am concerned...
Traci Carraway <email>
Baltimore, MD USA Tue 09/27/2005

ziplock baggie
Thank you Wendy. I've been to Paris three times and haven't had any mishaps yet with the ziplock bag, but that's a very good suggestion.

Safe travels!
Kim J. <email>
Huntington Beach, CA USA Tue 09/27/2005

Prague Help
The easiest way to make sure you get a reasonable taxi rate from the airport to Prague central is to phone your hotel before you leave for Prague and ask them to send a taxi for you. Give them your flight details and they will have a driver with your name on a board waiting in the arrival hall. All the hotels have a fixed rate contract with reputable firms. You should expect to pay arround CZK900.00 from the airport to Praha 1
Al Bishop
Nottingham, UK Tue 09/27/2005

Barcelona caution/ Need Prague help
The only scam I have encountered occurred in Barcelona in Las Ramblas (Placa Reial) outside of Hotel Kabul. We had to leave very early in the morning to catch our flight back to london. Right outside our hostel door, a group of men approached me and my female companion and asked in French if we had a "light" for a ciggie. I had a bad feeling and said "NO" firmly but my more trusting friend stopped to say no more politely. He lunged for her purse around her neck and after a fairly violent struggle, he removed it! The police (just outside of the plaza in Las Ramblas) were very kind but there was nothing they could do. Be careful leaving in the early hrs, esp. off the main streets! Also, I am leaving to Prague shortly and am wondering if anyone has suggestions/cautions. I have been reading about the notorious cabs. The only cab we will need to take is on our arrival from the airport to the hotel. Other than that, we will use local transit. Thank you!
Jeni Lee
Fairbanks, Alaska USA Tue 09/27/2005

Re: Getting in There
Pinning a baggy full of money to your underwear sounds like a disaster waiting to happen. You really need one of those under-the-clothing pouches you find at good travel stores.
Wendy
Miami, FL USA Mon 09/26/2005

Noooobody is getting in there!
A ziplock baggie of euros and credit cards pinned on the inside of my underwear (front right hip). I hardly feel it and I know my money is safe, safe, safe! I keep the small bills and coins in my purse.
Kim J. <email>
Huntington Beach, CA USA Mon 09/26/2005

ATM/GAS AUTOMATE
I'd like to share some tips to limit the risk of being robbed while traveling to France. France is a nice and beautiful country and but you know that thieves have a highly developped instinct to hunt for "customers" so called "pigeons" in French.

1- Rental cars are likely to be identified by the renter tag near the windscreen. Also the license plates often ends with 60 or 51 because the main office gets the cars from the same area. So don't leave any valuable in your car and don't put in the trunk: there are always people watching.

2- When using an ATM, make sure that there is nobody close to you: go to another machine if you feel upset by people next to you.

3- Assuming you have a PIN code for cash withdrawal, ATMs normally DON'T RETAIN YOUR CARD unless you enter 3 times a incorrect PIN. If it does not return your card, you may be facing a trick called "Collet marseillais". A dummy card reader window covers the actual one and is equipped with a metal clip that prevents the card to enter the ATM. A "samaritain" may tell you that you have to wait till monday for banks to open and tell your story. You MUST call the VISA/MASTERCARD emergency number right away. Do not type in you PIN especially if you are requested to do so. Check out the reader's slot to see if it looks normal and can't be removed.

4- A new and more sofisticated way to get to card info is to use two new devices: A skimmer sitting in place of the "Collet marseillais" that reads your data and a pin-hole camera associated with a wireless transmitter that records your PIN while entering the code. ALWAYS put your hand over the keypad while entering the code. Watch also for accessories over the keypad where camera can be hidden.

5- Your credit or debit card doesn't "chip-on" and may not request a PIN for payments in store. Fraud is easier with this type of card.

6- Keep all your receipts, you will need in case of problem.

7- Often fly to the States and never had any problem with my credit card. People take your credit card away and come back with both card and receipt. DON'T let them do this way in France. Always keep an eye on it: Firmely ask for the card reader to come to the card and not the other way around.

I try to comply with my own advice especially with ATM. Hope that will be of some help for you.
PERANI <email>
LAMANON, FRANCE Fri 09/23/2005

London Taxis
I want to stick up for the Heathrow Taxi drivers. I agree that what happened to Nikki certainly seems like a scam at first glance. The problem is that Heathrow airport charges the black cab drivers a massive surcharge to queue for hire at the airport. Basically the taxi driver at Heathrow has to charge you at least GBP50.00 before you move an inch in order to break even. It's wrong - it's very very wrong, but don't blame the taxi driver, blame the shysters who operate Heathrow. On the other hand if you honestly feel you have been ripped-off by a black cab take the taxi driver's number ( it's not only on the documentation he/she has to wear around his/her neck it's also very prominent in the back passenger section of the cab ) and phone your complaint through to the regulation authorities ( your hotel will give you full details, but these also, by law, must be displayed in the passenger section of the cab ). Black cabs have got me out of a lot of sticky situations when I've been delayed flying into Heathrow and am running late for a meeting. It sometimes may seem that they go a long way around to get to a destination but often this is because they know that on the direct route there has been an accident or there is a congestion tailback that will delay the journey and increase the cost. London is like that.

One final thing. Paradoxically black cabs can be any colour - black, brown, maroon, blue, silver or any multicoloured combination or covered in advertising. Nothing is ever as straightforward as you would expect at Heathrow.
Al Bishop
Nottingham, UK Fri 09/23/2005

never billed for tapas in Madrid
We spent 10 days in/around Madrid in early March 2004 and never got billed for the tapas we were given. Of course, we were mostly in small neighborhood bars/restaurants. Only once were we billed for tapas and that was in a good restaurant where we ordered a full meal with wine, etc. loved Madrid!
M Ungrodt <email>
North Pole, AK USA Thu 09/22/2005

More on blending in
Yes, your're so right. Last summer I felt very out of place walking around with a baseball cap. However,other then that I thought I blended in pretty well. In addtion, I very rarely saw other Americans in the places I traveled. Paris was the only exception.
Wa USA Thu 09/22/2005

Hotel scam
We recently spent almost six weeks in Europe, traveling in Austria, Greece, Germany, Italy and Switzerland. The only place we had a compalint was in Rome. We had booked a room through cross-pollinate.com recommended by the beehive. This was at the Ricasoli Guesthouse. We were required to make a credit card deposit. When we arrived there was no one there and no answer at the contact number. Our credit card was billed for one night and we had to pay for an emergency room elsewhere!
Richard Nelson <email>
Port Orchard, WA USA Tue 09/20/2005

Hotel Pricing
True to an extent? No true all the way. I actually saw it with my own eyes. Of course if you get a discount they may put you in the worse room but if you're at a decent hotel no room is really that worse. And if you find that you would rather spend twice as much for a the good room then after they give you the worse room tell them you want to upgrade. This posting was just a tip to get the lowest possible hotel rate not how to avoid getting the worse room. How do you get the lowest price? Always ask if they have any packages or rate for your length (or potential length) of stay.
Willian
Chicago, IL USA Mon 09/19/2005

London Taxis
My friend and I took an official black cab in London from Heathrow. The driver charged 105 Pounds to get us to our hotel. We were too exhausted out to argue. Our return trip was 38 Pounds, our hotel booked it for us. ALWAYS ask the person directing taxis at the airport approximately how much it should cost to get to your hotel. Then ask your driver for a flat, not metered, rate. Ours got stuck in traffic then drove all around the city. We were new at this and exhausted. We only used buses and the tube when we didn't have our luggage. It's easy to figure out how to get London public transportation. Other than this one incident, our trip went very well.
Nikki
CO USA Sun 09/18/2005

Hotel Pricing?
The previous comment is true to an extent. However, it is often the case that those who get the dicounts also get the poorer rooms as well. Nothing worong with that, of course.
New York City, USA Sun 09/18/2005

Hotel Pricing Scam
This is not a scam as you think a scam is but it is in my opinion: You go to a hotel and ask the rate. They give you a rate and you stay. But what you don't know is the hotel has package and special rates that can be significantly less than what you are paying. You should always ask if there are any packages or special rates. For example there's a hotel that gives a price of $120.00 per night if you just walk in. However if you ask for the two day special the rate is $55.00 dollars per night. I happened to over hear the hotel give the $120 rate to one customer. Later I was riding in the elevator with him and I said "You know the hotel has a rate that is less than half the amount you are paying". He said "I wonder why they didn't give me that rate". Well, you didn't ask!
William
Chicago, IL USA Sat 09/17/2005

More on blending in
I noticed on a month- long trip to Italy this past summer that when we were in really out- of- the- way places (the only Americans)and as the previous poster said, blended in with our clothing and not waving maps around, we never had problems. We were surrounded by other Italians (mostly) on vacation, too. The several times when I was approached by a beggar or rose pushing huckster- type were at big tourist attractions. So maybe it's another reason to consider exploring lesser- known ETBD areas of a country after seeing the big sights/site...
USA Sat 09/17/2005

Travel Scam Artists along the road.
Love this subject. Once of the easiest ways to avoid attention of the scam artists is don't dress like a tourist! Brand new his and hers is a dead give-a-way. Safari Clothes are pretty much cliche. Waste belts are definitely a come on. BE NATURAL. BE CONFIDENT. Like any thief, they prey on the vulnerable and obvious. Just be YOU. It works!
TRAVELSAPIEN <email>
Vancouver, BC Canada Sat 09/17/2005

London Cabs
Some of the "Black" cabs in London now are covered with multi-color advertisements. They may not look like the traditional black cabs but they are. Look for the shape of the vehicle.
Andy Perry
Louisville, KY USA Fri 09/16/2005

London
I didn't mean to imply that London is dangerous- just that the minicab issue can be a problem! Overall, I found the city to have a pretty safe feel about it, more so than NYC for example. Additionally, Londoners proved to be some of the most friendly and helpful people I've met anywhere- I actually had an older gentleman walk me all the way to the Tate on his lunchbreak because he saw me searching for it on a map and didn't want me to get lost- I was so moved. Additionally, the black cab drivers I used wouldn't let me out of the cab anywhere but in front of my hostel door, because they didn't want me in King's Cross alone after dark, which they described as a bit 'dodgy'. It felt more like my Dad was giving me a lift! Ciao!
Hallie
USA Fri 09/16/2005

London cabs
Hallie, you are right about the posters that are now on display, but the assualt numbers, although terrible & disgusting, are really quite rare. The biggest risk is being charged a silly amount of money for a short journey! Recent moves to regulate the industry had led to licencing & badging of both Black cabs & Minicabs - whereby drivers have insurance & their criminal records kept. The police are very active in central London now & are making life difficult for the rogue cabs. I have heard of New arrivals getting stung for £200 for the journey from Heathrow in to Central London - when a black cab would cost approx £45-55, a licenced Mini cab £25-35.

You wouldnt take a lift from a man in NYC that you didnt know, then just apply the same common sense to LOndon & you will be OK!

Its not that bad here! Honestly
Moira
London, UK Fri 09/16/2005

London Taxis
About those black cabs in Britain- try to use nothing but these when you need a taxi. Licensed minicabs are one thing, but unlicensed ones, found cruising for patrons throughout London, can be dangerous. When I was in the capital on vacation this year, I saw posters in women's restrooms all over the city, warning against taking them due to a large number of rapes committed by drivers. These posters were not even targeting tourists, but locals, meaning that even an experienced Londoner is at risk, so imagine the increase in danger to someone unfamiliar with the city.
Hallie
USA Thu 09/15/2005

Money belts
I was at a local CAA (Canadian for AAA) office yesterday and saw some money or documents belts that attaches on the leg and below the knee and be hidden by pants.

These should be great for a money reserve or to put documents not needed during a day trip.
Andre Moreau
Québec Thu 09/15/2005

Money Belt
I just got back from Spain. We went to Madrid, Toledo, Nerja, and Granada. Did not have many problems with scams or thieves. In general, the people were very nice and honest. But traveler beware! The only incident was a girl attempted to pick my front pants pocket. I felt her hand and firmly said “Hey!!” She acted innocent and darted off the metro before I could do anything else. I am glad I was using my money belt!!!

My wife and I are very cautious and we both religiously use our money belts (a must for travelers). Although it does get a little awkward when you have to access it – we run interference for each other to block the view of others.
Wadum
Dallas, TX USA Wed 09/14/2005

Scams in Brussels, Belgium
I had just arrived in Brussels and was walking around the area around the hostel when an old man (40-50's) approached me holding a map. He asked if I spoke English. I responded, "yes". He said he was an Italian man on business and was looking for "Sofitel". Of course, I had no idea where anything was, having just arrived. He said "Sofitel" was a money exchange place. When I heard the word "money", I knew something was up. He tried to coax me to a side of a building, presumably so that he can hold the map against it. I started to back away while saying that I had no idea where "Sofitel" was. From behind, two younger guys (20-30's) in plain clothes came up and quickly flashed badges. They said they were "passport control". I just started yelling "No way!" and quickly left. They seemed stunned.

When I returned to the hostel, I told one of my roomates what had happened, just to warn him about the area. He said the same exact thing happened to him at the train station. However, he wasn't so lucky. He lost 100 euros. Everything happened the same with him except when the two guys approached for the passport, the "Italian" man handed over the passport, as if it was normal. The two guys checked his passport and told him to leave. Next, they asked my roomate to hand over his passport. He did so and they returned it, but they had seen his moneybelt when he pulled out the passport. They told him that they were also looking for drugs and conterfeit money. They grabbed for the contents of his moneybelt. They counted up the money and returned it to him. It wasn't until my roomate got to the hostel to pay for the room that he realized that 100 euros was missing.

-----

The very next day, I was looking at a map when a man literally pulled over in his car, got out, and asked if he could help me. When I said I didn't need any help, he asked me where I was from and started to walk towards me, the whole while his car was double parked in the street. I suppose people can be friendly and helpful to tourists, but it was a bit much. I quickly got out of there.

-----

I chalked both these experiences to big city crime. In the US, we don't deal much with petty theft. You're more likely to get shot than being scammed. (That's a joke ;)
Vinh <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Sat 09/10/2005

Have Some Fun with Pick Pockets
Before I travel to Europe, I buy a few cheap wallets at garage sales. I then make a few copies of an easily understood, single finger hand signal, & put one into each wallet. With all of my valuables in a neck pocket, I put the fun wallet in an easy to get at back pocket, & head out for the day. I've had two of them stolen, & would have loved to been around when they were opened!!!
Steve
Grand Rapids, MI USA Fri 09/09/2005

France - Count your bills and your change
In France, count your change while still with a vendor, and always, always check restaurant, etc. bills. We were repeatedly overcharged (at least it was attempted), and a few times, vendors tried to give us back incorrect change (sometimes more than once). Best bet: try to give exact change whenever possible.
Becky McIntyre <email>
san jose, ca USA Wed 09/07/2005

Taxis
Taxis.

In London, Use only Black cabs wherever possible. Dont use unlicenced cabs at any time - they are likely uninsured & may not have fdroveres licences. A local MIni cabd firm can be a good alternative, but book over the 'phone & confirm the cost when you book - they will expect this anyway. NEVER use any unlicenced cabs around stations & Airports - they make a living from ripping you off.

Europe - same rules apply, but ensure that meters a re switched on when you depart & avoid any call for surcharge etc, even of they show you a piee of official looking card or similar.Naples is appalling for this scam. Stay calm, refuse to pay any amount in excess of the meter.
`Zoltan
UK Tue 09/06/2005

Madrid Tapas Scam
Don't accept tapas from the restaurant staff unless you specifically order them.....As pointed out in Rick's Tour book of Spain, bartenders will keep "giving" you Tapas....followed by a huge bill.
Leo Schieffelin <email>
Saratoga Springs, NY USA Mon 09/05/2005

Latest Scams in Spain
You can't walk around Madrid at night without being hassled by scam artists and junkies.

Look out for alleged police officers checking for "counterfeit currency" and people "looking for directions."
Leo <email>
Saratoga Springs, NY USA Mon 09/05/2005

Latest Scams in SPAIN??
What's the lastest "Scams" in Spain? Particularly Madrid and Sevilla?
Michelle
Anaheim, CA USA Mon 09/05/2005

Credit card number stolen
I returned from a trip to France and Amsterdam on July 20th. I used my credit card to buy goods, food, etc. and kept all my receipts. Before I left I notified my credit card companies of the dates I would be in Europe.

Just yesterday, 6 weeks after my return, I received a call from my bank card company that someone was in France charging on my account. They were using an actual card.

I still had my card and I wasn't charging anything in France. The card representative said my number was probably sold and a new card was made. They of course closed my account and will reissue a new card. Luckily, I wasn't responsible for any charges. I highly recommend notifying all credit and debit card companies of your travel plans.
Lesley Sullivan
Seattle, WA USA Sat 09/03/2005

Nothing is for Free.
Nothing is for free. Our group hiked up volcano Vesuvio. An edlerly couple was handing out walking sticks. When we got back down. There was a box of coins that was not there before. And they wanted coins. In Milan, a couple of men gave me a handful of bird food to feed the pigeons. They asked to hold my camera to take my picture. I didn't give him the camera. Then they kept insisting for money. A man tried to give me a subway ticket for free probably hoping for me to buy it. I refused guessing that it was used and void. The simple rule is: mothing is for free.
Sunny
Austin, Tx USA Sat 09/03/2005

E-mail scam alert
Attention: I have been getting e-mail from a "Temitope Bada", asking for monetary assistance for upcoming travel expenses. I've reported this to the graffiti webmaster. This board is for advice, travel companions etc...not to ask for donations. It's one thing to share certain expenses like rooms, trains and such, but another to ask for $1400! Beware, it's a scam and this person's very persistant. Bill
Bill
USA Fri 09/02/2005

Scams
I just recently returned from a trip to Italy and Germany and the only places that I saw any scamming going on was in Italy. In Milan there were the "bracelet" people, who tried really hard to put so called "free" bracelets on you. But once they're on they want money. In Venice we were hunted down by several of the "rose" people. However, I found that a firm "No Thank You" put them in their place and they left us alone.
USA Thu 09/01/2005

Dangerous Activity
Friends told me that Switzerland is the only country to offer Canyoning due to the dangers. People have died doing this as reported on the news. But I figure once in my life. After having completed 3 hours of Canyoning, I can say that it is dangerous. Greatly magnified due to poor safety instruction. While we drove to the site, one of the instructors asked about our background experience. He called us "stupid tourists". We all just sat there quietly. I have been an Tae Kwon Do instructor, physics teacher, and restaurant manager for 10 years. There was no safety instructions given. They mainly told us what to put on, when and where to go, and how to operate the equipment. Only after someone slipped and landed on his head, did they mention how to identify the slippery parts. I couldn't hear some of the instruction, since they talked too softly and told us only once with the instructor sitting on the ground in a noisey waterfall environment. The instructor was huddled around and students couldn't see him. One of the students slid the wrong way and nearly landed on a pill of rocks (probably did). I have repeled several times before. But with the passive system, he just kept lowering me while I slide over all parts of my body down the cliff. At the bottom, I had a hard time unhooking since he was pulling too hard. He screamed "BIG STEP, BIG STEP, LISTEN, BIG STEP, LISTEN, BIG STEP". He did not tell me where to step, I had to use trial and error. I believe that with these dangers Canyoning may cost more than money, but someones life. Canyoning should be outlawed.
Sunny
Austin, Texas USA Mon 08/29/2005

Chill out and play it smart
As long as you take the normal precautions you would in an American city, you should be fine. And remember, if anyone insists they are a police officer (they may even have a badge) and demand to see your passport or money for some reason, just tell them you'd be more than happy to show it to them- inside of the nearest police station. Of course, they aren't going to continue their scam in there, so when they refuse, smile and walk away. Most European policeman are quite friendly and helpful; the Dutch police in particular are very kind.
Hallie
USA Sat 08/27/2005

Roses, too!
We've recently returned from a month in Italy and the ONLY negative experience ever encountered was the rose guy at the foot of the Spanish Steps- as my daughter and I came towards the bottom, this guy came forward smiling with an arm- full of red roses as we were starting to take a photo, so she took it, and then he started to get really agitated and pushy like we should pay him to take the photo. So I tried to give the rose back and then he wouldn't take it, and he kept following us for a few minutes, angrily. I had been reading postings about gypsies and all kinds of shady possibilities at major tourist hangouts so I think the flowers are "disarming" because it's so incongruous to think of flowers as a scam...
Sara
USA Fri 08/26/2005

Rose Scam in Rome
Beware of people selling roses on the streets in Rome. They would approach a couple and either place a rose in a woman's folded arms or outstreached hand, or they would act as if they were offering the rose for free to entice the woman to take the rose. Then they would relentlessly demand payment from the man despite the woman trying to give the rose back. The most effective action I witnessed was a woman just letting the rose fall to the ground and walking away. There are also similar scams with other trinkets - you might try the same approach. I found saying no while waving my hand and averting my eyes inspired them to just leave me alone - that method worked for the beggers too.
A.K.
USA Fri 08/26/2005

Scams for the Single Traveler?
I am going to Europe for the first time, and I am traveling alone. I'm a seasoned traveler as far as the US and the UK are concerned, but Europe is undiscovered country for me. I've been reading about the scams attempted on tourists, but the majority of them seem directed at large groups or couples. Are there scams I ought to watch out for specifically as a young, single, female traveler? This is an incredibly useful resource, thanks for all the tips!
A.H.
CA USA Wed 08/24/2005

ATM Withdrawals
Great email from Deborah, glad you wrote in about the Venice car park. Those con men are very agressive. Anyway one other item. My wife kept a running record of our ATM withdrawals from all the different cities we were in in Italy. We just got our bank statement and found duplicate entries. Probably honest mistakes but we contacted the bank and they said they would reimburse us for extras withdrawals. Also our ATM card from our bank has a VISA logo on it. Because of that our withdrawals went through VISA and not directly from our bank. We were charged a 1% foreign transaction fees through VISA. Our ATM card should have been issued directly by the bank and not gone through VISA to avoid the transaction fees. We thought we had the ATM issue straight before we left so we will know better for next year.
Jerry and Linda Skaggs <email>
Brentwood, Ca 94513, Ca USA Wed 08/24/2005

Safety in Europe: scams, thieves, etc.
I just returned from a 2 month trip to Europe which covered France, Italy, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. On the whole, it was a great trip, and our worst casualty was a twisted ankle. We visited Chartres, Bayeux, Les Eyzies, Beynac, Le Baux de Provence, Cassis, Antibes, Ravenna, Venice, Verona, Asiago, Varenna, Zermatt, Gimmelwald, Bern, Leiden, and Paris (whew!) with no serious problems.None of the below scams ruined our enjoyment, but I thought others might benefit from our experience. Here are some of the scams, etc. we encountered:

Paris - 1) band of 5 thieves forming a "toll gate" in the tunnel connecting Line 1 to Line 8 in the Place de la Concorde station. We (family of 3) pushed past them, and one pursued us, running up to my husband who was wearing a camera bag. I shouted, "Stop thief!", and he backed off (although he continued to make little runs in our direction, scaring my daughter). 2) At the park below Sacre Coeur, we encountered the same "toll gate" tactic from the bracelet hawkers. Their scam was to let the men through, then blockade women and children. I had to push an especially persistant one away from my 13-year-old my daughter - he asked me if I was crazy (in perfect English); I said, "Yes!" I don't suggest that anyone else try this, by the way. It seems impossible to bypass these scammers when coming from the Metro since they were also blockading the route to the funicular. Taking a taxi would avoid them.

Antibes, France - area around the post office is very seedy, with several grubby guys hanging out near the Post ATM. I don't recommend using this ATM.

Italy - 1) We encountered three hotels and one apartment which advertised air conditioning, but in which the actual units only produced hot air. In the hotels, queries about "frigo" air only resulted in shrugs or getting an extra fan for the room. In the Venice apartment, the propietor just shrugged, but we rebooted his A/C unit after he left and discovered that he had disabled the compressor. The result: wonderful A/C in Venice :) Watch out for Hotel Armando in Verona, Hotel Minerva in Ravenna, and the Villa Cipressi Hotel in Varenna (the last wasn't advertising A/C, but had a broken unit in a junior suite where it was too hot to sleep). 2) We encountered the "Tourist Info" guides at the Venice Pl. Roma car park who were leading folks away from the Vaporetto stop. They were abusive when we proceeded away from their taxi location. 3) The ATM outside the Post Office at the Pl. Roma Vaporetto stop withdrew money from my mother's bank account without giving her the money. A person at the post office checked their records and claimed that no money was withdrawn, but the machine gave a receipt for the withdrawal and a check of her U.S. account showed the withdrawal. My parents are taking action to restore the funds, but it is difficult after the fact.

Switzerland - Bern's train station is full of addicts (publically smoking crack, etc.) shortly after dark. We also encountered gangs of drunks, one of which physically hurled himself against a moving tram. Just lovely!
Deborah Padgett
Pasadena, CA USA Wed 08/24/2005

Pickpockets and thieves
Keep you back to a wall whenever possible. With your bag directly held in your front. Watch for thieves in pairs. There will be one to distract, the other to steal. On trains/buses, be either the furthest away from the door, or the closest. Again, keep your back to the wall. Even with your bag secure in your shoulder, watch for the razor blade thief who cuts the bag open from underneath. They will also cut your pockets without you knowing. All in all: KEEP YOUR WITS ABOUT YOU. You don't have to be paranoid, but be aware of everything around you. Watch your partner's back, make them watch yours. You both will be secure that way. Have everyone in your party look out for each other, especially in crowded areas. Try to have only one person with a bag/backpack (trade off carrying duties)...that way you can all concentrate on keeping it safe.
Paolo
San Diego, CA USA Tue 08/23/2005

ATM Scam in London
On the first day in London in August, we used our ATM card to withdraw 50 pounds from an ATM on a very busy street (Oxford Street). When we were finished, no money came out - instead we had a receipt that read "Transfer to Mobile Top-Up." Apparently, in England you can use your ATM to transfer funds to your mobile phone account. The bank and Metro Police told us that people hack into the ATMs and then transfer your transactions to their mobile phone account. The British police were very unhelpful, but we managed to get our ATM card cancelled after 2 hours and only lost the 50 pounds. My advice - only use ATMs within a bank - not on the street.
Marty Bach <email>
Cleveland, OH USA Sun 08/21/2005

Venice Car Park
Venice. Watch out at the Tranchetto Car Park, the main multistoried garage, when arriving in Venice by car. In this case our tour guide (new) and all of us were led to a parking place by what appeared to be a "parking attendants". By all appearances, they worked for the garage. They cleverly led us to parking spots, guided us in and then guided us right out of the garage, towing all our luggage, in the opposite direction of the real vaporetto stop. On the path they directed us to take we did not see any of the signs that are clearly marked "vaporetto", with arrows pointing in the right direction. Anyway by the time we figured it out we were well away from the garage, and on the way to a private water taxi and our tour guide proceeded to get into a heated arguement with the con men that got pretty ugly. Finally we just marched off back to the parking garage and found the vaporetto stop, which is right where you would expect it to be, at the very end of the garage on the canal. Next, while buying vaporetto tickets, two other guys in uniforms came up to the tour guide and said that he had parked in the wrong location, and was in an unsecured portion of the garage and that he needed to move our cars to a location that was more secure. Wrong. On the way to the cars the uniformed con men asked for $40.00 euros per car to move the cars to an different area of the same garage. I know these scams are mentioned in the Rick Steves Italy 2005 guide however I want to make you aware at just how clever these guys are. They have fake badges, uniforms, carry two way radios and are very clever, and very smooth, at manipulating tourists.
Jerry and Linda Skaggs <email>
Brentwood, Ca USA Sat 08/20/2005

Good advice on Venice
This is not an advertisement for a good place to stay in Venice, so much as it is a perhaps a good guideline to help you enjoy your stay. But I have found that by staying in the small inns that have a more personal approach, you will be made more aware of where to go and not to go in order not to scamed to death. My stay with my wife was at the Ca´dei Doge, a small six room in behind a restaurant near the Piazzo San Marco. The owner, from Milan, and his wife, from Japan, lectured us in about twenty tourist scams that went on, and by following them, help us to avoid having any bad instances. They also spent some of their time introducing us around the neighbourhood which made for our stay to be a more personal one. They told us where to go and where to avoid, even if it was a place that we wanted to go. We are older and can´t put off as many hucksters as when we were younger, but as a result of their guidance, came away with a very happy memory of Venice---and saved a bank full of money. Small places have the time for you where the big hotels only want to fill the rooms. Thank You so much for a great trip.
Peter and Marnie Winstock
Buffalo, NY USA Thu 08/18/2005

Passport Rules
In Spain, if you are travelling here, a certified copy of your passport, (either at the consulat/embassy, or at the Guardia Civil/Police National precinct), will run you about 13-15 euros and is completely admissable all throughout Spain in leu of the original. The copy must be signed by the officer in a police precinct where the copy was made to be valid, but once done, is usable in hotels, car rental agencies and stores. If you get any grief, just claim the original was lost or stolen and have them contact the relative authority that certified your copy. I have been here for 8 years and this has not failed me yet. Good luck.
Mike
Madrid, Spain Thu 08/18/2005

Loose Bags
To Kate and Others --- We have had a long practice that serves us well. Anytime we sit down, anywhere, with a loose bag, we immediately hook the bag or bags to a table, bench, chair leg -- anything-- with a light weight cable lock. It will be there when you leave.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Thu 08/18/2005

Just got back from Europe backpacking England, France, Benelux and Germany with my father. We used the metro in London, Berlin and Paris without any problems. However, close by Obelisk I felt someone swipe by my short pocket(as if to see if there was anything there). Luckily, I was wearing a moneybelt, so the thief didn't get away with anything. By the Eiffel tower a beggar asked if I spoke English and held up a card. I responded with a firm "Nein" and she left
WA USA Tue 08/16/2005

Paris & Metro
I was recently in Paris, Venice, Florence and Rome. My wife and I were at the Louvre and when we tried to get metro passes back to our hotel, the machine wasn't working. There was a lady who kept insisting she would sell me a ticket for the metro. Luckily, my visual memory is like a camera. The ticket was fake.

Just let you all know.
artdezine
los angeles, ca USA Mon 08/15/2005

Credit Cards
This past June I was in London. A female friend bought a shirt at one of the stores around Piccidily. At the end of the transaction the vendor was not going to give her back her credit card. I was outside and not aware of what was going on. I looked in and saw that something was not right. I entered the store and asked "Whats up" while glaring at the vendor. He returned the card.
Steve A
Canon CITY, CO USA Fri 08/12/2005

Friday the 13th
Friday the 13th in Rome. While my husband and I were eating breakfast in the hotel, a woman stopped by our table and asked if the coffee was only for guests or if she could buy a cup ... when we got up to leave 15 minutes later, my shoulderbag had disappeared. (It had been on the floor between my husband and me.) Always, always, always be vigilant. You don't have to be on the street or in the metro to loose your belongings. (The hotel employees had seen the woman, and had assumed that she was a guest.) We still love Rome, though ... but next time we'll be smarter!
Kate
USA Fri 08/12/2005

Rome Metro Pickpockets
We have lived in Napes, Italy for 1 1/ years so we thought we were pretty saavy about the scams in Rome. We were wrong! This weekend, we visited Rome with my wife's sister and her three kids. Add our two kids and you havean ideal target for pickpockets. The kids are all young and we were loaded down with strollers and backpacks. As we boarded the jammed Metro car at Republicca, three young men jostled their way on board. I was distracted with getting all of the kids safely on the train. Unbeknownst to me they lifted my wallet out of a velcro'd front pocket on my shorts. My advice is to wait to board crowded Metro cars if traveling with childen. If a train is packed, wait for the next one or better yet, wait until after rush hour.
DA Schnell
Naples, Italy Wed 08/10/2005

Iberia Airlines of Spain
Iberia Airlines of Spain may request purchasers of their cybertickets (e-ticket) to present credit card to receive boarding card. British Air, Ryan, Air France and Continental do not require credit card to be presented. Spanish and EU Regulations do not require credit card to be presented.
Paul Richter
Union Township, NJ USA Wed 08/10/2005

Life
These posted tips people could use everyday not just traveling.

Do not leave anything of value unattended or in open sight in a vehicle.

That is never a guarantee it will not be taken any way but why advertise.

I read stories everyday in my local paper of 100’s of Music CD’s, purses and other items of value taken from cars in X area, what are these people thinking?

Most cars left unlocked – keys in them vehicles end up missing too and they cannot figure out why.

Theft is an opportunity crime – the person not paying attention that their bag is open and accessible, the unlocked bag, or just the expensive looking bag, people that come too far into your personal space then quickly disappear.

I’m not saying walk around scared of everyone just be slightly protective of your items.

Common sense cannot be taught and crime cannot be completely eradicated.

Just try to be safe & aware of what is going on around you.
USA Wed 08/10/2005

Long Distance Credit Card Calling Scam
INTERNATIONAL CREDIT CARD TELEPHONE COMMUNICATIONS SCAM

website: http://infonaa.com/english.php#4

My wife and I stayed at the Parliament Hotel in Dublin for 3 days at the beginning of July. We booked this hotel via Expedia.ca as we have had great success in using Expedia for our yearly travels to Europe and the United Kingdom.

During our stay at the Parliament Hotel in Dublin Ireland, we placed 3 overseas calls to family in Canada. Our normal process for making overseas calls to Canada is to dial direct by keying in 0 001 area code and phone number. At the Parliament Hotel we came across a card next to the phone outlining their process for making overseas calls. Their process was to go directly to a credit card option which put us in touch with an operator who took our credit card information and put the call through.

After our stay in Dublin, we travelled to Belfast, Rome, Florence and London and in each location, we were able to follow our normal process of dialling direct. Upon our arrival back home, we were astounded to see the charges on our credit cards for the calls placed during our stay at the Parliament Hotel in Dublin. An example and comparison for you: 2 minute call to Canada using the process outlined at the Parliament Hotel cost US$39.91 and the same call for the same duration made in Belfast and in Italy cost US $4.50.

We have called our Credit Card Company to lodge a complaint and have been advised that this particular phone company being used by Hotels abroad is indeed atrocious and they are charging far too much money for a normal overseas call. Our credit card company advised us that they get dozens of calls daily about this company.

We have since done our own on line investigation about this company and the complaints and stories are very similar to ours.

We called the company directly to complain and was told they would be willing to knock off some of the charges PROVIDING we did not lodge an official complaint.

This must be happening thousands of times a day.
Carlo Cusanelli <email>
North Vancouver, BC Canada Tue 08/09/2005

Lisbon taxi scammer
While in Lisbon, I was scammed by a taxi driver. He charged me a 5 euro luggage supplement for one backpack. I'm quite certain that was a scam, but I was tired and didn't feel like debating the issue. I hope that you won't be scammed like me.
Sarah
Chicago, IL USA Tue 08/09/2005

Tips to keep scammers at bay
No scams, just some tips to keep from being victimized.

1. Black Zip ties-electrical ties from Home Depot make great cheap security for zipper pulls on soft bags. In an airport they will discourage dishonest baggage handlers (they count on speed) from pilfering through your bags but not irritate customs inspectors too much-post 9/11, luggage locks are likely to get cut by customs. Even on your day bag, a zip tie through both zipper pulls will confound a pickpocket on a bus or crowded train. The zip ties are also handy for luggage repairs and can be used to secure couchette doors. I have also used them to tie two travel backpacks to a luggage rack or together-makes them bit too heavy for a "snatch and run".

2. Buy $100 worth Euros from your local bank before you leave home. After the end of a long flight, standing in the currency exchange line for cab or train fare, you are a tired, easy target. If you have Euros or other local currency already, you can move on to your train or cab faster.
Tony D
Broken Arrow, OK USA Tue 08/09/2005

message from an American in Magical Spain
Hi from an American in the beautiful Andalucia, the deep south of Spain!

I've been living in Spain since 1998 and travel here...a lot...with my tours have seen NO violent crime here. But like in Italy there are small scams. The most common I see is Gypsy women who hang around some of the big historic monuments. They'll offer you a sprig of rosemary or whatever for free so -(reciprocity principal)- people stop and the gypsy reads their palm - not free- and then they ask for payment and not with coins mind you! You have to give them credit for thinking big and I have seen them get a 50 euro note on 2 occasions. Solution don't take the bait and keep walking. Again they are NOT dangerous and can be fun to watch now that you know their game:-)
Daniel J. O'Beirne <email>
Seville, SPAIN Mon 08/08/2005

Taxis
During 35 days in Spain, Morocco and Portugal the only scams we encountered were with taxis. In Madrid, during several rides, the driver would drive unnecessary extra distance to run up the meter. In Sevilla about half the rides the driver would play with the supplements feature of the meter just as we came to a stop at the end of our ride and add an extra euro or two. In Lisbon, after a late night ride from the airport to our hotel which registered 6 euros on the meter, the driver showed us a form listing the "night tax" of more than 13 additional euros for a total of nearly 20 euros. When we challenged the validity of the night tax the driver accepted the 6 euros. Taxis are convenient and generally fairly priced, however, you have to stay alert or even licensed taxi drivers will pull a scam.
Tom Staly <email>
Kennewick, WA USA Sun 08/07/2005

My 2 adult daughters and I just returned from an 8 day trip to Italy. We read the warnings about pickpockets and scam artists. We always looked at maps and schedules ahead of time so that when we got to the train stations we could go directly where we needed to without looking lost. We had no problems. Everyone should heed the warnings, but don't be afraid to go as most of us have no problems.
Deborah Kay Harker <email>
Waldron, IN United States Sun 08/07/2005

I am not a fan of the money belt but both my husband and I like the "secret pocket" which we thread our normal belts through the loops and wear INSIDE our slacks -- had NO problems with them in 3 trips so far and I for one find them less "sweaty" than a money belt and more comfortable than the neck pouch :)

However ALL are really safe ways of carrying your IMPORTANT things so choose one you feel comfortable with --try it around town in hot weather first:)-- and have a wonderful trip knowing you have done the best u can to beat pickpockets :-) (Not dressing like a 'tourist' helps and following posters tips on Tourist Scams helps too)
Jackie Williams
Perth, Australia Sun 08/07/2005

Dress like a local?
Dress like the locals to avoid looking like an American? Maybe. But usually, you can pick out foreigners from down the street, no matter what they're wearing. We look different, walk different, talk different, and gawk at different things. What will make you a target is if you do those different things without taking appropriate precautions and keeping your eyes open.

I think a better bet is simply to dress and act with respect for the culture and locale you are visiting. By doing so, you won't be joining the ranks of the "ugly Americans" (or uglies from anywhere else - gimme a break, no country has the market cornered on ugliness or pleasantness).
Pat
Greece Sat 08/06/2005

dress like the locals
my only advice when i was living there is not to dress like an American. I could always sit in the airport and spot the "ugly american" by the way we dress. if u stick out your a target for the scam and rip off artist.
paul
bartlett, tn USA Wed 08/03/2005

taxis and phone cards
just came back from 6 weeks in dublin, brussels, berlin, istanbul, prague, rome and budapest. had a great trip, met lots of good nstives.only two bad incidents. got ripped off in an airport cab in rome, where the cab driver switched off the 50 euro i gave him to a ten and asked for the 50 again. and the phone card i bought from the store in prague-wencelas square shop (10 euro)was only good for 3 minutes to the usa!

other than these, had a great trip. I do wear a neck wallet, well hidden and dress like a bum so that they leave me alone, though!!!
mary
chicago, illinois USA Wed 08/03/2005

Non-current bills and coins
We are leaving tomorrow for Mexico City, and I have been doing some research on everything I can about traveling there. One thing that shocked me was the warning about making sure that one knows the current currency there because in a few places people who don't know it get old Mexican bills or coins for change.
Laura
San Francisco, CA USA Sat 07/30/2005

Comfort of Security
To each his or her own! A moneybelt works great for me but I can't tolerate the neck wallet and I certainly wouldn't want anything wrapped around my ankle. I say do what works for you, be cautious but have a great time!
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Sat 07/30/2005

Response to Security
With all due respect I beg to differ, the travel pants I am talking about have the zipper concealed inside the pocket such that it is not easily accesible. With the outside protective flap buttoned down it is VERY difficult to even find the zipper. I have used both a money belt and the travel pants, and IMHO, it is easier for a thief to stick his hand down someones pants and yank out the money belt than for him to get into the protected pocket. Plus I think the money belt is uncomfortable and sweaty to wear. As for storing your money in the "secret compartment" boot or belt I was talking about, you would have to be dead before a thief could pilfer your hidden money without you noticing. Folks, Rick Steves is not God and just because he endorses his money belt (which he sells btw) does not mean you have to think it is the best and only solution.
Ed
USA Fri 07/29/2005

security
Ed, I beg to differ with you but if you've read some of the listings here you'd know it's not "impossible" for a pickpocket to get into a zipped AND buttoned pocket without you knowing. This is what they do for a living, and they're good.
USA Fri 07/29/2005

Alternative to Money Belts
For those of you who do not like the discomfort of money belts or money pouches hanging from your neck there are a few alternatives that I find work really well. LL Bean (and I am sure a lot of other companies) sell "travel pants" where the side pocket has a "second" hidden pouch which zippers shut (zipper is well concealed within the pocket). The back pocket also zippers shut and has a flap with a button over it. It is impossible to unzip and unbutton without you knowing. The added inconvienence of getting to your money is no worse than having to dig into your money belt. You can fit a passport+wallet and some other small stuff in the pockets. Plus the pants are made of material thats cool, won't wrinkle, get soiled, dries quickly, and meshes well with typical European dress styles (shorts or jeans label you as a tourist in more conservative parts of Europe). Only downside, pants are pretty expensive, however other companies may be cheaper. Ladies, I don't know if there is a "travel dress" but I am there is something equivalent for you. I've also travelled with a friend who had cowboy boots and a big western belt that had a secret compartment where he could store money. Although the cowboy getup did make him look ridiculous, it was a pretty neat feature and helped him "sneak" some money out of Russia (back when the money declaration scam at Russian customs was an issue).
Ed
USA Thu 07/28/2005

Pickpocketed in Rome
Thanks Rick Steves! I followed your advice and wore a money belt during a month long camping trip across Europe from which we just returned. In the money belt were our passports, a couple hundred American emergency dollars, and our leased car's owner registration information. I also carried a wallet with my Euros, credit and ATM cards in my pocket. Just outside the Roman forum, we were confronted by a pair of young girls (Gypsy or Romani, I believe) the older of whom grabbed my arms and begged for money. Immediately I backed off and firmly said no repeatedly and forcefully. The older girl persisted for perhaps 30 seconds. During that time apparently, the younger girl had managed to get into my backpack and take a ziplock bag of Euro coins. We did not realize that we had lost anything until we were a block or two away. My teenage daughter was so stunned by what she saw that she did not realize that we were being pickpocketed. Thankfully, I only lost perhaps 15 Euros so our losses were minor. After that, my credit cards and ATM cards found their way into my money belt as well! We also met an American couple on Rome Metro system that had lost their wallet (with credit cards) to a pickpocket that same afternoon. Thankfully I was cautious and informed about the risks of pickpockets (thanks to your guidebooks!),and my loss was merely a minor nuisance.
Tim <email>
Lakeville, MN USA Thu 07/28/2005

Money belts
Andy, you left a word out - you haven't been robbed, YET. Wearing a money belt isn't paranoia, it's taking care. I agree it can be uncomfortable (I found it helped to wear it with the pouch at the back), but after a long trip I feel undressed going out without it - you can get used to it! You don't even have to be a traveler to be at risk, I had my wallet stolen many years ago when I lived in London. I also had it stolen last year in Rome, despite reading all the warnings here, but because I had read the warnings, all I lost was one day's money supply, an expiring bus pass and the wallet. Ask yourself where the street vendors in Rome get all those wallets they're selling.
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Thu 07/28/2005

Reply to Luther
With all due respect, you can't guarantee because it did not happen to me. My viewpoint is that I would be careful but not paranoid about European citizens. I never felt in danger and I have had, and continue to have, a wonderful time, even with the bombs here in London.
Andy Perry <email>
Louisville, KY USA Thu 07/28/2005

Charles M. Luther
Personally when I say moneybelt I included all types worn INSIDE your clothes, whether neck pouch, belt or waist type. I think that is probably Rick's intent also. But this I will guarantee, if you insist on carrying your passport, money, credit cards and other important documents in you pockets and pointing out which pocket like Andy does, you will be robbed. It is just a matter of time. Read Rick's books and do what he suggest. He is much more knowledgable and experienced than you are. Wear a moneybelt, be alert and do not underestimate the thief.
USA Wed 07/27/2005

Moneybelt and Scams
Well,those are nice comments but I never felt uncomfortable, uneasy and I didn't have a wallet. I know people who have had their pockets picked in Louisville and New York. I didn't come to Europe to become paranoid and worry constantly. I'm havinga great time even in London.
Andy Perry <email>
Louisville, KY USA Wed 07/27/2005

Money Belts and Scams
Agreed, the money belt can get uncomfortable and sweaty. That's why many people prefer the neck pouches. We too have never had a problem in Europe, but being from a big city ourselves, we're just wondering which future trip it is that will have a pickpocket episode. Bad idea to put your hand over your wallet. A friend of a friend did that in Italy. All he did was advertise to the pickpockets where his wallet was. Like all good advertising, it worked. Too well. He was bumped in a crowd, which moved his arm. Before he knew it, his wallet was gone and he had no clue who took it.
Rick Manyik
Chicago, IL USA Wed 07/27/2005

Money Belts
To each his own, Andy, but I would rather put up with a little discomfort (although I wore my money belt for 10 days through 4 countries, 4 plane rides, and two train trips without any) in exchange for peace of mind that comes from not worrying about where my money and important documents are.
Steve
Richmond , VA USA Wed 07/27/2005

Money Belts and Scams
I am ending a 6 week stay in Europe and have been in Paris, Rome, Florence and London. I wore my money belt one day. It was so uncomfortable in the Italian heat that my partner and I both discarded them. After almost 6 weeks I have all my cards, cash, and passport. I have had no problems with street people EXCEPT when I was in a hurry and looked like a foreigner and then I was only hit up for a handout. I keep my passport and money in one front pocket and hotel key and change in the other. If I feel I'm in an area where I might be scammed I keep my hand over my wallet. For some reason we have had no problems. We even got correct change back from all clerks. I read this site almost daily and I'm amazed what is happening to some people. Not sure why.
Andy Perry <email>
Louisville, KY USA Wed 07/27/2005

Ugly capitalism in Prague
Upon entering the Prague train station, one quickly learns that if you want information in English, there is only one man who can help you. If you ask any other i center, upon hearing English, they roll their eyes and point in his direction. I felt like I was seeing the great and wonderful OZ or something. This guy is ANYTHING but great and wonderful. When it was finally our turn, he gave us a coy smile and mentioned how badly he had ripped off the travelers in line ahead of us on their money exchange, shrugging his shoulders and saying, "I've got to make my money too." When we asked him to please point us in the direction of our hotel, which was only two blocks away, he said: "Ahhhhhhh, you came to see me for information.......and information is what costs. This is capitalism now." We were so tired after our journey, we tossed him two euros and he told us to go in the opposite direction, through a nasty park filled with criminals and vagabonds. He alerted people we were coming and that we were stayin in a four star hotel. PLEASE avoid this evil man like the plague! He's between 40-50 years old, medium build, balding brown hair, rotting teeth, looks like a troll. Be prepared with a map and ask your hotel or hostel for all the information you need. What he is doing is imoral and cruel.
Katina
Evanston, IL USA Tue 07/26/2005

be proactive, see it coming and be ready
Tips for dealing with foreign criminals: 1. why not be proactive? If a suspicious looking someone approaches you, you could (a) give them one of your preprinted fliers that you have handy in your pocket which has your message of love and peace and "kiss off, loser" on it. While they are distracted by reading your missive, you can continue on your way. Heck, I hate getting those free handouts. Maybe they will steer clear of you before you can even get it in their hands. (b) have your camera ready and take a picture of the donogooders (perhaps even sell them your 8mb compact flash card for a reasonable price (Oh, I don't know maybe 200 euros seems fair). If they don't seem responsive, you may want to wonder out loud how much the police would think it was worth. (c) Carry a decoy wallet (enticely hanging from your back pocket) stuffed with monopoly money and your personal handwritten note of good will to all mankind. (d) Pack a telescoping baton and have it handy for your day trips as it makes a good walking stick and also a wonderful head scratcher. (e) I love those handheld 120 decibel sound emitters. They always help break the ice on those chance encounters with complete strangers especially at point blank range. (f) When approached by the police impersonators, why not just pull out the ol' filibuster. Start talking about your trip from beginning to the present in excruciating detail. When they try to interrupt, just refuse to stop. That always works on me because after 5 minutes I'm ready to avoid any further and future encounters with the narrator at all costs. (g) For that matter, pull out your pocket bible and start sermonizing or just start reading it aloud from the beginning. I'm sure the would be criminals will immediately turn tail and never be seen again. (h) For the shortchangers, refuse to leave. They are counting on you feeling uncomfortable and leaving. (i) Here's a good one, learn a foreign language. When approached by a french begger, faux gendarme, gypsy, etc., simply utter "Lo siento mucho senor pero no hablo ingles." If they persist then continue with "otra cerveza por favor y dos otros rellenos y Oscar de la Hoya dice no mas."
Alison Hall
Columbus, GA USA Mon 07/25/2005

Touris Acam Alert
I NEVER EVER put all my eggs in one basket, and try religiously to stay at hotels with safes - located either in the room or at the reception desk. It is not foolproof, but so far I have never had money or other valuables stolen - except in Egypt which is another story. Long ago I invested in a more expensive money belt that slips around the neck and has wire running through the straps. REI sells them for about 30 dollars. I also carry a relatively small leather backpack with dual zippers on at least one compartment (hopefully the largest one) so I can use a lock on it. (Compartments with one zipper or none at all remain empty.) Despite that, however, I nearly got nailed in Paris coming out of a metro station. Because pickpockets are kids under fourteen - and usually short (as well as being unacountable for their illegal actions under French law even if caught in the act) - and because I am just short of six feet tall, I got safely away with all my cash. ATMs are the greatest things since sliced bread, and I now NEVER leave home with more cash than I can "afford" to l