{"id":51298,"date":"2023-06-06T18:18:00","date_gmt":"2023-06-06T10:18:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/?p=51298"},"modified":"2023-07-18T15:35:47","modified_gmt":"2023-07-18T07:35:47","slug":"tourist-traps-in-europe","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/blog\/tourist-traps-in-europe\/","title":{"rendered":"Tourist Traps In Europe You Should Avoid"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Planning that long-awaited Euro trip? Keep your guard up and protect yourself from falling prey to tourist scams! Here are some common frauds to take note of \u2014 and tips on how to avoid being their next victim.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Europe is undisputedly one of the most beautiful continents in the world, with many cultural, historical, and natural marvels. So it comes as no surprise that it attracts throngs and throngs of tourists every single day. But as with many tourist destinations around the world, you\u2019re bound to find some bad apples out to make the travel experience unpleasant. And when you\u2019re busy snapping photos of everything and anything, or fumbling around on your phone’s Google Maps, you\u2019re pretty much a walking target for these scammers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

So to ensure that your trip to Europe remains memorable for the right reasons, we\u2019ve shortlisted eight of the most common tourist traps you might encounter. Remember \u2014 it always pays to stay vigilant and one step ahead! \ud83d\udc47<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udc9c Stay Up To Date:<\/strong>
\u2013 <\/a>Upgrade Your Wardrobe Game With Charles & Keith\u2019s Summer 2023 Collection<\/a>
\u2013 How To Start A Working Holiday In New Zealand: A Guide For Singaporeans<\/a>
\u2013 <\/a><\/a><\/a>12 Best Dreamy And Affordable Chateau Hotels In France From S$154\/Night<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

1. The Friendship Bracelet (Most Common in Paris)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\"Tourist<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Image credits: The Arterie<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Remember making these using a combination of colourful threads as kids? In Europe, these typically have a bad rep \u2014 and for good reason. While common in many tourist areas, the Friendship Bracelet Scam occurs most commonly in Montmartre, Paris, where the breathtaking Sacr\u00e9 Coeur resides. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The scam is pretty straightforward. As you\u2019re climbing the seemingly endless flight of stairs, someone will approach you and offer you a \u2018gift\u2019 in the form of a friendship bracelet. To do so, they\u2019ll typically ask for a handshake (or in some cases, they straight up just grab your hand) and begin tying it around your wrist. Once the deed is done, they\u2019ll demand for some money, sometimes up to 20 euros. And if you turn them down or attempt to take it off, they\u2019ll get their fellow scam artists to join them in hustling you \u2014 which can be very<\/em> intimidating. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

To avoid being a target, be aware of your surroundings. If anyone approaches you, simply ignore them and keep walking \u2014 even if it seems rude. Further, reduce the risk of getting grabbed by keeping your hands to yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tourist Traps In Europe You Should Avoid: Check out our guide<\/a><\/strong> to luxury shopping in Paris <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

2. The Friendly Local (Most Common in Greece)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\"Tourist<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Image credits: Unsplash<\/em><\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

If you enjoy travelling alone and ambling through unfamiliar streets \u2014 do take note of this (Of course, these actors don\u2019t discriminate \u2014 they\u2019d target anyone!). With so many small roads and things to see in Greece, it\u2019s only natural for you to be holding onto your phone and orienting yourself with Google Maps. But this also makes you an easy target, as the \u2018friendly local\u2019 would approach you, asking if you need help with directions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Then, they\u2019ll try to strike up a conversation about anything and everything. And in typical Greek hospitality, they\u2019ll ask if you\u2019ve tried Ouzo, an aperitif that\u2019s widely also known as the national spirit of Greece. If you say no, they\u2019ll likely tell you they work at a bar, and invite you down for a drink on the house. Once they get you into the establishment, you\u2019ll almost always find a big, burly bodyguard stationed by the door, making it nearly impossible for you to leave. And once you\u2019ve had your shot of Ouzo, be prepared to pay anything up to 100 euros. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

To avoid this, simply turn them down from the get-go and be on your merry way! While there are stories of legit Greek hospitality, we think erring on the side of caution is the best bet. After all, ordering your own from a legit establishment won\u2019t cost you an arm and a leg anyway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tourist Traps In Europe You Should Avoid:<\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em> Check out our guide<\/a><\/strong> on how to save on luxury shopping in Greece <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

3. Fake Petitions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\"Tourist<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Image credits: AAUW<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s not surprising to see individuals out and about on the streets asking for people to sign petitions for causes they believe in \u2014 especially in a country like Europe where freedom of expression is a big deal. However, this means that you may end up becoming a victim of a scam if you chance upon the wrong group of people. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In more urban areas like London and Paris, you may be approached by children to sign a petition and donate to a charity. And of course, you\u2019d feel inclined to see what they have to offer \u2014 they\u2019re kids after all! But as soon as you\u2019re distracted, they may work their hands and pickpocket you without you even realising it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While it always feels good to give back to society, there are plenty of safer and more legit ways to do so. Simply don\u2019t engage with them and walk away if you have to. You can always donate to causes you believe in when you\u2019re back home!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tourist Traps In Europe You Should Avoid:<\/em> Check out our guide<\/a><\/strong> to affordable Michelin food around Europe <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

4. The Taxi Scam<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\"Tourist<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Image credits: Unsplash<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

This one is prevalent in most parts of the world and is scary because it can occur at any<\/em> point of your trip. If you\u2019re planning to take a taxi from the airport into the city, make sure you use ride-hailing apps or book them from official companies at the airport. There are plenty of stories where street-side taxi drivers end up making you pay exorbitant prices for your trip. And if you\u2019re trying to get around within the city, always make sure that they are licensed and reputable companies \u2014 don\u2019t get into a cab with a broken meter. If you can, try to pre-pay for your trip too because there are also reports of taxi drivers taking longer routes just to get more out of your journey. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where possible, we recommend taking public transport or using ride-hailing apps, so that you know exactly where you\u2019re going and how much you\u2019re paying. If taxi rides are a must, remember to do your research! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tourist Traps In Europe You Should Avoid:<\/em> Check out our guide<\/a><\/strong> on tourist traps in Southeast Asia to avoid<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

5. The Rosemary Scam (Most Common in Spain)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\"Tourist<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Image credits: Hotels.com<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

When going to a country steeped in so much culture and history like Spain, it may seem only natural to want to embrace all kinds of experiences \u2014 like receiving a sprig of rosemary for good luck. In this scam, an elderly lady may approach you to offer you one, along with an offer to read your fortune. Then \u2014 you guessed it \u2014 they start to demand money in exchange for her services. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you don\u2019t pay, she may start cursing you and your family or have other old ladies join in to pressure you to pay up. Either way, they are both extremely harrowing experiences, so it\u2019s best to avoid them completely! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The same rules apply here. Smile and walk away confidently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tourist Traps In Europe You Should Avoid:<\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em> Check out our guide<\/a><\/strong> to the best Barcelona Tapas in Spain<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

6. The Cup & Ball Game (Most Common in Paris)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\"Tourist<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Image credits: Daily Express<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Beware of another classic scam commonly observed in crowded tourist hotspots across Europe. Here’s how it unfolds: You’ll come across street vendors engaging in a seemingly innocent game of guessing which cup the ball is hidden under. However, what appears to involve other tourists and locals is actually an orchestrated act. These individuals are not genuine participants but rather actors employed for the purpose of the scam. You may notice their intentional ineptitude, luring you into believing you have a chance to win the prize.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once they notice your interest, they\u2019ll try to encourage you to join the game. And that\u2019s where you\u2019ll end up losing a lot of money \u2014 either through sleight of hand or by getting pickpocketed by their accomplices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If it\u2019s your first time seeing such street games, it may seem interesting to watch. And while you can take a peek, just keep walking and they\u2019ll likely leave you alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tourist Traps In Europe You Should Avoid:<\/em> Click here<\/a><\/strong> for the ultimate Paris food guide for all budgets<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

7. The Menu Scam<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\"Tourist<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Image Credits: Unsplash<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

While not as insidious and intimidating as the ones listed above, falling for the menu scam can put a damper on your dining experience. When travelling abroad, it\u2019s natural to request an English menu, particularly in regions where English isn\u2019t the first language. However, in many tourist areas across Europe, there have been instances where tourists are charged higher prices compared to locals ordering from the same menu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You may also find yourself missing out on enticing lunch or dinner set menus and specials, as the English versions are often simplified (for reasons that remain unclear). Although not illegal, it can leave a proverbial sour taste in your mouth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To avoid this, you may want to do your research beforehand. Look for establishments that come with high reviews, and preview their menus ahead of time if you must. Alternatively, take a gamble and rely on the good \u2018ol Google Translate to help you out. Ordering something without knowing precisely what to expect can even add a touch of excitement to your adventure!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tourist Traps In Europe You Should Avoid:<\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em> Check out our guide<\/a><\/strong> to the best wine regions in Europe to visit this June<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

8. The Accidental Spill<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\"Tourist<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Image Credits: Unsplash<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

When exploring the bustling parts of Europe, it\u2019s almost unavoidable to find yourself amidst a sea of people. In such crowded places, accidental collisions and coffee spills are bound to happen. However, it\u2019s important to be aware of the common pickpocketing ploy that often follows these incidents. The victim (or the offender) may offer to help you clean the spill, and that\u2019s when you may end up getting pickpocketed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If it ever happens, be firm and let them know that you can handle it on your own, while keeping a watchful eye on your belongings. Sure, it may genuinely be an innocent mishap with a stranger, but let\u2019s not take our chances here!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tourist Traps In Europe You Should Avoid: Check out this guide<\/a><\/strong> on affordable chateau hotels in France from S$154\/night<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Travel Smart \u2014 Always Stay Sharp!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\"Tourist<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

We\u2019re probably just skimming the surface when it comes to the types of tourist scams out there. As we all know, these individuals and syndicates evolve quickly \u2014 so it pays to stay extra vigilant. It may seem intimidating or even rude to say \u2018no\u2019 or to ignore these individuals, but remember that your safety and well-being always come first. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

And as you can expect, we always recommend carrying around a multi-currency card, just like ours! If you ever end up losing your wallet or needing cash in an emergency situation, our YouTrip card allows you to temporarily freeze all transactions, and manage your cash (it being a debit card and all) without you worrying about chalking up exorbitant bills like a credit card scam might. You\u2019ll also get to enjoy our wholesale exchange rates<\/a> so that you get to save, even as you spend! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Singapore\u2019s favourite multi-currency wallet, we aim to get those pesky fees out of the way and help you save on your travels. With the best foreign exchange rates, no longer will you have to deal with those long queues at money changers! So if you’re looking for a go-to travel card, sign up for your complimentary YouTrip card today with promo code <YTBLOG5<\/strong>><\/strong> and get FREE S$5<\/strong> in your account! Then, head over to our YouTrip Perks<\/a> page for exclusive offers and promotions \u2014 we promise you won\u2019t regret. For more great tips and articles like this, join our Telegram<\/a> (@YouTripSG) and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter here<\/a> or down below.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

And while you’re at it, why not join the conversation with thousands of #YouTroopers in our very own Community Telegram Group @YouTripSquad<\/a>? Get tips and tricks to everything YouTrip including exclusive invites to exciting events and experiences, & be part of the #YouTripSquad! \ud83d\udc9c<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Safe Travels! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Related Articles<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Epic Travel Disasters: How To Avoid The Chaos<\/a>
Here\u2019s How I Experienced Nyepi \u2014 Bali\u2019s Day Of Silence<\/a>
Break-Up Horror Stories From Your Community That\u2019ll Make You Feel Glad You\u2019re Single<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"YouTrip<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Travel smart!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":49,"featured_media":51314,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[8119,623,624],"tags":[39713,39716,39760,39129,39132],"class_list":["post-51298","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-guides-tips","category-lifestyle","category-travel","tag-tourist-scams","tag-tourist-traps","tag-tourist-traps-in-europe","tag-travel","tag-trending"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/51298","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/49"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=51298"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/51298\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/51314"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=51298"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=51298"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.you.co\/sg\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=51298"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}