BARCELONA’S TOURIST SCAMS

Getting scammed is one of the most unfortunate things that can happen while you’re on vacation.

This blog, Just The Flight, compiled a list of common scams found around the world and we wanted to highlight the ones that are most frequently played out in Barcelona. 

• Pickpockets: Although Barcelona is safe from violent crime, pickpockets are common in popular touristic areas. 
• The friendship bracelet: Scammers will try to tie a string bracelet around your wrist and then make you pay for it. 
• A rose for your girlfriend: Scammers will hand you a rose and then guilt you for not buying it for your partner.
• The expensive taxi driver: Always use licensed cabs!
• The cashier on the phone: Sometimes people will fake a phone call in order to photograph your credit card while you are paying for something. 
• Slow counting: Scammers will count out your change very slowly in the hope that you will be impatient and tell them not to worry. You’ll often be leaving a very generous tip accidentally!
• The overly helpful local: Make sure nobody sees your PIN code while withdrawing money from a cash machine or buying tickets.
• The map seller: You can buy your map from the tourism office, a library, or use your phone!
• The beggar: Mostly people living on the street are just asking for a little help, but sometimes there is a pickpocket nearby watching to see where you put your wallet after you give money to a homeless person. Just be vigilant with your valuables. 
• The broken camera: Be careful if someone asks you to take their picture. Scammers will intentionally ensure the camera breaks as you hand it back to them and then demand compensation. 
• The closed hotel: Contact your hotel before arriving in town and find out where it’s located. Use Google Street View if possible.
• Fake front desk call: NEVER give credit card information over the phone.
• Hotel room inspectors: Call the front desk to make sure that the alleged inspectors are real hotel employees.

Our final advice? Research, research, and research. Learn as much as you can about the destination you’re going to visit, such as maps and tips from locals and other travellers.

Food Lover Tour Will Bring You To The Trusted Places

As fervent travellers ourselves, we understand perfectly that going to unknown places can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Where should I visit to experience real local culture? But also, where shouldn’t you go to avoid any potential danger? Food Lover Tour has got you covered! 

You can feel like a local while staying safe on our true food excursions. Explore all of our destinations here!