The most common ways to cheat tourists around the world

Most tourists traveling abroad are in a hurry to buy a souvenir there as a souvenir, a gift for friends and relatives, or some exclusive items at a low price. Moreover, many of them risk becoming victims of dishonest merchants who, under the guise of a branded product or real jewelry, can sell a fake for the same money. So that you do not get hooked by scammers, we will tell you about the most common ways to cheat foreigners in different countries.

China

This country is known throughout the world as the birthplace of most fakes, so if you are not a supporter of buying replicas, you must be extremely careful. In China, tourists most often come across fake pearls and silk. However, only those who do not know how to identify a non-original. For example, pearls need to look at the hole - it shows what is hidden under the cover, or throw the pearl on the table, if it is real, it will bounce like a ball. At silk, you need to find a sticking thread on the edge of the product, cut it and set it on fire. The artificial thread will melt, not burn, and the ash rubbed in the fingers will smell like chemistry, not burnt wool.

Singapore and Hong Kong

Since in these countries tourists like to buy various equipment, then scammers are most active in this particular area. First of all, always check that the very same product is inside the purchased box. And secondly, do not give the money until the gadget you need is in your hands and checked. So, a common trick here is the scheme when the buyer is first charged, and only then they allegedly go to the warehouse for the goods. At this time (in the hope that you will get tired of waiting) you are told about the advantages of a completely different model, which is actually worse and less in demand. And you can wait forever for a person to return from the warehouse, because in most cases what you ordered is simply not in this store.

Thailand

In Thailand, merchants right on the streets offer travelers to buy a cheap gem placer. Of course, stones can be either real or fake. There are no guarantees, unless you are an experienced expert. However, remember that unprocessed gems cannot be taken out of the country.

India

Gemstones are also in demand in India. In no case do not trust the merchants who offer you to buy stones cheap from them, since they have exhausted their limit and cannot transport them across the border, and upon arrival you will be allegedly met by his partner, who will buy jewelry from you at a higher price. Of course, in fact, there is no partner, and the stones are most likely a handful of glass.

All of asia

In any Asian country, it’s better to always have loose money with you, since sellers often don’t have any change. Categorically, you should not give the seller a large bill so that he goes to exchange it. Most likely, he will send an assistant whom you will no longer see. In such a situation, you should immediately threaten to call the police.

Egypt

In Egypt, a popular souvenir that tourists like to bring to their homeland is papyrus. However, when choosing a place to buy it, you should never listen to taxi drivers or local street helpers - they will probably advise a shop where they will sell you a fake. It is best to go to a specialty store and make sure that you are issued a certificate, because it may be asked at customs.

Czech

In the Czech Republic, foreign guests are deceived no less than in Asia. The best advice here is to always check checks in stores. The cashier may well punch you an extra bottle of soda or goods that you did not buy at all. And also an “inattentive” trade employee can break through to you products of a more expensive brand.

Cuba

Cuba is famous for its cigars. However, it’s better for you not to buy them if you are completely unaware of the issue. There is a big risk that you will get the worst product at the price of the best samples. Also, never buy cigars outdoors or on the cheap. The best place to buy cigars in Cuba will be a specialized store, mainly at tobacco factories. When buying goods individually, be sure to ask that the box be opened with you.