subject: Vacation Scams to Watch For: Cab Scam [print this page] Vacation Scams to Watch For: Cab Scam Vacation Scams to Watch For: Cab Scam
We hope that you have a wonderful trip this year and with all the wonderful vacation destinations out there, we want to caution you to be alert as there as a lot of potential scams out there. Here at iGlobe Travel, we are doing our part to help educate travelers about potential travel scams and hope you find this information helpful.
Taxi drivers love to swindle money out of unsuspecting tourists as they are strangers in a strange land and very unfamiliar with things.
As with other scams in foreign countries, being knowledgeable about the local currency is a must. Also, try not to ever hand a cab driver a large bill as they will often drop it and then switch it with a smaller bill or a counterfeit one they have stashed under their seat. Some will charge you inflated rates setting the meter for evening or weekend rates in some instances and setting it for multiple persons in others. A lot of times they will quote you one rate when you get into the cab, only to double it once you arrive at your destination.
Some cabbies work with local hotels, offering you a "package deal" right at the airport. However, once you arrive at the hotel, you find the discounted rooms are mysteriously all filled up. The hotel then charges you an exorbitant amount to stay, and the cab driver receives a commission on the side.
It also pays to have a working knowledge of where you're headed. If you know the route to your hotel should only be 15 minutes, make sure the cabbie knows you know this. Don't let yourself be talked into alternate routes or "shortcuts" that could end up lasting 45 minutes or more.
How do you avoid falling victim? Make your travel and lodging plans in advance. If you need a taxi, use a hotel or restaurant to call for one. If hailing a cab on the street, choose only those with prominent logos and telephone numbers. Never accept a ride from an unmarked car -- you could end up losing more than just your wallet.
