Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Selçuklu, Konya, Turkey

1. Grand Bazaar Overpricing

Watch out for inflated prices in Istanbul's Grand Bazaar. Always negotiate and compare prices.

Bartering Skills: Master your bargaining skills to get a fair deal.
Price Comparison: Compare prices between stalls before buying to avoid overpaying.
Patience: Be patient and take your time when shopping to get the best deal.

Avoid taxi overcharges by using meter-taxis or negotiating fares beforehand.

Ensure food safety by choosing busy street vendors with good hygiene practices.

Busy Vendors: Opt for busier street food stalls as they have a higher chance of maintaining cleanliness.
Good Hygiene: Look for vendors who practice good hygiene, such as wearing gloves and frequently washing hands.
Avoid Risky Foods: Stay away from foods that are not properly cooked or stored.

Avoid buying counterfeit goods by researching the prices and authenticity of popular items.

Price Check: Check the prices of items online to ensure they match the local market.
Authenticity: Look for signs of authenticity, such as quality materials and packaging.
Brand Reputation: Research the reputation of brands before making a purchase.

Avoid sim card scams by purchasing from official vendors and checking your balance regularly.

Official Vendors: Buy sim cards only at authorized shops.
Check Balance: Regularly check your balance to ensure that you are charged correctly.
Data Usage: Monitor your data usage to avoid unexpected charges.

Avoid ATM skimming by using machines in well-lit and busy areas.

Well-Lit Areas: Choose ATMs located in well-lit and populated locations.
Cover Screen: Always cover the keypad while entering your PIN to prevent shoulder surfing.
Monitor Statements: Regularly monitor your bank statements for any unauthorized transactions.

Avoid overpriced currency exchange by using reputable money changers and researching exchange rates.

Reputable Money Changers: Choose licensed money changers with good customer reviews.
Check Exchange Rates: Compare exchange rates at multiple places before making a transaction.
Avoid Rush Hours: Exchange money during off-peak hours to get better rates.

Avoid fake tour guides by booking tours with reputable agencies and asking for proper credentials.

Reputable Agencies: Book tours through well-known travel agencies.
Credentials Check: Ask for the tour guide's credentials and license.
Tripadvisor Reviews: Read reviews on TripAdvisor or similar platforms before choosing a tour operator.

Avoid street performer scams by not giving money unless you are satisfied with the performance.

Satisfaction Guaranteed: Only tip street performers when satisfied with their performance.
Scam Awareness: Recognize the signs of a potential scam and stay cautious.
Local Customs: Respect local customs and tip appropriately, if desired.

Avoid rental car scams by inspecting the vehicle thoroughly before signing the contract.

Thorough Inspection: Inspect the car for damages and take photos as evidence.
Read Contract: Read and understand the rental agreement before signing.
Payment Method: Choose a reputable payment method, such as credit card, to protect your finances.

Avoid overpriced accommodation by booking in advance and using reputable platforms.

Advance Booking: Book your accommodations well in advance to get better rates.
Reputable Platforms: Use platforms such as Booking.com, Agoda, or Airbnb for bookings.
Location Preference: Choose accommodation in safe and central locations to avoid scams.

Avoid dining scams by researching restaurants and checking the bill before paying.

Restaurant Research: Research restaurants on platforms such as TripAdvisor for reviews.
Check Bill Thoroughly: Review the bill carefully before making payment to avoid hidden charges.
Ask for Receipts: Request a receipt for your meal to keep a record of your expenditures.

Avoid ticket counterfeits by purchasing tickets from authorized sellers and checking their authenticity.

Authorized Sellers: Buy tickets only at official sales booths or outlets.
Check Authenticity: Verify the ticket's authenticity by checking for holograms, watermarks, and other security features.
Avoid Rush Hours: Plan your visits during off-peak hours to avoid lines and potential scams.

Avoid transportation ticket overpricing by buying tickets at authorized locations or using travel passes.

Authorized Locations: Purchase tickets only from authorized ticket booths.
Travel Passes: Consider using travel passes for multiple trips to save money.
Avoid Rush Hours: Plan your journeys during off-peak hours to avoid queues and potential overcharges.

Avoid beggar scams by donating to reputable charities instead of giving money directly.

Reputable Charities: Donate to registered and reputable charities.
Avoid Unusual Behavior: Be wary of people who behave unusually or follow you after giving money.
Local Customs: Respect local customs and traditions when giving donations.