Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Tashkent, Uzbekistan

1. Chorsu Bazaar Scam

Beware of overpricing and fake goods at this bustling market. Always agree on a price before purchasing.

Price Checking: Verify prices with other vendors to avoid overpaying.
Beware of Fakes: Be cautious when buying branded items, as they might be counterfeit.
Meeting Place: Avoid secluded areas for transactions and stick to busy parts of the bazaar.

Avoid unofficial taxis and ensure the meter is on. Agree on a price before starting your journey.

Official Taxis: Choose licensed taxis with visible signage for a hassle-free ride.
Meter Usage: Ensure the taxi meter is turned on and being used correctly.
Fixed Price Agreements: Avoid overpaying by agreeing on a price before starting your journey.

Some tea houses in old city may overcharge or add unnecessary charges. Check the bill carefully.

Avoid Peak Times: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and potential scams.
Check the Bill: Be vigilant while paying your bill, as some tea houses may add hidden charges.
Reliable Tea Houses: Research and choose reliable tea houses to ensure a pleasant experience.

Unauthorized money changers might offer unfavorable exchange rates. Use authorized exchange offices.

Authorized Offices: Choose licensed money changers with visible signage.
Check Exchange Rates: Be aware of the current exchange rates to avoid being ripped off.
Count Your Money: Count your exchanged money immediately to ensure accuracy.

Some performers may expect payment for a performance that wasn't agreed upon. Be cautious and only pay for desired performances.

Avoid Unsolicited Performances: Ignore unsolicited performances to avoid potential scams.
Agree on Payment: Only pay for desired performances after discussing the price beforehand.
Tip Appropriately: If you enjoyed a performance, tip generously but fairly.

Unlicensed mobile operators may sell poor quality SIM cards or overcharge. Use authorized vendors.

Authorized Vendors: Choose licensed mobile operators with visible signage.
Check Quality: Ensure the SIM card works properly before leaving the store.
Avoid Unwanted Services: Decline any unwanted services or additional charges during purchase.

Some gold sellers may use lower quality gold or overstate its value. Verify the authenticity and quality.

Reputable Dealers: Research and choose reputable dealers for a reliable experience.
Check Quality: Ask for purity certificates or test the gold's quality with a device provided by the dealer.
Negotiate Price: Haggle for a better price but ensure the quality doesn't suffer.

Some friendly locals may offer help but lead you to scams or overpriced shops. Be cautious and independent.

Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in busy, well-lit areas to avoid potential scams.
Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels suspicious, trust your instincts and remove yourself from it.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask local businesses or your hotel for recommendations instead of relying on strangers.

Some tour guides may overcharge or lead you to scams. Research and book tours with reputable agencies.

Reputable Agencies: Choose licensed tour operators with positive reviews.
Check Inclusions: Ensure the tour price includes all necessary costs such as entrance fees and transportation.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask your hotel or trusted sources for recommendations on tour guides and agencies.

Some restaurants may overcharge, serve low-quality food, or add unnecessary charges. Research restaurants before dining.

Check Reviews: Read reviews online to ensure a positive dining experience.
Avoid Peak Times: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and potential scams.
Check the Bill: Be vigilant while paying your bill, as some restaurants may add hidden charges.

Some art galleries may sell overpriced or fake artwork. Verify the authenticity and quality.

Reputable Galleries: Research and choose reputable galleries for a reliable experience.
Check Authenticity: Ask for certificates of authenticity or request to speak with the artist.
Negotiate Price: Haggle for a better price but ensure the quality doesn't suffer.

Some street food vendors may serve poor-quality or unsafe food. Choose busy, well-known stands.

Busy Stands: Choose stands with a steady stream of customers for fresh, safe food.
Check Hygiene: Observe cleanliness and food handling practices before purchasing.
Avoid Unsolicited Food: Ignore unsolicited food offers to avoid potential scams.

Some hotels may overcharge or provide subpar service. Research and book with reputable hotels.

Reputable Hotels: Choose licensed hotels with positive reviews.
Check Amenities: Ensure the hotel offers the amenities you require for a comfortable stay.
Negotiate Price: Ask for discounts or compare prices with other hotels to secure a good deal.

Some transportation attendants may demand extra payment. Purchase tickets only from authorized vendors.

Authorized Vendors: Choose licensed ticket vendors with visible signage.
Check Ticket Prices: Be aware of the correct ticket prices to avoid being overcharged.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in busy, well-lit areas to avoid potential scams.

Some taxi drivers at the airport may overcharge or direct you to unwanted destinations. Use authorized airport taxis.

Authorized Taxis: Choose licensed taxis with visible signage.
Avoid Unsolicited Offers: Ignore unsolicited offers and choose a taxi from the queue.
Check the Meter: Ensure the taxi meter is turned on and being used correctly.