Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Damascus, Dimashq, Syria

All Topics about Damascus All Cities in Syria

1. Old City Market Scam Prevention

Stay aware while shopping for souvenirs to avoid overpricing or switcheroo scams in the bustling Old City market.

Know Fair Prices: Research typical prices of items beforehand to identify inflated costs.
Haggle Skillfully: Negotiate prices calmly and confidently to reach a fair deal without appearing overeager or easy to deceive.
Stay Alert: Remain vigilant for any unusual behavior from shopkeepers, especially those pressuring you to buy quickly.

Avoid overcharging and fraudulent taxis by agreeing on a fare before starting the journey.

Use Trusted Taxis: Choose reputable taxi services like Damascus Transportation Services or negotiate with reliable drivers at hotels.
Negotiate Fare: Ask for the fare to your destination before getting in and agree on a price that seems fair to both parties.
Keep Receipts: Request a receipt from the driver as proof of payment, especially when using a prepaid taxi service.

Ensure freshness and authenticity of street food by visiting crowded, popular stalls.

Choose Busy Stalls: Opt for street food vendors with a constant flow of customers to increase the likelihood of fresh ingredients.
Check Ingredients: Ask about the ingredients used in the dishes, especially when ordering meat or seafood items.
Watch Food Preparation: Observe food preparation processes to ensure proper sanitation and hygiene practices.

Exchange currency at licensed exchange offices or banks to avoid counterfeit notes and unfavorable exchange rates.

Choose Official Exchange Points: Exchange money only at authorized exchange centers, banks, or hotels.
Check Bills Carefully: Inspect all bills received for any signs of tampering or irregularities.
Compare Rates: Research current exchange rates and compare them with the offered rate at various locations.

Avoid being overcharged for SIM cards by purchasing them from authorized retailers or mobile operator stores.

Choose Official Retailers: Buy SIM cards only at authorized retailers or mobile operator stores.
Check Package Inclusions: Ensure the package includes the desired services, such as data and call minutes.
Avoid Street Vendors: Do not buy SIM cards from unauthorized street vendors to prevent fraudulent practices.

Avoid overpriced or unlicensed tour guides by choosing recommended, reputable services.

Choose Recommended Guides: Select tour guides recommended by travel agencies or research online for reputable options.
Check Licensing: Ensure the guide carries an official license from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.
Negotiate Price: Discuss the price for services beforehand to avoid unexpected charges.

Avoid booking at unlicensed or overpriced hotels by doing thorough research and booking in advance.

Choose Reputable Hotels: Book accommodations at establishments with positive reviews and a proven track record.
Check Licensing: Ensure the hotel is licensed by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.
Book in Advance: Reserve accommodations before arrival to avoid being duped by unscrupulous operators.

Avoid poor service and overpricing by researching popular restaurants offering authentic Syrian cuisine.

Choose Popular Restaurants: Opt for eateries with a steady flow of customers to increase the likelihood of delicious, genuine dishes.
Check Menu Prices: Compare prices on the menu with those listed in travel guides or online resources.
Ask for Recommendations: Seek advice from locals, fellow travelers, or hotel staff about popular dining spots.

Be cautious of overly friendly individuals offering help or assistance, as they may attempt to defraud you.

Stay Alert: Maintain a level of skepticism when interacting with strangers, especially in touristy areas.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Avoid secluded or deserted locations when traveling alone to minimize the risk of scams and potential danger.
Inform Trusted Contacts: Keep family, friends, or travel partners informed about your whereabouts and activities.

Avoid being cheated during barter negotiations in bazaars by researching fair prices and staying firm with your offer.

Know Fair Prices: Research typical prices of items beforehand to identify inflated costs.
Haggle Calmly: Negotiate prices patiently and confidently without appearing overeager or easy to deceive.
Walk Away if Needed: Be prepared to walk away from a deal if the seller refuses to meet your price or becomes too pushy.

Avoid purchasing fake gold or overpriced jewelry by visiting reputable gold markets and seeking expert advice.

Choose Reputable Shops: Purchase gold and jewelry from well-established, trusted shops in the market.
Inspect Thoroughly: Examine jewelry pieces carefully for quality and authenticity.
Get Appraisals: Request appraisals from local experts or certified jewelers to verify the authenticity of gold and gemstones.

Avoid donating to street performers who request money for subpar shows or inflate the perceived value of their performance.

Assess Quality: Evaluate the talent and entertainment value of performances before deciding to donate.
Don't Feel Obligated: Do not feel pressured to donate if the performance is unimpressive or if you are unsure about its legitimacy.
Research Local Customs: Understand local customs regarding street performers and tipping practices before interacting with them.

Avoid overpriced or unsafe carriage rides by researching recommended operators and negotiating prices in advance.

Choose Reputable Operators: Select carriage ride providers with positive reviews and a proven track record.
Negotiate Price: Discuss the price for services beforehand to avoid unexpected charges.
Check Safety Measures: Ensure that carriages are well-maintained and drivers adhere to safety guidelines.

Avoid contributing to pollution or animal harm by refusing to participate in balloon release activities.

Protect the Environment: Refrain from releasing balloons to minimize litter and plastic waste.
Avoid Animal Harm: Prevent ingestion of balloon fragments by wildlife, which can cause serious harm or death.
Support Alternatives: Explore eco-friendly alternatives for celebrations, such as planting trees or creating art installations.

Avoid supporting fraudulent charities by researching organizations and donating only to those with a proven track record.

Choose Reputable Charities: Donate to established, trustworthy charities that focus on addressing pressing issues in Damascus.
Investigate Organizations: Research the background of charities, their mission, and impact before donating.
Ask for Receipts: Request a receipt for your donation as proof of contribution to the charity.