Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Kayseri, Turkey

1. Silk Bazaar Scam

Beware of overpriced silk items or counterfeits in the Silk Bazaar. Shop around for fair prices.

Price Comparison: Compare prices among various shops to avoid overpaying.
Shop Reputation: Avoid newly opened stores or those with negative reviews.
Authenticity Check: Inspect the quality of silk products and check for authenticity certificates.

Unlicensed taxi drivers may overcharge at Kayseri Erkilet Airport. Only use authorized taxis.

Authorized Taxis: Only use taxis from the authorized airport taxi stand.
Fixed Rates: Ask for a fixed rate before entering the vehicle.
Contact Hostel/Hotel: Arrange transportation in advance with your hostel or hotel.

Be vigilant when receiving change, especially in busy areas. Familiarize yourself with Turkish currency.

Visual Inspection: Check for mismatched colors, thickness, or texture of the bills.
Feel of Currency: Feel the texture of the currency to ensure it's genuine.
Check with a Trusted Source: Verify any doubts with a local shopkeeper, bank, or your hotel.

Some gold jewelers in Kayseri may try to sell fake or low-quality jewelry. Always ask for certification.

Certification Check: Ask for a certificate of authenticity from the jeweler.
Store Reputation: Choose established jewelers with good reviews and a long history.
Pricing Comparison: Compare prices among various gold jewelry stores before purchasing.

Some vendors may sell faulty or non-functioning SIM cards. Buy from authorized mobile operator stores.

Authorized Stores: Only purchase SIM cards from the official stores of mobile operators.
Network Coverage: Ensure the purchased SIM card covers the area you will be traveling to in Kayseri.
Data Package: Inquire about data package options and choose one that suits your needs.

Some exchange counters may offer a lower exchange rate. Research exchange rates beforehand.

Research Exchange Rates: Check the current exchange rates online or at your home bank before traveling.
Licensed Exchange Counters: Only use licensed and regulated exchange counters.
Exchange Rate Comparison: Compare the offered rate with other exchange counters in the area.

Some restaurants may charge tourists unfair prices. Ask for prices before ordering.

Menu Availability: Ask for a menu to view the prices before ordering.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for restaurant recommendations to avoid tourist traps.
Price Comparison: Compare prices of similar meals at other restaurants in the area.

Some tour guides may offer overpriced or misleading tours. Research and book tours through reputable companies.

Reputation Check: Research the tour company's reputation online.
Price Comparison: Compare prices for similar tours offered by various companies.
Tour Itinerary: Review the itinerary to ensure it covers all promised attractions.

Some vendors at the flea market may overprice their items. Negotiate prices before purchasing.

Some bottled water may be refilled or contaminated. Buy from reputable stores.

Reputation Check: Only buy bottled water from reputable stores.
Seal Condition: Check the bottle's seal for any signs of tampering.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on where to buy bottled water.

Some ATMs in Kayseri may have skimming devices. Use ATMs located inside banks or hotels.

Location: Use ATMs located inside banks, hotels, or other secure areas.
Card Protection: Cover the ATM keypad while entering your PIN.
Monitor Account: Regularly monitor your account for any unauthorized transactions.

Some drivers may try to overcharge for transportation services. Agree on a price before starting the journey.

Price Negotiation: Negotiate a fair price for your transportation needs.
Know the Rates: Research the standard rates for various forms of transportation in Kayseri.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on reliable transportation services.

Some street food vendors may use poor quality ingredients. Only eat from reputable vendors.

Reputation Check: Choose street food vendors with good reviews and a long history.
Health Standards: Look for cleanliness and adherence to health standards at the vendor's stand.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on good street food vendors.

Some carpet shops may use high-pressure sales tactics or sell low-quality carpets. Research before buying.

Quality Assessment: Inspect the quality of the carpets and ask for certification.
Price Negotiation: Negotiate a fair price for the carpet.
Shop Reputation: Choose established carpet shops with good reviews and a long history.

Some rent-a-car companies may charge hidden fees or offer vehicles in poor condition. Research before booking.

Reputation Check: Research the company's reputation online.
Vehicle Condition: Inspect the condition of the rented vehicle before driving away.
Price Comparison: Compare prices and offers from various rent-a-car companies.