Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Las Palmas, Canary Islands, Spain
1. Gran Canaria Airport Taxi Scam
Avoid unlicensed taxis outside the official taxi rank at Gran Canaria Airport. Overpricing and fraudulent behavior are common.
- Official Ranks: Always take a taxi from the official rank to avoid scams.
- Fixed Rates: Know the fixed rates for your destination before you travel.
- Prepaid Taxis: Consider using prepaid taxis for extra security.
2. Beachside Bar Scam
Some beach bars may charge exorbitant prices or refuse to honor your bill. Be cautious when ordering drinks at the beach.
- Check Prices: Always check prices before you order to avoid being overcharged.
- Pay Attention to the Bill: Be attentive when receiving your bill to ensure it's accurate.
- Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on beach bars with fair pricing.
3. Counterfeit Goods Market Scam
Some market vendors sell counterfeit goods. Be cautious when shopping for souvenirs in Las Palmas markets.
- Legitimate Vendors: Buy from legitimate vendors with positive reviews and feedback.
- Check for Labels: Look for official labels or certifications on goods to ensure authenticity.
- Bargain Carefully: Be cautious when bargaining, as some vendors may try to sell you counterfeit goods at inflated prices.
4. Street Performers Scam
Some street performers demand payment for photos or ask for money to continue performing. Be cautious when interacting with them.
- Know the Rules: Research local street performance rules before traveling.
- Negotiate Price Beforehand: Always negotiate the price of photos or services with performers beforehand to avoid disputes.
- Tips are Appreciated: If you enjoy a performance, it's appropriate to tip, but don't feel obliged to pay more than agreed upon.
5. Dining Scam
Some restaurants may overcharge or include extra charges without informing customers. Be cautious when dining out.
- Check Menu Prices: Always check menu prices before ordering to avoid surprises.
- Ask for Itemized Bills: Insist on an itemized bill to ensure there are no hidden charges.
- Avoid Restaurants near Tourist Attractions: Opt for restaurants away from tourist attractions, which tend to have inflated prices.
6. ATM Scam
Some ATMs may skim your card or charge excessive fees. Use only ATMs in banks or reputable locations.
- Secure ATMs: Choose secure, well-lit ATMs located inside banks or shops.
- Check for Skimming Devices: Inspect the ATM for any unusual attachments that could be skimming devices.
- Monitor Your Account: Regularly monitor your account transactions to detect any unauthorized activity.
7. Timeshare Presentation Scam
Avoid high-pressure timeshare presentations that often require a deposit or your personal information.
- Decline Invitations: Politely decline invitations to timeshare presentations if they seem too pushy.
- Be Wary of Free Offers: Be cautious of free offers related to the presentation, as they may come with hidden costs or obligations.
- Ask for Referrals: Ask for referrals from friends or hotel staff before attending a timeshare presentation.
8. Overpriced Accommodation Scam
Be cautious when booking accommodations online, as some listings may be overpriced or fraudulent.
- Verify Listings: Always verify the property listing with the property manager before finalizing your reservation.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to ensure the accommodation is legitimate and well-regarded.
- Book Directly: When possible, book accommodations directly through the property owner or manager instead of third-party websites.
9. Street Art Scam
Some street artists may pressure you to pay for artwork or demand an exorbitant price. Be cautious when interacting with them.
- Know the Rules: Research local laws regarding street art before traveling.
- Negotiate Price Beforehand: Always negotiate the price of artwork with artists beforehand to avoid disputes.
- Appreciate but Don't Feel Obliged: If you enjoy a piece of street art, it's appropriate to show appreciation, but don't feel obliged to pay for it.
10. Ferry Ticket Scam
Be cautious when purchasing ferry tickets from unofficial vendors or third parties. Buy your tickets directly from the ferry company.
- Buy Directly: Always buy ferry tickets directly from the company's ticket office or authorized vendors.
- Check Schedules and Rates: Research ferry schedules and rates before traveling to avoid unexpected charges.
- Ask for Receipts: Always ask for a receipt when purchasing tickets as proof of purchase.
11. Car Rental Scam
Be cautious when renting a car, as some companies may try to upsell unnecessary insurance or charge hidden fees.
- Read the Contract: Thoroughly read the rental contract before signing to avoid unexpected charges.
- Ask About Insurance: Clarify what is included in the insurance coverage before renting a car.
- Shop Around: Compare prices and services from multiple rental companies to find the best deal.
12. Buskers Scam
Some street musicians or performers may demand payment or ask for donations excessively. Be cautious when interacting with them.
- Know the Rules: Research local busking laws before traveling.
- Negotiate Price Beforehand: Always negotiate the price of performances or donations with performers beforehand to avoid disputes.
- Show Appreciation but Don't Feel Obliged: If you enjoy a performance, it's appropriate to show appreciation, but don't feel obliged to pay more than agreed upon or what you can afford.
13. Ticket Scalping Scam
Avoid purchasing tickets from unofficial vendors or third parties for events and attractions. Buy your tickets directly from the venue or authorized ticket sellers.
- Buy Directly: Always buy event tickets directly from the venue or authorized ticket sellers.
- Check Ticket Prices and Availability: Research ticket prices and availability before traveling to avoid overpaying or being sold counterfeit tickets.
- Ask for Receipts: Always ask for a receipt when purchasing tickets as proof of purchase.
14. Public Wi-Fi Scam
Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks, as they may be unsecured and vulnerable to cyber attacks.
- Use a VPN: Always use a VPN or secure connection when accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi networks.
- Avoid Logging into Sensitive Accounts: Limit the use of public Wi-Fi for non-sensitive activities like browsing and emailing.
- Use Cellular Data: When possible, use your cellular data instead of public Wi-Fi networks to reduce cybersecurity risks.
15. Accommodation Switch Scam
Be cautious when booking accommodations online, as some unscrupulous providers may switch your reservation to a lower-quality property without informing you.
- Read Reviews: Always read reviews from previous guests to ensure the accommodation is legitimate and well-regarded.
- Verify Listings: Always verify the property listing with the property manager before finalizing your reservation.
- Ask for Photos: Request current photos of the property to compare against the online listing.