Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Mataram, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia
1. Taxi Scams at Sultan Abdul Rijal Alik Mosque
Unscrupulous taxi drivers may overcharge or take a longer route. Avoid by using metered taxis, negotiating prices upfront, or downloading local ride-hailing apps.
- Metered Taxis: Ensure the taxi has a functioning meter to avoid overcharges.
- Price Negotiation: Always negotiate prices before starting the journey.
- Local Ride-hailing Apps: Use apps like Gojek or Grab for reliable and affordable rides.
2. Counterfeit Goods in Pasar Sudaji
Beware of counterfeit goods being sold as authentic local crafts. Inspect items thoroughly and buy only from trusted vendors.
- Inspection: Thoroughly inspect goods for poor quality or inconsistencies.
- Trusted Vendors: Purchase items from reputable vendors who offer guarantees or warranties.
- Ask for Authenticity Certificates: Request authenticity certificates for high-value purchases.
3. Currency Exchange Scams
Some currency exchange shops may offer unfavorable rates or charge hidden fees. Compare rates at multiple locations and use reputable exchange services.
- Compare Rates: Always compare exchange rates at several places before choosing.
- Reputable Exchange Services: Use established banks, hotels, or authorized exchange centers for safe transactions.
- Hidden Fees: Ask about any additional fees before making an exchange to avoid surprises.
4. Sim Card Scams at the Airport
Airport sim card vendors may sell faulty SIM cards or overcharge. Purchase at authorized retailers or in town.
- Authorized Retailers: Buy SIM cards only from official retail outlets or authorized agents.
- In-town Purchase: Wait until you reach the city to buy a SIM card for better prices and variety of options.
- Check Coverage Area: Ensure the SIM card provides sufficient coverage in your travel areas before purchasing.
5. Tour Guide Scams
Some tour guides may lead you to shops where they receive commissions or overcharge for services. Research and book tours in advance from reputable providers.
- Reputable Providers: Choose established, well-reviewed tour operators with transparent pricing.
- Advance Booking: Book tours in advance to avoid last-minute, overpriced offers from unscrupulous guides.
- Check Itineraries: Ask for detailed itineraries and verify that all attractions are included.
6. Overpriced Accommodation Rates
Hotels or homestays may try to overcharge tourists. Research and compare prices online for the best deals.
- Online Comparison: Compare accommodation prices on booking websites, travel forums, and local review sites.
- Avoid Street Bookings: Avoid booking accommodations directly from street vendors to avoid potential scams or subpar quality.
- Read Reviews: Read reviews and check ratings for hotels and homestays before making a reservation.
7. Overpriced Food at Tourist Spots
Restaurants near tourist spots may overcharge for food. Explore local eateries or street food stalls instead.
- Local Eateries: Seek out restaurants that cater to locals for cheaper, authentic meals.
- Street Food Stalls: Opt for street food stalls that are popular among locals and have positive reviews.
- Avoid Touristy Areas: Stay away from restaurants near major tourist attractions to avoid overpriced menus.
8. Fraudulent Money Changers at Pura Lingsar
Money changers near the temple may offer unfavorable rates or charge hidden fees. Use ATMs or exchange money in town.
- ATMs: Withdraw local currency from ATMs located in banks for the best exchange rates.
- Exchange Money in Town: Exchange money at reputable exchange centers or banks in the city.
- Check Rates: Always compare rates at multiple locations before choosing a money changer.
9. Scam Art Galleries in Sade
Art galleries in Sade may sell counterfeit or overpriced artwork. Visit recognized art centers for authentic purchases.
- Recognized Art Centers: Visit art centers affiliated with local cultural institutions or artists' collectives.
- Check Authenticity Certificates: Ask for authenticity certificates and documentation for your purchases.
- Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate prices to get a fair deal on artworks.
10. Fake Spice Market in Banyuwangi
Some spice markets in Banyuwangi may sell counterfeit or low-quality spices. Visit reputable markets for authentic products.
- Reputable Markets: Visit established, popular spice markets with a long history and good reviews.
- Inspect Spices: Thoroughly inspect the quality of the spices before purchasing.
- Ask for Recommendations: Ask local vendors or shopkeepers for recommendations on reputable spice markets.
11. Pura Penataran Goa Lawah Scams
Scam artists may try to charge unauthorized fees or sell fraudulent souvenirs at the temple. Stick to official offerings and donation boxes.
- Official Offerings: Buy flowers or candles from the temple's official vendors.
- Donation Boxes: Use donation boxes provided by the temple for offerings and contributions.
- Avoid Street Vendors: Avoid purchasing souvenirs from street vendors outside the temple grounds.
12. Fake Ijen Blue Fire Tour Scams
Some tour operators may overcharge for the blue fire tour or mislead tourists about the experience. Research and book tours in advance with trusted providers.
- Trusted Providers: Choose established, well-reviewed tour operators for the Ijen Blue Fire Tour.
- Avoid Last-minute Bookings: Book the tour in advance to ensure a reliable and authentic experience.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews from past tourists who have completed the blue fire tour.
13. Counterfeit Batik Fabric in Cirebon
Some batik fabric sellers in Cirebon may sell counterfeit or low-quality goods. Visit recognized art centers or boutiques for authentic products.
- Recognized Art Centers: Visit art centers affiliated with local cultural institutions or artists' collectives.
- Check Authenticity Certificates: Ask for authenticity certificates and documentation for your purchases.
- Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate prices to get a fair deal on batik fabric.
14. Scammer Tour Guides in Kota Gede
Some tour guides in Kota Gede may lead tourists to shops where they receive commissions or overcharge. Research and book tours in advance from reputable providers.
- Reputable Providers: Choose established, well-reviewed tour operators with transparent pricing.
- Advance Booking: Book tours in advance to avoid last-minute, overpriced offers from unscrupulous guides.
- Check Itineraries: Ask for detailed itineraries and verify that all attractions are included.
15. Overpriced Massages at Spas
Spas near tourist spots may overcharge for massages. Research and book spa services in advance for the best deals.
- Online Comparison: Compare massage prices at various spas on booking websites, travel forums, and local review sites.
- Avoid Street Bookings: Avoid booking massages directly from street vendors to avoid potential scams or subpar quality.
- Read Reviews: Read reviews and check ratings for spas before making a reservation.