Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Mymensingh, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
1. Rickshaw Overcharging
A common scam is rickshaw drivers overcharging tourists. To avoid this, agree on a price before starting the journey.
- Knowledge of Local Rates: Understanding the standard rates for rickshaw journeys can help you negotiate fairly.
- Bargaining Skills: Developing good bargaining skills can help you get a reasonable price for your rickshaw ride.
- Avoiding Distress: Being aware that you might feel pressured to pay more if you appear distressed or lost can help you remain calm and confident during negotiations.
2. Counterfeit Currency
Be cautious when accepting currency as change. Counterfeit notes are common in Mymensingh. Always check the authenticity of your change.
- Knowledge of Real Currency: Familiarize yourself with the design and texture of legitimate currency.
- Use Reputable Establishments: Avoid exchanging money in unofficial locations to reduce the risk of receiving counterfeit notes.
- Use a Currency Exchange Service: Using a reputable currency exchange service can help ensure that you receive genuine notes.
3. False Tour Guides
Some tour guides may not be licensed or knowledgeable. Always check the guide's credentials and research the company they represent.
- Check Credentials: Ask for proof of a guide's license and ensure they are associated with a reputable tour company.
- Read Reviews: Research the tour company and read reviews from other travelers to gauge their reputation.
- Ask Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from locals or your accommodation provider.
4. Fraudulent Money Changers
Some money changers may offer unfavorable exchange rates. Always compare rates with multiple establishments.
- Compare Rates: Ask for current exchange rates at several money-changing outlets before making a decision.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews from other travelers to determine which money changers are reliable and trustworthy.
- Ask for Recommendations: Seek recommendations from locals or your accommodation provider for a reputable money changer.
5. Overpriced Accommodation
Some accommodations may overcharge tourists. Research prices online and negotiate before agreeing to stay.
- Online Research: Compare accommodation prices on various booking websites.
- Negotiation Skills: Develop good negotiation skills to get a better price for your accommodation.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews from other travelers to determine if the accommodation is worth the price.
6. Street Food Contamination
Some street food vendors may use contaminated ingredients. Stick to reputable vendors and avoid consuming undercooked food.
- Reputation of Vendor: Choose street food vendors that are popular among locals.
- Cooking Practices: Observe the cooking practices and hygiene standards of the vendor before purchasing food.
- Avoid Undercooked Food: Opt for well-cooked food to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
7. Friendly Scams
Locals may try to befriend tourists to lead them into scam situations. Maintain a level of skepticism and don't share personal information.
- Skepticism: Maintain a level of skepticism when interacting with locals, especially if they seem overly friendly.
- Limit Personal Information Sharing: Avoid sharing personal information with strangers, such as your accommodation address or travel plans.
- Stick to Well-Traveled Areas: Stay in well-traveled areas and avoid isolated or less populated locations when traveling alone.
8. Temple Donation Scams
Some temples may pressure tourists to make unnecessary donations. Research the customs of each temple before visiting.
- Understand Temple Customs: Research the customs and expectations for donations at each temple you plan to visit.
- Donate Only if You Wish: Do not feel obligated to make a donation unless you wish to do so.
- Avoid Pressure Tactics: Ignore anyone who pressures you into making an unwanted donation.
9. Transportation Scams
Taxi drivers may take circuitous routes or overcharge. Always agree on a price before starting your journey.
- Knowledge of Routes: Familiarize yourself with the typical routes from popular tourist destinations to avoid getting lost.
- Avoid Roof Taxis: Avoid riding in roof taxis as they are often unlicensed and may charge inflated prices.
- Use Trusted Companies: Choose reputable transportation companies or use apps for booking licensed taxis.
10. Sim Card Scams
Some mobile service providers may offer subpar services or overcharge. Research the best options before purchasing a SIM card.
- Research Service Providers: Compare different mobile service providers in terms of coverage, price, and data speed.
- Avoid Unlicensed Vendors: Purchase your SIM card from authorized outlets to ensure you're getting a legitimate product.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews from other travelers to determine which mobile service providers offer the best value for money.
11. Fake Emergency Scams
Scammers may stage fake accidents or emergencies to solicit help or money. Ignore these situations and report them to local authorities.
- Avoid Interaction: Avoid interacting with individuals who claim to need help in emergencies, as they may be scammers.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Inform local authorities about any suspicious activity you encounter.
- Stay Alert and Aware: Remain alert to your surroundings and avoid walking in isolated areas, especially at night.
12. Lost Item Scams
Some people may find a lost item of yours and offer to return it in exchange for money or other valuables. Keep your belongings secure.
- Keep Belongings Secure: Keep your belongings secure at all times, especially when traveling in crowded areas.
- Avoid Suspicious Offers: Do not accept offers to return lost items from suspicious individuals.
- Report Lost Items to Authorities: Report any lost items to local authorities as soon as possible.
13. Overpriced Souvenirs
Some souvenir shops may overcharge tourists. Research prices and negotiate before making a purchase.
- Research Souvenir Prices: Compare souvenir prices at multiple shops to ensure you're getting a fair deal.
- Negotiation Skills: Develop good negotiation skills to get a better price for your souvenirs.
- Avoid Overpriced Shops: Avoid shops that have a reputation for overcharging tourists.
14. Fake Guidebooks and Maps
Some vendors may sell fake or outdated guidebooks and maps. Purchase travel resources from reputable sources.
- Research Reputable Sources: Purchase guidebooks, maps, and other travel resources from well-known publishers or online retailers.
- Check for Updates: Ensure that your guidebooks and maps are up to date by checking for the most recent edition.
- Avoid Unlicensed Vendors: Purchase travel resources from authorized outlets or retailers to avoid fake or low-quality items.
15. ATM Skimming
ATMs may be rigged with skimming devices that steal your card information. Use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas and monitor your account for suspicious activity.
- Use Secure ATMs: Choose ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas with CCTV cameras.
- Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent others from seeing it.
- Monitor Your Account: Regularly monitor your account for any unusual activity and report any suspicious transactions immediately.