Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Padang, Indonesia
1. Grand Mosque Padang Scam
Scammers may target tourists offering 'guided tours' or suggesting donations at the Grand Mosque. Avoid this by researching official tour guides and knowing the standard donation amount.
- Official Tour Guides: Always verify guides are registered with local authorities.
- Standard Donation Amount: Ask for the standard donation amount before visiting.
- Information Kiosk: Visit information kiosks at popular tourist spots for reliable advice.
2. Barelang Bridge Scam
Scammers may overcharge for transportation or services around the Barelang Bridge. Prevent this by negotiating prices beforehand and researching fair rates.
- Negotiate Prices: Always agree on prices before using any service.
- Fair Rates: Research average costs for transportation and services in Padang.
- Local Travel Agencies: Book tours through reputable local travel agencies.
3. Padang Street Food Scam
Some street food vendors may contaminate or overcharge tourists. Ensure safety by choosing busy and popular food stalls.
- Busy Food Stalls: Choose crowded, well-established food stalls.
- Ask Locals: Ask locals for recommendations on popular and safe street food spots.
- Health Precautions: Ensure food is properly cooked, avoid ice, and drink bottled water.
4. Local Market Scam
Vendors may sell low-quality goods at overpriced rates in local markets. Protect yourself by researching market prices and haggling.
- Market Prices: Research average prices before shopping.
- Haggle Prices: Negotiate prices to get a fair deal.
- Busy Stalls: Choose busy, well-established stalls with many positive reviews.
5. Taxis and Rickshaws Scam
Taxi drivers or rickshaw pullers may overcharge tourists. Avoid this by using metered taxis or negotiating prices beforehand.
- Metered Taxis: Use metered taxis for accurate pricing.
- Negotiate Prices: Always agree on prices before starting your journey.
- Reputable Companies: Choose taxis or rickshaws from reputable companies with positive reviews.
6. Currency Exchange Scam
Some exchange booths may offer unfavorable rates for travelers. Protect yourself by using trusted exchange providers.
- Trusted Providers: Choose official banks or well-established exchange companies.
- Compare Rates: Always compare rates with multiple providers to get the best deal.
- Secure Transactions: Ensure transactions are secure and your valuables are kept safe.
7. Hotel Booking Scam
Fraudulent websites may offer hotel bookings at lower prices. Protect yourself by booking through reputable providers or hotel websites.
- Reputable Providers: Book through reputable online travel agencies or official hotel websites.
- Payment Security: Ensure secure payment methods are available for bookings.
- Hotel Reviews: Read reviews of hotels before booking to ensure a positive experience.
8. Beach Vendors Scam
Vendors at popular beaches may offer overpriced or low-quality goods. Protect yourself by researching prices and bargaining.
- Research Prices: Understand average prices before shopping.
- Bargain Prices: Negotiate to get a fair deal.
- Official Vendors: Look for official vendors or those with a permit.
9. Attraction Entrance Fee Scam
Scammers may charge higher entrance fees at popular attractions. Protect yourself by researching standard rates.
- Standard Rates: Research the standard entrance fee before visiting.
- Official Ticketing Booths: Always buy tickets from official ticketing booths.
- Ask for Receipt: Ask for a receipt as proof of purchase.
10. Sim Card Scam
Sellers may offer faulty or overpriced SIM cards. Protect yourself by purchasing from reputable providers.
- Reputable Providers: Purchase SIM cards from official stores of major telecom companies.
- Compare Prices: Research average prices before purchasing a SIM card.
- Check Coverage: Ensure the network coverage suits your needs.
11. Fake Tour Guides Scam
Fraudulent tour guides may offer inadequate services or overcharge tourists. Protect yourself by researching tour companies.
- Reputable Companies: Choose tour companies with positive reviews.
- Tour Licenses: Verify guides have valid licenses and are registered with local authorities.
- Check Itinerary: Ensure the itinerary includes popular attractions and activities.
12. Lost Item Scam
Individuals may claim to find lost items as an excuse to demand payment. Protect yourself by keeping personal belongings safe.
- Secure Storage: Use hotel safes or secure storage for valuables.
- Photograph Valuables: Take photographs of valuable items before leaving home.
- Credit Card Safety: Keep credit cards in a secure location and never share PIN numbers.
13. Accommodation Scam
Landlords may rent substandard or overpriced accommodations. Protect yourself by researching accommodations thoroughly.
- Online Reviews: Read reviews of accommodations before booking.
- Secure Payment Methods: Ensure secure payment methods are available for bookings.
- Accommodation Type: Choose accommodations that suit your preferences and budget.
14. Public Transport Scam
Conductors on public transport may overcharge tourists. Protect yourself by carrying small bills and knowing the fare before boarding.
- Small Bills: Carry small denominations for exact change.
- Research Fare Prices: Understand the fare prices before using public transport.
- Official Transportation: Choose official public transportation options.
15. Street Performance Scam
Performers may demand payment for unsolicited services. Protect yourself by politely declining and moving on.
- Politely Decline: Politely decline offers for performances or services.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-lit and busy areas, especially at night.
- Trust Your Instincts: Trust your instincts if something seems suspicious or uncomfortable.