Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Saltillo, Mexico
1. Taxi Scams
Be wary of unlicensed taxis or drivers overcharging. Always use radio-dispatched taxis.
- Licensed Taxis: Ensure the taxi is officially licensed and has a meter.
- Avoid Unfamiliar Areas: Avoid taking taxis to unknown or deserted areas.
- Negotiate Fares: Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.
2. Street Food Scams
Some street food vendors may sell contaminated or substandard food. Stick to busy stalls with hygienic conditions.
- Busy and Clean Stalls: Choose street food stalls that are busy and appear clean.
- Avoid Unattended Food: Never eat food left unattended for long periods.
- Check Local Reviews: Look up reviews of popular street food vendors before trying them.
3. Counterfeit Goods
Be careful when buying souvenirs; some may be counterfeit or low quality. Buy from reputable shops.
- Reputable Shops: Buy souvenirs from well-known and reliable shops.
- Check Quality: Examine the quality of goods before purchasing.
- Avoid Street Vendors: Avoid buying souvenirs from street vendors unless you can verify their authenticity.
4. ATM Skimming
Watch out for skimmers on ATMs; thieves may install devices to steal your card details. Use well-lit and busy ATMs.
- Well-lit ATMs: Use ATMs that are well-lit and in a secure location.
- Cover PIN: Always cover your PIN when entering it on an ATM.
- Check for Skimmers: Inspect the ATM for any unusual devices before using it.
5. Theft at Nightclubs
Valuables may be stolen from you in crowded nightclubs. Keep your belongings close and avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
- Secure Belongings: Keep a tight hold of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- Limit Jewelry: Minimize wearing valuable jewelry when going to nightclubs.
- Use Lockers: Use lockers provided by the club if available.
6. Fake Guides and Tour Operators
Some guides or tour operators may overcharge, provide poor service, or even take you to scam locations. Research before booking tours.
- Research Before Booking: Thoroughly research tour operators and guides before making a booking.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews of tour operators and guides online.
- Avoid Street Solicitation: Don't book tours with street solicitors; go directly to reputable agencies.
7. Overpriced Accommodation
Some hotels or hostels may charge exorbitant prices, especially in tourist areas. Compare prices before booking accommodation.
- Compare Prices: Research and compare prices of accommodation across various online platforms.
- Check Location: Choose accommodation in central locations to save on transport costs.
- Read Reviews: Read reviews of the accommodations before making a booking.
8. Fraudulent Exchange Bureaus
Some exchange bureaus may offer unfavorable exchange rates or even give you counterfeit money. Use banks or established exchange offices.
- Use Banks or Established Offices: Exchange money at banks or reputable exchange bureaus.
- Compare Rates: Compare exchange rates between different establishments before choosing one.
- Check Denominations: Always check the denominations of your change carefully.
9. Pickpocketing
Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas like markets and tourist attractions. Keep your belongings close and avoid displaying valuables.
- Keep Belongings Close: Keep a tight hold of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- Avoid Displaying Valuables: Minimize displaying valuable items like smartphones and wallets.
- Use Hidden Storage: Use hidden storage compartments or travel vests for your valuables.
10. Phishing Scams
Cybercriminals may attempt to steal your personal information through emails and websites. Only access secure networks and be wary of unsolicited emails.
- Secure Networks: Use secure Wi-Fi networks, such as those provided by hotels or cafes.
- Check Website URLs: Always check the URL of websites before entering personal information.
- Don't Click on Suspicious Links: Avoid clicking on links from suspicious emails or messages.
11. Fraudulent Charities
Some charities may use fake stories to scam tourists. Research and verify the legitimacy of charities before donating.
- Research Charities: Thoroughly research charities before making a donation.
- Check for Registration: Ensure the charity is registered and has a legitimate presence in Saltillo.
- Verify Information: Verify the information provided by charities before donating.
12. Carnival and Festival Scams
Some carnivals or festivals may have scammers selling counterfeit goods or overcharging for services. Be cautious when buying items or services during events.
- Avoid Street Vendors: Avoid buying souvenirs from street vendors during carnivals and festivals.
- Check Quality: Examine the quality of goods before purchasing during events.
- Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate prices before making a purchase during carnivals and festivals.
13. Dine and Dash Scams
Some restaurants may try to overcharge or not include items on the bill. Check your bill carefully before leaving.
- Check the Bill: Double-check your bill before paying and leaving the restaurant.
- Ask for Receipt: Always ask for a receipt when paying your bill.
- Research Restaurants: Research restaurants before dining to avoid potential scams.
14. Rental Scams
Some rental properties may be misrepresented or have hidden fees. Research the property and read reviews before renting.
- Research Property: Thoroughly research the rental property before booking.
- Read Reviews: Check reviews of the rental property online.
- Inspect Property on Arrival: Inspect the rental property upon arrival to ensure it matches the listing.
15. Ticket Scalping Scams
Some ticket sellers may resell tickets at inflated prices or sell counterfeit tickets. Buy tickets from official outlets or authorized resellers.
- Buy From Official Outlets: Purchase event tickets from the official venue or authorized ticket vendors.
- Check Ticket Authenticity: Verify the authenticity of tickets before making a purchase.
- Compare Prices: Compare ticket prices across different outlets to avoid overpaying.