Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Samsun, Turkey

1. Tourist Trap Restaurants

Avoid overpriced food at restaurants near popular tourist spots. The portions may be small or poor quality.

Location: Restaurants near landmarks tend to be more expensive
Menu Prices: High prices do not guarantee good food quality
Word of Mouth: Ask locals for recommendations on reasonable and delicious eateries

Be aware of taxi drivers who may try to overcharge tourists. Use registered taxis or ride-sharing services for a fair price.

Registered Taxis: Official taxis have logos, meters, and can be found at designated stands
Ride-Sharing Services: Download a local ride-sharing app before arriving to secure fair prices
Negotiation: Negotiate prices in advance for private taxis or horse carriages

Stay away from vendors selling counterfeit goods. They may pose as genuine souvenir shops.

Quality: Counterfeit goods are often low quality or break easily
Price: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Location: Vendors selling counterfeit goods tend to cluster in touristy areas

Be cautious of performers who may demand payment after a show. Only tip if the performance was enjoyable.

Payment Demands: Some performers may aggressively ask for money after their act
Tip Judgment: Avoid tipping if the performance was disappointing or forced.
Safety: Stay aware of your surroundings and belongings during performances

Refuse unauthorized guides who may approach you at tourist sites. Always book tours through reputable companies.

Licensed Guides: Legitimate guides carry official identification
Tour Company: Book tours through well-known and reputable tour companies.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other tour companies to avoid overpaying

Use ATMs at banks or in secure locations to minimize the risk of skimming and card trapping.

Location: Avoid using ATMs in unsecured areas or at night
Card Protection: Cover your PIN when entering it to prevent shoulder-surfing.
Transaction Monitoring: Regularly monitor your account for any suspicious transactions

Keep your belongings secure and be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas or on public transportation.

Valuables: Keep your wallet, phone, and other valuables hidden.
Bags: Use a bag with a zipper or a crossbody style that can't be easily snatched.
Awareness: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas

Avoid overpacking to avoid paying excess baggage fees at the airport. Check airline policies for weight restrictions.

Weight Limits: Each airline has different weight limits for checked and carry-on luggage
Packing: Consider packing versatile clothing to minimize excess baggage.
Airline Policies: Research airline policies before your trip to avoid unexpected fees

Buy sim cards from official stores or authorized vendors. Avoid street vendors selling sim cards.

Official Stores: Authorized stores have logos, staff in uniforms, and can be found at the airport or malls.
Activation Fees: Be aware of activation fees and charges associated with sim cards
Warranties: Check if the sim card comes with a warranty or insurance.

Exchange money at banks, official exchange offices, or authorized money exchange kiosks. Be wary of street vendors offering to exchange currency.

Official Offices: Authorized offices have logos, staff in uniforms, and can be found at the airport or city centers.
Exchange Rates: Compare exchange rates at various locations before making a transaction
Commission Fees: Be aware of any commission fees associated with currency exchange

Avoid free city tours that may ask for tips at the end. Opt for paid tours with reputable companies.

Reputable Companies: Research tour companies beforehand and book through their official websites.
Tips: Be wary of guides who suggest large tips at the end of a tour
Safety: Ensure your safety and that of your belongings during tours

Book boat tours through reputable companies or tourist information centers. Avoid unlicensed operators.

Reputable Companies: Research tour companies beforehand and book through their official websites.
Life Jackets: Ensure the boat has life jackets for all passengers
Safety Regulations: Check if the tour operator adheres to safety regulations and guidelines.

Buy ferry tickets at authorized booths or ticket machines. Be cautious of individuals offering discounted or 'special' tickets.

Authorized Booths: Look for official ticket booths with logos and staff in uniforms.
Ticket Machines: Use ticket machines when available to ensure you pay the correct fare
Safety Regulations: Check if the ferry adheres to safety regulations and guidelines.

Choose street food vendors that have a high turnover of customers and follow hygiene standards. Avoid eating food from unclean or unsanitary stands.

High Turnover: Vendors with a high number of customers tend to maintain better hygiene.
Hygiene Standards: Look for vendors that wear gloves, use clean containers, and cook food in a sanitary environment
Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on safe street food vendors

Book hotels through reputable booking websites or travel agencies to avoid potential scams. Be cautious of overbooked or subpar accommodations.

Reputable Booking Websites: Use popular and reliable booking websites for hotel reservations.
Travel Agencies: Work with travel agencies that have good reviews and are well-established.
Hotel Reviews: Read reviews from past guests to ensure a satisfactory stay