Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in San Juan, Puerto Rico
1. Old San Juan Street Scams
Street performers in Old San Juan may demand payment for photos or offer 'tourist-friendly' deals. Avoid unwanted interactions by not engaging or offering money.
- Unexpected Charges: Street performers may demand more money than initially agreed
- Aggressive Approach: Performers may become aggressive when ignored or not paid
- Fraudulent Tour Guides: Some guides offering unsolicited help might lead to scams
2. Beach Umbrella Scams
Renting beach umbrellas or chairs at Balneario de Luquillo can result in hidden charges. Ensure to verify the price beforehand.
- Hidden Fees: Some vendors charge extra for items like towels, sunscreen, or drinks
- Faulty Equipment: Damaged umbrellas may be provided without the vendor's knowledge
- Unlicensed Vendors: Unaffiliated vendors may charge higher prices or provide low-quality equipment
3. Taxi Scams
Taxis in San Juan might take longer routes or overcharge. Use authorized taxis or apps like Uber for a safer and more affordable ride.
- Inflated Prices: Unauthorized taxi drivers may charge higher prices than the actual rate
- Circular Routes: Some taxi drivers might take longer routes to increase the fare
- Unauthorized Drivers: Drivers without proper licensing may lack safety standards and knowledge of the city
4. Overpriced Souvenirs
Souvenir shops in touristy areas might charge higher prices. Compare prices at multiple stores to avoid overpaying.
- Price Markup: Items are marked up significantly due to their location or perceived value
- Counterfeit Goods: Some shops may sell counterfeit goods, potentially leading to legal issues for the buyer
- Haggling Opportunities: Bargaining can help lower prices in some stores
5. Overbooked Accommodations
Some vacation rental properties may not exist or be overcrowded. Verify booking details and read reviews before renting.
- Non-Existent Properties: Scammers might list non-existent properties to collect deposits
- Overcrowding: Properties may have more guests than allowed, compromising comfort and safety
- Unsafe Conditions: Properties might lack safety measures such as fire extinguishers or smoke alarms
6. Counterfeit Alcohol at Bars
Some bars in San Juan may sell counterfeit alcohol. Stick to reputable establishments or popular brands.
- Health Risks: Counterfeit alcohol can cause foodborne illnesses or allergic reactions
- Poor Quality: The taste, aroma, and potency of counterfeit alcohol may differ significantly
- Legal Consequences: Possession or consumption of counterfeit alcohol can lead to legal problems for the consumer
7. Falsified Tour Packages
Tour operators may offer tours that do not exist or are misrepresented. Research tour providers and verify details before booking.
- Missing Features: Tours may lack promised attractions, activities, or guides
- Unsafe Conditions: Tour vehicles might not meet safety standards, increasing the risk of accidents
- Cancellation Policies: Some tour providers may have strict or unfair cancellation policies
8. Fraudulent Money Exchanges
Unscrupulous money changers may offer less than the agreed exchange rate. Use authorized exchanges or reputable banks for the best rates.
- Inaccurate Exchange Rates: Money changers might provide inaccurate exchange rates
- Additional Fees: Some money changers may charge hidden fees or commissions
- Counterfeit Money: Money changers might provide counterfeit bills, putting the buyer at risk of legal issues
9. Pickpocketing in Crowded Areas
Crowded places like markets and festivals can be prime targets for pickpockets. Use a money belt or keep valuables secure.
- Distraction Tactics: Pickpockets may use distractions, such as bumping into victims intentionally
- Gang Operations: Organized gangs of pickpockets may operate in teams to target unsuspecting tourists
- Theft from Bags: Thieves might slash bags or cut straps to steal valuables
10. Fake Police Officers
Impersonators posing as police officers may ask for bribes or search bags. Stay calm and seek help from actual authorities if needed.
- Unauthorized Searches: Imposters might demand unlawful searches of your belongings
- Bribery Requests: Scammers may ask for bribes to let you go or ignore infractions
- Identity Theft: Impersonators might collect personal information to commit identity theft
11. Overpriced Food at Popular Attractions
Restaurants near popular attractions may charge higher prices. Look for affordable eateries nearby.
- Price Markup: Items are marked up significantly due to their location or perceived value
- Low Quality: The taste, quality, and freshness of food may suffer at overpriced restaurants
- Hidden Fees: Some restaurants may charge additional fees for water, bread, or service
12. Fake Guides at Museums and Landmarks
Unauthorized guides may offer services near museums and landmarks. Stick to official tours or follow posted rules.
- Inaccurate Information: Unlicensed guides might provide incorrect or incomplete information
- Safety Risks: Some unauthorized guides may ignore safety guidelines, putting visitors at risk
- Scams Involving Tips: Guides might pressure visitors to tip excessively or provide fake bills for tips
13. Bogus Wi-Fi Hotspots
Public Wi-Fi hotspots in San Juan may be hacked or fake. Use a VPN and avoid accessing sensitive information on public networks.
- Identity Theft: Hackers might steal personal data or login credentials from unsecured connections
- Malware and Viruses: Public Wi-Fi networks can spread malware, viruses, and ransomware to your devices
- Unauthorized Charges: Some hotspots might charge hidden fees or subscriptions without the user's knowledge
14. Counterfeit Products at Markets
Markets in San Juan may sell counterfeit products. Be cautious when buying designer goods, electronics, or medications.
- Health Risks: Counterfeit medications can have dangerous side effects or not work as intended
- Legal Consequences: Possession or sale of counterfeit goods may lead to legal problems for the buyer or seller
- Poor Quality: Counterfeit products often have lower quality, durability, and functionality compared to authentic items
15. Stranded Vehicle Scams
Strangers claiming vehicle trouble may ask for help or money. Ignore these requests and seek assistance from a nearby service station.
- Robbery: Scammers might rob unsuspecting Good Samaritans once they approach the vehicle
- Theft of Personal Information: Criminals may steal personal information from your wallet or ID documents
- Scams Involving Fake Repairs: Some scammers might offer fake repairs to unsuspecting drivers, causing further vehicle damage