Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Shīrāz, Iran

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid overpriced or misrouted taxi rides by agreeing on the fare before starting your journey.

Fixed Fare: Always agree on a fixed fare before starting the ride.
Metered Taxis: Choose metered taxis when available for fair pricing.
Avoid Unmarked Taxis: Avoid unmarked or unlicensed taxis to ensure safety and legitimacy.

Be cautious when exchanging money in the streets. Use authorized exchange offices or banks for a fair rate.

Authorized Exchange Offices: Exchange your currency at authorized exchange offices or banks.
Avoid Street Exchanges: Avoid street exchangers to minimize the risk of fraudulent practices.
Check Rates: Always compare exchange rates before finalizing a transaction.

Avoid unofficial tour guides and ensure your guide is registered with the local Tourism Department.

Registered Guides: Ensure your tour guide is officially registered with the Tourism Department.
Avoid Street Solicitation: Do not accept unsolicited offers from tour guides encountered on the street.
Research Ahead: Research and book registered tour guides in advance to ensure a quality experience.

Avoid overpriced souvenirs by shopping at reputable stores or markets.

Reputable Stores: Shop at reputable, established souvenir stores for fair prices.
Bargain Respectfully: Bargain respectfully but be mindful of the vendor's bottom line.
Market Prices: Check prices at local markets for a better understanding of fair prices.

Purchase tickets only from authorized vendors to avoid counterfeit or overpriced attraction tickets.

Authorized Vendors: Always purchase attraction tickets from authorized vendors.
Check Official Websites: Check the official website of each attraction for ticket purchase information.
Avoid Street Vendors: Avoid purchasing tickets from street vendors to minimize the risk of fraudulent practices.

Avoid overpriced food and drink at touristy locations by exploring local eateries.

Local Eateries: Explore local restaurants and street food vendors for affordable, authentic meals.
Street Food Markets: Visit local street food markets for a variety of affordable dining options.
Avoid Touristy Areas: Avoid restaurants and cafes in heavily touristy areas for better pricing.

Be aware of imposter police officers who may try to extort money. Always ask for identification and contact the local authorities if necessary.

Ask for Identification: Always request identification from any law enforcement officer.
Contact Local Authorities: Contact the local police station if you suspect an officer is not legitimate.
Stay Calm and Cautious: Remain calm and vigilant when interacting with officers to minimize the risk of scams.

Avoid relying solely on online reviews for accommodation choices. Consult multiple sources and read a variety of reviews to make informed decisions.

Multiple Sources: Consult multiple travel websites, forums, and blogs for accommodation reviews.
Avoid Overly Positive Reviews: Be wary of overly positive reviews that seem unrealistic or too good to be true.
Direct Communication with Hosts: Communicate directly with accommodation hosts for a better understanding of their facilities and services.

Avoid purchasing SIM cards from street vendors or unauthorized shops. Visit official retailers for a legitimate purchase.

Official Retailers: Purchase SIM cards only at authorized retailers.
Avoid Street Vendors: Do not buy SIM cards from street vendors or unauthorized shops to minimize the risk of fraudulent practices.
Check Coverage and Prices: Research coverage area, prices, and promotions offered by each service provider before making a decision.

Buy public transportation tickets only from authorized vendors to avoid overpriced or fake tickets.

Authorized Vendors: Always purchase transportation tickets from authorized vendors.
Avoid Street Vendors: Do not buy transportation tickets from street vendors or unauthorized shops to minimize the risk of fraudulent practices.
Check Fare Information: Research the fare for each type of public transportation before traveling.

Bargain when purchasing carpets to avoid overpaying and verify the item's authenticity.

Bargaining Skills: Develop bargaining skills for a better price.
Authenticity Verification: Ask for certificates of authenticity or consult experts for verification.
Reputable Shops: Shop at reputable, established carpet shops for a better selection and fair pricing.

Be cautious when donating to street charities. Research legitimate organizations and verify their authenticity.

Research Legitimate Charities: Research registered, reputable charities before making a donation.
Avoid Street Solicitations: Do not give money to street solicitors without verifying their authenticity.
Contact Local Charities: Contact local charities directly to learn about their current needs and how to donate.

Choose registered tour operators and guides for a legitimate, safe, and enjoyable travel experience.

Registered Operators: Always choose registered tour operators and guides.
Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous customers to ensure a quality experience.
Avoid Street Solicitations: Do not accept unsolicited offers for tours or guides on the street.

Negotiate prices for hotel services like laundry and internet access to avoid overpaying.

Price Negotiation Skills: Develop negotiation skills for a better price.
Ask for Discounts: Ask the hotel staff if they offer discounts on additional services.
Shop Around: Compare prices with other hotels and service providers for a fair deal.

Be cautious when giving money to begging children. They may be part of organized scams.

Avoid Giving Money: Do not give money directly to begging children.
Donate to Registered Charities: Donate to registered, reputable charities that help children in need.
Avoid Engaging with Children: Do not engage with or take photos of begging children without proper permission.