Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Sincan, Ankara, Turkey

1. Grand Bazaar Taxi Scam

Avoid overpaying for taxis from Grand Bazaar by agreeing on a price before getting in.

Knowledge of Price: Understanding the standard rates helps avoid overpricing.
Agree on Price Beforehand: Preventing miscommunication and dispute upon arrival at destination.
Avoid Roof Taxis: Roof taxis are often more expensive, opt for street level ones instead.

Buy from reputable stores to avoid purchasing counterfeit items in Sincan shopping malls.

Check Store Reputation: Read reviews, ask locals for recommendations.
Look for Quality Indicators: Inspect packaging, check for missing tags or poor workmanship.
Pay Attention to Prices: Counterfeit goods are often priced significantly lower than authentic ones.

Stick to well-established street food vendors to avoid potential food poisoning.

Check for Cleanliness: Look for a clean, orderly stand with fresh ingredients.
Ask Locals: Ask locals for recommendations or popular spots.
Avoid Consuming Unfamiliar Foods: Stick to dishes you are familiar with to minimize risks.

Exchange currency at banks or official exchange offices to avoid getting shortchanged.

Check Rates Beforehand: Compare rates with multiple providers before exchanging.
Look for Official Signs: Official exchange offices will display relevant signs.
Avoid Exchanging Money on the Street: Street exchanges can be risky and unreliable.

Purchase sim cards from authorized retailers in the city to avoid getting a non-functional card.

Check for Authorized Retailer Signs: Look for signs indicating an authorized retailer.
Ask Airport Staff: Ask airport staff for directions to the authorized retailers.
Check SIM Card Functionality: Ensure the SIM card works before leaving the store.

Research hotels online and negotiate prices to avoid overpaying for a room.

Check Multiple Websites: Compare hotel prices across multiple websites.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate the price, especially for extended stays.
Avoid Street Bookings: Book hotels through reputable websites or directly with the hotel.

Only hire accredited guides from recognized tourist information centers to avoid scams.

Check for Accreditation: Guides should carry official identification.
Avoid Unsolicited Guides: Do not accept offers from guides approaching you unexpectedly.
Check Reviews: Read reviews or ask other tourists about their experiences with local guides.

Book tours through reputable agencies to avoid fraud and ensure quality service.

Check for Licenses and Certifications: Tour operators should display relevant licenses and certificates.
Read Reviews: Check reviews from previous customers to gauge quality of service.
Avoid Street Bookings: Book tours through reputable travel agencies or online platforms.

Avoid popular tourist spots for dining to avoid overpaying and find authentic cuisine.

Stay Away from Touristy Areas: Locals-frequented eateries often offer better value.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or fellow travelers for good food spots.
Check Prices Before Ordering: Compare prices with other restaurants before ordering.

Purchase attraction tickets online to avoid overpaying upon arrival.

Check Prices Online: Compare prices with multiple sources before buying tickets.
Avoid Street Ticket Vendors: Street vendors may overcharge or sell fake tickets.
Buy Tickets in Advance: Advanced booking guarantees entry and helps budget travel expenses.

Avoid using coin-operated public phones as they may charge exorbitant fees.

Use Mobile Phones Instead: Mobile phones offer cheaper and more reliable communication.
Ask Locals for Alternatives: Locals can suggest alternative, trusted public phone options.
Be Aware of Fees: Know the standard fee rates to avoid overpaying.

Buy transport tickets from authorized vendors to avoid counterfeit or overpriced tickets.

Check for Authorized Vendors: Look for signs indicating an authorized vendor.
Ask Transportation Staff: Ask transportation staff for directions to the authorized vendors.
Inspect Tickets Before Use: Ensure tickets are genuine and have the correct information.

Only tip performers you enjoy and feel their performance was worth it.

Appreciate Performance Quality: Judge the quality of the performance before deciding to tip.
Avoid Pressure to Tip: Do not feel pressured to tip if you do not wish to.
Know the Customary Amount: Research customary tipping amounts for street performances.

Give to reputable charities and avoid collectors who claim to represent them.

Research Reputable Charities: Check for official charity registration numbers.
Ask for Identification: Collectors should provide proof of their affiliation with the charity.
Avoid Collectors Approaching You: Do not feel obligated to give to collectors who approach you unexpectedly.

Exchange money in secure locations or at banks to avoid theft and fraud.

Check for Security Measures: Look for CCTV cameras, security guards, and other safety measures.
Avoid Exchange Shops in Isolated Areas: Isolated exchange shops may be less secure.
Exchange Money in Daylight Hours: Exchanging money during daylight hours increases visibility and safety.