Say Goodbye to Con Men in Your Travels
If you are reading this (and visiting this website, obviously), then it is safe to say that you are one of those travellers who are keeping a close watch on their money. After all, this website is all about budget travel, is it not?
travelling to Egypt
One of the worst things that can happen to budget travellers is being ripped off in a foreign land, for example, when they travel to Egypt. Yes, most travellers accept the fact that sometimes, they need to pay a little more than usual. The key word phrase here is “a little more”; an excess of a few dollars or pounds is not really a big deal. But what if you have been charged ten, twenty, or even fifty times the normal amount? What if you have paid a very high price for a very poor or mediocre guide service? Now that’s no fun at all.
So how can you avoid being a victim of rip-offs? Get a load of these useful tips:
* Research before going on a holiday. A huge part of the problem can be solved through research because you already have an idea on how much the fare, accommodations, food, and other travel services in that region cost. Travel blogs, travel websites, guide books, and even word-of-mouth are rich sources of information.
* As soon as you arrive at your destination and cleared customs (or out of the airport), head to a duly recognized tourist information desk or the government agency that handles the regulation of fares and prices. Obtain information regarding standard bus and train fares, accommodation, tour services, and other aspects that you need in your travel. Armed with this information of official rates, you are less likely to be conned.
* Don’t tell people that this is your first time visiting the place. Opportunistic individuals might see you as an easy and naïve prey for their modus if you do so. As a rule of the thumb, always see that it’s your third or fourth time in the place.
* Sadly, in some places, saying “no thank you” and politely smiling won’t work. In fact, your good manners may be viewed as a weakness. Show a bit of your bad side. Use a stern voice to say, “No.” Or hold your palm facing towards the individual, shake your head, and look away.
* When negotiating a fare or rate, know that prices that are being offered are at least twice the normal rate. If you feel that the price quoted to you is too high, give the individual an incredulous look and say, “Are you sure? That is too high!” Walk away if he doesn’t give in to your demand; most likely, he will change his mind and charge you properly.
* Also, negotiate a price before any service is performed. When negotiating a price, be sure ask what is included in the price. If the inclusions are reasonable, then you can accept the deal.
* Ask for legal documentation, if possible. For example, if someone offers his services as a guide for Egyptian pyramids tours, ask him to show you an official ID or a certificate that he’s a licensed guide.
* Ignore unsolicited assistance or offers, no matter how genuine they appear to be. More often than not, these people have hidden agendas.
However, don’t be discouraged from travelling just because of the threat of being conned. With proper research and a lot of common sense, you can avoid this hassle so you can spend your money where it’s supposed to go—your enjoyment.
travelling to Egypt
One of the worst things that can happen to budget travellers is being ripped off in a foreign land, for example, when they travel to Egypt. Yes, most travellers accept the fact that sometimes, they need to pay a little more than usual. The key word phrase here is “a little more”; an excess of a few dollars or pounds is not really a big deal. But what if you have been charged ten, twenty, or even fifty times the normal amount? What if you have paid a very high price for a very poor or mediocre guide service? Now that’s no fun at all.
So how can you avoid being a victim of rip-offs? Get a load of these useful tips:
* Research before going on a holiday. A huge part of the problem can be solved through research because you already have an idea on how much the fare, accommodations, food, and other travel services in that region cost. Travel blogs, travel websites, guide books, and even word-of-mouth are rich sources of information.
* As soon as you arrive at your destination and cleared customs (or out of the airport), head to a duly recognized tourist information desk or the government agency that handles the regulation of fares and prices. Obtain information regarding standard bus and train fares, accommodation, tour services, and other aspects that you need in your travel. Armed with this information of official rates, you are less likely to be conned.
* Don’t tell people that this is your first time visiting the place. Opportunistic individuals might see you as an easy and naïve prey for their modus if you do so. As a rule of the thumb, always see that it’s your third or fourth time in the place.
* Sadly, in some places, saying “no thank you” and politely smiling won’t work. In fact, your good manners may be viewed as a weakness. Show a bit of your bad side. Use a stern voice to say, “No.” Or hold your palm facing towards the individual, shake your head, and look away.
* When negotiating a fare or rate, know that prices that are being offered are at least twice the normal rate. If you feel that the price quoted to you is too high, give the individual an incredulous look and say, “Are you sure? That is too high!” Walk away if he doesn’t give in to your demand; most likely, he will change his mind and charge you properly.
* Also, negotiate a price before any service is performed. When negotiating a price, be sure ask what is included in the price. If the inclusions are reasonable, then you can accept the deal.
* Ask for legal documentation, if possible. For example, if someone offers his services as a guide for Egyptian pyramids tours, ask him to show you an official ID or a certificate that he’s a licensed guide.
* Ignore unsolicited assistance or offers, no matter how genuine they appear to be. More often than not, these people have hidden agendas.
However, don’t be discouraged from travelling just because of the threat of being conned. With proper research and a lot of common sense, you can avoid this hassle so you can spend your money where it’s supposed to go—your enjoyment.
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