Top 10 Scams in Antalya and how to avoid them

With its gorgeous beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant nightlife, Antalya is one of Turkey’s top tourist destinations. Over 10 million foreign visitors flock here every year. However, Antalya’s popularity with tourists makes it a hotspot for scams. Here’s a look at 10 common scams to watch out for in Antalya.

A close look at 10 major scams in Antalya

1. Rigged taxi meters:

• Spot: Driver picks you up without using the meter and then overcharges at the end. Meters that run too fast.
• React: Insist on the meter being used before getting in. If the meter seems rigged, pay a fair price and leave. Report to authorities.
• Avoid: Arrange airport transfers and tours through your hotel. Use official taxi ranks rather than hailing them.

2. Currency exchange tricks:

• Spot: Exchange booth claims to offer excellent rates but shortchanges you on the transaction.
• React: Count your money carefully before leaving the exchange. Refuse to leave until you get the agreed upon amount.
• Avoid: Exchange at banks or airport kiosks rather than shady vendors on the street.

3. Spiked drinks:

• Spot: Your drink tastes oddly bitter or salty. You start to feel dizzy and disoriented after a few sips.
• React: Stop drinking immediately if you suspect your drink was spiked. Alert a friend and ask for help.
• Avoid: Don’t accept open containers. Watch bartenders pour your drink. Keep your drink close at all times.

4. Rigged bar bills:

• Spot: Menu lists reasonable prices but bill is inflated when you go to pay. Extras like bread and olives are added without consent.
• React: Refuse to pay the inflated amount. Ask for a corrected bill. Pay cash so your credit card isn’t overcharged.
• Avoid: Clarify prices in advance. Confirm each order before it’s added to your bill. Pay attention to billing.

5. Fake police scam:

• Spot: Someone posing as a police officer stops you and asks to check your wallet for counterfeit cash.
• React: Ask for their identification. Refuse to hand over your wallet. Notify actual police if possible.
• Avoid: Don’t carry large amounts of cash. Politely decline interactions with suspicious “officers”.

6. Shopping scams:

• Spot: Vendor entices you to buy an item, then switches it for a cheap replica during the transaction.
• React: Inspect merchandise carefully for quality before paying. Call out the scam if you notice a switch.
• Avoid: Only shop at reputable stores. Don’t buy from vendors who seem overly pushy.

7. Pickpockets:

• Spot: You are bumped or crowded in a public place. Your valuables go missing shortly after.
• React: Immediately check for missing items. Report the theft to police. Cancel stolen credit cards.
• Avoid: Use front pocket instead of back or coat. Don’t carry valuables in crowded areas. Distribute cash and cards.

8. Rigged scales:

• Spot: Shop or market appears to shortchange customers on produce weight.
• React: Politely insist on reweighing the produce on a different scale. Refuse to pay for incorrect weight.
• Avoid: Buy pre-weighed and packaged items. Learn approximate weights to double check.

9. Beach vendors:

• Spot: Aggressive vendors invade your space and pressure you to buy overpriced goods. Don’t take no for an answer.
• React: Firmly decline and don’t engage further. Seek help from others if needed.
• Avoid: Put away valuables and cash before going to the beach. Don’t show signs of wealth.

10. Overpriced souvenirs:

• Spot: Vendors selling souvenirs at outrageously inflated prices compared to normal retail value.
• React: Politely decline and walk away. Buy the same souvenirs from reputable stores for regular prices.
• Avoid: Set a souvenir budget beforehand. Research typical costs of popular souvenirs. Don’t feel pressured to buy from aggressive vendors.

How to Get Help:

• Notify police or tourist police of any scam attempts.
• Check with your consulate if your passport is stolen or if you need assistance.
• Report scams to your hotel, tour operators, or travel forums to warn others.

Get an overview about the scams that happens in Antalya,Turkey at the video blown:

Make sure to check out our other scam guides.

While there are risks, don’t let fear of scams ruin your trip. With proper precautions, you can avoid becoming a victim and enjoy all the amazing things Antalya has to offer. Stay vigilant, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to make some noise if you encounter a scam. Authorities are there to help. By knowing the common scams and on guard, you can outsmart the scammers.