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Top scam stories in South America
Longhauling taxis in Colombia
7 0How it works: Situation: in Bogota, a confusing tariff/pay band system (laminated sheet is provided) is used to determine the final fare. Set-up: as such, some drivers take a longer…
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Snatch thefts in Brazil
7 5How it works: Flash mob robbery: a crowd swarming an area stealing whatever they can. Beach, restaurants, bar: where tourists are relaxed, or when they head to the water. Bike/moped: riding…
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Machu Picchu scams in Peru
7 0How it works: Scam 1: some companies sell fake train tickets to get here and fake entry tickets online. Scam 2: guides and operators will claim that you cannot enter…
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Christ the Redeemer transport scams in Brazil
7 0How it works: Situation: besides walking, there are two options to go up: (1) Cab to the Paineras car park (halfway up) and transfer to a van to reach the…
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Fraudulent tour operators in Bolivia
7 0How it works: There have been horror stories with unofficial, fraudulent tour operators, where tourists were overcharged and promises were not delivered. For instance, being stranded in the desert for…
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Isla del Sol scams in Bolivia
7 0How it works: Situation: at the Isla del Sol trail, you only have to pay 10 bolivianos at the start and 5 at the end. Scam 1: however, locals along…
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Beach shoe shine scam in Brazil
6 0How it works: Opening: someone squirts green/brown goop (or mustard, sunscreen, material that seems dirty and gross) onto your shoes without you realizing. Set-up: next, a shoe shiner offers to…
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Taxis scams in Argentina
6 0How it works: Version 1: rigged meters which jump too fast or too much. Version 2: claiming additional surcharges. Version 3: insists on not using the meter but charging an…
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Pickpockets in Peru
6 1How it works: Version 1: they work in a gang – one onlooker, one blocks, pushes, distracts, or engages you, one grabs and the final hides the loot under a…
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Unlicensed taxis in Argentina
6 0How it works: Situation: you may encounter a number of unlicensed taxis which look similar to radio taxis at places where tourists go. Set-up: some may be fine but in…
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