How Not to Get Rinsed Abroad: A Traveller's Guide to Sidestepping Scams

by Christopher O'Keeffe May 27, 2026

There's a certain romance to travel — the scent of unfamiliar spices wafting through chaotic markets, the golden sheen of sunset hitting an old European facade just so. But nothing says "welcome to paradise" quite like realising your $100 leather wallet is now the proud possession of a man who called you "my friend" five minutes ago.

Let's be clear: scams are as much a part of travel as delayed flights and overpriced airport gin. But fear not. With a bit of cunning and the right amount of Aussie scepticism, you can navigate the world without getting fleeced.

1. The Overfriendly Local (a.k.a. The Setup)

Ah, yes, the classic opener: someone approaches with dazzling warmth and implausible enthusiasm for your presence in their country. "Where are you from, my friend?" they ask, eyes gleaming. Within minutes, you're invited to a cousin's shop or a 'local' bar that's definitely not on Google Maps.

O'Keeffe's Law: If someone's being too friendly without reason, assume they want your money or your kidneys. Possibly both.

Avoid it: Smile politely, say you're late to meet someone, and keep moving.

2. The Taxi Tango

You land. You're tired. You just want a shower and a drink that doesn't come in a plastic cup. Enter: the taxi driver who swears the meter is broken, the hotel is closed, or — my personal favourite — that the roads are all "under construction".

What's really broken? His moral compass.

Avoid it: Use official taxi apps or agree on a price beforehand — in writing, if possible. Bonus points for pretending you've been to the city before. "Last time I paid half that, mate" works wonders.

3. The Bracelet Trick

You're admiring a fountain, minding your business, when someone ties a bracelet around your wrist faster than you can say "no thanks". Suddenly, it's yours. So's the bill. And their brother is now blocking your path.

O'Keeffe's Wisdom: Anything put on you without consent — be it bracelets, birds, or baby goats — is a scam in progress.

Avoid it: Hands in pockets. Don't stop for street performers unless you've got eyes like a hawk and the reflexes of Jason Bourne.

4. The Menu Without Prices

That cosy trattoria tucked away down a cobbled alley? Might just charge you $75 for a "chef's special" that tastes suspiciously like microwave spaghetti. If there's no menu — or worse, no prices — that's not charm, that's prelude to robbery.

O'Keeffe's Rule: Transparency is sexy. Hidden costs are not.

Avoid it: Ask to see a menu with prices. If they hesitate, you walk. You're here to eat, not to be eaten alive by hidden surcharges.

5. The ATM Squeeze

You find an ATM. Your card goes in. A helpful "local" appears out of nowhere offering to assist. Thirty seconds later, you've got no card, and your bank is on hold for the next 40 minutes.

O'Keeffe's Golden Rule: Never trust someone who appears when you're at your most vulnerable — travel, love, and ATMs included.

Avoid it: Use indoor ATMs attached to banks. Never let anyone see your PIN. If someone's loitering, wait them out or find another machine.

6. The "Closed Attraction" Gambit

A well-dressed gentleman informs you the museum is sadly closed today. But — joy! — his cousin runs a spectacular alternative tour that leaves immediately. Spoiler: the museum isn't closed, and the "tour" may involve incense and suspiciously high entry fees.

Avoid it: Double-check closures online. Don't take tourist advice from anyone who seeks you out.

And Finally: Trust Your Gut (and Google)
If it feels dodgy, it probably is. If it sounds too good to be true, it definitely is. A quick search or glance at Google reviews can save you a world of grief.

Closing Thought:

Travel is about experiences, not expenses. Keep your wits about you, laugh off the close calls, and remember — if anyone calls you "my friend" before they know your name, hold on to your wallet.

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