The most common travel scams and how to avoid paying 5 € for a rose you never got...

You will meet friendly locals along the way, but unfortunately, not all of them are as genuine as they seem. As travellers or tourists, we easily think that we are "trained" enough to avoid them.

But the truth is, it happens to even the best, including us. Stay alert and safe with these tips to avoid them:

1. Broken taximeter. - Taxi drivers near airports and bus/train stations are known for this scam, but it can happen anywhere. (Negotiate prices in advance, if he refuses to turn on the meter or tells you it's cheaper without, get out and choose another driver.)

2. Free roses or bracelets. – Don't let anyone put anything on you and be very careful about accepting anything for free unless there is a good reason. (Especially in tourist areas, ignore them.)

3. False officials, police officers. – Never show or give your wallet to someone. Ask them to show their identification.

4. Injured children or beggars. - Never give money to street beggars. (You better buy them food, then you will see if they are really beggars or just extorting money).

5. Pickpockets. - Consider not carrying your valuables with you or keep them as close to you as possible.

The truth is, no matter how prepared you are, you will eventually fall for some travel scams. But don't let that stop you from traveling the world. ;)

"To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries." – Aldous Huxley

Bon voyage. :)