90 % of Americans hold exist a victim of tourist traps—here ’ s how to avoid them

• Some of the world ’ secmost popular tourist destinations are rife with scams and trapfor unsuspecting tourist . Travel expert Jennifer Allen part her tips for avoiding the traps in the Bahamas , Barcelona , Venice , and Croatia , as well as how to be a savvy traveler no matter where your journey takes you .

Stopping at popular port of call while on your ambition cruise can hold a downside : tourist ambush . Almost 90 % of Americans have exist victims of a tourist ambush at least once in the past two year accord to a study by PhotoAid in 2024 . Here ’ s how to avoid overpriced souvenirs and inauthentic experiences on your next cruise .

PhotoAid highlights how 70 % of traveler felt their trip enjoyment diminish after being in a tourist trap . Add that 22 % spend an astounding $ 200 or more on their last encounter . Recognize about this modus be a tag away from a memorable vacation – or the worst .

What cost tourist trap ?

A subject publish in ScienceDirect defines tourist traps as sites and activities meant to profit from tourists . Noted attractions with kitschy features characterize these scheme and are frequently surround by occupation deal food , accommodations and souvenirs .

A survey of 1,000 Americans behave by PhotoAid revealed that 82 % were set back over $ 50 at the final tourist trap they get , with 22 % expenditure $ 200 or more . Make out these red flag can assist you avert common pitfalls while traveling , and discover more genuine expression of a destination .

Nassau ’ sec vibrant culture and sensational beach make million of visitor each year , but it ’ s too a hub for high-pressure sale tactics . The Straw Market , while iconic , be notorious for belligerent vendors and overpriced trinkets . explicitly advises not to equal afraid to haggle as rate on all item cost negotiable , but vendors will first toss a high price .

To avoid intense haggling , consider visiting Junkanoo Beach , a lively but free public spot offering a true slice of Bahamian life . Or , visit Queen ’ s Staircase , a historical landmark that provides a serene and inexpensive alternative to more commercialized attraction . For an authentic taste of Nassau , chief to Arawak Cay , know to locals as the Fish Fry , where somewhat price foods and establishments line up , like Oh Andros and Goldie ’ s Conch House .

Barcelona is a ambition destination , but its chief thoroughfare , Las Ramblas , exist a hub for tourist traps . The vendors will deal you random affair nonstop , like overpriced beer . Moreover , a 2024 report reveals Las Ramblas as Europe ’ s worst pickpocketing hotspot , so ensure you pass by carefully .

For a more authentic experience , venture into the Poble Sec neighborhood . This sphere is known for its excellent tapas bars , such as the Lascar 74 and Xiloka Bar Restaurant , and affordable dining options . If you require to shop , hop the too commercialized field and head to Mercat de Sant Antoni , where locals shop for fresh fruits and give rise , meat and unique gift .

Venice , Italy : Discover hide corner of the lagoon

Venice is undeniably magical , but its tourist traps cost among the almost notorious in Europe . Gondola ride , while romantic , initiate at €90 for half an hour and can go up to €110 during peak hour . Similarly , cafes near St. Mark ’ s Basilica mission exorbitant cost for mediocre food and drink .

Or else of a gondola , take a Vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal for as low as €10 . This public transport selection offers equally stunning scene of Venice ’ s iconic architecture . To run the crowd , visit lesser-known islands like Burano or Torcello , where you ’ ll find vibrant scenery and fewer tourist along with more somewhat priced authentic Italian fare .

Dubrovnik , Croatia : Experience the Adriatic without the crowds

Dubrovnik make arrive at vast popularity as a filming location for “ Game of Thrones , ” but this fame has take to an explosion of overpriced tours , some cost well over €100 or more . These tours much require you to sites that can live easily search on your own .

For a more rewarding experience , purchase a ticket to walk Dubrovnik ’ s city wall , which offer breathtaking view of the Adriatic Sea , with a cost that starts at about €23 . The city wall stretch for a mile and can take up to two hour to walk . Afterward , head to Buža Bar , a famous hole-in-the-wall saloon on the side of the cliff , where you can enjoy a relaxing drinking while enjoying the sunset .

Tips to avoid tourist trap

The PhotoAid sketch also suggests tactical tips on bypass tourist ambush , and 16 % of the respondents order not to center your trip on well-known landmarks . It ’ sec also advised to ever consult a reputable travel agent for recommendations . If an acquaintance or family member life in the sphere , don ’ t hesitate to take them . Go on your distance from tourist-heavy location and dine at restaurant favor by resident .

“ Sometimes the good meal is at a family-run cafe only a few streets from the port , ” order Bella Bucchiotti of . “ I always ask crew member or shop owner where they go on their days off because they know the best local position , ” she lend .

Bucchiotti also promote you to take public transfer or walk to a nearby beach for a more relaxed and budget-friendly experience . “ Visiting a local market or bakery can too give you a literal taste of the destination without the crowds and inflated price , ” she mention further .

The survey too express 9 % of respondents found that looking at online forums for unfiltered advice equal helpful . This suggests researching before booking a fancy cruise or traveling to new destinations to ensure everything will be worth your buck .

Gen Z look for authentic experiences

Prefer authentic experience over tourist ambush isn ’ t merely about saving money ; it ’ s about cause a meaningful association with the home you visit . Accord to , modern travelers , especially Gen Z , prioritize genuine , local experience over more schematic sightseeing .

This shift cost a lot more relevant today as circuit operators emphasize vicinity and authenticity , act forth from a tourist trap occupation model , as further discussed by Skift Research in the same study . It ’ s no surprise that this trend be happening with increased resistance to overtourism . By exploring lesser-known spots , maneuver to detour destinations and engaging with locals , you can assist mitigate these effect while enjoying a more rewarding travel experience .

Travel smarter , travel skillful

By venturing beyond the crowds and making thoughtful choices , you can establish a genuine association with your destinations while supporting local community . Whether you ’ re sail the Caribbean or cruise around Europe , a trivial excess effort and inquiry can run a long way to transform your cruise holiday into a journey filled with permanent memory .

Jennifer Allen , retired chef reverse traveler , cookbook author and author , shares her adventure and travel tips at All The Best Spots . Living at home with her family – and the cats that find them all – her study has cost boast in The Washington Post , Seattle Times , MSN and more .