tourist traps Archives - Traveler Master Traveler Master Thu, 05 Jan 2023 14:49:38 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://travelermaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/cropped-FAVICON_wp-32x32.png tourist traps Archives - Traveler Master 32 32 Tourist Traps You Should Skip https://travelermaster.com/tourist-traps-you-should-skip/ Sat, 07 Jan 2023 16:53:00 +0000 https://travelermaster.com/?p=25332 Tourist traps, or establishments or attractions created for the sole purpose of attracting tourists (and their money), rather than being authentic parts of local culture, are pretty much universally agreed-upon as being the worst. Yet they seem to get trickier and trickier, meaning that most of us travel-lovers have fallen for at least one in […]

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]]> Tourist traps, or establishments or attractions created for the sole purpose of attracting tourists (and their money), rather than being authentic parts of local culture, are pretty much universally agreed-upon as being the worst. Yet they seem to get trickier and trickier, meaning that most of us travel-lovers have fallen for at least one in our lives. Well, to help you avoid making that same mistake again, here are some tourist traps you should definitely avoid.

Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles

Sure, the Walk of Fame with all of its golden stars is pretty cool, but did you know that these are located on a plain old shopping street that would be just the same as any other if it weren’t for the dozens of people trying to take advantage of tourists by selling tickets to lame things or photos with guys in cheap costumes?

Times Square, New York

Similarly, Times Square in New York is basically the definition of a tourist trap, with nothing but overpriced chain restaurants and people trying to get money out of your pocket—legally or otherwise.

The London Eye, London

It may be a pretty iconic London landmark, but the London Eye isn’t much fun. Not only is it absurdly expensive, but you’ll get shoved into a capsule with 20 people, many of whom are screaming kids.

The post Tourist Traps You Should Skip appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> The Worst Tourist Traps Around the World, According to Locals https://travelermaster.com/the-worst-tourist-traps-around-the-world-according-to-locals/ Fri, 27 Aug 2021 09:11:00 +0000 https://travelermaster.com/?p=25133 Wanting to see iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower or the Sydney Opera Hosue is perfectly fine, but let’s face it—there are times when we visit an attraction simply because everyone else does it. And when we get there, we find out these famous spots are not exactly all they were cut out to be. […]

The post The Worst Tourist Traps Around the World, According to Locals appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> Wanting to see iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower or the Sydney Opera Hosue is perfectly fine, but let’s face it—there are times when we visit an attraction simply because everyone else does it. And when we get there, we find out these famous spots are not exactly all they were cut out to be. To spare you some disappointment, we gathered a few worldwide tourist attractions you can skip, according to locals.

Champs-Élysées in Paris, France

Champs-Élysées avenue in Paris seems to always be packed with tourists, but according to many Parisians they actually do their best to avoid it – the shops and restaurants are overpriced, and it’s not the prettiest street the city has to offer. At night, it can even be quite dangerous.

Casa di Giulietta in Verona, Italy

Casa di Guilietta (the house of Romeo and Juliet’s leading lady’s house in Verona) is always overcrowded, and many tourists stick love notes to the walls with chewing gum. Not exactly the most hygienic tradition.

Myeong-Dong in Seoul, South Korea

The Myeong-Dong shopping district in Seoul appears in many travel guides, but it tends to be overcrowded with tourists. Some less busy alternatives with traditional Korean products and street food are Insa-Dong and Ikseon-Dong.

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun may be pretty, but by now the whole town has become one big tourist trap. If the Spring Break Forever atmosphere is not what you’re after, Tulum, Valladolid, and Mérida are much better options.

The post The Worst Tourist Traps Around the World, According to Locals appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> Avoid These London Tourist Traps https://travelermaster.com/avoid-these-london-tourist-traps/ Fri, 20 Nov 2020 10:22:00 +0000 https://stagingtrm.wpengine.com/?p=20115 London, England is a city with so many things to do and see. One of the most popular cities on Earth for tourists, it’s so easy to spend days and days here seeing new things and not getting bored. However, there are some tourist traps that are better off being avoided if you want to […]

The post Avoid These London Tourist Traps appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> London, England is a city with so many things to do and see. One of the most popular cities on Earth for tourists, it’s so easy to spend days and days here seeing new things and not getting bored.

However, there are some tourist traps that are better off being avoided if you want to make the most of your time in the city. Here are some of them.

Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds is one of the most infamous museums in the world, displaying a huge collection of wax figures of famous people. Would you believe that it costs 39 GBP to enter, though? It’s just an exorbitant price to pay for what the museum actually is.

Platform 9 ¾

Harry Potter fans might be tempted to go to Platform 9 ¾ at Kings Cross Station in London. However, while this has been recreated in its original filming location, the ridiculous lines to take a picture there make it an experience that isn’t really worth the effort or time.

London Eye

The London Eye was one of the most famous tourist attractions when it was inaugurated at the turn of the century and this wheel does offer nice views of London’s center. However, you can get better views elsewhere and do so without paying over 30 GBP to spend a few minutes in an uncomfortable pod with strangers.

The post Avoid These London Tourist Traps appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> Don’t Fall for These Bangkok Tourist Traps! https://travelermaster.com/dont-fall-for-these-bangkok-tourist-traps/ Fri, 28 Aug 2020 06:00:00 +0000 https://stagingtrm.wpengine.com/?p=17402 Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital city, is a growing tourist destination, and it’s easy to see why. This Asian megalopolis is full of temples, markets, and delicious street food and is a true pleasure for the senses. Unfortunately, as is the case in many tourist hotspots, scams are all too common to come across and be […]

The post Don’t Fall for These Bangkok Tourist Traps! appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital city, is a growing tourist destination, and it’s easy to see why. This Asian megalopolis is full of temples, markets, and delicious street food and is a true pleasure for the senses.

Unfortunately, as is the case in many tourist hotspots, scams are all too common to come across and be a victim of in Bangkok. If you’re planning a visit to this city, keep your eyes peeled in order to avoid becoming a victim of these common scams.

Tuk Tuk Rides

Tuk Tuks are all over the city of Bangkok, with these mini auto-rickshaws often being hawked as a cheap and reliable transportation method. However, far too many tuk-tuk drivers charge exorbitant rates for their services, as there are no price controls. It’s better to take taxis or public transportation.

Ping Pong “Shows”

As strange as it seems, it’s way too easy to get roped into being taken upstairs at a popular bar to see a “ping pong show” where truly impressive table tennis players put on a show. The only problem is that they then demand money for playing, the bars charge you for exorbitantly-priced drinks, and it turns out to be a super expensive experience. Avoid it!

Fake TAT Shops

The TAT, or Tourism Authority of Thailand, is a reputable organization providing visitors to Thailand and Bangkok alike with information and promotional materials for tourist attractions around the country. However, if someone purporting to be from the TAT offers to sell you discounted tickets to an attraction, don’t believe them. This is a scam.

The post Don’t Fall for These Bangkok Tourist Traps! appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> Tourist Traps to Avoid in Berlin, Germany https://travelermaster.com/tourist-traps-to-avoid-in-berlin-germany/ Sat, 22 Aug 2020 02:48:00 +0000 https://stagingtrm.wpengine.com/?p=17054 Tourists who are looking for an immersive and fascinating experience in Germany’s capital of Berlin are sure to find it if they go with just a little bit of knowledge about what to do and see in this fantastic city. However, it’s also important to know what to skip when visiting this city of nearly […]

The post Tourist Traps to Avoid in Berlin, Germany appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> Tourists who are looking for an immersive and fascinating experience in Germany’s capital of Berlin are sure to find it if they go with just a little bit of knowledge about what to do and see in this fantastic city.

However, it’s also important to know what to skip when visiting this city of nearly 4 million. Don’t waste your time at these tourist traps while in Berlin!

Checkpoint Charlie

Checkpoint Charlie represents the border crossing that used to exist between West and East Germany during the times of the Berlin Wall. The now-frequented tourist attraction that claims to be the original site, however, is 0% authentic. This is simply a replica of the original checkpoint that isn’t even located in the right place!

Alexanderplatz Christmas Market

Christmas Markets are a fascinating option while visiting Germany in winter, but the one in Alexanderplatz in Berlin is nothing more than an expensive tourist trap. Instead of cheap mulled wine and handmade decorations, everything here is simply overpriced and over-commercialized. Visit one of the smaller markets, like Charlottenburg, instead.

Berlin TV Tower

Berlin’s TV Tower towers over the city at 1207 feet tall, and whether you think it’s an architectural aberration or an iconic landmark, its importance in Berlin can’t be denied. However, what can be skipped is the overpriced ticket which allows you to go up to its observation deck after a long wait to get a relatively uninteresting view of Berlin’s unimpressive skyline.

The post Tourist Traps to Avoid in Berlin, Germany appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> 5 Popular Tourist Traps in St. Petersburg and How To Avoid Them https://travelermaster.com/5-popular-tourist-traps-in-st-petersburg-and-how-to-avoid-them/ Sat, 27 Jul 2019 08:16:54 +0000 https://stagingtrm.wpengine.com/?p=8205 So you are heading to St. Petersburg? Fantastic. We don’t doubt that you will have a wonderful time. As with every popular tourist city though, there are some locals who like to to try their luck ripping off naive tourists. Here are the traps to look out for and how to avoid them. Airport Taxis […]

The post 5 Popular Tourist Traps in St. Petersburg and How To Avoid Them appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> So you are heading to St. Petersburg? Fantastic. We don’t doubt that you will have a wonderful time. As with every popular tourist city though, there are some locals who like to to try their luck ripping off naive tourists. Here are the traps to look out for and how to avoid them.

Airport Taxis

The first trap usually presents itself the moment you leave the airport. Drivers will offer you taxi services and while they are mostly harmless, they will charge you double. Go to the official airport taxi stand and agree on a fixed price for your vehicle.

Black Cabs

Black cabs are also likely to overcharge you. It’s best to agree on a cost before you step in the vehicle to avoid the price being haggled up.

Starbucks

Starbucks is notoriously expensive anywhere but Russia’s Starbucks are the most expensive in the world. Try the cheaper local coffee instead, it won’t disappoint!

Tour Guides

Many locals will claim to be licensed tour guides when they are in fact not employed by a company which ensures quality. This happens most often in tourist attraction queues and the best thing to do is politely say no thank you.

Street Markets

If you love to haggle, be wary of the street markets in St Petersberg. The stall owners can sometimes become aggressive and it may even be that you can buy the same item for much cheaper in an actual store.

The post 5 Popular Tourist Traps in St. Petersburg and How To Avoid Them appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> ersion="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> tourist traps Archives - Traveler Master Traveler Master Thu, 05 Jan 2023 14:49:38 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://travelermaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/cropped-FAVICON_wp-32x32.png tourist traps Archives - Traveler Master 32 32 Tourist Traps You Should Skip https://travelermaster.com/tourist-traps-you-should-skip/ Sat, 07 Jan 2023 16:53:00 +0000 https://travelermaster.com/?p=25332 Tourist traps, or establishments or attractions created for the sole purpose of attracting tourists (and their money), rather than being authentic parts of local culture, are pretty much universally agreed-upon as being the worst. Yet they seem to get trickier and trickier, meaning that most of us travel-lovers have fallen for at least one in […]

The post Tourist Traps You Should Skip appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> Tourist traps, or establishments or attractions created for the sole purpose of attracting tourists (and their money), rather than being authentic parts of local culture, are pretty much universally agreed-upon as being the worst. Yet they seem to get trickier and trickier, meaning that most of us travel-lovers have fallen for at least one in our lives. Well, to help you avoid making that same mistake again, here are some tourist traps you should definitely avoid.

Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles

Sure, the Walk of Fame with all of its golden stars is pretty cool, but did you know that these are located on a plain old shopping street that would be just the same as any other if it weren’t for the dozens of people trying to take advantage of tourists by selling tickets to lame things or photos with guys in cheap costumes?

Times Square, New York

Similarly, Times Square in New York is basically the definition of a tourist trap, with nothing but overpriced chain restaurants and people trying to get money out of your pocket—legally or otherwise.

The London Eye, London

It may be a pretty iconic London landmark, but the London Eye isn’t much fun. Not only is it absurdly expensive, but you’ll get shoved into a capsule with 20 people, many of whom are screaming kids.

The post Tourist Traps You Should Skip appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> The Worst Tourist Traps Around the World, According to Locals https://travelermaster.com/the-worst-tourist-traps-around-the-world-according-to-locals/ Fri, 27 Aug 2021 09:11:00 +0000 https://travelermaster.com/?p=25133 Wanting to see iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower or the Sydney Opera Hosue is perfectly fine, but let’s face it—there are times when we visit an attraction simply because everyone else does it. And when we get there, we find out these famous spots are not exactly all they were cut out to be. […]

The post The Worst Tourist Traps Around the World, According to Locals appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> Wanting to see iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower or the Sydney Opera Hosue is perfectly fine, but let’s face it—there are times when we visit an attraction simply because everyone else does it. And when we get there, we find out these famous spots are not exactly all they were cut out to be. To spare you some disappointment, we gathered a few worldwide tourist attractions you can skip, according to locals.

Champs-Élysées in Paris, France

Champs-Élysées avenue in Paris seems to always be packed with tourists, but according to many Parisians they actually do their best to avoid it – the shops and restaurants are overpriced, and it’s not the prettiest street the city has to offer. At night, it can even be quite dangerous.

Casa di Giulietta in Verona, Italy

Casa di Guilietta (the house of Romeo and Juliet’s leading lady’s house in Verona) is always overcrowded, and many tourists stick love notes to the walls with chewing gum. Not exactly the most hygienic tradition.

Myeong-Dong in Seoul, South Korea

The Myeong-Dong shopping district in Seoul appears in many travel guides, but it tends to be overcrowded with tourists. Some less busy alternatives with traditional Korean products and street food are Insa-Dong and Ikseon-Dong.

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun may be pretty, but by now the whole town has become one big tourist trap. If the Spring Break Forever atmosphere is not what you’re after, Tulum, Valladolid, and Mérida are much better options.

The post The Worst Tourist Traps Around the World, According to Locals appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> Avoid These London Tourist Traps https://travelermaster.com/avoid-these-london-tourist-traps/ Fri, 20 Nov 2020 10:22:00 +0000 https://stagingtrm.wpengine.com/?p=20115 London, England is a city with so many things to do and see. One of the most popular cities on Earth for tourists, it’s so easy to spend days and days here seeing new things and not getting bored. However, there are some tourist traps that are better off being avoided if you want to […]

The post Avoid These London Tourist Traps appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> London, England is a city with so many things to do and see. One of the most popular cities on Earth for tourists, it’s so easy to spend days and days here seeing new things and not getting bored.

However, there are some tourist traps that are better off being avoided if you want to make the most of your time in the city. Here are some of them.

Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds is one of the most infamous museums in the world, displaying a huge collection of wax figures of famous people. Would you believe that it costs 39 GBP to enter, though? It’s just an exorbitant price to pay for what the museum actually is.

Platform 9 ¾

Harry Potter fans might be tempted to go to Platform 9 ¾ at Kings Cross Station in London. However, while this has been recreated in its original filming location, the ridiculous lines to take a picture there make it an experience that isn’t really worth the effort or time.

London Eye

The London Eye was one of the most famous tourist attractions when it was inaugurated at the turn of the century and this wheel does offer nice views of London’s center. However, you can get better views elsewhere and do so without paying over 30 GBP to spend a few minutes in an uncomfortable pod with strangers.

The post Avoid These London Tourist Traps appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> Don’t Fall for These Bangkok Tourist Traps! https://travelermaster.com/dont-fall-for-these-bangkok-tourist-traps/ Fri, 28 Aug 2020 06:00:00 +0000 https://stagingtrm.wpengine.com/?p=17402 Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital city, is a growing tourist destination, and it’s easy to see why. This Asian megalopolis is full of temples, markets, and delicious street food and is a true pleasure for the senses. Unfortunately, as is the case in many tourist hotspots, scams are all too common to come across and be […]

The post Don’t Fall for These Bangkok Tourist Traps! appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital city, is a growing tourist destination, and it’s easy to see why. This Asian megalopolis is full of temples, markets, and delicious street food and is a true pleasure for the senses.

Unfortunately, as is the case in many tourist hotspots, scams are all too common to come across and be a victim of in Bangkok. If you’re planning a visit to this city, keep your eyes peeled in order to avoid becoming a victim of these common scams.

Tuk Tuk Rides

Tuk Tuks are all over the city of Bangkok, with these mini auto-rickshaws often being hawked as a cheap and reliable transportation method. However, far too many tuk-tuk drivers charge exorbitant rates for their services, as there are no price controls. It’s better to take taxis or public transportation.

Ping Pong “Shows”

As strange as it seems, it’s way too easy to get roped into being taken upstairs at a popular bar to see a “ping pong show” where truly impressive table tennis players put on a show. The only problem is that they then demand money for playing, the bars charge you for exorbitantly-priced drinks, and it turns out to be a super expensive experience. Avoid it!

Fake TAT Shops

The TAT, or Tourism Authority of Thailand, is a reputable organization providing visitors to Thailand and Bangkok alike with information and promotional materials for tourist attractions around the country. However, if someone purporting to be from the TAT offers to sell you discounted tickets to an attraction, don’t believe them. This is a scam.

The post Don’t Fall for These Bangkok Tourist Traps! appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> Tourist Traps to Avoid in Berlin, Germany https://travelermaster.com/tourist-traps-to-avoid-in-berlin-germany/ Sat, 22 Aug 2020 02:48:00 +0000 https://stagingtrm.wpengine.com/?p=17054 Tourists who are looking for an immersive and fascinating experience in Germany’s capital of Berlin are sure to find it if they go with just a little bit of knowledge about what to do and see in this fantastic city. However, it’s also important to know what to skip when visiting this city of nearly […]

The post Tourist Traps to Avoid in Berlin, Germany appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> Tourists who are looking for an immersive and fascinating experience in Germany’s capital of Berlin are sure to find it if they go with just a little bit of knowledge about what to do and see in this fantastic city.

However, it’s also important to know what to skip when visiting this city of nearly 4 million. Don’t waste your time at these tourist traps while in Berlin!

Checkpoint Charlie

Checkpoint Charlie represents the border crossing that used to exist between West and East Germany during the times of the Berlin Wall. The now-frequented tourist attraction that claims to be the original site, however, is 0% authentic. This is simply a replica of the original checkpoint that isn’t even located in the right place!

Alexanderplatz Christmas Market

Christmas Markets are a fascinating option while visiting Germany in winter, but the one in Alexanderplatz in Berlin is nothing more than an expensive tourist trap. Instead of cheap mulled wine and handmade decorations, everything here is simply overpriced and over-commercialized. Visit one of the smaller markets, like Charlottenburg, instead.

Berlin TV Tower

Berlin’s TV Tower towers over the city at 1207 feet tall, and whether you think it’s an architectural aberration or an iconic landmark, its importance in Berlin can’t be denied. However, what can be skipped is the overpriced ticket which allows you to go up to its observation deck after a long wait to get a relatively uninteresting view of Berlin’s unimpressive skyline.

The post Tourist Traps to Avoid in Berlin, Germany appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> 5 Popular Tourist Traps in St. Petersburg and How To Avoid Them https://travelermaster.com/5-popular-tourist-traps-in-st-petersburg-and-how-to-avoid-them/ Sat, 27 Jul 2019 08:16:54 +0000 https://stagingtrm.wpengine.com/?p=8205 So you are heading to St. Petersburg? Fantastic. We don’t doubt that you will have a wonderful time. As with every popular tourist city though, there are some locals who like to to try their luck ripping off naive tourists. Here are the traps to look out for and how to avoid them. Airport Taxis […]

The post 5 Popular Tourist Traps in St. Petersburg and How To Avoid Them appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]> So you are heading to St. Petersburg? Fantastic. We don’t doubt that you will have a wonderful time. As with every popular tourist city though, there are some locals who like to to try their luck ripping off naive tourists. Here are the traps to look out for and how to avoid them.

Airport Taxis

The first trap usually presents itself the moment you leave the airport. Drivers will offer you taxi services and while they are mostly harmless, they will charge you double. Go to the official airport taxi stand and agree on a fixed price for your vehicle.

Black Cabs

Black cabs are also likely to overcharge you. It’s best to agree on a cost before you step in the vehicle to avoid the price being haggled up.

Starbucks

Starbucks is notoriously expensive anywhere but Russia’s Starbucks are the most expensive in the world. Try the cheaper local coffee instead, it won’t disappoint!

Tour Guides

Many locals will claim to be licensed tour guides when they are in fact not employed by a company which ensures quality. This happens most often in tourist attraction queues and the best thing to do is politely say no thank you.

Street Markets

If you love to haggle, be wary of the street markets in St Petersberg. The stall owners can sometimes become aggressive and it may even be that you can buy the same item for much cheaper in an actual store.

The post 5 Popular Tourist Traps in St. Petersburg and How To Avoid Them appeared first on Traveler Master.

]]>