Tourists in Italy warned common scam could leave them with no money

Tourists in Italy Warned of Scam That Could Leave Them Without Money

Holidaymakers planning a trip to Italy have been urged to be cautious of a common scam that targets unsuspecting tourists, particularly in bustling cities like Rome, Venice, and Milan. The so-called “rose scam” is a well-known tactic employed by fraudsters to dupe visitors and leave them out of pocket.

Guido Terzuoli, a travel specialist at My Rental Homes, has issued a warning to travellers about this prevalent scam that often unfolds when tourists are approached by individuals offering roses while strolling through squares or streets. The fraudsters then drop or thrust a rose towards the individual, and if the tourist picks it up, the scam begins.

According to Terzuoli, the scammers would then insist that the rose is now the tourist’s and demand payment, typically one or two Euros for it. Many tourists end up parting with their money just to avoid an uncomfortable situation, even if they initially believe they won’t fall for the scam. The persistence of these sellers is notable, as they often refuse to take back the rose even if the tourist tries to return it.

To steer clear of falling victim to such scams, the travel expert advises tourists to simply walk away without engaging with street sellers, especially those offering roses. By ignoring them and refraining from picking up the rose, tourists can avoid being conned in these popular tourist spots.

In addition to the rose scam, travellers are also cautioned about other common cons like the “friendship bracelet” ruse and the “fake petition” scheme. Being aware of these scams can help tourists stay safe and enjoy their visit to Italy without being targeted by fraudsters.

Moreover, travellers are reminded of essential driving tips in Italy to avoid hefty fines. Gregor Brown, a travel blogger, emphasises the importance of always carrying one’s driving licence ID, car documents, and rental car agreement while driving in Italy to prevent running into trouble with the authorities.

In summary, tourists visiting Italy are encouraged to stay vigilant, be wary of common scams, and follow expert advice to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience in this beautiful Mediterranean country.