Almost everyone has heard travel horror stories. From robberies to scams, it is important to be informed about what to possibly expect on your luxury travel vacations. The most common stories of being ripped off abroad involve currency, purchasing "priceless artifacts" and being trapped by taxis. Take a look at these common ways people are either overcharged or ripped off, and use these strategies to stay in control of your money!
Currency Fraud
One of the most difficult parts about traveling to other countries is using foreign currency. There are several ways to handle this issue; the most important one is to be somewhat familiar with the exchange rate. For example, one Euro is the equivalent of $1.50 USD. Also, be familiar with what the local currency looks like. A common tourist scam is being approached in the airport or in front of a hotel by what appears to be a fellow tourist. They may wish to exchange some of their "left over" currency for dollars. They may attempt to sell you counterfeit currency, or offer a high rate of exchange. Do not be taken in by such people. The only safe way to exchange currency is through a bank, your local American Express Office, or the purser aboard any luxury world cruise.
Purchasing Antiquities
When traveling to countries with rich ancient histories on a luxury travel vacation, you may be tempted to take a piece of it home with you. In countries such as China, Egypt and Britain, there are a number of licensed and unlicensed antiquities dealers that will offer to sell you some of the greatest finds of the century. But buyer beware, even experts can be fooled by fakes. Not to mention that most countries do not allow exports of most pieces of their country's history. So, if you did purchase the find of the century, you will probably not be able to take it home. If you are dedicated to taking something home with you, go to a well-known and licensed antiquities dealer. Your tour guide or cruise purser should have the best recommendations. Be sure to ask the right questions, such as delivery options, legality issues and get a receipt of sale. For more information on the latest AMT American Express Travel exclusives check out http://www.amtvacations.com/american-express-exclusives.html.
Taxi Fraud
Most travelers get around their destinations via taxis, unless they are on a guided excursion from their luxury world cruise. Most taxi drives know this, and can spot a tourist from a mile away. They know you are unfamiliar with the exchange rate, the going local taxi rate and unfamiliar with the area. They may overprice their rate to take advantage of your ignorance, or take a more scenic route in order to run up the tab. Some may not run a meter at all and tell you a high flat rate. You can avoid being taken advantage of by asking the going rate before you step into the cab, and an estimate of how much to get to your destination. If there is no meter, do not get in. They might not be a legitimate taxi service, and may take you somewhere unless you pay them off. Do not hesitate to try another taxi if you think you can do better. Suddenly, the price might change to something more reasonable if you threaten to look elsewhere.
The first step in avoiding becoming involved in any of these scams is to be aware and informed. For help with your next luxury world cruise visit http://www.amtcruises.com.
Now that you are armed with information and strategies to avoid becoming involved in these situations, you are ready to face your luxury travel vacation without fear.
- Related Videos
- Related Articles
- Ask / Related Q&A
- The U.S. Virgin Islands: The American Owned Tropical Paradise Popular Among American Express Vacation Clients
- Southern California Sunshine Is An American Express Vacations Crown Jewel
- Protect Yourself From Pickpockets When You Travel On Luxury Vacations
- Avoid Being Overcharged On Your Luxury Travel Vacation
- Air Travel And Luxury Vacations: How Airlines Work
- Hiking Vacation Idea
- Vacation With Kids in Hawaii
- Find Great Vacation Deals




I Love Sightseeing Tours of Italy - Latium Winter Attractions and Events
By: Levi Reiss | 17/12/2009Don't think of Italy as only a summer destination. You'll find plenty to do and see all year. These articles provide ideas for your Italian winter vacation, describing regional spectacles, tourist attractions, and special events, and sometimes skiing and other winter sports. Italian winter holidays have several advantages: You won't fight the crowds, accommodations are easier and cheaper to find, and every region has its own winter festivals.
Museums And Art Galleries In Ghent
By: Steve Kevin | 17/12/2009Being the second largest city in Belgium - in terms of population -, Ghent has a lot to offer to art lovers and museum goers. There are more than ten major museums and art galleries in and around the boundaries of the city that will satisfy the hungry mind of...
Winter Sun in the South Island of New Zealand
By: Rachel Williams | 16/12/2009If you are looking for a holiday to experience some sun in the UK winter months, a great place to visit is New Zealand. As it is south of the equator it’s summer there when it’s our winter so it’s a good chance to top up your tan in January. When you are visiting New Zealand there are certain destinations that you need to go to;
Toronto Shopping | Chic Boutiques to Funky Finds
By: Rosalie Scott | 16/12/2009Whether you are browsing the chic Yorkville boutiques, digging through deals in Chinatown or discovering funky vintage finds in Kensington Market, Toronto shopping offers something for every type of shopper, from the most trend-savvy fashionista to the sharpest bargain hunter. Check out these popular Toronto shopping destinations and discover great areas of this amazing city at the same time!
Discover & Experience Ghana & Africa With Passionate Desires Travel & Tours
By: Passionate Desires | 16/12/2009Passionate Desires Travel & Tours is a company for independent-minded and adventurous travelers who are passionately in love with Africa and want to explore both the beauty and the primitive side of Africa either for pleasure, business or educational purposes. We provide world class information and advice about where to go, what to visit and how to get here.
New York limousines
By: Ted Baker | 16/12/2009Whether it's a wedding, a prom, a city tour or any other special occasion, by choosing the best New York limousine service you can be sure this occasion will be a total success. Professional limo companies in New York offer excellent services that can make your visit here in the famous Big Apple unforgettable.
Take care of your health, book a room at the Diplomatic Park Suites
By: Martin Sosa | 16/12/2009Take care of your health, book a room at the Diplomatic Park Suites
WAYN - Your travel friend
By: Mark Anderson | 16/12/2009Learn how to use WAYN - Where Are You Now to help your travel trip. Find new friends on places you travel.
Luxury Travel Vacations During High Seasons
By: Virginia Morgan | 02/11/2007 | TravelYou probably know people who have booked luxury vacations to places like Europe, Hawaii and the Caribbean at bargain prices. So how do they do it? They don't travel during high season. You can save more than $1500 by not traveling during the summer, spring break season or Christmas. Unfortunately,...
Exploring A New City On Your Luxury Travel Vacation
By: Virginia Morgan | 23/10/2007 | TravelYou're about to set forth on your dream luxury travel vacation. After months of planning, days of packing, and hours in the air, your arrival is the start of some highly anticipated fun. But it can also be the hardest part of a trip. Chances are you'll be tired, jet...
Advantages Of Booking Luxury Vacations Early
By: Virginia Morgan | 23/10/2007 | TravelChances are, travelers who have spoken to travel agents about booking luxury vacations often hear the travel agent mantra of "book early." With myths of last minute deals and other types of discounts, travelers are often confused about "how soon is too soon" and what is available to travelers who...
How To Get The Most Out Of Your Disney World Luxury Vacation
By: Virginia Morgan | 16/10/2007 | TravelOne of the most popular destinations for luxury vacation travelers making a stop in the United States is Disney World. Deemed the happiest place on earth, Disney World has become popular with travelers of all ages. Unfortunately, many people fear the Disney World experience after hearing horror stories about long...
Tahiti Luxury Vacations On A Budget
By: Virginia Morgan | 04/10/2007 | TravelTahiti is growing as one of the top luxury travel vacation destinations. From honeymooners wanting to experience the intimacy of these secluded islands, to active divers awaiting the colorful underwater displays, to families wishing for a unique experience; Tahiti has a lot to offer for travelers of all types. But,...
Protect Yourself From Pickpockets When You Travel On Luxury Vacations
By: Virginia Morgan | 04/10/2007 | TravelThe greatest travel destinations in the world are similar to each other in so many ways. They are visited each year by hundreds of thousands of luxury travel vacation tourists and have some of the greatest sights and experiences. Unfortunately, they are all full of pickpockets. Pickpocketing is one of...
First Aid Kit For Travelers On Luxury Vacations
By: Virginia Morgan | 04/10/2007 | TravelOne common fear for travelers on a luxury travel vacation is becoming ill while traveling. From a mild case to of the sniffles to a serious complication, there are some simple items that any experienced traveler should bring with them on every trip. Some items are common, but if you...