Have you ever found yourself stung by an extortionate bill for a disappointing meal whilst on your holidays? You may well have fallen prey to a tourist trap. These establishments specifically target holidaymakers with sky-high prices and food that bears little resemblance to genuine local fare.
Unfortunately, identifying these culinary cons can prove challenging, particularly when you’re unfamiliar with the area and don’t speak the local language. Seasoned globetrotters have revealed their foolproof methods for dodging these dining disasters, and thankfully there are several straightforward warning signs to watch out for.
Reddit user ‘spaghetticola’ explained: “The tourist trap restaurants (overpriced with mediocre food) are easy to spot a mile away.
“Like someone else commented, they’ll be around the main tourist attractions and often have vast outdoor seating.
“Location alone can’t dictate a tourist trap, but there are two big tells. One is a promoter outside, a waiter standing next to the menu and speaking English attracting people over to take a look.
“These people are basically salesmen dressed as waiters and you’d be best off politely declining or not making eye contact in the first place.”
These touts may attempt to lure unsuspecting tourists into dining establishments without revealing the true cost until it’s too late.
The user continued: “If there are pictures of the food on some big laminated menu where everything is in English, get out!”
A fellow traveller advised: “Avoid restaurants too close to tourist attractions and take pictures of the menus outside the restaurant.
“Some of them may try to charge you more once inside. Also try to get to the average price of common things.”
For those finding it tough to pick a restaurant, consider seeking advice from hotel staff who can point you towards their favourite spots.
Venturing away from the tourist hotspots can lead to discovering more affordable dining options that are popular with locals.