Destinations › India › Goa › Scams
Goa, India
9 reported scam patterns travellers run into in Goa, what they look like, and how to sidestep them.
Local taxi unions restrict ride-hailing pickups at the airports and some beaches, and union taxis are unmetered with fares set well above the app equivalent.
Drugs offered on the northern beaches followed by a police approach and a demand for payment to avoid arrest.
Police stops of foreign riders for licence and helmet infractions resolved by an on-the-spot cash payment, some of which involve genuine officers and some of which do not.
Scooter and motorcycle hire with damage claimed on return for pre-existing marks, and passports retained as deposit until payment is made.
Airport confusion exploited — transfers booked for Dabolim when the flight arrives at Mopa, some 60km apart.
Theft from beach belongings and from rooms in budget properties.
Imitation branded goods and 'antique' items sold at the flea markets as genuine.
Beach-hut and short-let bookings relocated on arrival in peak season with the original rate retained.
Beach shacks charging for sunbeds advertised as free with a drink, and adding items not ordered.
