Despite Christmas only feeling like days ago, Valentine’s Day is slowly but surely creeping up on us. The day of love is a reason many of us jet off on our first holiday of the year alongside our significant others, with searches for ‘Valentine’s Day Holidays” rising by 700% in the last week*.
However, as exciting as a romantic trip away maybe, this time of year is rife with scammers. SkyParkSecure has partnered with the founder of Perito Travel, Henry Richmond, to reveal some of the most common Valentine’s Day scams to be aware of.
“Scammers might promote non-existent or heavily exaggerated romantic spots in a particular destination. Always research attractions and tour operators before booking.”
Valentine’s Day travel scams to keep an eye out for
Promoting non-existent spots
“Scammers might promote non-existent or heavily exaggerated romantic spots in a particular destination. Always research attractions and tour operators before booking.”
In popular destinations especially, this is a very common scam. It’s advised to only travel with a reputable tour operator and do your research before booking, do these attractions exist? Are similar tours available? A great way to know if this is legitimate is if there are reviews on the experience.
Beware of ‘free’ gifts
“At tourist locations and in popular, busy cities, scammers might offer “free” gifts or services, such as photos or souvenirs, only to demand payment afterward. Be wary of accepting unsolicited offers and clarify any costs upfront.”
This is a very popular scam, and it isn’t just couples affected – but they are very heavily targeted, most commonly through the likes of photos and gifts, such as ‘free’ roses.
Poorly organised experiences
“Scammers might promote exclusive or romantic tours or events targeting couples, but these turn out to be poorly organised or non-existent. Verify the legitimacy of organisers and events before paying or sharing personal information”.
Like how scammers may promote romantic spots, you might also see ‘exclusive’ tours and events advertised towards couples, especially in locations regarded as romantic, or around Valentines Day that either don’t exist or are poorly organised. Again, it’s always recommended to book with a reputable tour guide or company, these experiences can be expensive, but they’re worth it if you get what you paid for!
Rental catfishing
“Scammers may post attractive holiday rentals at seemingly low prices, requesting upfront payments or deposits. However, upon arrival, the property might not exist or be vastly different from the photos. Stick to verified booking platforms and research the property and owner thoroughly.”
When you’re on a romantic trip with your other half, you might want something a bit more special than your standard hotel room, however, there is nothing worse than turning up at your holiday rental advertised as the ‘perfect spot for couples’ to find it majorly lacking or even non-existent! Like tours and other experiences, only book with a reputable company that has good reviews.
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