Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a city rich in history, culture, and hospitality. While most visitors to Baku have positive experiences, like in any tourist destination, it's essential to be aware of potential scams. To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, here are some tourist scams to watch out for in Baku:
1. Sex Solicitation
Baku, is a liberal country in the Middle East. While many Islamic nations nearby have strict laws on public conduct, Baku is more of European in its social behavior. Many Arabs and South Asians visit the country for sex tourism, and have earned these regions a bad reputation. So, even if you are not seeking sex in Baku, sex workers and broke students might approach you slyly to offer you sex. It can be an embarrassing or irritating situation sometimes. A solo traveler may be approached by a woman or man asking to click their pictures, and then they would seek your contact to get that picture. Once they get your number, they offer you their service. It is to be noted that prostitution is illegal in Baku, so it is better to avoid such traps, even if it is consensual.
2. Fellow Countrymen
One of the tour groups from India, announced it to their patrons - "Beware of women, Indians, and Pakistanis in Baku."
South Asians are easily recognizable in Baku, and there are many preying eyes. South Asians, especially Pakistanis run small-time scam in Baku. They may approach you as a fellow countrymen and take you in their trust. Further, they may take you to shady places, rob your passport, or hold you hostage for money.
Other scams that they run include asking for currency exchange citing that they have just landed in the country and do not have the local currency, and need it immediately. Finding a country folk, they trust you for help.
3. A Friendly Lass
Baku's nightlife is quite popular and many Indians love to visit the pubs. Some of these clubs collaborate with attractive women who act friendly with you and get you to pubs and bars. While you enjoy a great time with these friendly, cheerful women, they order expensive alcohol on your table under your nose, and then disappear before the bill arrives. The bouncers at the pub then bully you to pay for those expensive drinks which you might not have even drunk.
4. Stop for Me
Travelers often rent a self drive car for themselves to explore the outskirts of Baku. Many white tourists are chased by local taxi owners who threaten and bully them into getting into their taxis as it is illegal for them to drive to particular spots. It is a lie but you won't know the rules of a new country. It is ideal to keep the police number on quick dial to avoid it.
5. There's No Bus
If you are traveling by bus and happen to visit the bus stations, you would be approached by many taxi drivers who would want to tell you that there are no buses to the place you are going to. Do not trust them. Better go to the bus station and figure it out. Even if there are really no buses to your destination, you will have the option of the taxi still available.
6. Overpricing
There are many items which have no prices on them. It is common to be asked to be paid more for such items. But you do not expect packaged and labelled products to be overpriced. Most stores and outlets quote you a Manat or two extra for products like soft drinks. That means you would end up paying 50-100 Rs. extra for very small purchases. Go for a card-based payment outlet where the goods are scanned. They won't be able to charge you extra that way. Bravo supermarket is a good place to purchase little items in Baku.
Have you been victim to a tourist scam? Share your story and help other travelers.
