The Scammy Side of Tulum You Gotta Know About

Hey there! So, you’re thinking about hitting up Tulum, right? Gorgeous place, but let me fill you in on some stuff that might not be in your travel guide. I’m talking about the scams. Yeah, they’re a thing, and knowing about them can make your trip way smoother. So, grab a coffee, and let’s dive in, because as always we are going to keep it real.

1. Taxi Prices – Welcome to the Jungle!

Alright, let’s talk taxis in Tulum. There’s no Uber, and the taxi situation? It’s pretty much a wild west show. They’ve got this nickname – the ‘taxi mafia’. And believe me, it’s well-earned. These drivers know they’ve got the monopoly on getting around, so the fares? They’re sky-high. You may have luck trying to bargain, but don’t expect a much better outcome.

Now, we personally steered clear of taxis – the prices were just too nuts for us. But let me spill some tea about what our friends went through. They were just trying to get from the hotel zone to town, and guess what? The driver hit them with a fare of 2400 pesos (around $140 USD). Yep, you heard that right. For a ride that’s barely 10-15 minutes! That’s the kind of stuff that makes you wanna walk, right.

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2. Tipping: When It Goes Overboard

So, tipping. We’re all for showing some love to the hardworking folks in the service industry, but man, Tulum takes it to a whole other level. It’s like tipping on steroids down here. Let me break it down for you.

In Tulum, it’s pretty standard to see a 15-20% tip already slapped onto your bill. But here’s the kicker – sometimes the server will come up to you, all smiles, and tell you a story about how they don’t actually get that tip, and could you please tip a bit more? Yeah, it puts you in a pretty awkward spot.

Let me tell you about this one time we grabbed takeout. The restaurant, without missing a beat, just went ahead and punched in a 20% tip for themselves. Like, hello? Usually, that’s our call to make, right? We were not cool with that, so we asked them to remove it entirely. And guess what? This isn’t just a one-off thing in Tulum. It’s a legit strategy they use here, so you’ve got to keep your eyes peeled.

3. ‘Gringo Tax’ – Yeah, It’s a Thing

Okay, buckle up, because now we’re diving into the infamous ‘Gringo Tax’. Ever get that sneaking suspicion that you’re being charged more just because you’re not a local? Welcome to the club. This happens everywhere in Tulum – shops, restaurants, taxis, colectivos… you name it.

Here’s the deal: they see you’re a tourist, and boom, the prices magically go up. And it’s not like there’s a set rate for this ‘tax’; it changes faster than the weather in the tropics. One day you’re paying this, the next day it’s something completely different for the same thing. It’s like playing a game where the rules keep changing.

We experienced this firsthand, and it was a real eye-opener. For instance, we relied a lot on colectivos for getting around. These should be straightforward, right? Fixed price, no hassle. But nope, not in Tulum. Even here, the prices were as unpredictable as a dice roll. We’d ask the price for the same route on different days and get different answers each time. And the most frustrating part? There’s no way to challenge it. If you don’t speak Spanish, your chances of negotiating are pretty slim.

It’s a bummer because it feels like you’re constantly on guard, trying to figure out if you’re being overcharged. And let’s be real, it can take the fun out of exploring this otherwise amazing place. Just when you think you’ve got a handle on it, Tulum throws you another curveball with the ‘Gringo Tax’. So, heads up, friends – keep an eye on those prices and maybe learn a few key phrases in Spanish. It might just save you a few pesos.

4. Dealing with Police: Stay Cool and Hide Your Cash

Alright, let’s chat about the cops in Tulum. We’ve had a mixed bag of experiences. There was this one time we got pulled over. They seemed serious at first, but when they saw our dog, Aria, chilling in the backpack (yeah, she’s our travel buddy), the mood lightened up, we laughed, and we were good to go. But not everyone’s that lucky.

We’ve got friends who’ve had some pretty sketchy encounters. Imagine this: you’re driving, minding your own business, and then you’re stopped by the police. What comes next isn’t a standard checkup. They search you, and before you know it, your cash is gone. Yep, it happens.

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5. Check Your Change: Don’t Get Shortchanged

Now, onto something that seems small but is super important – your change. In Tulum, there’s this sneaky little game some locals play. Picture this: you’re at a shop, you pay with a big bill, and the cashier hands you your change. But wait, instead of a 100-peso bill, they’ve slipped you a 20. They’re counting on you not noticing.

We fell for this once, and let me tell you, it stings. You feel kind of silly for not catching it right away. So now, we’ve made it a habit to pause and check our change, every single time. It might hold up the line for a second, but trust me, it’s worth it. No one’s going to look out for your money like you will. And in Tulum, where every peso counts, you’ve got to stay sharp. Don’t let them shortchange you – literally.

6. Gas Stations: Watch Out!

In Mexico, hitting up a gas station is a whole different ball game compared to what you might be used to. They pump your gas for you, which sounds super convenient at first, right? But here’s where it gets tricky. We’ve had our fair share of experiences that taught us to stay alert at these places.

There was this one time, for instance, when we needed to refuel. We pull up, the attendant does his thing, and we hand over the cash. But then, he tries to pull a fast one on us by not giving the right change back. Thankfully, we caught on quick, but it was a real eye-opener.

But that’s not the only thing you need to watch out for. Before the attendant starts pumping, always check that the meter is reset to zero. We’ve heard stories and even experienced a couple of times when they start pumping, and the meter’s already showing a few hundred pesos, meaning you’re paying for someone else’s gas.

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And one more thing – once they’re done filling up and you’re ready to hit the road, do a quick check to ensure they’ve put the gas cap back on. It might seem minor, but driving off without it can lead to all sorts of problems down the line.

So, remember, at Mexican gas stations, it’s all about keeping your eyes peeled and staying one step ahead. Make these checks a habit, and you’ll avoid some of the common hassles travelers face at the pump.

7. Renting a Car? Beware the Spare Tire Trick

Now, let’s talk about renting cars in Tulum. Here’s a scam that’s both clever and frustrating. You rent a car, do the usual walk-around check, and they point out the spare tire. All seems well, right? Wrong. Some of these rental places have a scam where they actually come and take the spare tire when you’re not looking. Then, when you return the car, bam! They hit you with a fee for a missing tire.

We learned about this scam while reading online reviews and decided to take matters into our own hands. Whenever we rented a car, we took the spare tire out and kept it in our apartment. Overkill? Maybe. But when it comes to avoiding extra charges, we’re not taking any chances. It’s a strange world out there, and in Tulum, it seems like you’ve always got to be one step ahead. So, if you’re renting a car, consider safeguarding that spare tire. It might just save you a headache and some cash.

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8. ATMs: Stick to the Safe Ones

Navigating ATMs in Tulum can be a bit of a minefield. Fake ATMs? Yeah, they’re a thing here, and they’re a major headache. These machines can swallow your card, steal your info, and leave you in a real bind. We learned pretty quickly to only use ATMs that are inside banks or reputable stores. It’s a bit more of a hassle, but trust me, it’s worth the peace of mind.

⚠️ And about international banking – we swear by Charles Schwab. They refund ATM fees at the end of each month, which is a total lifesaver when you’re traveling. It’s saved us a ton of cash on fees.

Remember, in Tulum, being cautious with ATMs isn’t just smart – it’s essential. Stick to the safe ones, and you’ll avoid a world of trouble.

9. Street Performers and Ruins: Heads Up!

Tulum is full of life, and part of that vibrant scene includes street performers. They’re everywhere, showcasing their talents, and yeah, they’re pretty cool. But here’s the thing – some of them expect you to pay up if you so much as glance in their direction. Take a photo or a video, and you might find yourself in an awkward situation where they’re asking for money.

Now, about the ruins. As you’re heading there, you’ll likely encounter folks trying to stop you. They’ll run up, making it seem like you can’t go any further, offering tours or directing you to their parking spots. Don’t fall for it. These are just tactics to get your money. The real entrance and official parking are just a bit further down the road. It’s all about staying alert and not getting sidetracked by these distractions.

In both cases, whether it’s street performers or those guys at the ruins, just keep your wits about you. Enjoy the performances, sure, but be aware of the potential for these little money-grabbing schemes. And at the ruins, just keep walking until you reach the official ticket booth. It’s all part of the Tulum experience – just be savvy about it!

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Scam Prevention Tips and FAQs for Traveling in Tulum

▸ How can I avoid being scammed by taxis in Tulum?

To avoid taxi scams in Tulum, agree on the fare before getting into the taxi or consider using colectivos for a more budget-friendly option. Additionally, familiarize yourself with general fare prices to better negotiate.

▸ What are some common scams in Tulum and how can I avoid them?

Common scams in Tulum include overcharging by taxis (‘taxi mafia’), inflated prices (‘Gringo Tax’), tipping scams, and issues at gas stations. Stay informed about average costs, double-check your bills, and keep a close watch on your transactions to avoid these scams.

▸ Is it safe to use credit cards in Tulum?

It’s generally safe to use credit cards in Tulum, but always keep an eye on your card, especially at gas stations. Use credit cards in reputable establishments and avoid handing them over where you can’t see the transaction being processed.

▸ What is the ‘Gringo Tax’ in Tulum?

The ‘Gringo Tax’ refers to the higher prices often charged to tourists in Tulum. This can happen in shops, taxis, and other services where prices are inflated for tourists compared to locals.

▸ How should I interact with police in Tulum?

If stopped by police in Tulum, stay calm and cooperative. It’s advisable to hide your cash in inconspicuous places on your body. If faced with a fine or bribe, suggest dealing with it at the police station or mention contacting your embassy.

▸ How do I deal with aggressive street vendors or performers in Tulum?

If approached by aggressive street vendors or performers in Tulum, remain polite but firm. Decline offers clearly if not interested. For performers, agree on any potential payment upfront to avoid surprise charges.

▸ Are there any specific tips for first-time visitors to Tulum to avoid scams?

First-time visitors should research average prices for services in Tulum, use ATMs in secure locations, and be cautious with personal belongings. Being aware of common scams and adopting a cautious approach can help avoid negative experiences.

▸ What should I do if I encounter a scam in Tulum?

If you encounter a scam in Tulum, stay calm and refuse to participate in the scam. If it involves a service like a taxi or restaurant, firmly contest any unfair charges. In more serious cases, consider reaching out to local authorities or your embassy.

▸ Can I negotiate prices in Tulum to avoid being overcharged?

Yes, negotiating prices is often possible and can help avoid being overcharged, especially in markets or with street vendors. However, be aware that some establishments have fixed prices, and excessive bargaining is not always well-received.

Wrapping it up…

Wrapping up our Tulum tales, I’ve got to be real with you – it’s a place that’s left us with mixed feelings. Everywhere you turn, it feels like someone’s waiting to pull a fast one on you, to take a little more than they should. And that… that just doesn’t sit right with us. It’s not the vibe you want when you’re trying to unwind and enjoy a new place.

What really gets to me is how this constant guard you have to keep up taints your view of everyone around you. Sure, there are loads of genuine, lovely people in Tulum, but after you’ve been scammed a couple of times, you start to look at everyone with a bit of suspicion. And that’s just sad.

So, here’s the deal: Tulum has its gorgeous spots, no doubt about it. The beaches, the ruins, the natural beauty – all worth seeing. But would I recommend it as a top vacation spot? Honestly, not really. It’s a bit heartbreaking to say this, but with the way things are right now, Tulum isn’t on our list of places to revisit.

That said, if you do end up going, we’re not leaving you hanging. We’ve shared the lowdown on the scams, the tips and tricks to dodge them, and how to keep yourself safe. It’s important to us that you know both sides of the coin. So, take in the sights, enjoy the beauty, but keep your wits about you. Stay safe out there and remember, sometimes the best trips are the ones where you’re prepared for anything.

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