Timeshare pitches
Anyone offering a “free tour” or “scratch-card prize” on Fifth Avenue is almost always a timeshare seller—decline politely and move on.
Taxi overcharging
Taxis without a meter may quote inflated prices to tourists; confirm the fare in advance or use a pre-booked transfer.
Fake tour booths
Some street booths sell tours that don’t match what’s delivered—book through reputable operators or your hotel instead.
Currency confusion
Some vendors round prices up when quoting in USD; pay in pesos when possible for accurate pricing.
Quick rules of thumb
- Never accept unsolicited “free” offers on the street
- Always confirm a price before agreeing to a service
- Use a card or pesos instead of carrying large amounts of USD cash
