Holidaymakers have been issued a warning to be on their guard against a taxi scam that could see them charged double for their journey. Tourists, particularly those arriving at Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris, have been cautioned about taxi drivers who may take advantage of tourists by charging exorbitant fares.
According to TikTok posts, some drivers reportedly approach tourists at the airport arrival gates offering a ride to Paris city centre, but charge as much as €120 for what should be a €62 trip. As autumn and winter city breaks loom, specialist taxi insurance broker ChoiceQuote has offered advice to help people avoid being scammed.
The general rule is to steer clear of drivers who approach you first and instead arrange your own transport with a reputable company. However, identifying reliable local taxi companies can be tricky, so it’s recommended to do your research before arriving at your holiday destination.
You can also seek advice from the airport information desk or your hotel reception on which providers are best to use.
If you find yourself unable to do so, it’s crucial to pay extra attention to the taxi branding or markings on the exterior of the vehicle to confirm they possess the appropriate licence. Unlicensed vehicles pose a higher risk of scams, reports Chronicle Live.
Always make sure to inquire about the fare before embarking on your journey. This will help avoid any surprise charges.
It’s also a good idea to jot down your destination in the local language to prevent any potential misunderstandings.
Another common taxi scam abroad involves drivers intentionally taking longer routes in metered vehicles, allowing them to charge passengers more for the trip. This is particularly prevalent with tourists, as they are often assumed not to know the quickest route to their destination.
When travelling in a taxi in an unfamiliar location, it’s important to check the route on a GPS to ensure the driver is taking the most efficient route possible. This can help prevent you from being overcharged for your journey.
If you opt to pay by card, always inspect the card machine before making payment. Some drivers have been reported to ‘accidentally’ overcharge passengers on their credit or debit cards without their knowledge.
For instance, you might find yourself charged €600 for a €6 journey upon reaching your destination.