Jake Cullum-Hollins, a travel agent, used TikTok to warn potential holidaymakers about a 'massive scam' widespread in Turkey. He stated that many may have unknowingly fallen victim. 'When shopping in Turkey, paying in Euros or British Pounds technically means you are being scammed,' he said.
How the Scam Works
The travel agent explained that if shops display prices in Euros or Pounds, they are already breaking rules. 'The Turkish government requires all shops to advertise prices in Turkish Lira.' Failing to comply means when holidaymakers pay in foreign currency, shops can convert the money at banks and generate extra profit.
'The biggest scam though is when they go to give you change,' Jake continued. 'This is because nearly every single time, they will give you it in Turkish Lira. And this is where they will skim more off the top.'
Risks of Haggling
Jake also cautioned that haggling won't help. 'If you go on to haggle something in British Pounds or Euros - and then you go to pay by card - this is where it gets worse.' On the vendor's card machine, only Turkish Lira can be processed. 'Therefore they are going to put a different amount in Turkish Lira - because again, they are expecting you not to know the exchange rate.'
Advice for Tourists
To avoid overpaying, Jake advised: 'To avoid paying more than you should unknowingly, always pay in Turkish Lira. Either in cash, or agree a price in Turkish Lira to pay by card.'
One British holidaymaker shared: 'Currently in Turkey and paid everything in Lira. I would recommend that you don't use pounds or Euros got a passport cash card.' Jake replied: 'Great advice, but those cash card rates suck. Much better off with a bank like Starling or Monzo that doesn't charge you to buy things overseas to get a near perfect rate.'
A second individual commented: 'Been to Turkey every year since 2016, always paid in Euros, its a personal preference.' Jake responded: 'By paying in Euros you're playing into their hands. The more we stop it, the more it will become the norm that Turkish Lira is the standard and the Turkish government rules get adhered to.'
