Siargao is awesome, but like any popular tourist spot, a few bad apples try to take advantage of unsuspecting visitors. This guide is here to help you spot those scams and keep your Siargao trip smooth and enjoyable.
Common Scams in Siargao and How to Avoid Them
Okay, let’s dive right in. The best way to dodge scams is knowing what they look like. Awareness is your superpower here. We’ll cover the most common issues and explain how to handle them like a pro.
Rental Scams (Especially Motorbikes)
Motorbikes are the main way to get around Siargao, so rentals are huge. Unfortunately, this also means they’re a prime target for scams. Here’s what to watch out for:
Fake Damage: You return your bike, and suddenly there’s a “new” scratch or dent that wasn’t there before. They’ll then demand you pay a hefty fee for the “repairs.”
How to Avoid: Before you even drive off, take a ton of pictures and videos of the entire bike. Pay special attention to any existing scratches, dings, or imperfections. Make sure the rental shop owner or representative is present while you take the photos and videos. Point out everything. If possible, have them sign or initial a document confirming the existing damage. Also, read the rental agreement carefully. Look for clauses related to damages, insurance, and liability. If anything is unclear, ask for clarification before signing.
Overcharging Due to “Damage”: Similar to the fake damage scam, this involves exaggerating the cost of minor damage. A small scratch might suddenly warrant a full paint job price.
How to Avoid: If damage does occur, get multiple quotations for the repair from different repair shops yourself, not just from the rental shop. This will give you a realistic idea of the repair cost. Negotiate the repair cost with the rental shop owner armed with your own quotes. Don’t be pressured into paying an exorbitant amount. If they are unwilling to negotiate fairly, consider involving the local tourist police (more on that later).
Hidden Fees: You agree to a daily rate, but when you return the bike, surprise! There are extra charges for insurance, cleaning, or some other made-up reason.
How to Avoid: Get everything in writing. Before you agree to anything, ask for a detailed breakdown of all the costs involved, including insurance, taxes, and any other potential fees. Make sure the daily rate, duration of the rental, and total amount due are clearly stated in the rental agreement. If the rental shop owner cannot provide something in writing, consider finding someone else. Keep a copy in your phone.
Bike Confiscation: This is rarer, but sometimes a rental shop might falsely claim you violated a term of the rental agreement (e.g., riding in a prohibited area) and demand the bike back before the rental period is over, keeping your payment.
How to Avoid: Carefully read and understand the rental agreement terms. Ask the rental shop about permitted and prohibited areas for riding. If a dispute arises, remain calm and polite but firmly insist on seeing the specific clause you allegedly violated. If you believe you are being unfairly treated, contact the tourist police immediately. Also, document everything – take pictures of the bike, the rental agreement, and any correspondence with the rental shop.
Accommodation Scams
Finding a place to stay should be exciting, not stressful. Here are some accommodation-related scams to be aware of:
Fake Listings and Misrepresentation: The pictures online look amazing, but when you arrive, your guesthouse is a dump. Or worse, the place doesn’t even exist!
How to Avoid: Book through reputable websites like Booking.com or Airbnb where other travelers have posted reviews. Read lots of reviews – not just the glowing ones. Look for patterns in the negative reviews. Contact the host or property owner directly before booking to ask specific questions about the accommodation. Use Google Street View (if available) to verify the location. If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your gut!
Overbooking and Bait-and-Switch: You book a particular room, but when you arrive, they tell you it’s “unavailable” and offer you a much lower-quality room at the same price.
How to Avoid: Confirm your booking a few days before your arrival, and again on the day of your arrival. Take screenshots of your booking confirmation. If you are offered a significantly inferior room, politely but firmly insist on the room you booked. If they refuse, ask for a full refund. If you booked through a reputable platform, contact their customer support immediately to report the issue and request assistance. Take pictures of the room they are trying to give you as evidence.
Hidden Charges: Similar to the motorbike rentals, they surprise you with fees for cleaning, electricity, or water upon check-out.
How to Avoid: Clarify all costs upfront, including any extra charges for amenities, services, or utilities. Read the fine print of your booking confirmation carefully. Ask for a written breakdown of all charges before you check-in. If the accommodation owner is unable to provide a written breakdown, consider finding somewhere else. After all, many places provide services. Be sure to read reviews of other travelers before booking into a place.
Tour and Activity Scams
Exploring Siargao is the whole point! But tours and activities can also be a place where scams can happen. Here’s the intel:
Fake Tour Operators: You pay for a tour, but the operator disappears with your money, or the tour is drastically different (and worse) than advertised.
How to Avoid: Book tours and activities through reputable operators with good online reviews. Ask your hotel or guesthouse for recommendations. Check if the tour operator is properly licensed and insured. Don’t be pressured into booking tours from random people on the street. Ask for a detailed itinerary of the tour and clarify what is included in the price. Pay with a credit card whenever possible for added protection. Finally, ask for the contact number of the guide. Contact the guide before the tour will start.
Overcharging: You’re quoted a much higher price than the standard rate for a tour or activity.
How to Avoid: Shop around and compare prices from different tour operators. Ask locals for the average price of the activity you are interested in. Don’t be afraid to negotiate, particularly if you are booking for a group. If possible, negotiate with multiple tour agencies and compare the offers.
Unsafe Practices: Shoddy equipment or lack of safety measures during water activities like surfing or island hopping.
How to Avoid: Check the safety record of the tour operator. Ask about their safety procedures and the qualifications of their staff. Inspect the equipment before using it. Make sure life jackets are available and in good condition. If you feel uncomfortable with the safety measures, don’t participate in the activity. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
“Environmental Fees” With No Receipts: You are asked to pay an environmental fee but aren’t issued an official receipt to confirm their claim.
How to Avoid: Make sure the environmental fee is legitimate by looking at the Local Government’s website. As mentioned, environmental fees are often charged and collected from tourists. Be sure to ask for the official receipt. If the person fails to present it, don’t pay and report it to the proper channels.
ATM Scams and Petty Theft
Even though Siargao is generally safe, these scams do happen. It is always important to be aware and cautious. Here’s what you can do:
ATM Skimming: Criminals install devices on ATMs to steal your card information and PIN. This then allows them to create duplicate cards or use your information for online fraud.
How to Avoid: Check the ATM for any signs of tampering, such as loose or misaligned parts. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Use ATMs located inside banks or well-lit, secure areas. Be aware of anyone standing too close to you while you are using the ATM. It is even better to use the ATM during business hours and inside the banks. Notify your bank immediately if you suspect your card has been compromised.
Petty Theft: Pickpocketing or bag snatching in crowded areas.
How to Avoid: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like General Luna. Don’t leave your belongings unattended. Keep your valuables in a secure place, such as a money belt or a zipped pocket. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics. Do not flaunt cash. If possible, when going to public places, keep your belongings inside your bag. Also, keep your bag close to maintain control and not get snatch.
Restaurant and Bar Scams
Dining out is one of the best parts of any vacation. Know some of the most common restaurant and bar scams in Siargao.
Inflated Bills: You carefully checked the menu, but upon receiving the bill, there are hidden charges you weren’t aware of.
How to Avoid: Carefully review the bill before paying and check for any discrepancies. Ask for clarification on any unfamiliar charges. If they give you the wrong bill, don’t be afraid to ask for what corresponds to what you ordered. If you suspect you have been overcharged, speak to the manager and try to resolve the issue. If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reporting it to the local tourist authority. Also, double-check that the bill corresponds to what you ordered.
Fake Drinks: You expect branded drinks, but you are served cheaper alternatives.
How to Avoid: Order drinks served in their sealed containers, especially bottled drinks. When ordering cocktails, pay attention to how the bartender prepares the drink. If you have taste or smell that they used cheaper alternatives, don’t be afraid to ask nicely.
General Safety Tips for Siargao
Beyond specific scams, here’s some general advice to keep you safe and sound in Siargao:
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t hesitate to walk away from a situation that makes you uncomfortable. If you aren’t feeling well, never feel forced to enter a spot.
Be Respectful of Local Customs: The Philippines is a largely religious country. Dress modestly (especially when visiting churches or temples), be mindful of noise levels, and avoid public displays of affection. Learning a few basic Tagalog phrases can also go a long way.
Don’t Flash Cash or Expensive Items: This makes you a target for theft. Keep your valuables out of sight.
Stay Hydrated and Wear Sunscreen: The sun in the Philippines is intense. Drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen regularly, even on cloudy days.
Be Careful with Alcohol: It’s easy to get carried away on vacation, but excessive alcohol consumption can impair your judgment and make you more vulnerable to scams and other dangers.
Learn to Surf Safely: Take lessons from a reputable surf school and follow the instructor’s guidance. Be aware of the conditions of the water. It’s always better and safer to surf with a buddy.
Check Weather Conditions: Before going on an island visit, check the weather conditions. Also, be wary of sea urchins and other aquatic creatures. Never touch the sea urchins.
What to Do If You Get Scammed
Okay, even with the best precautions, you might still fall victim to a scam. Don’t panic! Here’s what to do:
Document Everything: Gather any evidence you have, such as receipts, photos, videos, and correspondence.
Report the Incident:
If you suspect you are getting scammed, file a report with the local tourist police. The tourist police are trained to handle complaints from tourists and can often mediate disputes between tourists and local businesses. The local police station in General Luna is your first stop for reporting a crime or scam.
Contact your Bank or Credit Card Company: If you paid with a credit card, dispute the charge with your bank or credit card company. They may be able to help you recover your money.
Leave Reviews: Warn other travelers by posting reviews on websites like TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, and Facebook. Describe what happened and include as many details as possible.
Inform your Embassy: In cases involving serious criminal activity, or if you require further assistance, contact your embassy.
Dealing with Authorities in Siargao
It’s essential to know how to interact with local authorities. Here’s a guide:
Local Tourist Police: Reach out to the local tourist police and provide your case. The tourist police are there to help ensure that international tourists have a good time while touring the area.
Communicating Concerns: If you want to raise a concern, make sure to be clear and be calm. Being aggressive will not help address your concern.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions to further help you navigate Siargao safely:
Is Siargao generally safe for tourists?
Yes, Siargao is generally a very safe place for tourists. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and violent crime is rare. It’s still smart to take precautions against petty theft and scams, as we’ve discussed.
What’s the best way to get around Siargao?
Motorbikes are the most common and convenient way to get around Siargao. Tricycles are also available for shorter distances. You can also hire a car if you prefer, but motorbikes are generally more practical for navigating the island’s roads.
Where can I find reliable motorbike rentals in Siargao?
Ask your hotel or guesthouse for recommendations. Ensure comprehensive photographs are taken from the get-go. Ask for a written, itemized breakdown of costs! It may be a good idea to check online reviews.
Should I buy travel insurance for my trip to Siargao?
Absolutely! Travel insurance is always a good idea, especially when traveling to a foreign country. It can protect you against unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings. Research reputable insurance providers and choose a policy that meets your specific needs.
What should I do if I lose my passport in Siargao?
Report the loss to the local police immediately and obtain a police report. Contact your embassy or consulate for assistance in obtaining a replacement passport.
What is the local currency in Siargao?
The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit cards are accepted in some establishments, but it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller towns or remote areas.
Is it safe to drink the tap water in Siargao?
No, it’s not recommended to drink the tap water in Siargao. Stick to bottled water or water that has been properly filtered or boiled.
References
Tourism Promotions Board Philippines
Philippine National Police
Department of Tourism, Philippines
Booking.com
Airbnb
Ready to experience Siargao without the worry? By staying informed, being cautious, and following these tips, you can have an unforgettable and safe adventure in the surfing capital of the Philippines. Be prepared, be smart, and get ready to create amazing memories!
