Destinations › Malaysia › Penang Island › Scams
Penang Island, Malaysia
10 reported scam patterns travellers run into in Penang Island, what they look like, and how to sidestep them.
Taxis refusing the meter and quoting fixed fares well above the metered rate, particularly from the airport and ferry terminal.
Heritage guesthouses cancelling on arrival and redirecting guests to associated properties at higher rates.
Unlicensed guides at heritage sites and clan houses charging fees for access that is free or already ticketed.
Shortchanging at street stalls and unlicensed changers, particularly on large ringgit notes.
Drive-by bag snatching from pedestrians by motorbike pairs on the streets around the heritage district.
Seafood restaurants pricing by weight and presenting bills materially above the rate quoted at the display.
Counterfeit branded goods and imitation electronics in the tourist market streets, sold with claims of authenticity.
Motorbike and scooter hire retaining the passport as deposit, with damage claims raised at return against pre-existing wear.
Trishaw operators agreeing a tour price and then charging per person or per landmark at the end.
Street agents selling ferry and island-tour tickets at markups over the published fare.
