Just returned from Rome and Paris last week. I knew to watch for the bracelet scam near Montmartre, but was somewhat surprised to see them just past the Eiffel Tower while walking towards our hotel in the Rue Cler neighborhood. I saw a handful of men w/ bracelets in their hands and one started to make a beeline towards us, but I diverted and they didn't make chase.
So heads up for anyone traveling to Paris in the near future.
Sarah,
I've found that the scammers can be just about anywhere in Paris where tourists roam. They're not just limited to Montmarte and I've also seen them near the Eiffel Tower. When I was there last July, for some reason they never bothered me (perhaps they knew what kind of response they'd get).
I'd like to see a turf war as they fight over their patch of pavement and the nearest tourist. As they start jostling and throwing elbows, the rings, bracelets, and petitions would fly up in the air.
What exactly is the bracelet scam anyway? I know about the ring scam, which is totally dependent on the dishonesty and deep stupidity of the tourist, but I am not familiar with the bracelet number. I will be in Paris again in April so it would be nice to know the latest scheme.
Weaving or tying macrame type bracelets on your arm, and then demanding payment. This one depends on the mark being either charmed by the handsome men flirting with them, or being too polite to get away. I still have three bracelets tied on my arm!
Oh, well, then, I am safe. I'm too old for any young guy to think of flirting with me! Phew! That's a relief.
Do they have any HOT women doing these scams?
i could let my guard down for that and maybe do some "scamming" of my own.
Thanks, this is good to know. I had this happen to me in Jamaica 15 years ago. I also was suckered into the petition scam in September. I bet those girls made a pretty good living.
If you chose to "pay" for a bracelet because you like them, how much are they insisting to be paid?
Don't do it Susan!! You will find much better things to spend money on!
And I wonder - wouldn't the grabbing of the person and attaching something to them constitute "assault"?
