Ruben Chorlton-Owen says lots of people are being caught out and paying a heavy price for it
Ruben Chorlton-Owen gave the advice for anyone heading to Tenerife(Image: Jam Press)
A British traveller is warning anyone heading to Tenerife this half-term to watch out for several “tourist traps” that ensnare visitors every year. Ruben Chorlton-Owen frequently posts his travel advice and tips with his 105,000 followers on Instagram (@rube).
The 24-year-old, from Abersoch, North Wales, has recently been to the popular Canary Island destination. However, while there, he noticed a few things that raised concerns. And now, he is alerting people to several common “tourist traps” that catch holidaymakers out annually, as detailed in a video amassing more than 8,000 views.
If you find yourself requiring a pharmacy, watch out for “fake” establishments selling the same product at inflated prices. He said: “They’re real shops, but they have the same LED signage (as a pharmacy) but in blue colour (rather than green).
“So it’s not entirely illegal and many tourists fall for it. People later find out the product hasn’t worked as it’s not an actual medical product.
“It’s important to find a proper ‘farmacia’ that sells actual drugs to help with any pains or issues. Fake ones also don’t really have a lot in there and also heavily charge way too much for things like sun cream or paracetamol. They’re just tourist shops really.” He also advised Brits to be careful about how they withdraw money once they arrive.
“Make sure you try and get your cash before you come here,” Ruben told creatorzine.com. “Because the local currency exchanges or these ATMs will charge you a high markup and you’ll be getting a very bad deal for your money.”
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While he praises the destination for being “affordable” and “friendly”, there are still risks to be mindful of. He said: “Make sure you use the licensed taxis.
“Not only are they genuine, but they’re also much more affordable than the Uber app. And you’ll also get charged four times the price that it should be.”
Ruben also issued a stark warning for anyone heading back to their accommodation late at night or after a day of drinking in the sun. He recommends giving a wide berth to any shabby-looking areas and narrow alleyways. He said: “It’s full of pickpockets.
“It can be quite dangerous, so just make sure you stay vigilant and you’re not having too much – or use the licensed taxi to get home when it’s late at night.”
And for those fancying a cold beer or cocktail on the beach, Ruben suggests thinking twice, as it could land you with a whopping fine. He said: “If you do like to drink, make sure you don’t do it down the beach. The fines are now a minimum of €750 to €3,000.
“Make sure you just stick to the bars, your hotel room, your Airbnb. Don’t be taking any glass bottles at all down the beach, it really isn’t worth the risk.”