Beware of Accommodation Scams in Camps Bay, Cape Town
Camps Bay, Cape Town, is a great holiday destination, renowned for its picturesque beaches, luxurious accommodation, and amazing food, wine and restaurants. However, as with many popular travel destinations, it has become a target for scammers seeking to exploit unsuspecting tourists. Over the past few years, there has been a noticeable rise in accommodation scams, leaving many travelers out of pocket and without a place to stay.
Common Scams in Camps Bay
One prevalent scam involves fake listings on popular platforms such as Airbnb. We have had guests who were unfortunately scammed when booking through Airbnb. In this scenario, the scammer poses as a legitimate host and requests a breakage deposit prior to arrival. Once the payment is made, the scammer disappears, leaving the guest without accommodation and out of pocket.
Additionally, scammers often use social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to advertise properties that do not exist. They lure potential guests with attractive photos and unbeatable prices, convincing them to book quickly before someone else does.
How to Protect Yourself
1. Research the Company
Before making any booking, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the company or individual offering the accommodation. Google the company to check its legitimacy. Look for an established website that has been operational for several years.
2. Check Social Media Presence
A genuine company will have a robust online presence, including social media pages like TikTok, Instagram or Facebook, created years ago. Verify the activity on these pages to ensure they are actively engaging with followers and posting regularly. Usually scammers turn off the comments, so that potential victims can not be warned. Report to TikTok, Instagram or Facebook. If they advertise that you can host a party there, then it is usually a scam. No reputable villa or apartment management company or owner will allow parties at their property.
3. Verify the Contact Person
Speaking to the person over the phone might give you some assurance, but it’s not enough. Scammers can be very convincing and make promises they have no intention of keeping. To be extra cautious, ask the person promoting the property for a rates and taxes account of the property and a copy of their ID. Legitimate hosts will have no issue providing this information.
4. Trust Your Instincts
Always remember the adage, if it sounds to good to be true, it is too good to be true.
Example of some scammers:
Olivia Travels on Tiktok @_oliviatravels – you will see the comments are turned off and they offer ridiculously cheap deals in Cape Town.
Elegant Escapes Boutique 1 on Tiktok @elegantescapesboutique1
Africa Luxury Stays on Tiktok @africa.luxury.sta
@Issa.guesthouses on Instagram
Conikos_Travels on Tiktok @conikos_travels
Inner Peace Travels on Tiktok @innerpeace_bookings1
iMansi_Travels on Tiktok @imzansi_travels
Iconic Travels on Tiktok @iconictravels1
Rudolph 06********7652
It’s save to book one of the villas advertised on our Tiktok. This is Argyle Villa, a large, luxury villa near the beach with a private pool.