Question 1

What is the "Adelaide Fringe and Festival Accommodation Gouging" scam in Adelaide?

Accepted Answer

Adelaide hosts the world's second-largest arts festival (Adelaide Festival) and the Adelaide Fringe annually in February–March. During this period, accommodation prices increase sharply and some short-term rental hosts list properties at rates five to ten times the standard nightly price. A subset of listings are fraudulent, created specifically for the Fringe period with no genuine property behind them. Book Adelaide accommodation for Fringe and Festival season at least six months in advance. Use only established platforms with buyer protection (Booking.com, Airbnb, Hotels.com). Confirm directly with the property once booked. Be highly suspicious of any listing that appears after November for the following February–March period.

Question 2

What is the "Online Accommodation Scams on Unofficial Sites" scam in Adelaide?

Accepted Answer

Fake accommodation listings for Adelaide appear on unofficial booking websites and social media platforms, particularly during the Fringe, Festival, and Clipsal (motorsport) event periods. Fraudulent listings collect payment without a genuine booking being created. Some are sophisticated enough to use real property photos and fabricated host profiles. Book only through established OTAs or directly through the property's official website. Confirm your booking by phone or email with the property. Never pay by bank transfer — use a credit card or platform payment system with buyer protection. Be especially cautious with listings that appear only during major event periods.

Accommodation Scams in Adelaide

Adelaide Fringe and Festival Accommodation Gouging

Online Accommodation Scams on Unofficial Sites

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