Question 1

What is the "Fake Guesthouse Booking and Deposit Theft" scam in Colombo?

Accepted Answer

Fraudulent guesthouse listings advertised on social media or via touts at Bandaranaike International Airport promise premium rooms at bargain rates. Victims pay a deposit upfront via bank transfer or cash, then arrive to find the address does not exist, the property is closed, or the room bears no resemblance to photos. The scam is particularly active during peak December and April tourist seasons when genuine accommodation is tight. Book only through established platforms such as Booking.com or directly with verified hotels. Never pay deposits to individuals via WhatsApp or cash on arrival at the airport. Verify the property address on Google Maps before paying anything.

Question 2

What is the "Inflated Guesthouse Extras Bill at Checkout" scam in Colombo?

Accepted Answer

Small guesthouses in the Pettah and Fort areas of Colombo add charges at checkout that were never mentioned at check-in: mandatory breakfast fees, WiFi charges, towel rental, and air-conditioning surcharges that can double the advertised room rate. Staff present handwritten bills and become aggressive if guests question them, relying on the traveler's reluctance to involve police in a foreign country. Before accepting any room, ask for a written price breakdown including all possible extras. Take a photo of any posted rate card. If charges appear at checkout that were not disclosed, calmly request an itemized receipt and reference the original agreed price.

Accommodation Scams in Colombo

Fake Guesthouse Booking and Deposit Theft

Inflated Guesthouse Extras Bill at Checkout

Experienced a scam here?