Ep 2. Delhi
- TV-14
- April 22, 2013
- 48 min
In Scam City season 1 episode 2, viewers are taken to the bustling city of Delhi where host Conor Woodman delves into the world of scams and cons that tourists often fall victim to.
Woodman begins his exploration by attending a traditional Indian wedding where he witnesses first-hand the generosity and hospitality that is often associated with the Indian culture. However, this is quickly juxtaposed with the scamming culture that seems to have infiltrated the city, particularly in relation to the Delhi Railway Station.
Woodman meets with a local expert who reveals the tricks of the trade for touts who prey on unsuspecting tourists at the station. These touts offer to help travelers navigate the often-confusing station, but instead end up overcharging and scamming them for their services.
Woodman also experiences the infamous "jewelry scam" that is widespread in Delhi. He meets with a jewel seller who demonstrates how he dupes tourists into purchasing fake or low-quality gems at inflated prices. The seller provides Woodman with tips on how to spot the differences between real and fake jewelry, making it clear that tourists need to be cautious when shopping in Delhi.
Next, Woodman turns his attention to the street food scene in Delhi, a popular attraction for tourists seeking authentic Indian cuisine. However, he discovers that many street food vendors are taking advantage of foreigners, especially those who don't speak the local language. These vendors manipulate tourists by offering them low-quality food at astronomical prices, often demanding payment upfront before the food is even served.
Finally, Woodman meets with a local NGO that aims to protect tourists from getting scammed in Delhi. The NGO offers advice to visitors on how to avoid common scams and raises awareness about the dangers of trusting strangers who offer their help. They also provide a hotline that tourists can call in case they fall victim to a scam or need assistance in navigating the city.
Throughout the episode, Woodman exposes the deceitful tactics used by scam artists in Delhi while also highlighting the city's vibrant culture and friendly locals. He emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and cautious when traveling to new places, and encourages viewers to do their research and seek out reliable resources before embarking on any adventures.