How to deal with touts at Colombo Fort station and airports?
I've heard there are aggressive touts at the train station and airport. What's the best way to handle them without being rude?
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3 Answers from travellers
Be polite but firm. A simple 'No thank you, I have a booking' or 'I'm meeting someone' repeated calmly usually works. Never let them take your luggage. Use official taxi counters or PickMe at the airport. At Fort station, go straight to the ticket counters or platform - don't engage with people offering 'help'. Most are harmless but persistent.
I found saying 'I'm with a tour' or just walking confidently while ignoring worked well. They target people who look lost or unsure.
Scam Watch: colombo
Driver claims the meter is broken and quotes an inflated flat rate. Common on arrival at airport or railway stations when tourists are tired and disoriented.
Drivers wearing official-looking uniforms claim to be "government-approved" and charge 3-5x normal rates. They may have fake badges or ID cards.
Women with babies approach asking you to buy milk powder at a nearby shop (not cash). The shop is run by accomplices and charges 5-10x normal price.
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