How to Spot Fake Listings
Your Guide to Safe Accommodations in Africa
The West has given Africa the undeserved reputation of being an unsafe land full of scammers at every turn. However, this is far from the truth. Just like in the West, you may occasionally encounter someone who is untrustworthy and deceptive. The same goes for Africa. Most of the bookings I’ve made through Expedia, Booking.com, and Airbnb over the past five years have been amazing and met my expectations. Unfortunately, last year, I had two subpar stays in Kenya. Here are some signs I noticed that indicated the hosts were not truthful. Having learned the hard way, I hope to share my tips for your next travel destination in Africa.
How to Tell if an Establishment is Falsely Advertised
Check Reviews Thoroughly: Look beyond the overall rating and read the detailed reviews. Pay attention to comments about cleanliness, accuracy of the listing, and the host’s responsiveness. Consistent negative feedback often indicates a recurring problem.
Look for Consistent Patterns: If multiple reviews mention similar issues, it might be a red flag. Look for patterns in the complaints, such as cleanliness issues, inaccurate descriptions, or unresponsive hosts.
Verify Photos: Compare the photos on the listing with guest-uploaded photos. Discrepancies can indicate that the listing photos are outdated or overly edited. Guest photos are often more realistic and can give you a better idea of what to expect.
Research the Neighborhood: Use Google Maps or local forums to get a sense of the area. Ensure the location matches the description in the listing. Check for nearby amenities, safety of the neighborhood, and proximity to attractions you plan to visit.
Check Host Profiles: On platforms like Airbnb, look at the host’s profile, including their response rate, previous reviews, and other properties they might manage. A trustworthy host will have positive reviews and a good track record.
Questions to Ask the Host
Clarify Amenities: Ask if all listed amenities are currently available. For example, “Is the pool operational?” or “Is the Wi-Fi reliable?” Clarifying these details can prevent unpleasant surprises upon arrival.
Verify the Exact Location: Request the precise address or pin if it’s not provided in the listing to ensure it matches the described area. This helps you verify the safety and convenience of the location. You’ll need to download WhatsApp most places have addresses however pins are always more accurate!
Inquire About Maintenance: Ask when the property was last renovated or if there have been recent issues with plumbing, electricity, etc. Properties that are well-maintained are likely to provide a better experience.
Safety Measures: Ask about the security of the property. “Are there security guards?” or “Is there a safe for valuables?” Knowing the security measures can give you peace of mind during your stay.
Local Assistance: Find out if there is someone local who can assist if any issues arise during your stay. A local contact can be invaluable for resolving problems quickly.
Proof You Can Get Before Making a Final Decision
Request Recent Photos: Ask the host for recent, unedited photos of the property. This ensures that the property is in the condition advertised and hasn’t deteriorated since the listing photos were taken.
Get a Virtual Tour: If possible, request a virtual tour via video call. This allows you to see the property in real-time and ask questions as you go. Virtual tours can reveal details that photos may not show.
Documentation of Policies: Ensure you have a clear understanding (cannot emphasize this enough) of the cancellation policy, house rules, and check-in/check-out procedures in writing. Having these details in writing protects you in case of any disputes.
Third-Party Verification: Use booking platforms that offer some form of guarantee or verification process. Platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com often provide customer support in case of discrepancies, offering you an extra layer of protection.
Local Contacts: Have a local contact or an emergency number handy. Sometimes, a local friend or a contact can verify the property for you. Having someone on the ground can provide additional security and assurance.
Traveling to Africa can be an incredible experience, and with a bit of due diligence, you can avoid the pitfalls and enjoy your stay without any unpleasant surprises. Thorough preparation and asking the right questions are key to ensuring your accommodation meets your expectations. By following these tips, you can better determine if a stay is falsely advertised and ensure a safe and enjoyable trip in Africa. Safe travels!
P.S. If you can build a friendly relationship with your host, ask them for a discount! Try to talk to them in their language (via Google Translate or a friend); they absolutely love that, and it feels like you’re really trying to be a part of—their family! Mind you, some people are a little rigid, but it doesn’t hurt to try!
P.P.S . If you need help or a friend to vouch for you send me an email! :)
