Every major city or popular travel destination has its own version of a tourist trap. In Times Square, for example, you’ll find a bunch of people dressed in costumes, beckoning people to come and take a picture with them.
They will quickly surround you like a swarm of flies. At first, you might think they are being friendly, inviting you to take a quick picture just for fun. In reality, however, they’re after tip.
That’s why you’ll see characters like Elmo and Dora on the street; they’re very popular with kids. Parents know better than to get sucked into tourist traps, but kids will run straight into the arms of their favorite characters.
Although technically, you can say “no” to tipping, you’ll feel like a jerk for not handing money over. That’s why I always try to avoid the congested areas of Times Square.
