Market Vendor Overcharging
Shortchanging at Central Markets
Vendors at markets like Honiara Central Market or Auki Market in the Solomon Islands often shortchange tourists by giving back less SBD than owed after a purchase, such as claiming a 50 SBD item only requires 40 SBD in change from a 100 SBD note, exploiting the confusion with local currency and crowded environments.
- Count your change immediately after every transaction to verify against the quoted price in SBD.
- Use smaller denominations like 10 or 20 SBD notes to minimize errors.
- Shop at stalls recommended by your guesthouse, which often have fixed prices and less haggling
Counterfeit Souvenir Sales
Sellers in general markets across the islands, particularly those near tourist ferries, peddle fake WWII relics or traditional artifacts like carved wooden masks as authentic, charging inflated prices such as 200 SBD for items worth 50 SBD, taking advantage of visitors' interest in the Solomon Islands' wartime history.
- Ask for authenticity certificates from certified sellers, often available through the Solomon Islands National Museum.
- Research items beforehand using local guides from the Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau to recognize genuine craftsmanship.
- Purchase from government-regulated shops in Honiara to avoid fakes and get receipts for refunds
Fake Tour Operator Schemes
Unregistered Dive Trip Overcharges
Operators offering diving or snorkeling trips to sites like Marovo Lagoon pretend to be licensed but charge extra fees midway, such as demanding an additional 300 SBD for 'equipment fees' after the initial 500 SBD payment, preying on tourists' excitement for the islands' renowned coral reefs.
- Verify operators through the Solomon Islands Dive Association before booking to ensure they have proper licensing.
- Pay only for services outlined in a written contract, including all fees in SBD upfront.
- Book through hotels in Honiara or Gizo, which partner with reputable operators and offer refunds for discrepancies