A Small Price for Stupidity

Haha Rosie and I have finally realised that we were actually and officially scammed after our Eiffel Tower expedition.  

Beware the Paris Ring Scam. Yes, it sounds ridiculous, and the most unbelievable 'scam' you could ever be fooled by, but people can hand over 20€ for this! Fortunately for us we only gave the scam-lady 1.50€ after Rosie said 'if we give her money will she go away?'. 

So here's what happens. And after reading about it online, it is IDENTICAL in all parts of Paris. So identical, it's pretty scary how we were completely fooled by it.

"Excusez-moi, vous avez laissé votre bague ici." She showed us a large gold wedding ring.
"What? No, it is not ours."
"Mais oui, c'est à vous."
"Mais non. I have no ring."
"Mais oui, it is your ring. Well, if it is not then have it. It will bring you good luck."
She handed us the ring. Apparently gold with karat marks. "Um, no. It is not mine."
"I cannot wear it. I can't wear jewellery," she said. "You take it for happiness and luck." She turned and walked away.
"Well, OK. Merci." We turned and walked away.
She turns again. "Ah, s'il vous plait. I am hungry. Just a little money for a coke?"
We finally give her a small bit of change.
"No, that is not enough. Just a little more. I gave you the ring."
"Well, OK, here is one euro but nothing more." And  we walk away.

Rosie considered the idea we'd been scammed... I thought she was just being generous until I finally decided to google it and there's heaps of info and posts about it! Whilst it's a good story to pass on and laugh about, I'm pretty glad we only paid 1.50€ for the brass ring and also knowledge and insight for next time! And of course we've kept it - we want the crappy memento! 

Tomorrow we plan to willfully be scammed by the String-men Scammers of the Sacre-Coeur. All part of the experience!