I'm not sure why it is but I am hearing more reports than I ever have in my 4 years of living here of bill-padding in restaurants and bars. No, it doesn't happen in every place or every time or with every waiter but, in order to stop it happening, we all need to be aware and not allow ourselves to be taken advantage of. Success is what keeps it happening.
It wouldn't be a bad idea to carry a little notepad around and, while you still have the menu in hand, jot down the prices of the things you order. Don't be embarrassed to ask to see the menu again if a bill seems out of line. If an overly high bill isn't itemized, ask for one that is. ("Una lista con precios" should do it if they don't understand - OO-nah LEE-stah cone PRAY-see-ose) Keep your own tab for drinks you're ordering or, better still, pay for each drink as you order it. It's tougher to keep track of, the more you drink, and you become a much easier "mark," so that may be the best solution.
The primary thing is not to be too intimidated to say anything if something doesn't seem right. The cons who will do this are counting on that. Don't back down when they suddenly can't understand English anymore and don't be afraid to ask for the "jefe" (HEY-fey) if you're not getting answers.
HOWEVER... pleasepleaseplease don't just assume this is going to happen to you and rudely demand explanations from every waiter. MOST workers here aren't cheats and cons and thieves. The bad few shouldn't make it ugly for the rest of them. Assume the best, just be prepared for the worst and handle things quietly, peacefully, and respectfully. Sometimes a bad bill really IS just a mistake. Point it out and give them the opportunity to correct it without making accusations. Our reaction to the overcharging shouldn't be as shameful as the cheating is.
Just keep your eyes open and don't be a gullible tourist, if you can help it.
Oh, and while you've got that notebook open, take some good notes and write us a great trip report, okay?
