By Ellen Baldauf Lyons
How many more unsuspecting tourists will fall victim to the notorious Mustard Scam? There’s no definitive answer, but hopefully, this article will enlighten more readers of The Gringo Gazette, encouraging them to share this warning to prevent others from becoming unsuspecting prey. For more background, I encourage everyone to do their own research by Googling “The Mustard Scam.”
The Mustard Scam, or in our case, the “Salsa Valentina Scam,” involves a scammer discreetly splashing a substance like mustard or salsa on a tourist’s clothing. Then, accomplices approach, feigning concern and offering to help clean the mess. While the tourist is distracted, the thieves swiftly steal valuables such as wallets, purses, or electronics.
Recently, my husband and I fell victim to this scam in a crowded artisans’ market in Oaxaca City. A long-time visitor to Oaxaca since the 1970s, I’ve experienced much here, but this incident was particularly jarring. As we were walking, salsa was surreptitiously sprayed on my husband’s pants, marking us for the scam. Though this hasn’t deterred my love for travel, it has changed how I carry my valuables—now, it’s one bank card, one credit card, some form of ID, and minimal cash only.
The scam unfolded quickly: the mess pointed out by a trio of thieves under the guise of helping. Before we knew it, they had made off with 5,000 MXN and my wallet. Had we been aware of this scam, we wouldn’t have allowed their “help,” preventing the ensuing confusion and theft. I also suspect collusion with local vendors, as one feigned ignorance when I sought help. A taxi driver later informed me that even the tourist police might be compromised, often accepting bribes to ignore such incidents.
What surprised me was the specificity of the scam—the use of Salsa La Valentina, which sadly ruined my favorite shirt. Despite the ordeal, the experience hasn’t soured my passion for travel. I’ve learned to be more vigilant, especially in known hotspots for tourist scams.
This recent trip to Oaxaca wasn’t all bad; I celebrated another birthday with my honorary Oaxacan family and reconnected with old friends, making new memories. Most importantly, I refuse to let this incident overshadow the joy of travel.
And a final whimsical curse to the thieves: may the fleas of 5,000 camels infest their nether parts. As for me, I’ll continue to enjoy my travels—and yes, I still love La Valentina hot sauce.
