How To Avoid Tourist Scams In Thailand

Thailand is considered a dream destination by many travellers owing to its rich heritage, stunning landscapes and hospitable culture. However, amidst the temptation, it is vital to be well acquainted with the tourist scams that can potentially ruin your experience. Our tips in this guide will help you avoid them in while you visit Thailand. So, let's go on a journey of awareness to ensure your Thai adventure remains a cherished memory devoid of unpleasant surprises. 

Gemstone Scam 

The gemstone scam is one of the most popular scams in Thailand, where local people dressed as licensed gemstone vendors sell fake products to tourists. This scam is common in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, where many visitors buy gems as keepsakes. Scammers frequently set up shops in these areas, using high-pressure sales tactics to convince tourists to purchase low-quality or fabricated gems at inflated prices. 

Tuk-Tuk Scam

Tuk-tuk drivers in Thailand usually hang around hotels and tourist hubs, frequently with well-spoken chaperones trying to persuade you over to the drivers. Once underway, these skilled negotiators will prey on your generosity and happy holiday spirit by asking whether you would mind stopping by a shop or attraction (so they can collect a kickback). The stores may sell anything from clothing and jewellery to food and entertainment, but there's a big chance it's low-quality fakes or simply pure garbage. 

Taxi Metre Scam 

This scam can start as soon as you land. Some taxi drivers impose extra charges if you are not vigilant and aware. These drivers generally refuse to use the metre, demand extra money, and take longer routes in order to increase the fare price. To avoid this scam, it is usually better to go with online apps such as Uber or any other local taxi app and familiarise yourself with the route. 

Attraction Closed Scam 

This scam often starts with an overly polite individual asking where you're from, how long you're going to be in town, what you're here to see and so on. They'll eventually provide you with false news that the attraction you're to visit is closed! Then they start telling you about some brother of theirs who can take you to much better attractions; you may want to smile and move along. 

Khlong Scam 

Khlong scams in Thailand happen when boat drivers charge passengers an inflated price. Drivers might also fraudulently claim that tourist destinations you're here to visit, such as the Grand Palace, are closed and make many stops, sometimes at stores or vendors where they receive commissions for getting new customers. 

Getting There 

The most convenient way to reach Thailand is via air. Most Indian cities such as Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Kolkata have direct flights to Thailand's capital city Bangkok. While travelling by air is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Thailand, but if you love adventure, you can take the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway by road.

Sustainable Travel

Travel and tourism comprise around 8 per cent of global carbon emissions. So instead of renting a car, consider taking a bus, travelling by train or cycling around town after you arrive. If you must rent a vehicle, choose an electric, hybrid or compact model. Also, avoid using single-use plastics, especially water bottles, which comprise a considerable chunk of single-use plastics. Try and carry your own water bottle wherever you go in Thailand; you can refill it anywhere from nearby water stations. Remember to save water and conserve energy as much as possible while travelling.