When I first landed in Hanoi, Vietnam, we did what most tourists do: grab a taxi to a hotel. A man at the airport offered to help us find a driver, who immediately made a phone call. At the time, none of this seemed suspicious. However, little did we know we had just walked into a scam. As we entered downtown Hanoi, our taxi suddenly pulled over and rolled down the window as a friendly man approached us. He began to explain that our original hotel was full and that he would be taking us to a sister location. Before we could respond, he immediately opened the door and shoved himself into the already-full backseat.
As we were dropped off at our “hotel,” and my family reluctantly walked inside, I saw the man hand the taxi driver a wad of cash. Before I could report my findings, the woman at the front desk was explaining how we were now required to purchase a tour package and needed to pay (although we already pre-paid). We handed over our passports and insisted we receive a wifi code. We then connected to the internet and confirmed there was no sister hotel, and we were not near the correct location.
We went to the front desk, promptly asked for our passports back, and walked out. Although the rest of our trip went smoothly, had it not been for our gut instincts, they may have pulled off the scam. Here are common travel scams across South East Asia and how to avoid them.
1. Tuk-Tuk or Bus Scams
Tuk-Tuks (otherwise known as auto-rickshaws in India and Bajajs in Indonesia) are an enjoyable and affordable form of transportation. However, if these drivers advertise wholesale luxury gems, be aware that these are likely not real. Many drivers who offer to take tourists to these stores are paid by the dealers of these glass or synthetic gems.
Furthermore, some of these drivers may also be hired to take tourists to restaurants or malls instead of the desired location. To avoid this, be sure to give exact instructions and choose verified bus and tuk-tuk tours.
2. Individuals soliciting financial assistance
Although it is human nature to want to help those in need, it is important to be sceptical. Throughout Southeast Asia, it is not uncommon for scammers to befriend tourists and request money for emergency funds. They may also contact their “new friends” disguised as friends or family members to ask for large sums of money.
Similarly, be aware of women or children carrying sleepy children demanding money for milk powder to feed the baby. Commonly carried out by shop owners in Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos, the money will not go to the mother but into the pockets of the shop owner. Backpacker Southeast Asia recommends checking out Think Child Safe before travelling to understand better what to do in these situations.
3. Wrong Change Scam
When paying for food or other items it is important to double check the price and the amount of change back. Sometimes restaurants will keep more money than required or will “forget” to return the change owed.
4. Taxi Scams
Before getting in a taxi anywhere in Southeast Asia it is essential first to ask if their meter is on and be familiar with the standard cost. If they are not using a meter, it is very possible they will rig the cost for far more than the trip is worth. Ride-sharing apps are an excellent alternative with their fixed and affordable price. It is also wise to download maps offline while in a taxi to ensure that drivers are not steering off course in an attempt to charge a higher fare.
Thailand is often known for its not-so-hidden sex industry. For those unfamiliar with Bangkok, it is not uncommon for taxis to tell tourists that the bar or club they are requesting is closed. They will then tend to recommend a club or bar that is really a brothel located on the city’s outskirts.
5. Restaurant scams
Although rare, sometimes strangers will offer to take tourists to a small and empty restaurant. This should immediately be a red flag as there are cases of tourists being drugged and robbed. Food can also be tampered with to make tourists sick to take them to clinics and demand payment. To avoid this, only eat at Trip Advisor or hotel recommended restaurants.
6. Motorbike Maintenance
One of the most fun ways to experience Southeast Asia is by motorbike. However, if friendly men approach and offer a motorbike ride to see the countryside, it is best to decline. These men often provide damaged motorbikes in hopes that tourists will not notice. After the ride, they will charge for minor damages. To avoid this, only rent from companies recommended by hostels or hotels. As a plus, it is wise to take detailed photos of the bike beforehand to avoid excessive charges.
In other cases, rental companies may follow tourists discreetly after their rental. They will wait for their customers to make a stop and leave the bike unsupervised so they can use a duplicate pair of keys to drive off with the bike and charge their customers for a replacement.
7. Currency scams
Currency exchange centers are often known for ripping off tourists and giving incorrect amounts of change in return. When converting currency, it is best to use a reputable source and triple check the amount of money given in return. It is also best to beware of sketchy looking ATMs. There may be camera’s around ready to catch a glimpse of the PIN number to drain travelers of all their funds.
8. Gas Station scams
Throughout Southeast Asia, attendants may claim to fill up the tank. In reality, they may only fill it up partially but charge the full amount. Be sure to check if the attendant is resetting the meter from the previous customer.
Conclusion
Southeast Asia is a wonderful region with beautiful landscapes, kind people and delicious cuisines. As long as tourists come prepared, these attempted scams will not ruin a trip. A little bit of caution goes a long way and will help each journey go smoothly while enjoying all the wonders of the area.
