PATTAYA MISTAKES & SCAMS TO AVOID!! (2023)

Summary

This video offers tips on avoiding common scams in Pattaya, Thailand. It covers bike rental scams, ATM fees, taxi negotiations, jet ski rental traps, and hidden accommodation costs. The host emphasizes the importance of taking photos as evidence and checking contracts for hidden fees to stay safe and informed.

Takeaways

• 🛵 Beware of the motorbike rental scam where a hole may be intentionally covered and then revealed upon return to charge you extra.
• 📸 Protect yourself by taking photos and videos of the bike from all angles as evidence against potential scams.
• 🏧 Watch out for ATM fees; using overseas cards can incur charges of 220 Baht per transaction plus any bank fees.
• 💸 Save money by using TT exchanges less frequently and adapting to Thailand's cashless society.
• 🚕 Always negotiate the taxi fare before starting the trip to avoid unexpected charges and consider using fixed-rate apps like Bolt or Grab.
• 🛥 Be cautious of the jet ski scam, where damage claims can be inflated; take photos and ensure the jet ski has sufficient fuel.
• 🏨 Be aware of the 'great room scam' where additional bills like utilities may not be included in the advertised price.
• 🔍 Read contracts and terms carefully, especially the fine print, to avoid unexpected costs.
• 🚶‍♂️ Thailand is generally safe but stay vigilant against common scams to ensure a pleasant experience.
• 📈 Thailand ranks 95 on the list of most dangerous countries, indicating it's not as bad as perceived, but caution is still advised.
• 📹 The video aims to inform and educate viewers on how to avoid common scams in Thailand, making them wiser travelers.

Q & A

What is the first scam mentioned in the video about Thailand?

The first scam mentioned is related to renting motorbikes. You pay a deposit and when you return the bike, the rental shop might cover up a hole or damage with epoxy, claiming you caused it.

How can you protect yourself from the motorbike rental scam in Thailand?

You can protect yourself by taking photos and videos of the bike from all angles before renting it, so you have evidence in case of any disputes.

What is the ATM mistake that many tourists fall for in Thailand?

The mistake is using ATMs frequently, which incurs a fee of 220 Baht per transaction for overseas debit cards, plus any international fees from your bank.

What is a recommended alternative to using ATMs frequently in Thailand?

Using TT exchanges once a week is recommended, as Thailand is a cashless society and it's not necessary to carry a lot of cash at once.

What should you do before getting into a taxi in Thailand?

Always negotiate the price before getting into the taxi, and use tools like Google Maps to discuss the distance and estimated fare.

Why is it recommended to download Bolt or Grab in Thailand instead of hailing taxis on the street?

Bolt and Grab offer fixed rates and allow payment in cash, which can help avoid being overcharged by taxis that claim to use a meter but charge arbitrary rates.

What is the jet ski scam similar to the motorbike scam?

The jet ski scam involves rental shops claiming you damaged the jet ski, possibly by going over shallow rocks, and charging you for the damage.

How can you protect yourself from the jet ski scam in Thailand?

Take photos and videos of the jet ski before using it, and ensure it has enough fuel to avoid being stranded and charged extra for rescue and fuel.

What is the great room scam mentioned in the video?

The great room scam involves booking accommodations that seem too good to be true, with hidden charges for utilities like water, electricity, and Wi-Fi that are only revealed after you leave.

What should you check when booking accommodations in Thailand to avoid hidden charges?

Check the small print in the contract to see if utilities are included in the price, as some places may charge these after you leave.

How does Thailand rank in terms of safety among the most dangerous countries?

Thailand is ranked 95 on the list of most dangerous countries, indicating that while it is generally safe, there are still scammers to be aware of.