Thailand is a beautiful country that attracts millions of tourists every year. However, like any other tourist destination, it has its fair share of scams. One of the most common scams in Thailand is the attraction closed scam, where a tuk-tuk driver or a street vendor tells you that a popular tourist attraction is closed and offers to take you to another attraction or shop instead. In this article, we will discuss the attraction closure scam in Thailand and how to avoid falling victim.
What is the Attraction Closed Scam?
The attraction closed scam is a common scam in Thailand where a tuk-tuk driver or a street vendor tells you that a popular tourist attraction, such as a temple or a palace, is closed for various reasons, such as renovation or a special event. They will then offer to take you to another attraction or shop instead, where they will earn a commission for bringing you there. The alternative attraction or shop is usually less popular or less interesting than the original attraction, and you may end up wasting your time and money.
How to Avoid the Attraction Closed Scam
The attraction closed scam is a common scam in Thailand, but it is also easy to avoid. Here are some tips to help you avoid falling victim to the attraction closure scam:
- Do your research: Before you go to any tourist attraction, do some research online or in guidebooks to find out the opening hours and any special events that may be taking place. This will help you avoid being caught off guard if a scammer tells you that the attraction is closed.
- Ignore unsolicited advice. If a tuk-tuk driver or a street vendor offers unsolicited advice or information about a tourist attraction, be cautious. They may be trying to scam you by offering to take you to another attraction or shop instead.
- Verify the information. If someone tells you that a tourist attraction is closed, verify the information by asking other people, such as other tourists or locals. You can also call the attraction directly to confirm whether it is closed or not.
- Use official sources: If you need information about tourist attractions or transportation, use official sources, such as tourist information centers or transportation companies. They are more likely to provide accurate and reliable information.
- Stick to your plan. If you have already planned to visit a particular attraction, stick to your plan and don’t be swayed by unsolicited advice or offers. Scammers often target tourists who seem lost or unsure, so be confident and stick to your itinerary.
Conclusion
The attraction closed scam is a common scam in Thailand, but it is also easy to avoid. By doing your research, ignoring unsolicited advice, verifying information, using official sources, and sticking to your plan, you can avoid falling victim to this scam. Remember to always be cautious and aware of your surroundings when traveling in Thailand, and enjoy all the amazing sights and experiences that this beautiful country has to offer.
