Scams In Thailand

Answer :

Sadly the chances of being approached by anyone genuinely looking to help you in Bangkok (or anywhere else for that matter) are slim. Looking lost or unfolding your map in public are merely signs for the sharks to move in. Your average Thai person is generally too shy or embarrassed about his English to volunteer his/her services.

However if you approach your average guy/girl and they speak a little English and are not too shy to use it, then it can be amazing at how out of their way Thais will go to help. I've had complete strangers stick by my side for an hour just to make sure I got to where I was going. But let common sense be your guide and remember to bring it along with your luggage. When was the last time you walked up to a complete stranger in your home country and offered to show them a gem store, take them to a great hotel or whatever! (you being people generally, perhaps you yourself do it as a hobby!)With very rare exceptions your average man on the street just doesn't have the time or inclination.

Related Links (Opens a new window)

• Travelers Digest - Information about crime in Thailand.
• Virtual Tourist Thailand Travel Scams