5 Best Known Scams in Phuket

Phuket's long-running jet-ski scam has received worldwide media attention, but you still can see travelers enjoying this watersport on any given day. The scam works with operators hiring out previously damaged jet skis to unsuspecting travelers. When it's returned, they'll feign astonishment and anger at perceived damage to the vehicle, demanding huge amounts of compensatory money. Calling the authorities can often prove to be futile, to least because it boils down to a 'he said, she said' argument. The best solution is simply not hiring a jet-ski in the first place, though taking photos of the vehicle before boarding can also help.

Timeshare scams in Phuket are quite common in Patong, Kata and Karon, The approach might come from a random European guy approaching you on a motorbike or Thai women asking you to fill in a quick survey to win a prize or reward.

The kicker is that, in order to claim your prize, you'll need to sit through a 90-minute presentation for a timeshare or a vacation club. In return, you get a worthless contract or coupons you can never spend. You're better off saving your time by declining when the scammers start introducing themselves.

After landing at Phuket Airport, it's natural to want to get to your hotel by the cheapest means possible. Most people opt for minivans since they usually cost a fraction of the price of a taxi.

Halfway to your requested destination, some minivans (and taxis) stop at a ‘travel agent’ who informs that your hotel is fully booked or simply closed. They'll then suggest an [overpriced] alternate. It's best to have a hotel booking before you arrive to avoid this (or at least claim to have one). While the travel agent might try to push tours on you instead, these can be easily declined.

• Always clearly agree on the fare with your tuk tuk or taxi driver before getting in.
• Try not to let your drinks bill add up too much as it’s not unusual for ‘extras’ to be thrown in. Pay drink by drink, or your 5-beer bill may mysteriously become a 10-beer one.
• Padlock your rented motorcycle. Some unscrupulous motorcycle shops steal their own bike and charge you for a replacement.
• Never leave your passport as a deposit when hiring transportation. It's best to leave a photocopy as Thai law implicitly states that you must carry your passport at all times.
• If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
• Thai people aren't usually very forward, so be vigilant if an aggressive and loud-spoken local approaches you.
• The Tourist Police's phone number is 1155.