Question 1

What is the "Gem Investment Scam" scam in Chiang Rai?

Accepted Answer

A friendly local or guide tells tourists they can buy wholesale gemstones in Chiang Rai and resell them at a huge profit at home. The gems are glass or synthetic and essentially worthless. No legitimate gem investment opportunity is offered to random tourists. Avoid any conversation that moves toward buying gems to resell. Walk away immediately.

Question 2

What is the "Golden Triangle Boat Tour Hidden Fees" scam in Chiang Rai?

Accepted Answer

At the Sop Ruak pier in the Golden Triangle area, approximately 60 km north of Chiang Rai city, longtail boat operators quote a headline price of 150–300 THB for a short trip around the Thailand-Laos-Myanmar river confluence, then add mandatory charges for a Laos island landing fee, a Myanmar shore photo fee, and a fuel surcharge that together double or triple the original price. Tourists only discover the additional charges mid-river when they are handed a laminated fee schedule. Refusal to pay typically results in the boat not completing the itinerary or the operator demanding payment to return to the Thai shore. Agree on the complete all-inclusive price before boarding and get it confirmed in writing or by photograph. Ask specifically whether the Laos island landing fee and any shore fees are included. Official longtail boats operating from the pier managed by the Golden Triangle Tourism Authority post a rate card — use these operators and cross-check the rate card price before departing.

Street Scams in Chiang Rai

Gem Investment Scam

Golden Triangle Boat Tour Hidden Fees

Experienced a scam here?