What is the "Accommodation Deposit Not Returned" scam in Gili Islands?

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Some budget guesthouses on Gili Trawangan take a cash deposit at check-in and refuse to return it at checkout, claiming unspecified damage to the room or a misunderstanding about checkout time. Because the Gilis have no formal consumer-protection mechanism, disputes are difficult to escalate. Ask for a written receipt for any deposit paid and photograph the room on arrival. Book through Booking.com or Airbnb where the platform provides some recourse. Confirm checkout time and deposit terms in writing before handing over cash.

Accommodation Scams in Gili Islands

Accommodation Deposit Not Returned

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