What is the "Floating Restaurant Seafood Price Inflation" scam in Halong Bay?

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During cruise excursions, guests are brought to floating seafood restaurants moored within the bay, often presented as a local dining experience. Prices are not disclosed until after the meal, or tourists are shown a high-price menu not offered to Vietnamese guests. A simple plate of steamed clams, squid, or shrimp can cost 3 to 5 times the equivalent price in Ha Long City waterfront restaurants. Some operators receive kickbacks from specific floating restaurants for directing tour groups their way. Ask for a menu with prices before ordering and refuse to sit down until written prices are visible. Photograph the menu before eating as evidence in case of a billing dispute. If your cruise includes a meal stop, confirm in advance whether the restaurant cost is included or is an optional extra billed at the end.

Restaurant Scams in Halong Bay

Floating Restaurant Seafood Price Inflation

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