Question 1

What is the "Bar Drink Spiking and Theft" scam in Pattaya?

Accepted Answer

In Pattaya's Walking Street and Buakhao area bars, tourists' drinks are spiked with sedatives or excessive alcohol. Victims wake up having been robbed of cash, cards, and phones, or with large unauthorized charges on their credit cards. Never leave your drink unattended. Pour drinks yourself from sealed bottles where possible. Drink in groups rather than alone. Be wary of anyone overly insistent on buying you drinks. Know the emergency number: 1155 (Tourist Police).

Question 2

What is the "Motorbike Rental Damage Claim" scam in Pattaya?

Accepted Answer

Pattaya rental shops photograph bikes after return and claim new damage caused by the renter. The passport-as-deposit model is widespread, and some shops deliberately send renters out on bikes with existing damage to manufacture a later claim. Document every scratch with a timestamped video before leaving the rental shop. Refuse to leave your actual passport — offer a cash deposit instead. Use reputable shops recommended by your hotel and carry travel insurance covering vehicle rental.

Other Tourist Scams in Pattaya

Bar Drink Spiking and Theft

Motorbike Rental Damage Claim

Experienced a scam here?