Question 1

What is the "Karaoke Bar Drink and Service Overcharging" scam in Sihanoukville?

Accepted Answer

Karaoke establishments operating in the area between Ekareach Street and the Victory Hill strip charge tourists prices that are multiples of what is displayed on entry. Hostess fees, "private room charges," and drinks ordered by staff on your tab without consent are added to the bill. Some venues employ door staff who physically block exit until inflated payments are made. These operations often have limited legal accountability. Avoid entering karaoke venues unless you have a verified recommendation from another traveler. If you do enter, confirm all prices in writing before sitting down, keep your own drink count, and do not allow staff to order on your behalf. Photograph any menu shown to you.

Question 2

What is the "Overpriced Restaurant Tourist Menu" scam in Sihanoukville?

Accepted Answer

Restaurants near Serendipity Beach maintain a dual-pricing system, with English-language menus showing higher prices than the Khmer menu available on request. Tourist-targeted establishments also add service charges of 10-15 percent and sometimes a table charge that is not disclosed when you sit down. Ask whether there is a Khmer-language menu when you sit down, or check prices on Google Maps reviews before entering. Confirm whether the prices on the menu are before or after service charge. Avoid restaurants with no prices displayed outside that rely on verbal menus recited by staff.

Restaurant Scams in Sihanoukville

Karaoke Bar Drink and Service Overcharging

Overpriced Restaurant Tourist Menu

Experienced a scam here?