The “Palace is Closed” Scam: A First-Hand Encounter
During my two-month stay in Thailand at the beginning of 2023, I encountered one of Bangkok’s most infamous tourist scams on my very first day. This experience, shared in a video that garnered nearly 15 million views, underscores a critical piece of advice for navigating Bangkok: the palace probably isn’t closed.
Thailand, is known as “The Land of Smiles,” and is a country renowned for its hospitality and friendly populace. Despite this, like many popular tourist destinations, it has its share of scams targeting unwary visitors.
The Grand Palace: A Prime Target for Scammers
On my first day after landing in the city, I decided to explore some of Bangkok’s most illustrious sites, including The Temple of the Emerald Buddha and The Grand Palace. Situated side by side, these landmarks are a must-visit for anyone in the city. Dressed appropriately to meet the temples’ strict dress code, I set out on foot from my hostel, ready to immerse myself in Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.
Pro Tip: Dress Appropriately When Visiting Temples
When visiting temples in Thailand, it’s essential to dress respectfully. Shorts, mini-skirts, tight-fitting pants, and sleeveless shirts are prohibited. Most palaces and temples also require entrance fees, and inappropriate attire can result in being denied entry.
Beware of Overly Friendly TukTuks: The Scam Begins
TukTuks are one of the most popular modes of transportation in Southeast Asia. Yet, these can unfortunately be associated with tourist scams. My scam experience began when a TukTuk driver approached me with an overly friendly conversation. Upon mentioning my destination, The Grand Palace, the driver quickly claimed it was closed for a Buddhist ceremony—a statement that immediately raised my suspicions.
Despite his offer to take me to alternative sites, I recognized the red flags of a common scam. This encounter serves as a crucial warning to all travelers: always verify the information provided by strangers and be cautious of too-good-to-be-true offers.
Conclusion: Stay Informed and Vigilant
Tourist scams like the “palace is closed” ruse are unfortunately common in many parts of the world, but with a bit of caution and knowledge, they can be avoided. Thailand remains a beautiful and welcoming destination, and by staying informed and vigilant, you can fully enjoy all of the wonders it has to offer without falling prey to these types of common scams.
