Like most major cities, Bangkok has it’s dangers. That doesn’t mean you should avoid travel to Bangkok. Violent crime on tourists is very low, but scams, cons, and ripoffs are prevalent. All travelers should be alert and on the lookout when traveling no matter the place, but Bangkok has its unique dangers. Knowing the dangers and the places where it most likely will happen will keep you and your money safe.
Here is a list of some of the dangers of traveling in Thailand.

The Top Ten Dangers of Bangkok

1. The 10 baht Tuk-Tuk ride
2. The Jewelry Shop Con
3. Taxi Ride Robbery
4. The Pickpockets of Pratunam Market
5. “That’s closed today”
6. The Flat Fare Taxi Ride
7. In Hotel Room Massages
8. Motorcycle Purse Snatching
9. Gem Sales/Tailoring Shops
10. Bogus Plane/Train/Bus Tickets/Visa Arrangement

WIB explains it all
#1. This one is very cunning. The tuk-tuk driver offers you a ride for 10 baht in exchange for a stop or two on the way to your intended destination. Rarely do you make it but the driver collects petrol coupons and big commissions at jewelry/tailoring shops. Sometimes it’s an all day ride, making loads of money for the driver. It’s more of an annoyance and time waster than anything.

#2. You think you are getting a deal but the gold and the gems are usually low quality. Whoever brings you returns when you are not around to collect a fat commission that was tacked on to the price.

#3. Simple, the driver takes you down a lonely, dark soi, 2 thugs get in and rob you at knifepoint.

#4. Pratunam market is famous for its pickpockets. Last we heard there is a Thai/Phillipino team working. They follow behind you as you unsuspectingly shop, quietly slice the bottom or side of your bag. They let the contents fall to the ground then act like they are picking up their own belongings.

#5. Beware of tuk-tuk drivers asking where you are going. They will respond that it’s closed today then try to convince you to go on a guided tour that will guide you right to jewelry/gem/tailoring shops.

#6. From one end of Bangkok to the other in non rush hour traffic is no more than 180 baht. Always say “meter” and get out if they don’t turn it on. Jot down the driver number and turn him in. Most rides around central Bangkok is 60-90 baht.

#7. Beware of having Thai ladies (or boys) in your room. A host of trouble will come your way. Drugged then robbed, blackmail(he raped me!–how much money do you think she will have you transfer from your account back home for that one?), extortion from her boyfriend–the possibilities are endless! Get that massage in a legitimate shop!

#8. While sitting in a tuk-tuk or walking along the street, a fast moving motorcycle driver often with a passenger with free hands will rip that bag off your shoulder, often dragging you and definitely injuring you if you hang on.

#9. 75% of gems worldwide pass through Bangkok. If you are not a gem dealer, skip buying gems. You will always be on the losing end. Gem valuation is part art and part timing in the market. Loads of fake are floating around. If you don’t have the expertise to outsmart them, then keep your money in your pocket.

#10. Initially the ticket might be good, but when it comes for a change, a refund, you’re out. Also, the ticket could be a fake, the respective airline or bus company won’t recognize the agent. Save yourself the trouble. Go to the source–Hualumphong, airline ticket office, the bus station, the embassy.

The Usual Dangers, The Remedies

With a little common sense, you can avoid most of the trouble in Bangkok. Remember NOTHING is free, there’s always a catch. Keeping that in mind will keep those conmen (and women) away.

Stay in groups, don’t take taxis alone. If you have a cell phone, pretend you are talking on it and remark the streets that you pass. It lets the dishonest drivers know that someone is listening and they could get caught.

All temples and sanctuaries NEVER close. The Grand Palace and other popular tourist attractions are always open. They do have hours of operation though. Basic hours are 8 – 5pm. Just say no to those conmen and go check it out yourself.

Taxis are most dangerous late at night, particularly going back to your hotel after a night out drinking at the clubs. Lock the doors when you get in the taxi, travel and party in groups.

Keep your bags in front of you and hands on. (not just on your shoulder) Keep your bag away from traffic when waiting for taxis and buses and to the inside when in tuk-tuks. Purse snatching happens the most while walking or riding in a tuk-tuk with a bag on the shoulder.

Cell phones are grabbed right out of your hand while you are talking.

Densely crowded areas, markets, buses, shopping malls have teams of pickpockets waiting. Some are even foreigners, so trust no one. You will notice that the Thai will put their backpacks and bags on their fronts and wrap their arms around them. So do as the Thai do!

The police are corrupt, often shaking down tourists for a few extra bucks. Refuse, keep a copy of your passport with the visa page on you.