Police
1155
Ambulance
1669
Tourist Police
1155
Risk Map & Attractions
Common Scams
The Jet Ski Damage Extortion
This is Phuket's most notorious scam. After renting a jet ski, the operator will claim you have caused significant damage (often pre-existing or minor damage they will exaggerate) to the hull or engine upon return. They will use intimidation, sometimes involving a group of people, to demand an exorbitant cash payment for 'repairs,' often holding your passport hostage if you left it as a deposit.
NEVER leave your passport as a deposit. Take a detailed, time-stamped video of the entire jet ski, especially the underside, before and after use. Only rent from reputable, established operators, or better yet, avoid jet ski rentals entirely. If threatened, call the Tourist Police (1155).
Motorbike/Car Rental Damage Trap
Similar to the jet ski scam, rental shops will claim you caused damage (scratches, dents) to the motorbike or car upon return, even if the damage was already there or is negligible. They demand a high, immediate cash payment, threatening to keep your passport or involve the police if you refuse.
NEVER leave your passport as a deposit; a copy or a cash deposit is safer. Take a detailed video and photos of the vehicle from all angles, highlighting any existing damage, before you drive away. Use a reputable, well-reviewed rental company.
Remote Accommodation Deposit Fraud
Scammers post attractive, often real, photos of villas or apartments on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Telegram. They pressure tourists to pay a large deposit remotely to secure the booking, sometimes sending a fake ID as 'proof.' Once the money is transferred, the scammer disappears, or the property is found to be non-existent or already occupied.
Avoid paying large deposits remotely. Insist on meeting the agent/owner in person at the property before transferring any money. Use verified, established real estate agencies with physical offices.
The Timeshare Scratch Card Scam
A friendly local or foreigner approaches you on the street, offering a 'free' scratch card. You are guaranteed to win a 'major prize' (e.g., a week's free accommodation, a large cash prize). To claim the prize, you are taken to a timeshare office and subjected to a high-pressure sales pitch that can last for hours, often involving aggressive tactics to make you sign a contract.
Politely but firmly refuse any offer of a free scratch card or prize draw on the street. Do not enter any office or building to claim a prize you did not legitimately enter to win.
Tuk-Tuk/Taxi Price Gouging and Detours
Drivers refuse to use a meter (where applicable) and quote an inflated price, or they agree on a price and then demand more upon arrival. They may also claim your desired destination is closed and insist on taking you to a different, commission-paying shop or restaurant instead.
Always agree on the price BEFORE getting into a tuk-tuk or taxi. Use ride-hailing apps (Grab, Bolt) for a fixed price. If a driver insists your destination is closed, find another driver or check the information yourself.
The 'Closed Temple' or 'Gem' Scam
A friendly local approaches you near a major attraction (like a temple) and tells you it is 'closed for a holiday' or 'private ceremony.' They then suggest an alternative, 'better' itinerary involving a tuk-tuk driver (who is in on the scam) who will take you to overpriced gem shops or tailor shops where you are pressured to buy.
Ignore unsolicited advice from strangers about attractions being closed. Check official opening times online. If you want a tuk-tuk, hire one directly and dictate the destination yourself.
Bait-and-Switch Tour Packages
Street vendors or unverified tour operators sell excursions (e.g., to Phi Phi Islands) at a significantly lower price than reputable companies. The promised 'VIP boat' turns out to be an old, overcrowded speedboat, the 'gourmet lunch' is a meager snack, and the itinerary is rushed or changed without notice.
Do not book tours that are drastically cheaper than the market rate. Use established, well-reviewed tour agencies, often found inside hotels or major shopping centers.
Nightlife Bar Tab Inflation
In certain bars, especially those with 'hostesses' or 'go-go' elements, staff will inflate your bill by adding extra drinks you didn't order, overcharging for drinks, or charging an unadvertised 'service fee.' Refusal to pay can lead to confrontation and intimidation.
Keep a running tally of your drinks. Pay for each drink as you order it, or check the bill carefully before paying. Avoid bars that are overly aggressive in soliciting customers or have no clear price list.
The Fake Monk Donation
Individuals dressed in monk robes approach tourists in busy areas, soliciting donations for a temple or charity. While genuine monks exist, these scammers are often aggressive, sometimes handing out 'blessings' or small trinkets and then demanding a large donation. Genuine monks do not typically solicit donations on the street.
Genuine monks do not beg for money or approach tourists aggressively. Politely decline and only donate to verified temples or charities directly.
Security Deposit Withholding (Rental Properties)
After a long-term stay, the landlord will find a pretext to withhold the security deposit, claiming minor or fabricated damage to the property. They may also rely on fine print in the contract that states the deposit will be returned weeks after the tenant has left the country.
Document the property's condition thoroughly with photos and video upon moving in and moving out. Ensure the contract clearly states the deposit return process and timeline. If possible, wait in Phuket until the deposit is returned.
Safe Attractions
Big Buddha
Massive white marble Buddha statue on a hill with panoramic views.
Patong Beach
Famous beach known for its nightlife and water sports.
Old Phuket Town
Historical area with Sino-Portuguese architecture and colorful buildings.
Wat Chalong
The largest and most revered Buddhist temple in Phuket.
Phi Phi Islands
Stunning island group accessible by boat tour.