Reaching tipping point

We all know that the hospitality and restaurant industries have been doing it tough over the past couple of years. 

Venues have closed; workers been laid off. 

But there is no excuse for a new scam I have increasingly been seeing on my travels: the tip con. 

It works this way. You pay your bill and a 10% or 15% service charge is included. 

You’d assume that would go to those who have provided “service” - but that is not always the case. 

Instead, many bills and credit card chits now are including a “tip” slot, where they hope the unwary will add another 10 or 15%, not noticing they have already paid a service charge. 

Generous, or stupid, souls could easily end up paying 30% for service that is often not as good as it was pre-Covid. 

Pay attention, or tip in cash to a worthy recipient. 

I have also noticed a sad trend in Patong to ridiculously overcharge foreigners for goods that may well be fake anyway.

I needed a small, soft-sided carry-on luggage bag of the type that costs $12 on EBay and a similar sum at KMart or Big W. 

First up I was quoted 1500 baht (nearly $60 aus). That came down 1000, then 800. 

After twice walking away, I finally negotiated one for 300 baht (around $12). 

I know full well that bartering is an art in Thailand - but if returning tourists are ripped off they will choose another destination next time.  

Caveat emptor.