How to Stay Safe in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a wonderful place to visit, but keeping a few safety tips in mind can ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here’s how to stay safe while exploring this vibrant city
- Stay Hydrated and Use Sunscreen: The sun can be strong, so drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen regularly to avoid dehydration and sunburn.
- Watch Your Belongings: Keep an eye on your personal items, especially in crowded areas and markets, to avoid pickpocketing.
- Use Reliable Transportation: Stick to reputable transportation options like registered taxis or ride-sharing apps, and always agree on a fare before starting your trip.
- Follow Local Guidelines: Respect local customs and regulations, such as dress codes at temples and rules about smoking or drinking in public places.
- Be Cautious with Food and Water: To avoid stomach issues, eat at well-reviewed restaurants and drink bottled or filtered water.
- Avoid Walking Alone at Night: While Chiang Mai is generally safe, it’s best to stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone late at night.
- Have Emergency Contacts Handy: Keep a list of local emergency numbers and the contact information for your accommodation in case you need assistance.
- Keep Copies of Important Documents: Make photocopies of your passport, visa, and other important documents, and store them separately from the originals.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy all that Chiang Mai has to offer while staying safe and secure.
Common Scams in Chiang Mai
Gemstone Scam
One of the most common scams in Chiang Mai is the gemstone scam, where locals pretend to be certified sellers and sell fake gemstones to tourists. This often happens in busy tourist areas where visitors look for gemstone souvenirs. Scammers use pushy sales tactics to pressure tourists into buying low-quality or fake gemstones at high prices. They may claim the stones are rare or valuable, offering them at “special” prices lower than their supposed worth. In reality, many of these gems are synthetic or treated, and any certificates provided to prove authenticity are usually fake.
Attraction Closed Scam
This scam is common in Chiang Mai. Some tour companies and tuk-tuk drivers use the “attractions closed” trick to mislead tourists. They claim a popular site is closed and offer to take visitors to shops where they earn commissions on overpriced goods, like gemstones or tailoring services. Tourists may feel pressured to buy something or be stuck until they pay high fees. Drivers might also say the attraction is only open for a limited time to rush decisions.
Tuk Tuk Scams
