When it comes to exploring Vietnam, visiting beautiful waterfalls like the ones between Hoi An and Hue is often a highlight for tourists. However, beware of the tourist scams at Hoi An – Hue waterfall that could ruin your trip. My recent experience in August 2024 was a sobering reminder that not everything is as it seems when traveling through these scenic routes. This post aims to share my experience and provide tips on how to avoid similar situations, especially when visiting places like the infamous Bo Ghe waterfall.
My Terrible Experience with Tourist Scams at Hoi An – Hue Waterfall
Tourist scams at Hoi An – Hue waterfall are more common than you’d think. On the way from Hoi An to Hue, I was excited about swimming in the cool, clear waters of these natural wonders, particularly at Bo Ghe waterfall. Unfortunately, what should have been a relaxing escape turned into a nightmare.
As we, a solo couple, headed to the popular Elephant Springs, we were stopped by two men in security uniforms who claimed the waterfall was closed. They directed us to another nearby waterfall called Bo Ghe. A girl then appeared, seemingly out of nowhere, to guide us there. Once we arrived, we were surrounded by aggressive locals, all eager to sell us something or lead us to their shops.
At the entrance of Bo Ghe waterfall, more tourist scams at Hoi An – Hue waterfall unfolded. A group of men, also in security uniforms, had set up an unofficial toll booth, charging us 35k VND for entrance tickets without any signage or legitimacy. Though there weren’t any price table or sign, They claimed that the ticket would grant us access to the waterfall, but just beyond the gate, an old lady demanded an additional 10k VND as a “parking fee” which is absolutely unnecessary in the area as there was already a toll gate at the entrance.
For a moment, I thought that If there is anyone can “steal” the bike, it must be someone in the crowd that we met at the entrance or the old lady that wanted 10k for the parking fee.
Despite the chaos and the pushy vendors, we tried to stay calm. We parked our bike at an outdoor shade labeled “parking,” though it was clear that locals who bypassed the parking area weren’t stopped. This made us realize that the parking requirement was just another scam to funnel tourists into specific shops.
When we reached the springs, I informed a lady that we only wanted to have a drink and then leave. She was verbally agreeable, and we clarified the price before ordering. No scam so far, right? Wrong. As we prepared to leave, they suddenly confronted us with a 200k VND “mat fee,” something we had never heard of. There were no signs, and they had never mentioned it when we arrived. This hidden charge, sprung on us at the last moment, is a textbook example of tourist scams at Hoi An – Hue waterfall.
How I Handled the Tourist Scams at Hoi An – Hue Waterfall
Faced with this blatant scam, I didn’t lose my temper. Instead, I calmly called the local police, knowing that I had the upper hand. While I’m experienced in dealing with these situations, I couldn’t help but think about how intimidating this would be for less experienced tourists. The scammers quickly realized that I wouldn’t back down and lowered the fee to 150k VND. However, I stood my ground, insisting that it wasn’t about the money but about principle and integrity.
After some negotiation, I offered them two choices: either take 100k VND and let us leave or wait for the chief police officer to arrive, which would escalate the situation. Realizing they were out of options, they took the 100k VND, and we left, disheartened by the entire experience. Such tourist scams at Hoi An – Hue waterfall cast a dark shadow over the region’s tourism industry, and it’s a shame to see locals resorting to such measures.
Location and Experience at Bo Ghe Waterfall
Bo Ghe waterfall is located on National Highway 1A, about 50km from Hue in Loc Tien commune. To reach it, you’ll need to travel along a rough 3km road between cliffs and dense forest. Despite the tourist scams at Hoi An – Hue waterfall, the natural beauty of Bo Ghe is undeniable. The waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and towering cliffs, offers a serene escape from the bustling cities.
Visitors can explore the area, which features large and small rocks interspersed among the forest trees. The cool water and fresh atmosphere create an ideal setting for a refreshing dip. However, be mindful of the tourist scams at Hoi An – Hue waterfall that can turn a peaceful day into a stressful experience.
At Bo Ghe, you can swim, take photos, and enjoy the natural surroundings. The waterfall itself cascades down nearly 500 meters, creating a stunning visual as the water crashes into the pool below. While the environment is picturesque, it’s crucial to stay vigilant against the tourist scams at Hoi An – Hue waterfall that might catch you off guard.
How to React to Tourist Scams at Hoi An – Hue Waterfall
If you encounter tourist scams at Hoi An – Hue waterfall, the most important thing is to stay calm. Don’t escalate the situation, as you’re on their turf, and things could get worse. Politely but firmly decline any additional charges that weren’t disclosed upfront. If the situation becomes too uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to contact local authorities. You can reach the chief police officer in the area at 0932584245 for assistance.
For those who don’t speak the local language, it’s a good idea to have a translator or contact someone who can help. If you’re ever in need, you can reach out to me through the chat widget at the bottom right of this screen.
Avoiding Tourist Scams at Hoi An – Hue Waterfall: Tips and Suggestions
To avoid falling victim to tourist scams at Hoi An – Hue waterfall, consider booking a tour with a reputable company like Hoi An Fairy Tour. They offer a variety of services, including taxi transfers, guided tours, motorbike rentals, sleeper buses, and boat trips to Cham Island. By booking with a trusted provider, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience without worrying about hidden fees or pushy vendors.
Additionally, it’s wise to research your destination beforehand and read reviews from other travelers. Websites like TripAdvisor and Lonely Planet are excellent resources for finding reliable information and avoiding potential scams.
If you’re planning to visit multiple destinations, consider using Rome2Rio to compare different transportation options. This will help you plan your journey more effectively and avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Final Thoughts on Tourist Scams at Hoi An – Hue Waterfall
While the natural beauty of the waterfalls between Hoi An and Hue is undeniable, the prevalence of tourist scams at Hoi An – Hue waterfall is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. By sharing my experience, I hope to raise awareness and help others avoid similar situations. Always stay vigilant, do your research, and consider booking with reputable providers to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Don’t let these scams deter you from visiting the stunning landscapes of Vietnam, but do take precautions to protect yourself from falling victim to the tourist scams at Hoi An – Hue waterfall.
From Vincent – the Author
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