So, apparently they're everywhere, just waiting to come talk to any white people strolling around. We were confronted by a guy yesterday who was really keen on telling us about all the local sights to see and when everything is open and closed, etc. In my tour book, it talks about the things that are typical for con artists to say to tourists, all of which culminate in them trying to get you to buy something for "cheap" that is worth "way more" normally (typically gems - who would buy gems? We know you wouldn't fall for this Theresa...). Of course, Kane and I would never do that crap anyway, even if it were true - we're not idiots.But it was funny to see how close this guy was to what the book described - he began with casual conversation, asked where we were from and then said he had a relative there (SF), told us about a holiday that didn't appear to be happening, and carried a cell phone (not the norm). Nothing threatening at all about him, and he eventually said good day and went on his way - possibly because Kane was shifting his weight and looking around continuously and we were giving very vague answers to his questions. I was just polite and Kane was disinterested. We had nothing valuable on us and this guy was smaller than both of us and nicely dressed, so we weren't worried about anything physical happening. Funny though, how they do that. I guess it's very common. People are always looking for a good deal and waiting for some guy to come give it to them, then they just get ripped off.
No thanks, man, just seems weird to me. Can't get something for nothing, and I don't even want to try.
4 comments:
Wow! It's a good thing they make those books to tell you about specific things like that so you can be prepared when it happens. Sounds like you guys have the routine down pretty good. You're minimally polite and Kane is disinterested and looking around like a secret service agent. Good bodyguarding Kane! "Gems"...that's a funny thing to try to sell to tourists. Do you guys think you will stay there for the whole month? Well, stay on your toes, watch out for them perpetrators, have some fun and be safe! WUD!
Hey Angie, I was wondering, where do you go to get on the internet there?
Try the Novotel for a great hotel. Its not as expensive as some hotels and definitely is clean. Plus the breakfast is yummy. Next door for $10 a person you and Kane can get massages from Miss Pukes ("pookies", not a joke). Plus Siam Square is fun. And Jajutak is hilarious, but bring your own TP!
Maybe that guy had the same book as you. "So this is how I'm supposed to con Americans, hmm..."
I second the question on Internet access, and follow up with a question about photos: are you going to post any of the photos that you've written about taking?
Sounds like you guys are having adventures, yay!
Post a Comment