Posted by Si Gendut on Saturday, 27. February 1999 at 11:46 Bali Time:
Warning to all. On my last day in Bali after a protracted session with the wonderfully efficient Merpati office on Jalan Melati I was accosted in the usual style by a Balinese male, mid to late 30's with the where do you want to go line. It was starting to rain ,no taxis when you want one and wasting 2 hrs with Merpati had not improved my disposition. In short I was vulnerable and lowered my guard. I accepted a ride for 2000Rp to a local shopping centre. Was ushered into the rear of a small Suzuki and distracted by a stream of chatter including "how much does your watch cost and do you want to swap"
When paying I was asked to change 1000Rp's for 2x500's . I think that at this point the second and silent operater got into my shoulder bag and lifted my travel-agent folder containing passport and tickets etc . It was a slick scam and I did not discover the loss until some time later although the whole situation was suspicious from the begining. I should have known from the begining BUT last day etc.
Two pluses. The Aust consulate responded well and I caught my scheduled flight.
so Bali fans be WARNED there are serpents in paradise and they will surely find YOU.