In Reply to: Well known public fiquire posted by Minnie on Thursday, 1. August 2013 at 12:52 Bali Time:
I love the Balinese but they do have a bunch of scams that they use all the time.
From the different colored plastic bags from the market stall holders - supposedly telling other market stall holders that you are a easy bargainer, and hard bargainer etc.
The taxi drivers, who have the same patter when you jump in, all designed to get you to do a day trip with them.
The waiters and shop assistance people who want a tip, particulary in the big tourist shops like a silk factory I have been to buy ties, you pay downstairs, but the sales person asks for a tip. When you refuse she goes all doe eyed - and starts talking about her sick mother with cancer who needs treatment.
It sounds like a scam to this very experienced traveller, she then goes on about how mum needs chemotherapy treatment and the only place to go is Singapore.
Yes my heart goes cold - as I know that this is not true. If I thought for a moment that Mum really was sick, I would do all I could to help her out.
Over the years I have come to understand that most friendships with tourists are for the Balinese's gain, so now I don't get involved.
Interesting that someone is mentioning someone in a well known Band scamming them, I guess that would be a perfect opportunity, someone out have a cocktail or two - having a great time with good music - up dancing, high on life - and then the scammer jumps on in.
Interesting