Scam in LaosFood and drink
Instant coffee sold at an inflated price in Laos
How it works
You may receive overpriced Nescafé instead of the Lao coffee you expected.
Warning signs
- The menu does not say what kind of coffee is served.
- Staff cannot confirm whether the coffee is instant.
- Instant coffee is prepared despite your request for brewed coffee.
How to avoid it
- Ask for kaafeh thung.
- Confirm the type of coffee and price before ordering.
If it happens to you
Point out the mismatch before drinking it and ask for the coffee you ordered or a corrected bill.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase a thief or confront someone who threatens you.
- If you are injured or feel unwell after suspect alcohol, seek urgent medical help.
- Freeze stolen or affected cards. Contact your card issuer about unauthorised charges or an ATM debit without cash.
- Save receipts, tickets, messages and screenshots. Write down the time, location, amount and what happened.
- Report the incident to police when safe. Ask for a written report, especially if you need an insurance claim. Your accommodation may help with language.
- Contact your insurer and, for a stolen passport, detention or serious trouble, your embassy or consulate. Ask the seller or booking provider for a refund where appropriate.
Questions
What is the instant coffee sold at an inflated price scam in Laos?
You may receive overpriced Nescafé instead of the Lao coffee you expected.
How can I spot it early?
The menu does not say what kind of coffee is served. Staff cannot confirm whether the coffee is instant. Instant coffee is prepared despite your request for brewed coffee.
How do I avoid instant coffee sold at an inflated price in Laos?
Ask for kaafeh thung. Confirm the type of coffee and price before ordering.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Point out the mismatch before drinking it and ask for the coffee you ordered or a corrected bill.
Where in Laos does this happen?
Lower-end cafes and other places serving coffee
How common is this scam in Laos?
Occasional. Laos is generally a low-crime country, but petty theft and tourist overcharging remain concerns. Watch for inflated transport fares, misleading ticket sellers, money-exchange tricks and counterfeit goods. Prices below are examples from different years, so check the full amount before paying.
Are there similar scams in Laos?
Yes: unsafe or contaminated spirits.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, threats or fraud in person when safe. Ask for a written record. Assistance may be limited, and language barriers can make reporting harder. Nearby police boxes in Vientiane: after a bag snatch, shout immediately to attract attention and alert nearby police. Card issuer and ATM bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact channel to freeze a card or dispute a transaction. For missing ATM cash, provide the location, time, amount and receipt. Hotel, transport operator or booking provider: present the receipt and booking details. Explain the difference between what was promised and delivered, and request a correction or refund. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's official consular service for a stolen passport, detention or serious difficulties. Use contact details from its official website. Travel insurer: report the loss promptly through its claims or assistance service. Keep receipts, evidence of ownership and any police report.
What number do I call in an emergency in Laos?
Luang Prabang Provincial Hospital, open 24/7: +85671254027.
Reviewed by @snuck