Australian Tourist Runs Up 32,000-Baht Bar Tab, Refuses to Pay
An Australian tourist was brought to police after running up a 32,540-baht tab at a Chon Buri beer bar and refusing to pay following a 13-hour drinking session that began before the bar's normal opening time.
An Australian tourist requested a beer bar in Soi Bua Khao 15, Nong Prue Subdistrict, Banglamung District, Chon Buri Province to open at 8 a.m. and remained drinking until around 9 p.m., eventually running up a bill of 32,540 baht. The bar owner and staff brought the man, identified as Glen, 53, to Pattaya City Police Station around 11:30 p.m. on August 12 after he refused to pay.
Staff reported that the tourist arrived before opening time and asked them to unlock the doors as a special exception. Because he had frequented other bars and maintained a good payment history, the owner did not suspect issues and provided full service. During his extended stay, the tourist bought drinks for multiple female staff members, ringing a bell to signal his intention to treat them. When he invited one female employee to continue partying after the bar closed and she declined, he became dissatisfied and refused to settle his account.
The bar owner explained that the establishment opened specifically at his request and operated for approximately 13 hours until around 9 p.m., incurring significant costs in beverages and staff wages. The bill of 32,540 baht included not only the tourist's own drinks but also rounds he purchased for staff throughout the day. Despite negotiations, the two parties could not reach agreement.
At the police station, investigators held discussions between both sides. The bar maintained that the bill was accurate at 32,540 baht, while the Australian tourist disputed the amount and continued to refuse payment. Police documented the incident and are reviewing the bill details and statements from both parties to determine next steps.
