What's your worst experience as a tourist?

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One of the highlights of my vacation last year was a short trip to Taal Volcano. They say it is the Philippines’ equivalent to Oregon’s famous Crater Lake and is equally popular not only because it is the smallest active volcano in the world but because it has a lake of its own inside its crater. What’s more amazing is that the volcano itself is surrounded by another bigger lake. Imagine a lake within a volcano within a lake! Certainly it offers one of the most picturesque views I have ever seen. No doubt about filling one’s eyes with gusto way beyond the satisfaction level. But there’s always a catch. It’s sad to see local people robbing the tourists blind. They overcharge you every single chance they can so you need to be as skillful as the professional haggler you are. And I so hate haggling. The motorized boat which took us from the city proper cost an arm and leg but it was okay. We didn’t mind that. With excitement pumping, we just wanted so badly to reach the spot and paid the money in haste. However when we reached the island, we were greeted by a throng of local people aggressively selling their expensive wares- from mineral water to large buri hats to surgical masks. Not to mention those who have cameras asking you to pose for a picture and then later handing you smeared printouts they call photograph at lo and behold, 350 pesos a piece! I almost lost interest and wanted to leave immediately when the person-in-charge of the horseback riding tour arrogantly told us the excessive fee acting as if we didn’t have a choice at all. Simply that’s one way to kill the local tourism industry. Inept people who milk customers like they're cash cows and acting as self-important as NASA. Long story short, I kept my cool thanks to the wonderful scenery all around me and the hardworking horse guide who amused me with funny tales all throughout the 30 minute climb to the peak while making it a point I didn’t fall. She deliberately asked for a tip though. Conclusion: Taal Volcano is epic. In fact that’s one thing checked off my bucket list. I just hope others won’t experience what I had. The place has great potential if managed by the right people. What a waste it would be if nothing is done. Picture is of the lake within the volcano within the lake.