Nha Trang authorities investigate tourist complaint over overpriced seafood bill

Nguyen Van Minh, vice-chairman of the People’s Committee of Nha Trang City, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that relevant departments are currently verifying the information about what were described as shockingly high prices at the eatery.

On Friday evening, a post attached with a photo of a bill totaling VND2.78 million ($107) began circulating widely on Facebook. 

Notably, half a kilogram of boxfish, locally known as ca bo hom, appeared on the bill at VND1.75 million ($67.3), or VND3.5 million ($134.7) per kilogram.

The post prompted strong reactions online, with many expressing frustration that such pricing could leave a negative impression on visitors. 

Some commenters called for transparency around pricing to protect the reputation of local tourism.

Le Thi Tuyet Hang, owner of the floating raft mentioned in the post, confirmed the incident occurred at noon on Friday and that the bill belonged to two tourists from northern Vietnam.

Explaining the high price of boxfish, she said the cost included a roughly-30-percent commission paid to the canoe operator who brought the tourists to the floating raft, along with other expenses.

According to Hang, she informed the tourists in advance that the fish was alive and still swimming. 

She claimed she made the price clear and gave them the option to accept or decline before preparing the dish.

When asked whether prices were clearly listed, Hang stated that prices are only quoted when customers select a specific fish, and only upon agreement is the fish prepared.

Hang also noted that on Friday evening, she contacted the tourists to offer an explanation and refunded them VND780,000 ($30).

Reporters from Tuoi Tre attempted to contact the two tourists but have not received a response.