Phu Quoc’s Rapid Response Team Returns $11,500 to British Tourists

Swift police intervention turns a payment error into a trust signal for Vietnam’s tourism revival

When a simple credit card mistake at a beachfront resort turned a £900 hotel bill into an $11,500 charge, two British tourists feared their holiday in Vietnam’s most famous island destination would end badly. Instead, the incident became a case study in how fast, decisive intervention can protect travelers—and reshape global perceptions of Vietnam’s tourism governance.

The incident unfolded on January 13, when Terry and Debra, visitors from the UK, checked out of a resort in Ham Ninh on Phú Quốc. A receptionist mistakenly entered VND 290 million instead of VND 29 million while processing their card payment. Although the resort initially promised a refund within three days, the money failed to return to the couple’s account, citing delays in receiving funds.

Concerned about time constraints and escalating uncertainty, a friend of the couple contacted the local tourist support hotline on January 17. Within hours, Phu Quoc’s newly formed Rapid Response Team—led by local police and tourism authorities—intervened, working directly with the tourists and resort management to verify the transaction and enforce a clear repayment deadline.

By January 19, the full amount—more than VND 290 million—was refunded in full. According to those involved, authorities maintained constant communication until the issue was resolved, ensuring the tourists’ travel plans were not disrupted. Officials later confirmed the case as an early success of the Rapid Response Team model, currently being piloted on the island.

A representative of UBND đặc khu Phú Quốc said the swift resolution was critical to reinforcing Phu Quoc’s reputation as a safe and trustworthy destination for international visitors. The team, scheduled for full launch in early February, will operate 24/7 through a hotline and on-site units, handling tourism-related disputes ranging from payment issues to service complaints.

For international travelers—and investors watching Vietnam’s tourism rebound—this episode sends a clear message: beyond beaches and resorts, Vietnam is building institutional safeguards to protect visitors. In an era where a single viral complaint can damage a destination’s brand, Phu Quoc’s rapid response may prove just as valuable as its white sand and turquoise waters.