Traveling abroad can be an adventure of a lifetime, offering a chance to explore new cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. However, it's not without its risks, as one Australian man discovered during what should have been an exciting trip to Japan. The Gold Coast DJ, Robert Bregnsdal, known as Taglo, found himself the victim of a common but devastating tourist scam that left him financially and emotionally drained.

While enjoying the nightlife in Tokyo, Bregnsdal's experience took a dark turn when he accepted a shot from a stranger, only to go 'completely blank' shortly after. He awoke hours later to find himself alone, ignored by the bar's patrons and staff, and with a bank account that had been completely drained. The DJ, who had recently resigned from his job to focus on his music career, was left reeling as he discovered that $10,000 had been stolen through a series of unauthorized transactions.


This harrowing ordeal is a stark reminder of the dangers that can lurk in unfamiliar places, especially for tourists. Drink spiking scams are a significant issue in parts of Japan, with certain areas of Tokyo notorious for targeting unsuspecting visitors. Cheap drinks are offered, often laced with substances that leave the victim incapacitated, allowing criminals to steal belongings or rack up exorbitant charges on their credit cards.


Despite his immediate efforts to report the crime to local authorities and inform his bank, Bregnsdal faced an uphill battle. The police were unhelpful, and he was only able to recover a fraction of his stolen funds. The financial impact was severe, with the stolen money intended for his music events and car repairs, leaving him without transportation and in a precarious position.


In response to his plight, Bregnsdal turned to his followers and the broader community for support, setting up a GoFundMe page that has since raised over $9,000. The generosity of donors has helped restore his 'faith in humanity,' but the incident serves as a cautionary tale for all travelers.

Japan is an increasingly popular destination for Australian tourists, with a surge in visitors eager to experience its unique blend of tradition and modernity. However, the Japan National Tourism Organisation's statistics on rising Aussie tourism also underscore the importance of staying vigilant while enjoying the country's attractions.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's SmartTraveller website warns travelers of the risks of assaults, drink spiking, and card scams in Japan. It advises never to leave drinks unattended and to be wary of accepting drinks from strangers or new acquaintances. Some victims of drink spiking have found themselves in unfamiliar locations with hefty credit card charges, or even coerced into withdrawing large sums of cash from ATMs.


To protect yourself while traveling, here are some tips:

1. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas.
2. Keep your personal belongings secure and be cautious when using ATMs.
3. If you're going out, go with friends and look out for each other.
4. Limit the amount of personal information you share with strangers.
5. Monitor your drink at all times and avoid accepting drinks from people you don't trust.
6. Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and the location of your country's embassy or consulate.
7. Inform your bank of your travel plans and regularly check your account for unusual activity.

Travel can be one of life's greatest joys, but it's essential to take precautions to ensure your safety and financial security. By staying informed and cautious, you can help prevent becoming a victim of scams and enjoy a memorable and trouble-free holiday.


We at the Seniors Discount Club urge our members to share their own travel experiences and tips for staying safe while abroad. Have you encountered similar situations on your travels, or do you have advice for fellow globetrotters? Let us know in the comments below, and let's help each other stay safe while exploring the world!