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Bangkok Taxis

The most common way of transportation is of course using a taxi. It is convenient, cheap and for most first time visitors surprisingly clean and comfortable. Many are new, modern cars equipped with an air-conditioner that doesn't let you dripping in sweat. Most journeys don't exceed 150 Baht (3� / $5), even if you have been stuck in Bangkok�s infamous traffic jams. Surprisingly, this fee is cheaper than public transportation in many European countries!
Taxis can be found literally everywhere at any time, since they outnumber personal cars by 2 and operate 24h a week. They can be identified by their famous two-colored stripes (green-yellow, blue-red, etc.) and with the Taxi Meter sign above.

Bangkok's Taxi


	Bangkok's taxis outnumber personal cars by 2!

The Taxi Driver

Most taxi drivers come from the Isaan region, the northeastern part of Thailand. Isaan also can be referred as a term for countryside people, since agriculture is the region's main economy. The driver usually is friendly and knows where he is going, but in most cases, barley speaks any English. If you don't know the name of the place you are going to, ask the reception at your hotel to write it down in Thai.
Unlike many countries in Europe and America, the taxi driver doesn't have to take you if he doesn't want to. Politely take the one waiting behind in this case. Note that here in Thailand being polite and keep smiling is essential. However, you always will encounter a driver that will try to squeeze as much money out of your pockets as possible. Please follow the directions on the bottom of this page to avoid these situations.

Taxi Meter


	This meter saves time and money, as paying fares over the odds is over.

Fare according to the distance

All Thai taxis that run by meter have same fares according to the distance. This system is useful as many tourists don't know the estimate price of moving from A to B. Therefore, drivers can't charge passengers more than the actual fee anymore.

There are some additional fees which have to be paid separately:

50 Baht, if taking taxi from the airport
20 Baht, when hiring taxi through the radio
Total amount of toll-way charges

Common ways of cheating

There are some drivers among the honest ones that will try to cheat you, whether it is by not using the meter or by using a modified meter. Always pay attention and keep an eye open to avoid spending more money than you actually have to:

ATTENTION:

Always use a taxi that goes by the meter. If he doesn't turn it on, kindly ask him to, if he refuses, politely ask him to stop the cab and take another one.

Always be aware and check the meter regularly. Even though he runs by the meter, there is a chance that it is tweaked. There are 2 types of modified meters:
1) The meter is set automatically, where every e.g. 900m counts as 1km.
2) The meter is modified manually, where the driver presses a button to increase the distance/price.

In this case, write down the number displayed on the yellow signs on both behind doors and kindly ask the taxi driver to stop the car. Paying the fee is important, as it might lead to a serious dispute, maybe even a fight. Contact the Taxi Complaint Department under 1584, 2725460 and provide them with all necessary information.

Never agree to let a taxi driver take you to a place he suggested, especially gem shops (read about the jewelry and gem scam) as they are on commission for every costumer they get. If he tries to convince you, keep insisting politely.

Related Documents

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			Read about Scams in Thailand
			Read Articles on taxis
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