How to Make Sure you don’t get Ripped off by a Bangkok Taxi

Trawling around a sprawling metropolis the size of Bangkok on foot can be a hazardous and tiring experience. You will need to take a taxi ride at some point, so be aware if you don’t want to be overpriced or ripped off by following these simple tips.

Bangkok taxis come in many different colours, and if you see one with the slogan “Taxi-Meter,” this is the one for you. Communication can sometimes be a little difficult, so having a map with you would be handy.

Make sure you exactly pinpoint your desired location out on the map to eliminate potential confusion.

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Secondly, insist the driver immediately turns on his meter, so you get the fair going-rate price. A failure to do so will result in you being overpriced for the trip, with the driver trying his best to get the highest fare possible. If the driver refuses to turn on the meter, just get out of the taxi and find another. There are thousands!

Another little favourite scam of the Bangkok taxi driver will consist of him taking you to a tailor shop or a gem store where he receives commission. Firmly, without being angry, inform the driver you are in a rush and have to meet a friend. Remember that you are under no obligation to purchase anything more than the taxi ride itself. Many drivers may become rude or even aggressive if you decline their offer of a “free” visit to their friends shop, so you will need to be firm, even to the point of asking the driver to stop and let you out if they become too insistent

Keep away from rogue taxis which do not parade a Taxi-Meter sign, because they will try to overprice you and you will not have a leg to stand on. All proper taxis will display a licence in the bottom left hand corner of the windscreen, if in doubt then check that this is in evidence.

Always be friendly, calm and never show your anger if the driver cannot find you desired location straight away. Showing grace and good manners will always ensure you are treated with respect.