Complaints about unmetered taxis and fare scams in Pattaya and Bangkok erode international trust. (File Photo) PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand’s taxi problem is no longer just a matter of local complaint—it’s a national concern impacting international perception and tourist numbers. According to recent research from Mastercard’s Economics Institute, Bangkok is one of the top four cities globally for tourist scams, with a staggering 48% linked to taxis and rental cars. Restaurant overcharging follows closely behind. Refusals to use meters, inflated fares, and mid-trip price hikes have become so notorious that tourists—particularly from China—are skipping Thailand altogether, choosing destinations like Vietnam instead, which they perceive as safer and more transparent. “This isn’t new,” said Adith Chairatananon, Secretary General of the Thai Travel Agents Association, in a recent interview. “The taxi-meter issue has existed since the 1990s, but enforcement has deteriorated. Drivers who overcharge go unpunished, while honest ones are disadvantaged. It’s become systemic.” The Mastercard data comes amid sobering economic indicators. In 2018, tourism contributed over 2 trillion baht to the Thai economy. Last year, that figure fell to 1.67 trillion, a shortfall experts believe is partly due to deteriorating trust among international tourists. Chinese tourists—once Thailand’s most reliable market—have shown a sharp decline. While wider safety issues like scam call centers and rare kidnapping incidents play a role, taxi-related scams remain one of the most consistently cited grievances on travel platforms and social media, particularly in Chinese-speaking communities. Industry leaders urge Thailand to crack down on taxi scams to restore faith in the tourism sector. (File Photo) Travelers from Pattaya heading to Don Mueang are especially affected. Many rely on taxis or van services for the 2-3 hour journey, but stories of overcharging, refusal to use the meter, or last-minute fare hikes are rampant. For some, these frustrations begin even before traffic or floods make things worse. “As a result, more travelers are turning to apps like Grab,” Adith explained. “Yes, they’re more expensive, but people are willing to pay for reliability and a clear fare.” Yet, not all travelers have access to app-based rides. Tourists arriving at late hours, unfamiliar with local apps, or short on time often fall prey to opportunistic drivers at airports or popular hotel zones—making the journey from tourist town to airport a gamble. Tourism leaders are urging the government to act quickly. Proposed solutions include strict enforcement of metering laws, a revised fare structure that offers drivers fair compensation without incentivizing fraud, and better vetting and accountability for public transport services. “Taxi issues are more than just a nuisance—they’re eroding Thailand’s credibility,” Adith said. “We don’t need a huge budget to fix this. We need leadership and enforcement.” Until then, the burden falls on travelers to prepare, plan ahead, and navigate a system increasingly viewed as hostile to visitors.

Residents and expats point to everyday traffic chaos, lax enforcement, and high accident rates as major hurdles to overcome. (File Photo) PATTAYA, Thailand – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced that Thailand is exploring the possibility of hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix, a move that forms part of the government’s broader strategy to position the kingdom as a global hub for major sporting and entertainment events. The announcement followed her recent visit to the Monaco Grand Prix, where she met with Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali to discuss potential venues, licensing, marketing, and logistical collaboration. With Formula 1 boasting over 600 million viewers globally per season, Thai authorities believe the event could significantly boost tourism and international visibility. The proposed project would require large-scale investments, including infrastructure upgrades, road improvements, race circuit construction, and advanced digital systems. Officials say the event could create thousands of jobs and stimulate interest in motorsports, particularly among younger generations. The Prime Minister also met with Thai-British F1 driver Alex Albon and rising star Tasanapol Inthraphuvasak, both of whom welcomed the idea and expressed hope that Thailand would soon join the exclusive list of F1 host countries. However, public response has been mixed. While some see the opportunity as a step forward for tourism and sports development, others voiced skepticism online. “I thought Thailand already had F1 judging by the way they drive on the road,” one commenter quipped, reflecting broader concerns over Thailand’s road safety reputation. Another remarked, “Clean the air so people come back,” pointing to Bangkok’s chronic air pollution problem and suggesting that environmental issues should take priority. A more pragmatic concern came from a user who questioned the economic viability: “Do you have any idea how much it will cost you? I don’t think it’s worth it.” And one particularly jaded comment summed up the sentiment of many skeptics: “Will not happen in my lifetime.” Thailand explores Formula 1 hosting bid, but locals joke, “We already drive like F1 on these roads!” (File Photo) Thailand’s reputation for chaotic driving, lax enforcement, and high road accident rates has long been a concern both domestically and among foreign residents. According to the World Health Organization, the country consistently ranks among the highest in Southeast Asia for traffic-related fatalities. Locals often cite a lack of consistent law enforcement, widespread disregard for traffic rules, and minimal consequences for dangerous driving behavior as key issues. Speeding, helmetless motorcyclists, and unlicensed drivers are common sights, particularly in urban areas and tourist hubs like Pattaya and Phuket. Foreign visitors and long-term residents frequently voice frustration online, urging Thai authorities to prioritize traffic law enforcement and improve public safety before pursuing high-profile international events like Formula 1. Many argue that if Thailand wants to be seen as a global destination for motorsports, it must first address the everyday realities on its own roads. Despite the criticism, the government is continuing its feasibility studies and ongoing discussions with the Formula One Group. Officials have not yet confirmed whether the race would be held on a street circuit, like in Singapore and Monaco, or at a purpose-built facility. Among the potential locations being considered are Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya. Whether Thailand can clear the hurdles of cost, infrastructure, and public opinion remains to be seen. For now, the ambition is on the table—but the checkered flag is still a long way off.

From tourist to temple squatter: Russian man caught overstaying in Thailand by 194 days. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya and other Thai tourist hotspots are well known for their affordable lifestyle, but for some foreign visitors, “affordable” turns into “free”—through increasingly questionable means. While most tourists follow the rules and spend within their means, a growing number of broke travelers are pushing boundaries by overstaying visas, squatting in temples, and relying entirely on donations and handouts. These “no-money tourists,” as locals have come to call them, are now under renewed scrutiny after a recent incident in Surat Thani made headlines across Thailand. On May 20, officials in Koh Phangan arrested Mr. Maksim Abroskin, a 30-year-old Russian national who had been living inside Wat Sri Thanu for several months. Local residents and monks had grown frustrated after noticing Mr. Abroskin not only relying on the temple for food and shelter but also stealing donated goods meant for the community. His tourist visa had expired six months ago, and he was found to be illegally residing in the country for 194 days. When officers arrested him, he was in possession of monk robes, bags, and donated bedding supplies. He told police he had run out of money during his travels and had no way of returning to Russia. No money, no visa, no plan: Foreigners stretch stays in Thailand by squatting in temples. Authorities charged him with overstaying his visa and transferred him to immigration custody for deportation procedures. While this case occurred in Koh Phangan, Pattaya locals say similar situations are not uncommon. Long-term residents frequently report seeing down-and-out foreign visitors lingering in beachside areas, public parks, and temple grounds. Some rely on the kindness of monks and the anonymity of busy tourist areas to survive undetected for months. “Totally out of control and no police surveillance,” commented one frustrated expat online. “Seriously believe it will impact tourists coming here.” The sentiment reflects growing concern among Pattaya’s expat and business communities that a lack of enforcement on issues like visa overstays, noise, and public disorder may eventually damage the city’s reputation among quality visitors. Thailand continues to be a welcoming destination for millions of tourists each year, but officials are now being urged to crack down on visa violators and those exploiting cultural institutions like temples for shelter and support. With more such cases surfacing, the line between backpacker culture and outright vagrancy may force Thai authorities to rethink their tolerance levels—and increase monitoring to prevent tourism abuse that risks turning paradise into a problem. Concerns rise as ‘no-money tourists’ exploit Thai hospitality and overstay their welcome.

Researchers say poor enforcement of taxi service laws pushed consumers toward efficient ride-hailing apps. PATTAYA, Thailand –Thai researchers have raised concerns over perceived injustices facing local taxi drivers, who say the government’s transport regulations unfairly benefit foreign ride-hailing platforms like Grab over traditional Thai taxi services. The issue has resurfaced following protests by the Association of Public Vehicle Drivers and Taxi Professionals, which submitted a formal statement to the Prime Minister and the Minister of Transport calling for urgent reform. The group made two key demands: Revoke the 2017 Ministerial Regulation on Passenger Vehicles with No More Than Seven Seats. Amend the 2021 Ministerial Regulation on Ride-Hailing Services via Electronic Platforms. Worapol Kamkhuntod, President of the Association, issued a bold statement urging the government to choose between “Grab or Thai taxis,” stating that favoring the former is akin to “selling out the country” to foreign interests. He argued that these policies disadvantage local workers while supporting foreign startups. Assoc. Prof. Arknat Wantanasombut, head of the Inclusive Social Innovation and Economy Research Group at Chulalongkorn University’s Asian Studies Institute, remarked that this long-standing issue became more visible during the pandemic, when ride-hailing apps were legalized and gained traction. However, he also pointed out that poor service by some taxi drivers—such as fare overcharging and refusing passengers—has contributed to the public’s shift toward more efficient ride-hailing platforms. Granting Grab access to Suvarnabhumi Airport sparks outrage among local taxi drivers over unfair competition. He acknowledged, however, that enforcement of regulations against bad taxi behavior has been weak. Despite rules forbidding taxi drivers from rejecting passengers, these rules are rarely enforced, fueling consumer frustration. The reliability, price transparency, and efficiency offered by apps have made them the preferred choice for many. Arknat criticized the recent decision to grant Grab official operating space at Suvarnabhumi Airport, saying it gives too much advantage to the app, while traditional taxis remain confined to designated queue areas, which further limits their competitiveness. He said this imbalance highlights how the government appears to favor foreign corporate interests over Thai livelihoods. He noted that despite previous efforts like the government’s now-defunct TaxiOK app, there is currently no central platform to support traditional taxi services. This leaves taxi drivers without digital infrastructure or a clear pathway to compete. He added that governments, including Thailand’s, tend to focus on physical infrastructure (roads, electricity, water) but lack capability in managing digital infrastructure. Citing international examples, Arknat mentioned how New York City taxi drivers formed a cooperative called “CO-OP Driver,” which launched its own ride-hailing app. Through this initiative, even if drivers don’t find passengers, they receive a minimum hourly wage of $30—above the standard minimum wage. He believes this model could work in Thailand if local drivers united to create a shared app that they all co-own, making them less dependent on foreign platforms. He emphasized that while the government should still play a role—especially in ensuring equal service access and fare rates—the core of the solution lies in empowering taxi drivers to become competitive on their own. New York’s taxi driver co-op cited as a model for Thai drivers to fight back with their own tech platform.

AVANI Pattaya Resort impresses with its tropical-modern rooms, just steps from the beach and Royal Garden Plaza. PATTAYA, Thailand – From hotel marketing to social media stardom, Supharat “Amy” Piyawatsharaphan—better known as Madame AMY—has turned her love for Pattaya into a full-time passion. With her vibrant personality and keen eye for detail, Amy now leads her growing online audience on food and travel adventures across Thailand’s most exciting destinations. This week, we had the pleasure of joining her for a day at Royal Garden Plaza and the AVANI Pattaya Resort, two standout spots in the heart of Pattaya operated by the renowned Minor Group. A Journey of Reinvention Formerly the Marketing Manager of Amari Pattaya, Amy has always had a deep connection with Pattaya’s tourism scene. “After years in hospitality, I wanted to show people the city through a more personal lens,” she said. “So I became a travel influencer to highlight places that blend fun, flavor, and family-friendly experiences.” With nearly half a million followers across her platforms, her series “Madame AMY Pha Kin Pha Thiew” (Madame AMY’s Eat and Travel Adventures) has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Where Shopping Meets Spectacle                 Our first stop was Royal Garden Plaza, located right on Pattaya Beach Road. Known for its iconic exterior—complete with a massive airplane jutting from the building—this mall is more than just a shopping venue; it’s a photo-op paradise. “Everyone who comes here stops to take pictures with the airplane. It’s become a landmark,” Amy smiled. Inside, visitors can enjoy top-brand retail stores, souvenir shops, stylish cafés, and family-friendly dining options. And for those looking for something out of the ordinary, the quirky and thrilling Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum never fails to amaze. “The cool sea breeze, vibrant shops, and the variety of food options make it a perfect destination for everyone—from kids to grandparents,” Amy added. Exploring Ripley’s Believe It or Not! with Madame AMY — a quirky, fun-filled experience for all ages. AVANI Pattaya – Luxury Meets Location Next, Madame Amy gave us a tour of AVANI Pattaya Resort, which shares the same oceanfront location as the mall. With modern resort-style rooms overlooking either the sea or lush gardens, AVANI Pattaya provides guests with both comfort and convenience. “The location is unbeatable,” Amy said. “You’re steps from the beach, next to a top shopping mall, and close to all the action in town.” The resort features everything from a large outdoor pool and beachfront spa to a fitness center and two signature restaurants: the Irish-style Dicey Reilly’s Pub and the elegant Sala Rim Nam, offering Thai and international cuisine with top-quality ingredients. Amy praised not just the facilities, but also the staff: “The service here is heartfelt. The team really cares, and that makes your stay feel warm and memorable.” Dining in style — Madame AMY recommends Dicey Reilly’s Pub and Sala Rim Nam for delicious international and Thai cuisine. Why Amy Recommends It “I always tell my followers—if you’re coming to Pattaya and want a place that has it all, this is it,” said Amy. “Whether you’re with family, your partner, or even here for a business retreat, AVANI Pattaya and Royal Garden Plaza offer everything in one spot.” Before we parted, she had one final message for her fans: “Keep exploring! Pattaya has so many gems, and I’m here to help you find them—one bite and one adventure at a time.” Madame AMY at Royal Garden Plaza, where the iconic airplane facade draws tourists for the perfect photo-op.

Pattaya emerges as a favorite among solo female visitors with its vibrant beach life, strong tourist infrastructure, and enhanced safety measures. (Photo – Pattaya Beach, Thailand) PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand has been recognized as the eighth safest country in the world for solo female travelers, according to a recent report published by the New York Post. The ranking, based on factors such as homicide rates, nighttime safety, and societal attitudes toward violence against women, positions Thailand alongside other top destinations like Spain, Austria, Italy, and Japan in the 2025 list of safest solo travel locations. Among Thailand’s popular destinations, Pattaya is increasingly being seen as a favorable choice for solo female travelers. With its vibrant beachside atmosphere, well-developed transport options, and an abundance of accommodation catering to all budgets, Pattaya offers both relaxation and adventure in a relatively compact and accessible setting. The city’s growing focus on tourist safety, active police presence, and community-based tourism initiatives make it an attractive option for women exploring on their own. “Adventurous Kate,” a well-known travel website for independent women, notes: “Not only is Thailand a fantastic destination for first-time solo female travelers, it’s the ideal location for a first-time trip to Asia. There are tons of travel infrastructure for backpackers, mid-range travelers, and luxury travelers. Transportation is easy and the language barrier is minimal. Internet access is excellent. Thai food will likely be familiar to you — pad Thai, green curries, tom yum soups — and this is a great opportunity to break out of your usual Thai food orders.” From serene temples and bustling night markets to world-class spas and beach clubs, Pattaya delivers an engaging travel experience for women seeking both freedom and cultural immersion. With improved safety standards and a wide range of activities designed for solo discovery, Pattaya stands out as a smart, enjoyable, and secure destination for women travelers visiting Thailand.  (PRD)

Chon Buri police arrest suspects in BMW cloning scamLegacyA slick car fraud ring has been smashed by Chon Buri highway police after a victim’s BMW was illegally cloned and used to rack up fines, prompting a high-stakes investigation and arrests. On Wednesday, May 21, officers led by Police Lieutenant General Jirabhop Bhuridej, Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), swooped on suspects involved in a sophisticated car forgery and fraud scheme. The drama began back in March when a victim reported to Chokchai Police Station that their BMW X3 had been duplicated with forged plates. “The fake vehicle was used to commit traffic violations, causing the owner numerous wrongful fines,” said a police source. Highway police tracked the cloned car to Highway No. 7 near Ban Chang, Rayong. When stopped, the driver, 33 year old Krisana Khankasikam, failed to produce legal documents. A chassis check confirmed the car belonged to the victim. Krisana confessed he had bought the vehicle online, complete with fake plates and tax stickers, for 127,000 baht from an underground Facebook marketplace called “Second-Hand Repossessed Cars.” No official transfer or contract was ever made. In a related bust, 35 year old Wilaiporn Inprang was arrested at kilometre 50 on the same highway under a fraud warrant from Samut Prakan Provincial Court. Linked to a car rental business in Lat Krabang, Wilaiporn allegedly swindled victims by taking deposits on rental vehicles, then repossessing them without refunds. “She is also accused of using others’ identities to secure car loans and selling or pawning those cars without transferring ownership or paying installments,” explained a CIB official. Victims reported their losses via the bureau’s Facebook page. Both suspects, along with the seized white BMW X3 bearing the forged licence JW 9789, Bangkok, were handed over to local police for further legal action, reported The Pattaya News. Police continue to investigate the full extent of this organised crime network, promising to protect victims and crack down on vehicle fraud. “This case sends a strong message to fraudsters exploiting vehicle markets,” said Pol. Lt. Gen. Bhuridej. “We will pursue offenders relentlessly.” The story Chon Buri police arrest suspects in BMW cloning scam as seen on Thaiger News.

Pattaya woman arrested in undercover Ice stingLegacyA woman’s attempt to buy crystal meth in Pattaya’s Jomtien area backfired spectacularly when she unknowingly tried to purchase the drug from an undercover police officer during a targeted drug crackdown. Yesterday, May 23, officers from Pattaya City Police’s anti-drug unit, led by Deputy Inspector Prasit Boonprasit, were patrolling Jomtien Sois 2, 3, and 4 as part of a government drive to clear the community of drugs. The operation aimed to root out both users and dealers in the area. As the team swept the neighbourhood, a woman in her 40s approached Deputy Inspector Prasit, oblivious to his true identity. She asked to buy “Ice,” the local slang for crystal methamphetamine. When Prasit cheekily offered her a block of literal ice, the woman immediately clarified, “Not that kind! I want the crystal kind you can smoke!” She even signalled for him to lower his voice and reassured him, “It’s fine, it’s the ‘work-hard drug,’ no need to worry.” Despite the arrival of backup officers, the woman persistently tried to seal the deal, frustrating the police team. It was only when the officers revealed themselves that she realised her grave mistake. Visibly stunned, the woman was promptly arrested and taken for a drug test. Officers also nabbed a suspected dealer nearby and confiscated evidence to support ongoing investigations, reported The Pattaya News. Both suspects are now in custody awaiting legal action, as officials continue their campaign against drug abuse in Pattaya. “This operation sends a clear message that drug dealers and users will face serious consequences,” said Deputy Inspector Prasit. “We urge the public to stay away from these dangerous substances.” In similar news, a tip-off from fed-up locals sparked a major meth bust in Pattaya, but chaos erupted when a suspect went on a rampage, claiming to be a cop’s son and causing panic. On May 5, Pattaya City police, led by Police Colonel Anek Sarathongyoo and Deputy Inspector Anek Prasitboon, raided a notorious drug hotspot in Jomtien Soi 3. Undercover officers bought 0.20 grammes of Ice from 28 year old Sutee Petchamlerd. He was arrested immediately, with police seizing an additional 0.59 grammes of Ice and a meth pill. The story Pattaya woman arrested in undercover Ice sting as seen on Thaiger News.

Snake scare: Huge king cobra terrorises Pattaya backyard pondLegacyPattaya residents were left stunned after a gigantic 4.5-metre king cobra was discovered swimming in a garden pond, sparking fears for local safety. The rare and dangerous serpent was safely captured by authorities and is set to be released back into the wild, far away from homes. The drama unfolded in Soi Por Or Chieb, Khao Mai Kaew subdistrict, East Pattaya, when residents spotted the massive king cobra in a backyard pond at house number 186. The homeowner, shocked by the unexpected visitor, immediately alerted Jamnien Keetipakul, Chief Executive of the Khao Mai Kaew Subdistrict Administrative Organisation (SAO). Without delay, Jamnien sent Deputy Chief Buncha Udong and the SAO’s disaster prevention team to the scene to investigate and assist. Arriving at the sprawling property, covering more than 4 rai (approximately 1.6 acres), the rescue team spotted the enormous king cobra swimming in the pond. Using specialised snake-catching equipment, the team carefully captured the reptile, which measured an impressive 4.5 metres long — a length rarely seen in residential areas. The homeowner revealed this was not the first snake encounter on the property. Previously, a python had been spotted but mysteriously disappeared. This time, while tending the garden, the resident noticed the king cobra swimming and feared for their family’s safety. “We’ve never seen such a large king cobra here before,” the homeowner said, expressing relief after the snake’s capture. Authorities confirmed that the king cobra poses significant danger due to its venom and size. To protect the community, the snake will be safely transported and released into a remote natural habitat, away from residential zones, reported Pattaya Mail. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of dangerous animals to local authorities immediately. In another heart-stopping encounter today, a young man in Thailand woke at 3am to find a giant python coiled inside his toilet bowl, causing shock and horror. The man shared a chilling video in a Facebook group dedicated to Thai snakes, describing his terrifying encounter with the massive reptile in his bathroom. The story Snake scare: Huge king cobra terrorises Pattaya backyard pond as seen on Thaiger News.

Pattaya’s party problem: Festivals fuel chaos, neglect localsLegacyPattaya’s dazzling festivals and flashy events may light up the city, but not everyone is cheering. Long-term visitor Alan French has fired a stark warning to Pattaya’s mayor, claiming the city is losing its soul by prioritising spectacle over substance. In a blunt letter titled simply “Dear Sir,” French calls out Mayor Poramet Ngampichet for focusing too much on high-profile events like firework festivals, concerts, and themed parades, at the expense of the city’s infrastructure and residents’ quality of life. Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News “Maybe if this mayor would do his job and attend to the local infrastructure and services instead of wasting taxpayers’ money on vanity projects every other week, Pattaya might become a pleasant place to live,” French wrote. He blasted the current administration’s handling of traffic congestion, pollution, and chaos caused by the constant influx of visitors attracted by these events. “Traffic-clogged sois, pollution, and general disruption have become the norm,” French added, lamenting the city’s decline. French’s heartfelt plea echoes a growing unease among locals and foreigners alike, who feel Pattaya’s charm is being sacrificed for short-term tourism gains. While festivals bring excitement and tourist spending, they do little to address chronic problems like flooding, poor road conditions, noisy streets, and lax enforcement of regulations, reported Pattaya Mail. “It’s not that we don’t appreciate the events,” said a local guesthouse owner, “but how can we welcome more people when our roads are broken, sois flooded, and parking impossible?” Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail French’s letter is less about anger and more about frustration and love for Pattaya — a city he wants to see thrive sustainably. “Oh, for the return of pre-pandemic Pattaya,” he wrote. “At least then, things were more organised, and the city was a more pleasant place to live.” The message is clear: Pattaya’s leadership must shift focus from dazzling stage lights to the essentials — solid infrastructure, better services, and respect for those who call the city home all year round. The story Pattaya’s party problem: Festivals fuel chaos, neglect locals as seen on Thaiger News.