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WWW.PATTAYAMAIL.COMExposing Price Gouging – Thai woman pretends to be a foreigner, gets quoted outrageous taxi fare to SiamA Thai woman goes undercover as a foreign tourist to reveal shocking overcharging by local taxi drivers. PATTAYA, Thailand – Drama over Thai taxis isn’t over yet! A Thai woman disguised herself as a foreign tourist and took a taxi for a 10-kilometer ride to Siam, only to be quoted fares as high as 700 baht. The incident has reignited fierce online criticism of Thailand’s taxi services. The issue of overcharging by Thai taxi drivers has resurfaced on social media after a Facebook user named Ketmanee Bualuang shared her shocking experience. She decided to conduct a personal experiment by pretending to be a foreign tourist and hailed taxis from the Bangkok suburbs, aiming to reach central Bangkok — specifically, the Siam area, which is only about 10 kilometers away. Instead of receiving the famous Thai smile or a warm “Welcome to Thailand,” she was repeatedly quoted flat rates with no meter usage. The prices were shockingly inflated and inconsistent. From 200 to 700 Baht for Just 10 Kilometers Ketmanee reported that the first taxi she flagged down asked for 200 baht — already considerably higher than the standard metered fare. When she tried a second cab, the driver asked for 300 baht. But the most outrageous demand came from the third taxi, whose driver asked for 700 baht, citing reasons like “traffic jam” and “this road is hard to drive.” He also flatly refused to use the meter, despite the trip being a short 10 kilometers. The incident triggered a fresh wave of public backlash online, reigniting long-standing complaints about Thai taxi services — particularly the issues of refusing to use meters and charging unjustified flat rates. Both locals and tourists often face these problems, which has led to a growing mistrust in Thailand’s public transportation system. Social media explodes after a Thai woman exposes outrageous flat-rate taxi fares as high as 700 baht for a short ride to Siam. Are Thai Taxis Incapable of Change? Netizens React Ketmanee’s post quickly went viral, with thousands of netizens flooding the comments. Many shared similar experiences, especially in tourist-heavy areas like airports, shopping malls, and tourist attractions. One commenter wrote in frustration: “When I’m in Japan, I feel confident in both the quality and the price of taxi services. But in my own country, I have to be afraid of being ripped off.” Another quipped: “700 baht? That’s enough for a round-trip flight to Pattaya!” While a few users sympathized with taxi drivers and acknowledged the rising cost of living, the majority insisted that refusing to use the meter and inflating prices was simply unacceptable, especially when compared to app-based ride services, which offer transparency, clear pricing, and the ability to report problems after the ride. Traditional Taxis vs. Ride-Hailing Apps: A Clear Disparity Many Thai commuters have shifted to using ride-hailing apps like Grab, Bolt, or InDrive, citing convenience, safety, and price certainty. Meanwhile, some traditional taxi drivers argue that these apps create unfair competition. Recently, a group of taxi drivers submitted a petition to the Thai Government House, protesting the decision to allow ride-hailing services like Grab to pick up passengers at Suvarnabhumi Airport — a territory previously reserved for traditional airport taxis. They claim that this decision takes away their income and called for protective measures for traditional taxi operators. Taxi drivers caught demanding 2–3 times the normal fare from a woman posing as a foreign visitor—sparking public outrage. However, many passengers stand firm in their belief that: “Choosing a ride service is a passenger’s right.” They argue that if traditional taxis want people to return, they must improve their service quality to match the app-based alternatives. Is the Meter Issue a Few Bad Apples or a Broken System? One key question remains: is this problem caused by just a few rogue drivers, or is it a sign of systemic failure? According to transportation experts, the repeated nature of these incidents points to weak law enforcement. Many taxi drivers operate without fear of penalties. Even if they are caught, the fines are minor, allowing them to return to the same behavior quickly. Moreover, the process of issuing taxi licenses fails to sufficiently vet driver quality and integrity, leading to public distrust in the safety and fairness of the system. Tourists Getting Scammed: A Threat to Thailand’s Image? Ketmanee may be Thai, but her social experiment aimed to see what would happen if she were perceived as a foreigner — and the results were telling. Her experience reflects the vulnerability of actual foreign tourists, many of whom also fall prey to inflated fares and poor service. These problems could damage Thailand’s international reputation as a tourist destination. Several travel websites now include warnings about using taxis in Thailand — especially at airports and bus terminals — and recommend using ride-hailing apps instead to avoid being scammed. Over time, this kind of advice may erode trust in Thailand’s transport sector and push tourists toward countries with better public transportation standards. Viral post reveals dual pricing culture in Bangkok taxis, reigniting debate on fairness and tourism image. How Can We Solve the Taxi Scamming Problem? To fix the issue of taxi overcharging in a sustainable way, multiple sectors must work together — including the Department of Land Transport, tourism authorities, tourist police, and private companies. Here are some proposed solutions: Enforce stricter monitoring of taxis that refuse to use meters Use technology like CCTV, GPS, and real-time complaint systems to catch and penalize offenders quickly. Provide ongoing education and training for taxi drivers Improve their professionalism and rebuild trust in the traditional taxi industry. Integrate traditional taxis into ride-hailing apps Allow registered taxis to join platforms like Grab or Bolt, increasing transparency and income opportunities. Encourage public participation Make it easy for passengers to report misconduct — through apps or hotlines — and ensure swift follow-up action. What Ketmanee exposed isn’t a new problem — it’s an old wound reopened. It starkly illustrates the painful reality of Thailand’s taxi system. If society continues to ignore such behavior, the country’s image as a world-class tourist destination may come under question once again. Because at the end of the day, trustworthiness is what both tourists and locals want from public transportation — not the constant fear of being ripped off just for being a passenger.0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 45 مشاهدة
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WWW.PATTAYAMAIL.COM‘For Everyone, or Just Tourists?’—Ticket hikes alone won’t fix Pattaya’s road safety crisis2,000 baht helmet fine starts June 1 — safety move or just revenue? critics say fines alone won’t stop Pattaya’s road carnage. PATTAYA, Thailand – As Pattaya gears up for a new 2,000 baht fine for not wearing a helmet starting June 1, questions swirl over whether stiffer penalties will actually curb the city’s alarming rate of road accidents — or simply pad government coffers. With one of the highest per-capita rates of motorbike accidents in Thailand, Pattaya’s roads have become a daily gamble for both tourists and locals. Authorities hope the tougher fines will scare riders into compliance. But critics argue it’s a band-aid solution on a system that needs surgery. “Is Thailand serious about road safety — or just getting better at collecting fines?” one long-term resident asked in response to the announcement. The skepticism is widespread, especially among those who’ve seen the same cycle repeat for years: a tragic accident, a reactionary policy, and no real change. Some even highlight the irony of enforcement. “I was once fined for not wearing a helmet by a policeman who also wasn’t wearing one,” a frustrated expat shared. Others ask the obvious: “For everyone, or just for tourists?” The sentiment that road safety must begin with education, not just punishment, is echoed by many. “Handing out fines will do nothing worthwhile unless it starts with education at school,” wrote one commenter. Without instilling a culture of safety and responsibility from a young age, fines risk being seen not as deterrents — but as a cost of doing business on two wheels. Even beyond Pattaya, concern is rising. “They should make this law throughout all of Thailand,” one person said. “I can’t believe the number of tourists riding around Hua Hin without helmets.” Ultimately, solving Pattaya’s road safety crisis requires more than high fines. It demands consistent enforcement, universal application, and long-term education. Otherwise, the city may continue to lead the country in both tourism — and trauma ward admissions.0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 51 مشاهدة
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WWW.PATTAYAMAIL.COMMafia Face-Off – Pattaya battles rogue motorcycle rentals taking over public parking, wins local supportCity Hall reclaims public parking from rogue rentals — locals say, “It’s About Time”. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya City is ramping up efforts to address long-standing problems with unauthorized motorcycle rentals monopolizing public parking spaces. Mayor Poramet Ngampichet, known as “Mayor Beer,” announced a coordinated campaign to resolve the issue in partnership with Banglamung District authorities, the Royal Thai Police, and the provincial Department of Land Transport. The crackdown aims to prevent rental operators from illegally occupying public parking areas across Pattaya and Banglamung for commercial use—an issue that has caused daily headaches for both tourists and local residents. “This isn’t just about parking—it’s about fairness, tourism image, and reclaiming public space,” said Mayor Beer. “We will not tolerate businesses that disrupt public order and harm the experience for legitimate visitors.” The initiative has already sparked an overwhelmingly positive response on social media, with residents praising city hall’s decisive stance. “There are so many rental bikes taking over public spaces that visitors can’t find anywhere to park,” one local commented. Another added, “I was once told to move my bike because I parked near rental bikes—on a public street!” Many residents expressed frustration that some operators act with impunity, often backed by foreign owners and local enforcers, creating what they describe as “rental mafia” zones in the city’s tourist areas. Online comments echoed calls for broader reform: “Enforce this all the time, not just for show.” “While you’re at it, deal with street food vendors and mafia-like behavior.” “Street food is fine—but it must be clean, fair, and respectful of public space.” Some also demanded stricter fines and stronger oversight of rental shops, suggesting that the problem goes beyond simple parking issues and into larger questions of urban management, tourism ethics, and respect for public order. As Pattaya continues to brand itself as a global tourist destination, residents hope this effort signals a new era of discipline and fairness in how the city is run. As one commenter put it bluntly, “If others won’t do it, we will. It’s our city too.”0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 48 مشاهدة
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WWW.PATTAYAMAIL.COMIs it fair to compare tourists and expats when it comes to reviving Pattaya’s economy?Who really keeps Pattaya alive — big-spending tourists or long-staying expats? As the baht stays strong and the streets quiet, the debate heats up. (Photo – Jomtien Beach, Pattaya) PATTAYA, Thailand – As Thailand continues to grapple with a turbulent economic recovery, one debate dominates Pattaya’s forums, bars, and coffee shops: who contributes more to the local economy — foreign tourists or long-term expats? Supporters of the tourist-led model argue that high-spending holidaymakers are Pattaya’s economic lifeblood. “Pattaya relies on tourists spending a couple of thousand pounds a week, not expats,” one commenter claimed. Another added, “My friends that come over always spend upwards of 3,000 a week (not including accommodation).” These short-term visitors frequent high-end bars, pay bar fines, dine out daily, and often spend impulsively. But some locals and expats question the reality behind such figures. “What tourists? A couple of £1000 a week sure… in your dreams,” one long stayer scoffed. “Since the Chinese stopped coming, and everything used to be prepaid, now it’s a steady dribble. The western market is non-existent.” Others argue that expats bring long-term value. “I’ve been living and working here 35 years,” said one foreign resident. “It’s far better than a few years ago. It’s OK — I can survive.” Still, critics say that survival spending doesn’t move the economic needle. “I have expat friends who go out once a week. They’re home by 1am. I don’t see them bell-ringing or paying 2k bar fines,” another person noted. Underlying all of this is the elephant in the room: the strength of the Thai baht. A rising baht makes Thailand more expensive for foreign visitors, eroding their spending power. “The Thai baht must weaken, or Pattaya faces its worst low season in over a decade,” one commentator warned. Some dismiss the alarm: “Worst low season in a decade? Forgotten COVID already?” Others blame global economics: “Trump is the reason for the weakening dollar with his crazy tariffs.” However, many agree that Thailand’s problems go beyond currency. “Nothing to do with the baht,” one commenter wrote. “It’s the greed of businesses… what normal family wants to holiday with a load of potheads?” Others point to dual pricing and ever-rising costs as deterrents. “Greed is killing this place. Maybe other countries are more worth visiting now.” While some welcome the thinning crowds — “Keeps the riff raff out,” one quipped — others lament the fading buzz. “I’m not seeing as many honeys this summer because of that.” Ultimately, comparing expats and tourists may miss the bigger picture. Each group brings different benefits and burdens. But without a clear, realistic national strategy that addresses both short-term spending and long-term sustainability, Pattaya risks drifting through another rainy season with more questions than answers.0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 51 مشاهدة
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WWW.PATTAYAMAIL.COMEngine Breakdown – Thailand no longer a tourist paradise as scams, safety fears, and regional rivals take a tollIn August 2024, a 62-year-old British tourist was violently assaulted and robbed of gold bracelet on Phuket’s Bangla Road — highlighting growing safety risks as Thailand loses ground to safer, better-value destinations like Vietnam. PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand’s tourism industry, once a pillar of its economy, is now facing serious challenges that could derail the country’s ambitious goals for 2025. Despite a wide range of incentives and visa-free schemes, the number of international tourists entering Thailand is actually declining. From January 1 to May 18, Thailand welcomed 13.41 million international tourists, a 1.75% drop compared to the same period in 2023, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. These visitors generated 632.91 billion baht in revenue—still far off the 3 trillion baht target set by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), which is hoping for 40 million foreign visitors this year. The top five countries for tourist arrivals are: China – 1,829,439 Malaysia – 1,731,660 Russia – 932,066 India – 879,942 South Korea – 637,553 Despite aggressive tourism campaigns, visa waivers for 93 countries, and cooperation with airlines, online travel agencies, and tour operators, Thailand is still struggling to attract visitors. Global economic slowdown, geopolitical tensions, and fierce regional competition—especially from Vietnam—are key factors dragging Thailand down. One major concern is safety, particularly for Chinese tourists. In recent years, warnings have circulated online about risks such as kidnappings, organ trafficking, and scams involving criminal syndicates. Vietnam, with its lower costs and improving infrastructure, is quickly winning over Chinese travelers who are wary of visiting Thailand. There are also long-standing issues eroding Thailand’s image: Overcharging and scams by taxis, tuk-tuks, and vendors Lack of price transparency Petty crime and drug access in tourist zones The decriminalization of cannabis has also raised red flags. Corporate groups from abroad that once brought employees to Thailand for conferences and seminars are now canceling trips after workers reportedly experimented with cannabis and even tried to smuggle it back—sometimes getting arrested at immigration checkpoints. Most recently, UK media reported that backpackers are being targeted by Thai criminal gangs who offer them free holidays in paradise-style destinations like Koh Samui, along with drugs and alcohol, and pay them £2,000 (87,800 baht) to carry “packages” back to the UK—packages that often turn out to be cannabis or other drugs. Many young travelers have already been caught and arrested. If the Thai government fails to respond urgently to these issues, the country risks losing its status as a top global destination—and with it, one of its most crucial economic engines. The tourist collapsed onto a black garbage bag by the roadside before being kicked again and having their bag snatched by a Thai man. A woman pleaded for him to stop. The tourist, bloodied on the face, shouted for help to call the police.0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 54 مشاهدة
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WWW.PATTAYAMAIL.COMSome expats may smile, but the absence of Chinese tourists in Pattaya and Bangkok hurts more than you thinkSome expats may smile but the absence of Chinese tourists is hammering Pattaya and Bangkok harder than expected threatening the livelihoods of 4.6 million tourism workers and 10.6 million more in related sectors. (Photo – Bali Hai Pier, South Pattaya in May) PATTAYA, Thailand – Some long-term visitors in Pattaya may quietly welcome the slower pace, fewer buses, and shorter queues. But behind the smiles, Thailand’s tourism-dependent economy is feeling the pressure from an absence that’s growing harder to ignore — the Chinese traveler. Once the backbone of Thailand’s mass tourism engine, Chinese tourists are now increasingly choosing alternative destinations like Japan and Vietnam. According to the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), charter flights from China to Thailand could drop by as much as 68% later this year. The data shows a sharp change in preferences: while Japan has seen flight increases of 53% compared to last year, Thailand faces cancellations, shrinking capacity, and rising ticket prices. The economic impact is deep and widespread. In Bangkok, the effects are especially visible in once-bustling street food neighborhoods like Yaowarat (Chinatown) and Banthat Thong Road, where Chinese tourists made up a large share of nightly foot traffic. Vendors report quieter streets, fewer queues, and, in some cases, permanent closures. These iconic areas — known for their vibrant food scenes — are feeling the absence of Chinese customers more than most, as the economic ripple reaches far beyond just the tourist hotspots. Meanwhile, in Pattaya, local businesses that once catered almost exclusively to group tours and high-spending Chinese travelers are having to rethink their survival. From empty beachfront seafood restaurants to dormant souvenir markets, the city is facing a quieter — and less profitable — high season. While Western visitors and digital nomads are returning in steady numbers, they tend to spend differently and often avoid the high-volume shopping and dining habits typical of group travelers from China. The Thai tourism industry is sounding the alarm. Adith Chairattananon, Secretary-General of the ATTA, warns that the drop in Chinese tourism is not just about visitor numbers — it threatens the livelihoods of 4.6 million tourism sector workers, with another 10.6 million in related industries potentially affected. Private operators are already lobbying the Thai government through the Federation of Thai Tourism Associations (FETTA), requesting urgent measures to reverse the trend. Among the proposals: inviting top Chinese leaders to Thailand for the 50th anniversary of Thai-China diplomatic relations on July 1, improving public safety perceptions through international media campaigns, and revisiting the visa-free policy by reducing the maximum stay to 15 days to align with diplomatic expectations. FETTA also urges support for 1,000 special charter flights, which could bring an estimated 200,000 tourists and generate over 10 billion baht in revenue. Funding of 500 million baht has been proposed for the initiative, alongside an additional 50 million baht for marketing roadshows across China and other emerging Chinese-speaking markets. For now, the smiles may still be visible in Pattaya and Bangkok — but they’re stretched thinner than ever. Behind them lies an increasingly fragile tourism ecosystem, one that needs more than just Western wanderers to survive.0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 50 مشاهدة
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