A tuk-tuk took us to a "nice show" bar in Patpong. Two beers and a "cover charge" later, the bill was 12,000 baht and two large men stood by the door. We paid. This is the most famous racket in Bangkok.
🗓️ Scam date: 11 February 2026
📝 Reported: 23 September 2026
Landed at Suvarnabhumi around midnight and queued at the official taxi stand. The driver refused to start the meter, said "night rate, airport fee, highway" and demanded 1,600 baht — the metered fare is around 300. We paid because there was no other queue at that hour. Always insist on the meter or order a Grab.
🗓️ Scam date: 20 January 2026
📝 Reported: 21 September 2026
A tuk-tuk driver near Khao San Road offered a 20-baht "city tour". Twenty minutes later we were parked in front of a "government gem factory" with the engine off, and he refused to leave until we "just looked" for ten minutes. The gems were glass. Walk away from any too-cheap tuk-tuk offer.
🗓️ Scam date: 14 August 2025
📝 Reported: 16 September 2026
Taxi from Patong to Phuket Town, driver wanted 800 baht with no meter because "tourist price". A Grab for the same trip was 240 baht. He got aggressive when we walked away. Use the apps and never agree to a flat tourist fare.