BIG NEWS! Grab Taxi LEGAL @Thai Airports from APRIL 2024!

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When you arrive at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport you probably want to get to your final destination as quickly as possible and at a "fair" price.
A taxi is the best option, but there's too many stories about drivers refusing to use the meter, renegotiating the price, or switching you to another car away from he airport. You could order a car via one of the ride sharing apps, like Bolt or Grab, but they aven't had the legal right to pick up customers from the airport. UNTIL NOW!
Grab have signed an agreement with the AOT (Airports Authority of Thailand) enabling them to pick up customers from 4 Thai airports. At Bangkok they have a central pick-up point which is open 24/7.
But does it work as intended? Follow me as I attempt to cut out the hassle in getting a taxi from Suvarnabhumi Airport!

Опубликовано:

11 апр 2024

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Комментарии : 106

@WanderlustReports 2 месяца назад

Interesting to know. But only useful if they all "grab" you at the same point in the airport. I have no interest running through the airport with my suitcase to find my Grab.

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

I couldn't agree more. There's no point to a pick up point if they don't pick you up there! But I do think they'll get that sorted - if they want it to work!

@johnerdelyi4208 2 месяца назад

I just got back went to get to pattaya and the bus line was long and the next bus was 2hrs so next door i booked a ticket for 1300 baht and didn't have to wait 2hrs for a bus 😊 !

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

It sounds like you had a decent result. I like the bus, but not when it's a 2 hour wait. We'll done!

@stevep5093 2 месяца назад

I do the bus when possible since it is cheap and comfortable to me. But if I wanted to get to patts faster, this is a useful option!

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Thanks Steve. I've done reviews on the top bus services between Pattaya and the airport (from Jomtien Bus Station or Pattaya North Bus station) and they're both very good. My only issue is they're sometimes booked up so you need to wait and the journey time can be nearly 2 hours. Great value tho', if you have the time!

@tobyprice1092 2 месяца назад

Grab must be on the upper levels to avoid issues with the regular taxis? There is not a big saving there with grab. Typical Thai start I'm sure it will get better. I also heard Grab Phuket were charging the same as the taxi mafia. This is Thailand.

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Thanks, Toby. Well, it looks like they're there to stay on the 1st floor as they've got a more permanent building opening next month. I don't think Grab necessarily is much cheaper than a regular taxi IF the regular taxi plays by the rules. But too often, they don't. It will be interesting to see how this develops in Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai. More official choice should be a good thing...in theory!

@PREPFORIT 2 месяца назад

Wow, This is good to know! Thanks, B.C ! I wonder how long til a Brwl erupts between you know who..... The last time I was there was in early March. A Lady approached me and asked if I needed a taxi. She said she could get a good price. I said as long as it is no more than 1200 B and she agreed. It was a big SUV for just me and my backpack. but I was glad it was not a scam ! I made it to Pattaya with no problems I did tip as well/

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Thanks, PFI! I can see some of the regular taxi drivers getting upset if this takes business away from them. So, it's only a matter of time! I know sometimes you can get lucky, and sounds like you got a good deal, but the last thing I want to do after getting off a flight is take a chance. Hopefully, this should be less hassle overall!

@BushmanUKoriginal 2 месяца назад

When it settles, this will provide another option. Best way still stick with known providers and just wait 10 mins or so at the gate until the driver appears. Can you update us please as this progresses? I see the value being for the taxis FROM Pattaya getting a fare for the return trip. Watch out for bushes.

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Thanks. I agree it will be good when it's fully operational. I'll try to look again in a few weeks time to see if it's improved. But at least people can look out for it now! A bit like me with the bushes!

@TravelingNomad100 2 месяца назад

Used it a few times last week highly recommend!

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Hey! Many thanks for the update!! That's good news!

@thecryptostrategist2433 2 месяца назад

Why Grab only and not Bolt? I always used Bolt in Thailand and have no experience with Grab. A car from BKK to Pattaya costs 1100 Baht from one of the car services that run them. Always proved to be reliable for me. The taxi drivers are pure sharks and will always try higher prices.

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

The Airports Authority of Thailand have said they will offer the same facilities to other ride sharing apps in the future. So expect Bolt to be one of the next to sign an agreement. Some people have their favourite taxi to pick them up, but most people arriving just want to be able to get a reasonable taxi on the spot, and this should help with that, once it gets established. Thanks, David.

@arentol99 2 месяца назад

Bolt is a small time player.

@johnperrins545 2 месяца назад

I used Bolt from BKK Suv airport to Pattaya last week. The Bolt App said 1,058B but the driver messaged me saying it's actually 1,500B with the toll's. I'm pretty sure he was scamming me. However I was so tired I just accepted it. I will use Bolt again in a couple of weeks from Pattaya to BKK Asok. Should I have to pay extra for tolls please?

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

@@arentol99Smaller than grab certainly!

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

@johnperrins545 You should pay the toll, BUT it should be 105 Thai Baht.

@keithwinters3031 2 месяца назад

Another very useful vid. Well done.

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Thanks a lot for the positive comment!

@bigbopper6311 2 месяца назад

great vid BC. If grab want to keep everything covered maybe sell boots at their hub for people who want to walk to their destination.

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Thanks, BB. I did get the impression that some of the drivers didn't know that there was an official pick up point. But it's a new service so I reckon it will get better over time. Anything that gives honest competition to the established taxis is good in my book!

@jeffuk3940 2 месяца назад

I always use Jennys taxi in pattaya it's 1100bhat airport pickup and 1000 pattaya to Suvarnabhumi

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Thanks. A few people have said the same. Sounds like a good deal! It's the people who are arriving for the first time, or can't pre-book that sometimes get problems in my experience!

@jeffuk3940 2 месяца назад

@@balloonchaser Yes your right first time can be a daunting experience. But one idea is book a cheap airport hotel for the first night go down to level one and get a local taxi. Come back to the airport next morning having pre booked a bus service to your popular destination. Usually found on level one. But I enjoyed your vlog 👍

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

@jeffuk3940 Thanks, Jeff. Useful input, and a good idea for some people that's for sure! Cheers!

@jeffuk3940 2 месяца назад

@@balloonchaser Keep up the good work Sir

@MarkBates566 2 месяца назад

great video thanks

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Many thanks for the comment, Mark

@Goldfinger555 2 месяца назад

Great to see more options but this won’t be my choice. I always use a car service (like Angie’s Taxi) which has a consistent price irrespective of the time of day and consistent pickup points and proven drivers. You also always have the owner to provide direct feedback or request special services. But you have to reserve it well in advance (24 hours?) For me Grab is for short distances and more spontaneous needs. For example, I have never paid more than 1200 baht for the trip to Pattaya.

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Thanks for your comment. It makes perfect sense. I've seen a lot of satisfied customers with local taxi services like the one you mention and others. But I do like this idea as an alternative to the regular taxis for any journey that you can't book in advance. The more competition, the more all services will have to up their game which can only be a good thing. Airport taxi drivers haven't had the best reputation over the years! Anyway, thanks for your useful input!

@PeterEdwards45 2 месяца назад

Thanks BC good video , question how do you pay, can you pay cash or is it card.? Do you tip after long drive to Pattaya. ? My flight usually gets to BKK late so I prebook a limo ,no hassle and not much dearer.

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Thanks, Peter. To answer your question: 1. Many people pay by cash 2. You can probably see the QR code in my taxi's lovely pink interior. You can scan and pay 3. I actually use a system called GrabPay. It's connected to my Thai bank. When I order any taxi, it holds the expected fare, which is then released when the journey is successfully completed. Super convenient for me. But, obviously, if you have an arrangement that works well for you and is within your budget, stick with it. Last thing we need is extra hassle on arrival, I think.

@PeterEdwards45 2 месяца назад

@@balloonchaser Thanks for the info.

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

@PeterEdwards45 Forgot to say, I do tip for extra good service, but personally, I don't tip for "regular" service unless it's like 20 baht or something.

@VagabondRob555 2 месяца назад

Good Info. Cheers

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Thanks for your comment!

@PeterFreitag 2 месяца назад

You need a working Thai Sim Card to communicate with the Grab driver outside.

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Thanks, Peter. I'm assuming you need to be using the number you registered when you set up Grab to call "in app"? And also you can send message via the app?

@jimmyboysmovies1972 2 месяца назад

There will be teething problems hopefully when they say May it will be more organised. Iv only had 5 issues I think with taxis in 25 odd years of going to Thailand. The minute they say meter is broke I just say mi pen ri krup kun krup and get out . Only 1 tho at the airport the others were leaving hotels. Another great vlog enjoy Pattaya

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Many thanks, Jimmy. I think you are right. They'll sort it and it will improve the transport choices on offer at airports. And that can only be a good thing!

@jimmyboysmovies1972 2 месяца назад

@@balloonchaser yeah more choice will be better for visitors and then not so many meter issues all of a sudden 🫣 Happy Songkran and good luck for the year ahead 🍻

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

@@jimmyboysmovies1972 Many thanks and same to you, mate.

@PaulinAsia_ 2 месяца назад

I think Grab at airports is a great idea. Even with the teething problems, it's better than a taxi.

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

I think you might be right! I've had too many problems with the regular taxis. I'm bored with their games!

@BazW192 2 месяца назад

Why not book online before you leave home, I book airport to Pattaya, 1200 baht inc tolls, always waiting at gate 3 arrivals to escort yo to your taxi, there are many reliable taxi firms in Pattaya..

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

That's decent advice if you are a regular or experienced visitor. But, many people simply arrive at the airport, and want to get a fixed price, reliable taxi without pre booking.

@johnny_bravo9990 2 месяца назад

Care to name a few?

@BazW192 Месяц назад

@johnny_bravo9990 I don't need a few, but a 2 minute research will find you some...I use Nams Lady drivers..excellent, reliable

@NAG3 2 месяца назад

That's excellent news

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Yes, when it's working properly it will be good competition for the regular taxis.

@nagodio 2 месяца назад

Ive been to BKK 10 months ago and use the downstairs taxi thing you were at but i dont recall if It was fix or not .

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Thanks. 10 months ago they didn't have the option of grab. That's a new thing started from this month. Before you only had the option of a regular Bangkok taxi. Hopefully more competition leads to an improved service!

@nagodio 2 месяца назад

@@balloonchaser If we take the public taxi and he does the meter there no wait and all you do is go downstairs grab a ticket and go! And ask foe meter because if you refuse then driver has to go back on que and wait longer: for the grab it looks pretty difficult to find the floor and stand and maybe a change of pick up location and it seem there a long wait of people there? Is that right ?

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

@nagodio Although most public taxis are ok going into Bangkok a small minority are not. I've had taxis drive around in circles just to increase the metered fare, and several refuse to use the meter at all. As I mentioned in the video sometimes I'm forced to get out, whilst other times the taxi has taken me to a gas station miles from anywhere and told me to switch to another (non taxi) car. This is my actual experience. That's why I hope grab, by agreeing a price, and having a route map, provides a better alternative

@user-kz3rw2ol3s 2 месяца назад

I'm soon visiting pattaya for the 3rd time. I've learned the best way to do things after landing at bkk are. 1st get a sim. Thinking AIS but don't know if that'll be OK for kanchanaburi. Then go change money at super rich. Then get bus to pattaya.

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

It sounds like you have a good plan, there! 1. AIS should be fine for kanchanaburi 2. Superich has a good reputation. Many people just change a little money at the airport because you'll normally get a better rate once you arrive at the resort 3. The bus is a good option, and great value for money Enjoy your trip!

@tj66522 2 месяца назад

I usually buy the SIM in 7/11 only 199 baht for 30 days 30gb internet . The blue pack usually hanging on shelf or can ask for it. Do need your passport to get it.

@user-kz3rw2ol3s 2 месяца назад

@tj66522 thanks for info

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

@@user-kz3rw2ol3salthough 7 eleven don't sell AIS simcards. They have a deal with True. All should work at your destination tho'

@user-kz3rw2ol3s 2 месяца назад

@balloonchaser OK thanks. Tell me have u travelled from Pattaya to Kanchanaburi. How did u do it.

@freeagent.87 2 месяца назад

Does the lower priced rides include the toll to get to Pattaya?

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

No, I don't think any of their prices include the toll fee of 105 baht. So that's another thing to take into consideration! Thanks.

@titchlilly1294 2 месяца назад

Bus from airport to Pattaya $12 Aus. $2 from airport to Bangkok by train

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Yes, I reviewed the buses between pattaya and the airport in 2 previous videos, including the airport link into Bangkok. They are all good choices depending on exact final destination and how quickly you want to get there: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-ILAa0HltTbA.htmlsi=WGpV79X_NmnwlHZg ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-mllRzQ0swoE.htmlsi=KYuqOFGi_kyLyUPE

@titchlilly1294 2 месяца назад

@@balloonchaser no worries thanks

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

@titchlilly1294 always a pleasure. Thanks for your comment!

@Mickman007 2 месяца назад

I knew of a French guy Dominic who lived in Thaind and went home to France to do some business at that end and came back got a cab from DM (32 years ago) and was found dead near a village in Chonburi he was robbed and shot and they found a bunch of human hair in his hand where he put up a struggle, it was discovered he was killed by a driver that was also with a woman so I prefer to get the bus down to Pattaya .

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

My god that's a shocking story. What a terrible way to go. I think the details held on apps like grab and the in car security, make them much safer than 30 years ago. But you never know. Take whichever route makes you feel safe, I say.

@kjensen7819 2 месяца назад

That is why Apps so much better than just getting into any random car (taxi sign or not)

@tj66522 2 месяца назад

Think il just use my normal taxi service . 1200 baht always waiting at exit 3 no hassle. Nice big toyota camry.

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Definitely, if you find a good one, stick with it. They're gold dust around these parts 😀

@jahcSoft 2 месяца назад

That seems a little pricey. It's only 80 baht or so to catch the train to Sukhumvit? How far are you going? Etc. (Not an attack, just knowledge gathering for my next trip!)

@tj66522 2 месяца назад

@@jahcSoft to pattaya

@johnny_bravo9990 2 месяца назад

Name of the taxi company please

@tj66522 2 месяца назад

@@johnny_bravo9990 Nam's taxi or Angie's taxi both have lots of drivers use them for bookings . Can ask for female only if prefer

@mrlol1498 2 месяца назад

In Don mueng?

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Yes,, available at 4 airports in Thailand, including Don Mueang. I haven't tried from there yet, but it's been in operation a bit longer than at suvarnabhumi.

@PATThaiA 2 месяца назад

I always GRAB a bus to Pattaya นะ..

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

That's also a great option 😀

@MarkBates566 2 месяца назад

Bolt always try and ask for money

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

More money? I use bolt around 500 times a year, and that's happened to me 2 or 3 times. I keep a record of the conversation and send it to customer support who say they discipline the driver. Maybe they do. But an occasional problem for me.

@geofferyrobertson6608 2 месяца назад

not real cheap as one can get that price and even cheaper ......... I'm getting a taxi , already booked in 4 weeks time with TRIPLE M TAXI PATTAYA ..... from Suvamamabhumi to Bang Saray at a cost of ... sedan 1,200 baht ....... SUV 1,400 baht all inclusive of tolls now that's a great price as most charge more than that just to Pattaya and not forgetting Bang Saray is a further half hour drive south .......... I'll give you a report on here when I return home end of May your dead right about them thieves at the taxi stand downstairs , I got stitched once , never again

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Thanks, Geoffrey. Hope you have a great trip! Pre booked is normally a better deal, and your price sounds excellent. Yes, send an update, and I'm sure it will be better than some of the public taxis from the airport.

@geofferyrobertson6608 2 месяца назад

@@balloonchaser , yes the public ones are shit heads as a rule just con men

@geofferyrobertson6608 2 месяца назад

@@balloonchaser , I asked a thai taxi driver I had been using from airport to nana soi 4 to take me to Pattaya and asked how much , for memory I think it was 1,600 and I gave him the money before we left then asked him to turn on the meter and the meter came to 800 baht !!!!

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

@geofferyrobertson6608 Why does that not surprise me! Actually I've got a taxi from downtown Bangkok to Pattaya several times and paid less than the quotes from the airport to Pattaya. Some prices asked for are just a rip off. Hopefully, this initiative stops some of that!

@geofferyrobertson6608 2 месяца назад

@@balloonchaser personally I would have thought that Grab would have been a fair bit cheaper considering the charges in and around Pattaya but now I think Bolt have the market share

@peapaulofthailand6539 2 месяца назад

You'd Grab anything in that airport lol 🤣 well if you could find it

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Story of my life, Paul

@scottnewton3089 2 месяца назад

Don't get excited They'll change their minds tomorrow

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

As long as they change it back again the day after, Scott!

@MasterPiece-rg7ed 2 месяца назад

Its tomorrow now and they didnt change their minds..

@CerebralAptitude 2 месяца назад

For retirees moving to Bangkok in 2024, can you refer or interview Retirement Visa agents and approximate prices they charge?

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

It's an interesting idea; thanks for that. I certainly wouldn't want to endorse a particular agent because there's so many. But a video about different visa options sounds interesting. Thanks again.

@haydengrant7358 2 месяца назад

Angie taxi service 1200 Bhat pick up at gate 3 no hassle great service… 1200 Bhat no more pay nice cars too …. Thanks for your wonderful video cheers from kangaroo 🦘 land

@balloonchaser 2 месяца назад

Thanks for your comment. Another person commented here that they are a fan of that service, too! I also have my favourites, but for most first time arrivals, they just want to get in a taxi on the spot and be charged a reasonable amount without too much hassle! Regards to all kangarooland viewers!