BIG NEWS! Grab Taxi LEGAL @Thai Airports from APRIL 2024!
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 27 ก.ย. 2024
- 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!
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.
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!
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/
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!
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.
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!
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!
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!
@@stevep5093 can I ask using the bus how do you know where to get off in pattaya?
@@Mrsuitcase742 the bus has one stop in Jomtien or Pattaya and then I walk, do grab, or another transport (baht bus, etc). It doesn’t stop at each hotel. Slight inconvenience but you can save money if you have the time and patience. Lately I just take a taxi and it’s 1800 baht from BKK because the bus has such a long wait
Used it a few times last week highly recommend!
Hey! Many thanks for the update!! That's good news!
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.
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!
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.
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!
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
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!
@@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 🍻
@@jimmyboysmovies1972 Many thanks and same to you, mate.
I always use Jennys taxi in pattaya it's 1100bhat airport pickup and 1000 pattaya to Suvarnabhumi
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!
@@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 👍
@jeffuk3940 Thanks, Jeff. Useful input, and a good idea for some people that's for sure! Cheers!
@@balloonchaser
Keep up the good work Sir
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.
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!
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.
@tj66522 thanks for info
@@tonyRoberts-c4yalthough 7 eleven don't sell AIS simcards. They have a deal with True. All should work at your destination tho'
@balloonchaser OK thanks. Tell me have u travelled from Pattaya to Kanchanaburi. How did u do it.
Sounds stupid if grab was illegal? Like if a person grab a grab to airport and he is left without to pickup
Yes, Grab wasn't legal, and that's the current position for all the other ride-hailing apps like Bolt. I'm NOT defending it, but the theory was that they only allowed licensed taxis to pick up at the airport before, licensed in terms of having the appropriate insurance etc., to carry fare paying passengers. That could be an issue with ride hailing cars owned by private individuals.
You need a working Thai Sim Card to communicate with the Grab driver outside.
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?
I will still get the bus from floor 1 exit 7 to Pattaya, thay run every hour when there busy sometimes they put 2 bus's on, only 143 baht and takes less then 2 hours, and more comfortable then any taxis 😮
Yes, that's also a good choice. I've used it many times. Think this Grab news is useful for those going to other places, including Bangkok & Pattaya, because Grab go all over the place now! Thanks for your commment!
Another very useful vid.
Well done.
Thanks a lot for the positive comment!
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 .
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.
That is why Apps so much better than just getting into any random car (taxi sign or not)
Bus from airport to Pattaya $12 Aus. $2 from airport to Bangkok by train
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:
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@@balloonchaser no worries thanks
@titchlilly1294 always a pleasure. Thanks for your comment!
Think il just use my normal taxi service . 1200 baht always waiting at exit 3 no hassle. Nice big toyota camry.
Definitely, if you find a good one, stick with it. They're gold dust around these parts 😀
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!)
@@jahcSoft to pattaya
Name of the taxi company please
@@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
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..
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.
Care to name a few?
@johnny_bravo9990 I don't need a few, but a 2 minute research will find you some...I use Nams Lady drivers..excellent, reliable
How to book, can you help us please
great video thanks
Many thanks for the comment, Mark
Hi dear
Just I want to know which level exactly I can book grab taxi in suvarnabhumi airport if you don't mind please
I've been back since making this video, and all the grab taxis pick up from the central location, which is located at Gate 4 on the first floor of the airport passenger terminal.
I always GRAB a bus to Pattaya นะ..
That's also a great option 😀
Bolt always try and ask for money
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.
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.
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.
@@balloonchaser Thanks for the info.
@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.
Rifht so can you make this simple andbtell us how exactly do you get a grab taxi to pattaya? Your video is all over the place
1. Follow the signs for Public Taxi to Level 1 (Ground Floor)
2. Exit the building using Gate 4
3. In front of you is the Green coloured Grab piick-up point
4. Order your taxi from there using your phone
5. Wait in line for the despatcher to call out your taxi's registration plate number
6. Locate your taxi in the line of taxis
@@balloonchaser thank you brilliant explanation. I do not feel sorry for yellow taxis they have robbed people for years. Something the jet ski guys do too. Has it ever occurred to these people if you keep an honest service you'll make more money in the long run!
@Mrsuitcase742 Thanks. I agree that competition of this sort has got to be good for passengers. Hopefully, the regular taxi drivers will start to use their meters for every short trip into Bangkok and offer the meter or honest fares to places further away, such as Pattaya. I'm not holding my breath, though 😀
Does the lower priced rides include the toll to get to Pattaya?
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.
In Don mueng?
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.
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
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.
@@balloonchaser , yes the public ones are shit heads as a rule just con men
@@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 !!!!
@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!
@@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
Don't get excited
They'll change their minds tomorrow
As long as they change it back again the day after, Scott!
Its tomorrow now and they didnt change their minds..
You'd Grab anything in that airport lol 🤣 well if you could find it
Story of my life, Paul
For retirees moving to Bangkok in 2024, can you refer or interview Retirement Visa agents and approximate prices they charge?
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.
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
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!
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.
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.
Bolt is a small time player.
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?
@@arentol99Smaller than grab certainly!
@johnperrins545 You should pay the toll, BUT it should be 105 Thai Baht.
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 😊 !
It sounds like you had a decent result. I like the bus, but not when it's a 2 hour wait. We'll done!
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.
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!
What’s the cheapest way to Patt after midnight arrivals?
If your flight arrives after midnight you only really have the choice of a taxi, unless you wait until morning at 07.00 when the first bus leaves. A taxi with Grab is probably around 1200 Thai Baht. There are some individual taxi operators that advertise on Facebook that can be as cheap as 1000 baht, but I've never used one of those myself.
Can we take Bolt at the bangkok airport now?
Officially, no, as Grab and registered taxis are the only cars licensed to pick up. Unofficially, yes, many Bolt drivers hang around the arrivals level after dropping off customers. Some also on the top floor. Therefore, you'll find Bolt drivers available. In my experience, some will try to negotiate a higher fare and maybe switch you to another vehicle away from the airport. It's a bit more a case of luck when using bolt. But it can be done!
@@balloonchaser maybe do grab. Hopefully alot cheaper than regular Taxi. I'm going to Bang kapi area what would be the best suggestions to get there? Grab is Kool however I don't know if Bang Kapi is too too far from airport. Whats your suggestions? Rideshare or public transportation?
@justice4all997 I've been to Bang Kapi many times when I lived in Bangkok. It's not too far from the airport. I think Grab would be a good choice unless it's crazily busy, in which case a public taxi might still be an option. But you'd need to make it clear you want them to use the meter before getting inside the taxi. Good luck!
I think Grab at airports is a great idea. Even with the teething problems, it's better than a taxi.
I think you might be right! I've had too many problems with the regular taxis. I'm bored with their games!
Good Info. Cheers
Thanks for your comment!
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 .
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!
@@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 ?
@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
@@nagodiothey won't put meter on mate they scam you ..
That's excellent news
Yes, when it's working properly it will be good competition for the regular taxis.