Originally Posted by
transpac
The general recommendation here over time seems to be to sort out all details of your trip BEFORE loading bags, getting in the taxi and moving. As you walk up to the taxi state your desire to use the meter, your destination and any special routing requests, and ask if that is OK. If you get anything other than a resounding "YES", turn back and get another ticket, or inquire about another taxi which will use the meter, with any personnel lounging about.
Within the past couple of years even this has become difficult. My recent experiences: the taxi man will agree to everything just to get you in the vehicle, and then change his tune. One even came straight out and said "you give me big tip" when announcing his fixed price.
I have switched to the Airport Link to BTS method to/from town. Pluses and minuses to be sure; but the deciding factor is not being treated like chump farang.
SL