That is a new twist. Usually with me, over the last few years, the driver takes off and after the тАШwelcome to Thailand bit, asks for 400 - 500 baht. The tip off here is they reach back with open hand for your receipt which is then quickly pocketed.. I play dumb and drag the conversation out for as long as possible and then insist on using the meter . . . scam driver gets a few less baht and I get a bit of satisfaction. He also gets 0 for a tip then. And to be fair, the few drivers who are honest about the whole thing get a nice tip and I make sure to tell them it is because they are honest.

I also have the correct change ready for each toll booth . . . lets the driver know I just might know Bangkok well enough to avoid them taking me on an excursion ride to jack up the fare.

These scams really are not a good way to introduce Thailand to new visitors . . . but then again, maybe they serve as an early warning to the unsuspecting.