14-11-2023 (BANGKOK) A Thai taxi driver found himself in an unexpected windfall after mistakenly taking a tourist to the wrong airport. The mix-up prompted the passenger to offer a “special payment” if the driver could still manage to reach the correct airport in time for the flight.
Despite the considerable distance between Don Mueang Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport, approximately 45 kilometers apart, the driver accepted the challenge. He successfully covered the distance in under 30 minutes, earning praise from the tourist.
In a surprising turn of events, the tourist handed the taxi driver two 500 Euro notes (equivalent to S$1,456) as a tip, instructing him to keep the change. The regular taxi fare for the journey amounted to around 677 baht, or S$25.54.
Some skeptics questioned the authenticity of the story, prompting the driver to provide evidence in the form of receipts. The driver defended the legitimacy of the 500 Euro notes by showcasing a receipt confirming their exchange for 37,600 baht.
Despite doubts from some netizens, the driver expressed his initial apprehension about accepting the unfamiliar currency. He acknowledged being cautious about potential scams but clarified that he eventually accepted the generous tip.
While the 500 Euro note is no longer being produced, it remains legal tender, with millions still in circulation as of July 2023.
