Overpriced taxi services are the leading complaint among foreign tourists, said the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT).

TCT's quarterly survey, which polled 200 Western tourists in Thailand during the final quarter of 2022, showed satisfaction with taxi services received the lowest score of 3.5 out of 5, with tourists saying this is the most critical problem that should be solved immediately.

The survey of tourists in Bangkok found they were not satisfied as taxi drivers often only take passengers without using the meter, which means drivers can charge higher prices.

TCT's president said the government can help by cooperating with private taxi firms to offer a different type of taxi service with a distinct label or sign, such as a white-coloured taxi, to guarantee the fares are based on the driver's meter.

He said if the distinct taxis became popular among tourists, they could compete with traditional taxis as tourists would only seek this service.

Another concern for tourists from Europe and the US is the entry process at the airport upon arrival, which received a score of 3.45 out of 5.

They also highlighted the problems of litter at many popular tourist sites and air pollution from hazardous PM2.5 dust.

The council suggested limiting the capacity at some popular attractions to avoid overcrowding.

The survey found 50% of respondents had travelled to Thailand before.

Some 98% were travelling for leisure purposes, with 93% choosing Bangkok and 50% Phuket as their travel destination.