[Cyncceply]

I was lucky enough to work in Bangkok for 3 years from 2000 - 2003.
Most of my workmates were university educated Thais and paid 10,000 - 13,000 baht.
Westerners in Bangkok at the time earned considerably more.

Relative to their income, most westerners do very well in Thailand.
English teachers can expect up to 30,000, which is almost triple the wage of an educated Thai person. Most Westerns have a much better life in Thailand, than the one led in their country, so I see little reason for complaint.

I speak Thai, so am able to get lower prices than a non-Thai speaker.
However, When I came back to the UK, a Thai friend firstly went to buy me
a plane ticket and was charged 18,000 bt. I went to the same agent myself
1 hour later and got the ticket for 13,000 bt. 5,000 cheaper than 'Thai Price'.

Ultimately, I believe that all inter-personal interaction depends on the 2 people invloved. If the vendor takes to you, then you will likely get a cheaper price. If not, then you probably won't. And speaking Thai can certainly help build more of a rapport.

SW