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bring a tourist. And the commission is coming out of your pocket. How do I know? Because if you go back to the same parlor without the driver, the price will drop (about 10%). Also, if you pay attention, the driver will escort you inside the parlor; he's going inside to prove he brought you and collect his share. In short, the driver doesn't need to rob you because he's going to get your money by inflating the ride to the parlor and getting his cut. No harm done, just an inflated price for you.
If this is your first time in Bangkok and you are traveling with a friend, I think if you go (in the afternoon) with one of these drivers hanging outside the Ambassador parking lot, you will do fine. Actually, this is a good way to explore the massage parlors. In fact, take business cards from each parlor so the next time you can go on your own (i.e., take a meter taxi who will charge you a fare price for the ride and won't be getting any commission).
Now, if you do take a taxi ride with one of these guys who approaches you, be sure to negotiate the price round trip before you get in the taxi. Anything over 200 baht (round trip) is pushing it. Even that is high, but if he takes you to two or three parlors to check out, it's worth a first time visit.
Another scam which seems to have popped up in the tourist areas lately Is Thais selling time share rentals. This is definitely a scam (the prices are highly inflated) and if any asshole starts up with their line about time share
(they will use very cute girls to lure you in), tell them to fuck off. (Actually, if one of the salesman is a cute girl, give her your hotel card with your name and room number on it and ask her to visit you after work).
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