I was looking at pre-booking AOT for my transfer to Pattaya on arrival and was suprised to see the price being quoted in excess of B3000. I've used them once previously to get to Pattaya and I don't remember it being over B2000. I thought I'd check to see if anyone else had noticed price increases with AOT, as to be honest both the app and website are terrible for booking and I wondered if it could be throwing me an unusual price. I sent an enquiry to Nam's taxi who have a much more reasonable rate and have lot's of fans on the Pattaya forum, but I normally like the convenience of AOT. Not at that price though! Edit: just checked, I paid B2280 in October!

Yes, correct. Separate ticket machine for vans! Also possible to order a van from Grab.

From memory there are options for larger vehicles at the public taxi rank.

I normally travel alone and either use an AOT Limo, Bolt or public taxi into Sukhumvit from airport based on if client is paying or not. This trip its 4 people with luggage, can I pick up a van suitable in the taxi ramp or Bolt and do I need to pre-book Thanks 

I think avoid the chain based optical shops, Top Charoen is the leading company and are very expensive. Independent places are a lot more reasonable with options that are stylish but not necessarily designer brands. That said, convincing a Ladyboy to take a regular brand over a designer brand will take some doing!