Bangkok Info - Travel Around

Taxi
Metered taxis are the most popular form of public transport for visitors to Bangkok. Simply wait roadside for one to appear and wave it down. Most drivers will recognise the names of hotels or tourist areas, but if in doubt, it's always good to have a map handy to show where you are going. Occassionally you might been turned down if the driver is not sure or the location is out of his way (if late in the shift). Always check that the driver has actually turned his meter on - some will try and set a price with you beforehand, and some will feign forgetfulness thereby making it difficult to ascertain how much you should pay when you actually arrive - usually you end up paying too much. Passengers are responsible for tollway fees if using the expressway, and if coming from the airport, a surcharge of 50 Baht is also applied (for taxi's from the official metered taxi rank only).

Bus
Because most places of interest around Bangkok are located on one of the numerous public bus routes, bus travel is actually one of the most convenient methods of getting around the city. Armed with a bus route map (available at most book stores) and a lot of loose change, you can get to practically anywhere you want to go within the city for as little as 3.5 Baht for the non-airconditioned "cram 'em in" variety, or a maximum 30 Baht for an airconditioned micro bus where seating is guaranteed (but routes are limited). Do beware of pickpockets in crowded buses and observe the specially reserved seats for monks at the bus entrance.

Sky
Train Bangkok's newest form of public transport runs above the main streets of the central business area. This elevated rail system offers services from early morning til late at night, providing an efficient, speedy alternative for commutes between areas along Sukhumvit, Siam Square, Silom and out to Mor Chit. Fares range from 15 to 40 Baht and plans have been made to extend the service to outlying areas. Tourists will find the Skytrain a joy to use as most shopping districts lie close to the route, cutting down the necessity to be overexposed to Bangkok's inner city traffic snarls.

Tuk-Tuk
Favoured by the brave and those who don't mind noise and pollution, these three-wheeled open-air vehicles can get you around local areas, but are not recommended for long distances across town. Tell the driver where you're going and agree on the price before getting in and make sure you have small change to pay the fare (most trips will cost in the vicinity of 20 -80 Baht).

By Foot
Many would find the climate in Bangkok prohibitive to walking any further than from an airconditioned car to an airconditioned hotel room or store, however at particular times of the year, and for those who are acclimatized, Bangkok seen by foot is fascinating and worthwhile. In areas such as Silom, Siam and Sukhumvit, it is possible to walk along newly constructed pathways in relative comfort. Elsewhere, there is a lack of sidewalks, and those that do exist tend to be choked up by vending stalls and parked vehicles - so care must be taken. Some areas - such as China Town- can only be seen by foot as all the action and colour appears off the main streets in little lanes wide enough for small motorbikes and pedestrians to pass through.

The coolest months of the year are December and January, when the evenings are perfect for strolling along to look out for bargains at street stalls and see what Bangkok people are up to before choosing a restaurant to dine in, then walk home.

Motorcycle
Taxis During the day and night, groups of motorcyclists can be seen lurking on street corners or cruising the streets wearing coloured vests and trying to get your attention. These are the motorcycle taxi drivers who will take you anywhere around town for a fee. The price can vary depending on the distance you want to travel and your bargaining skills. Not the safest mode of transport but can be convenient.

River and Canal Boats
Bangkok's former most popular mode of transport, the river boat served those living along the Chao Phraya River and up along the many canals or klongs of the inner city. Still a convenient method of transport from one end of the river to the other, a regular ferry service shuttles up and down the river daily, stopping at piers on both sides of the river, and providing tourists with a glimpse of life on the water. Canal boats still operate in the inner city areas, but are loosing their appeal to commuters as safer, more convenient modes of public transport develop. Longtail boats can be hired from most piers along the river if you wish to explore the smaller canals at your own leisure. An hour-long tour around the canals will cost around 600 Baht.

Helicopter
For those times you really need to get around fast, helicopter services are available for airport transfers, sightseeing tours and emergency transfers, from heliports located atop major hotels in the city. Contact Si-Chang Flying Service for details on 6550186.