Transport in Thailand: original and classic. Types of transport in Thailand
If long-distance transport in Thailand is developed quite well, then with urban public transport everything is much worse. It is very inconvenient to use it, and in some cities it is not available at all. Only in Bangkok and major cities Isana public transport vaguely resembles an organized system.
In all other places, it is much easier to rent a tuk-tuk, motorcycle taxi, take a songthaew or walk. In some cities or islands, such as Chiang Mai, Hua Hin or Koh Samui is better generally rent a motorbike and learn how to ride it.
songteo
Songteo is the main public transport in Thailand. It vaguely resembles our minibuses. The word itself is translated as "two benches", which, in general, fully reflects the essence of this type of transport. This is a passenger pickup truck, where instead of a standard body, a special one is installed, designed to carry passengers. The sides of the body are half-open, two long benches are fixed along them.
In Pattaya and Phuket, this type of transport is often called a tuk-tuk. Guides make such a mistake in their stories, after which all tourists pick up this funny and easy-to-remember word.
To get out in right place, you must press a special button, which is located on the ceiling. The car is designed for 10-12 seats, and a few more people can ride standing on the rear footboard. In fact, it is not as dangerous as it seems from the outside. You need to get into the songteo from behind. Just do not try to sit there with a giant backpack, it is better to take it off first.
Prices
On average, a songthaew trip will cost you 10 baht. Although the islands have higher prices: in Phuket - from 20 baht, on Koh Samui from 50 baht, and on Pha Ngan from 100 baht. The driver must pay the fare after getting out of the car.
Routes
But do not think that everything is so simple! The main problem is that it is almost impossible to understand where the songteo is going. Several cities have a clear numbering of routes, in some the direction is written in Thai. But in most cases, traditional Thai confusion makes itself felt, and if locals perfectly understand what kind of songteo they need, then a foreigner has to act at random. With suburban songthaews, things are a little better, because there, most often, the route is immediately clear. When traveling, keep in mind that in the late afternoon, cars start working as a regular taxi, and the fare increases significantly.
Mototaxi
These are the most common Thai motorbikes, whose drivers are engaged in transportation. To have the right to wait for passengers in specially designated areas and wear a colored vest, the driver must first obtain a license. Simply "bombing" in Thailand is not accepted. This mode of transport is the most common in small towns, despite the fact that it is far from the cheapest. Mototaxi is an ideal option for those who travel alone and light. The fare starts from 15 baht, but usually does not exceed 30-40 baht per person. You won’t have to look for a motorbike for a long time, motorcycle taxi drivers are as annoying as tuk-tukers.
tuk tuks
A tuk-tuk is a large three-wheeled motorcycle that has a windshield and a roof. The front seat is occupied by the driver, and 2-3 passengers can sit in the back. In traffic jams, this is a rather nimble and indispensable mode of transport; only a motorbike or motorcycle taxi will be faster and more agile.
In some cities, for example, in Chiang Rai or Phuket, tuk-tuks mean small 4-wheeled vehicles.
Tuk-tuk, like songteo, is a fairly common mode of transport in Thailand. It can be rented for a few hours, for the whole day, or to get from place to place. The exception, perhaps, is Pattaya, where you will not find tuk-tuks.
Prices
This is the most common form of transport in Thailand, which can rightfully be called popular. But at the same time, it cannot be said that tuk-tuk travel is cheap, especially for foreigners who are constantly trying to make money. At some bus stations and railway stations, price lists hang, where real prices are displayed. The minimum fare in the city is 30 baht, more often 40-50 baht. For a tourist, a trip around Bangkok by tuk-tuk can be more expensive than a similar trip by taxi. The average fare for a tuk-tuk is about 1.5 times higher than for a motorcycle taxi. But if you are traveling in two or three people, it will be more profitable than paying for a motorcycle taxi for everyone.
How to find a tuk-tuk
You don't even have to look for tuk-tukers, they will find you themselves. Not without reason, tuk-tukers and motorcycle taxi drivers are considered the most annoying people in Thailand. Every day, you will hear the phrase many times: “Mr. Be careful in tourist places because there are often cases of fraud. A tuk-tuker can take you to the wrong place, but to a store where he is paid a commission.
Taxi
In Thailand, there are practically no ordinary car taxis. You can use their services only in Pattaya, Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai. It is very easy to recognize a taxi car - it will be bright in color, and Taxi Meter will be written on top. The total fare will depend on the price per landing, per kilometer, and per demurrage. The cost of a kilometer may vary: the longer the distance, the cheaper. Please note that there are drivers who do not turn on the meter or cheat. It is important to immediately stop such moments. In Thailand, private transportation is practically non-existent, so in places where taxis are not common, it is better to use songthaews, motorcycle taxis or tuk-tuks.
Samlo (bicycle taxi)
This type of transport is also called "pedicab". To date, it has practically not survived. Major cities like Bangkok don't have it at all. The device itself is a large tricycle, in which a passenger seat is installed instead of a trunk. It travels quite slowly, but the fare is much cheaper than other modes of transport.
Metro
Rail transport is only in Bangkok. Moreover, both underground and aboveground. You can quickly get where you need to go. True, it will cost quite a lot. In addition, trains can be used in Bangkok as urban transport. In some cases, this is very convenient.
Buses
Although intercity bus lines developed very well, the same cannot be said about city buses. Only in Bangkok there is a system that, with a big stretch, can be classified as effective and correct. Some attempts were made to do the same in other cities, but they were not crowned with success. Therefore, only in Bangkok can you effectively use the bus. There are also metrobuses, which are express buses, for which a separate band is allocated. For intracity trips, it is sometimes convenient to use suitable intercity buses 3 classes.
Nimble minibus - tuk tuk in Thailand. How to stop, where does it go and how much to pay? All the subtleties and nuances of using this funny vehicle.
On the roads of Thailand there are no minibuses or buses familiar to us. traditional view public transport in this country, it is considered a “tuk-tuk”, which is “called names” in every way: auto rickshaw, songthaew or motorcycle taxi. In Pattaya vehicle- a tuk-tuk in Thailand is a compact pickup truck equipped with benches along the body. Distinguished by its maneuverability and the possibility of "easy" travel without pre-purchases travel ticket and others. Tuk-tuk does not have clear routes and a stable traffic schedule.
Route map - tuk-tuk in Thailand
Each color is a route designation. Depending on the desires of the driver or the client with money, the route may change.
What does a tuk tuk look like in Thailand
The traditional tuk tuk in Thailand is a three-wheeled vehicle that resembles a cross between a moped and a taxi. In Thailand, a converted Japanese pickup truck is most often used as a tourist tuk-tuk. The cargo department in such vehicles is equipped with a roof, handrails and two benches. At the back of the tuk-tuk, a step platform is installed, which not only facilitates entry into the vehicle, but is also used as a place to ride while standing - when all the benches are occupied. Due to its compact size, tuk-tuk is considered a fast and maneuverable mode of transport. On the busy Thai streets, the Thai minibus moves at a speed of 30-50 kilometers per hour.
If you speak correctly, then such a pickup truck is called a songthaew (translation - “two benches”), and a tuk-tuk in Thailand is a scooter with a body. However, tourists have mixed these concepts, and now any maneuverable public transport is called a tuk-tuk.
- Windows-doors
The tuk-tuk has a natural air conditioning system - the absence of windows and doors, or rather, glazing as such. Of course, this is a plus. No one will ask you to close the windows because of the "blowing", as in Russian minibuses. If it starts to rain, simply lower the protective film that is rolled up on the outside of the windows.
Tuk-tuks are designed for small stature (Thais), it will be difficult for a tall Russian person to ride standing up.
How to stop, go to the tuk tuk
The surest way to catch a tuk tuk is to stand on the sidewalk, or move in the direction of traffic along the road and listen to the sound of the horn. If a characteristic signal sounded, then the driver intends to stop. If there was no sound, but you see that the minibus is driving up, just wave your hand.
Drivers don't always stop with a wave of their hand. Firstly, the tuk tuk can get crowded. Secondly, the "minibus" in this moment can work in taxi mode, and carry other tourists.
How to get off the tuk-tuk at the right place, at the right stop
As soon as you entered the transport, look for a button on the ceiling. It is her pressing that will mean your desire to get out of the minibus. No button? Shout! =)
The driving element of a tuk-tuk (not a songteo) is a scooter. Since the scooter makes characteristic sounds similar to tapping when riding, this is where the small covered “ferryer” for tourists got its funny name.
Fare - Tuk Tuk Thailand
Fixed fare - 10 baht. The cost is indicated for travel in one area (Pattaya). If you cross 2 districts, the fare is doubled. Travel on the Sukumvit road (route number 5 on the map above) - will cost 20 baht.
When boarding a tuk-tuk, do not specify "whether the car will reach a certain place." The driver may consider your question as a request and "turn" into a taxi, the fare of which will increase by about 10-20 times.
How to pay for a tuk tuk fare
Payment is made after the trip. As soon as you have made a stop (after pressing the button), bypass the tuk-tuk and boldly hand over the reward to the driver. It's better to have small money. Firstly, this will allow not to detain the driver and other passengers, and secondly, in a hurry, the change issued in a hurry may turn out to be much less.
After 22:00, tuk-tuks turn into taxis. There are no meters (taximeters)! Accordingly, the fare directly depends on your agreement with the driver.
Knock knock and security
A tuk-tuk in Thailand is distinguished by an open body and the absence of seat belts, which can be frightening inexperienced tourists. In fact, according to statistics, tuk-tuks rarely get into serious traffic accidents. This is due to the fact that the Thai songthaew moves at a relatively safe speed, and the driver gives a signal every minute, attracting the attention of tourists.
If you ask a driver to take you to a specific location, be prepared to pay the taxi fare. If you need to get to the outskirts of the city (for example, to the Jomtien area), the driver will most likely ask for a surcharge, so discuss the fare with him in advance. Please note that along the way, drivers often recommend tourists to visit certain souvenir shops and shops. But the goods in these establishments are very overpriced.
In our age, let's not be afraid of this word, subcontinental technologies, the right logistics decides a lot. A tourist who knows how to optimize his route saves:
- money;
- time (and today it is also money);
- the most valuable thing is nerves.
There are many ways to get around Thailand, and in fact, universal advice cannot be given here. All people have different communication skills and different priorities. There are those who need only one glance at the map to understand their location. But there are also individuals with such a neglected form of topographic cretinism that, without an escort, they are at once lost in those pines. For such, mastering the Thai transport system will be difficult, but, as they say, "nothing is impossible in this world, it just takes a little more time."
Buses
bus service Thailand is very developed. For intercity trips, this is the most convenient transport. At the same time, travelers can choose between state buses and tourist buses.
In the first case, the client receives more individual approach- the car comes for him directly to the place of residence and carries him along a predetermined route, however, for a lot of money and not always with such comfort as you can travel in public buses, the so-called Bo-Kho-So. They are divided as many as five classes, and offer passengers conditions from economy (3rd class) to super-duper VIP (VIP24). Such cars drive on certain routes and on schedule. To use the services of a state carrier, read our additional articles:
For trips between cities, you can also use suburban songthaews. This budget mode of transport is more suitable for short journeys between the city and small villages in its vicinity. Tourists in Bangkok have the opportunity to travel around the capital (within 200 km) with more comfort than on songthaews. Trip on minibuses will be the most profitable and convenient option in this case.
Urban transport
Against the backdrop of convenient and diverse intercity communications in Thailand, the city transport system can sometimes give up. It is even more correct to note that the word "system" is somewhat inappropriate here. To normally understand what and how you can get in one direction or another, you need to be Thai. If you are not born and raised in Thailand, then you will most likely be a lot of nervous trying to understand the routes and principles of songthaews or buses. And only in Bangkok and major cities of Isan, urban transport is more or less organized and understandable.
Perhaps such a mess can be explained by the presence of a large supply of individual transportation around the city. It can be either a taxi, in the usual sense for us, or a samlo (bicycle taxi), and tuk-tuks, and motorcycle taxis. However, there are also certain subtleties here that are useful for tourists to know in order not to get into trouble.
Trains
Trains are not as popular in Thailand as buses, but you can still travel around the country on them. An exception would probably be East Coast kingdoms and mountainous areas. Those wishing to ride the train should first understand:
Personal transport
Personal transport everywhere and always has been, is and will be the most comfortable and convenient way movement. The exception is probably major metropolitan areas, whose roads are so crowded that people are forced to leave their cars and go down the subway.
Thailand highways, especially against the background of Russian ones, look simply gorgeous. A smooth road surface, multi-lane traffic and oncoming lanes separated by lawns - not a ride, but a pleasure. True, Thailand would not be Thailand if it had not added its own local flavor. Sometimes the abundance and intricacy of trails can make your head spin. Often to roll in the right direction, requires special skill. In addition, the movement here is left-handed, which at first can be very unusual.
Fuel in Thailand is somewhat more expensive than Russian. But to understand its types is not difficult - there are only two of them. One is suitable only for cars made in the kingdom, the other for imported ones. When renting an iron horse in Thailand, this must be taken into account.
The most common vehicle in the kingdom is a motorbike. It can be easily rented in any city.
Part of the territory of Thailand lies on the islands. Therefore the question of water transport becomes relevant for travelers quite often. It can be conditionally divided into river and sea. The latter has quite developed system: runs between the mainland and the islands a large number of ferries and ships. In cities where there is a network of canals, river buses are very popular, which the Thais themselves use with pleasure. Flights within the country
Airways over Thailand are as lively as those on the ground. The country's air communication network includes even relatively small towns with a population of 20-50 thousand people, and six airlines serve domestic flights. By Russian standards, flight prices are very cheap, sometimes you can buy a ticket for 500 baht on a special offer. In Bangkok domestic flights serves Don Mueang Airport , although some international flights have recently begun to be directed there.
Main air gate The country is the world's largest airport Suvarnabhumi. This giant receives most international flights and provides travelers with all the services that should be present at the country's main airport.
Hitchhiking in Thailand
Great roads, high speeds, the ability to travel in groups and, of course, good nature local population does thailand perfect place for hitchhiking. Thais take fellow travelers on the road with great pleasure, thus earning additional bonuses to their karma. It is noteworthy that the locals themselves never use this method of transportation.
A tourist is, by definition, an unpredictable person who wants to find out everything and try it personally. Therefore, those who plan to travel around Thailand will be interested to know what modes of transport can be used.
Thailand is enough developed country, all transport system, which is actually "tied" to its capital - Bangkok.
THAILAND AIR SERVICE
There are airports in Thailand on every large island, in all provincial centers and, of course, in big cities. The main airports are in Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi and Chiang Mai. Through these airports, both international and local air transportation is carried out. Inland between small towns mostly charter flights, for which tickets must be booked in advance. The only disadvantage of this type of transport is the inability to admire the surroundings. Then maybe the train will seem more attractive?
RAILWAYS
The number of passengers handled by Thailand's railway system exceeds 98 million. With a total length of 4180 km, they cover most country and play a huge role in its economic life. In Thailand, all roads lead to Bangkok. This city is the main railway hub of the country. From here, like rays from a star, four main directions diverge: the Northern, Northeastern, Eastern and Southern lines of communication, which cover the most possible number of areas. But keep in mind that trains move quite slowly. The alternative is vehicles.
CARS
Thailand has well-maintained roads, with big amount gas stations, roadside hotels, cafes and restaurants. In any city there is a sufficient number of rental points, with the only requirement: to have an international class driving license. It is almost impossible to get lost, as there are signs everywhere, duplicated in English. Movement is left-handed.
BUS
You can also get cheap and fast between cities by bus. You just need to know the schedule, have a ticket and a map.
TUK TUK
In the cities of Thailand, the type of small private taxis - Tuk-tuks - is widespread. This is either a covered three-wheeled scooter, or a converted pickup truck, with benches attached to opposite sides. A simple and inexpensive form of transport, especially if you are traveling alone. Cheaper than a motorbike.
MOTOBIKE
Motorbike drivers are friendly and cheerful people. They will always find you and offer you a ride in any direction. Why trample your feet, sit down and drive.
TAXI
If you are a lover of comfort, then here it is, Thailand Taxi. Comfortable, with air conditioning, almost always - Toyota. There are no tariffs. The price is agreed in advance, but bargaining is always appropriate.
METRO
Metro is available only in Bangkok. These are two branches independent of each other: aboveground and underground. The rules of use are simple and do not differ from those familiar to tourists. Even better. Arrows on the floor indicate the location of the doors when the train stops, and at each stop, a special employee blows a whistle to signal the doors to close. The trains are small: three, maximum five cars. Everywhere air conditioners, inscriptions duplicated English language, selling maps and train schedules.
FERRIES
The islands, which cannot be reached by train or car, can be reached by ferry. They are divided into two types: for local (cheaper) and for tourists (more expensive). Tourist ferries are also used as pleasure boats. Some of them also transport cars, which is convenient for those who rent a car. For those who can afford it, speed boats of quite modern and fashionable models are provided.
Today I will talk about transport in Thailand, including the tuk tuk transport in Thailand, which is so beloved by tourists, as well as the no less popular songteo, motosai, as well as metro and water transport in Bangkok.
Tuk tuk transport in Thailand
Tuk tuk is not just a transport, a symbol of Thailand! (not to be confused with songteo). The Thai model in the Miss World contest was in a tuk-tuk costume 🙂 This is a three-wheeled vehicle (four-wheeled small cars in Chiang Rai and Phuket), designed for 3-5 people. Tuk-tuk travels quite fast and will always find you. The main advice is to negotiate the price in advance.
Transport in Thailand - Songthaew
Songteo (from Thai - two benches). These are pickups and small trucks, in the back of which there are two benches designed for 10-12 people. When the pickup truck is loaded, you will be offered to ride standing on the rear footboard. It's not dangerous because songthaews drive slowly. There is no exact route with stops, just wave to the driver to stop the transport. And then ask for directions. Don't be surprised if it differs from what's written on the board in the pickup truck. Songthaews in Pattaya are equipped with bells to inform the driver about the stop. The fare is from 10 to 100 baht, you need to pay at the exit. In Pattaya, songthaews differ in color and cost. Dark blues go short tourist routes along the coastline (Naklua - Beach Road - Jomtien) and cost 10 baht. White, blue and red songteos in Pattaya (suburban) go around Sukhumvit and cost 20 baht.
Motosai - transport in Thailand
Motosai is a nimble bike whose drivers are dressed in bright vests and are waiting for you at every corner. They will quickly take you to any point, avoiding traffic jams. The first two kilometers - 25 baht, the next 3-5 kilometers - 5 baht each, after 6 kilometers each next - 10 baht. Don't forget to wear a helmet.
Buses in Bangkok. Transport in Thailand
Buses are widespread in the capital and are divided into two types: with air conditioning (travel from 15 baht) and without air conditioning (travel from 7 baht). This is not the most convenient form of transport in the famous traffic jams. Bangkok has three main bus stations for long trips: this, and the southern bus station.
Skytrain BTS in Bangkok is a popular transport in Thailand
BTS is a skytrain. From the wagons opens gorgeous view to the city. The fare is from 20 to 50 baht, depending on the distance of the trip. When buying a ticket, insert coins into the slot of the machine and press the button desired route. Keep your ticket until the end of the trip!
Underground MRT in Bangkok
MRT is an underground metro. There is only one line, which passes mainly through residential areas. It can be useful to get, for example, to the railway station of Bangkok. The cost is from 8 to 40 baht, depending on the number of stations.
On the metro, you can also purchase a one-day, 30-day or rechargeable pass, the cost depends on the type of metro.
Water transport in Thailand
Water public transport in Thailand, in Bangkok, is convenient if your path lies nearby the Chao River Praia or urban canals. There is a conductor on the boat, you can also buy a ticket at the box office on the pier. The cost is from 10 baht, depending on the route and type of boat. Pay attention to the color of the flag by the boat, it indicates a specific route. All piers have detailed maps.
There is no public transport on the small islands, but it is not needed: everything is nearby, and in the jungle there are only narrow paths that are exciting to walk. .
This was a short overview of transport in Thailand. To find a suitable and convenient transport, you need to ride everything: a tuk tuk in Thailand, a songthaew, a water transport in Bangkok. And don't forget that you can always take a taxi.
