Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bangkok Bus Guide by thinknet, available at Kinokuniya and Asia Books, is the most
up-to-date route map available.
CAR
For short-term visitors, you will find driving (and parking) a car in Bangkok far more
trouble than it is worth. If you need private transport, consider hiring a car and driver
through your hotel or hire a taxi driver that you find trustworthy. One reputable operator is
Julie Taxi ( 08 5115 5455; www.facebook.com/TourWithJulieTaxi ) , which offers a variety of vehicles
and excellent service.
If you're not dissuaded, cars and motorcycles can be rented throughout town, including
through such international chains as Avis ( 0 2251 1131; www.avisthailand.com ; 40 Th Sathon Neua
(North); 7.30am-7.30pm; Lumphini exit 2) or local chains such as Thai Rent A Car ( 0 2737 8888;
www.thairentacar.com ; 2371 Th Petchaburi Tat Mai; Thong Lo exit 3 & taxi) , both of which also have
branches at/near Suvarnabhumi airport. Rates start at around 1200B per day, excluding in-
surance. An International Driving Permit and passport are required for all rentals.
MOTORCYCLE TAXI
Forming the backdrop of modern Bangkok, teams of cheeky, numbered and vested
motorcycle-taxi drivers can be found at the end of just about every long street. A ride to
the end (sùt soy) or mouth (Ъàhk soy) of an average soi usually costs 10B to 15B. Longer
journeys should be negotiated in advance, and can range from 20B to 100B.
Helmets are occasionally available upon request, although considering the way some of
these guys drive, any body part is at risk. In particular, keep your legs tucked in - the
drivers are used to carrying passengers with shorter legs than those of the average
Westerner. Women wearing skirts should sit side-saddle and gather any extra cloth to
avoid it catching in the wheel or drive chain.
TAXI
Táak·see mee·đêu (metered taxis) were introduced in Bangkok in 1993 and the current
flag fare of 35B is only a slight increase from that time, making us wonder how these
guys (and there are a lot of them) earn any money. Although many first-time visitors are
hesitant to use them, in general, Bangkok's taxis are new and spacious and the drivers are
courteous and helpful, making them an excellent way to get around. Fares to most places
within central Bangkok cost 60B to 80B, and freeway tolls - 20B to 45B depending where
you start - must be paid by the passenger.
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