Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Between the mainland and islands in the Gulf of Thailand or the Andaman Sea,
the standard craft is a wooden boat, 8m to 10m long, with an inboard engine, a
wheelhouse and a simple roof to shelter passengers and cargo. Faster, more ex-
pensive hovercraft or jetfoils are available in tourist areas.
BUS & MINIVAN
The bus network in Thailand is prolific and reliable, and is a great way to see the
countryside and sit among the locals. The Thai government subsidises the Trans-
port Company
(bò·rí·sàt kŏn sòng),
usually abbreviated to Baw Khaw Saw (BKS).
By far the most reliable bus companies in Thailand are the ones that operate out
of the government-run BKS stations. In some cases the companies are entirely
state owned, in others they are private concessions.
Increasingly though, minivans are the middle-class option. Minivans are run by
private companies and because their vehicles are smaller they can depart from the
market (instead of the out-of-town bus stations) and will deliver guests directly to
their hotel. Just don't sit in the front so you don't see the driver's daredevil tech-
niques!
RESERVATIONS
You can book air-con BKS buses at any BKS terminal. Privately run buses can be
booked through most hotels or any travel agency, but it's best to book directly
through a bus office to be sure that you get what you pay for.
CAR & MOTORCYCLE
DRIVING LICENCE
Short-term visitors who wish to drive vehicles (including motorcycles) in Thailand
need an International Driving Permit.
FUEL & SPARE PARTS
Modern petrol (gasoline) stations are in plentiful supply all over Thailand wherever
there are paved roads. In more-remote, off-road areas
ben·sin
/
nám·man rót yon
(petrol containing benzene) is usually available at small roadside or village stands.
All fuel in Thailand is unleaded, and diesel is used by trucks and some passenger
cars. In 2007, Thailand introduced several alternative fuels, including gasohol (a
