Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
blend of petrol and ethanol that comes in different octane levels, either 91% or
95%) and compressed natural gas, used by taxis with bifuel capabilities.
HIRE & PURCHASE
Cars, 4WDs and vans can be rented in most major cities and airports from local
companies as well as international chains. Local companies tend to have cheaper
rates than the international chains, but their fleets of cars tend to be older and not
as well maintained. Check the tyre treads and general upkeep of the vehicle before
committing.
Motorcycles can be rented in major towns, and in smaller tourist centres from
guest houses and mum-and-dad businesses. Renting a motorcycle in Thailand is
relatively easy and a great way to independently tour the countryside. For daily
rentals, most businesses will ask that you leave your passport as a deposit. Before
renting a motorcycle, check the vehicle's condition and ask for a helmet (which is
required by law).
Many tourists are injured riding motorcycles in Thailand because they don't know
how to handle the vehicle and are unfamiliar with road rules and conditions. Drive
slowly, especially when roads are slick, to avoid damage to yourself and to the
vehicle, and be sure to have adequate health insurance. If you've never driven a
motorcycle before, stick to the smaller 100cc step-through bikes with automatic
clutches. Remember to distribute weight as evenly as possible across the frame of
the bike to improve handling.
INSURANCE
Thailand requires a minimum of liability insurance for all registered vehicles on the
road. The better hire companies include comprehensive coverage for their vehicles.
Always verify that a vehicle is insured for liability before signing a rental contract;
you should also ask to see the dated insurance documents. If you have an accident
while driving an uninsured vehicle, you're in for some major hassles.
ROAD RULES & HAZARDS
Thais drive on the left-hand side of the road (most of the time!). Other than that, just
about anything goes, in spite of road signs and speed limits.
The main rule to be aware of is that right of way goes to the bigger vehicle; this is
not what it says in the Thai traffic law, but it's the reality. Maximum speed limits are
50km/h on urban roads and 80km/h to 100km/h on most highways - but on any giv-
