Local Transportation in Thailand
Planes, trains and automobiles…what’s the best way to get around?
You can’t call yourself a tourist in Thailand until you’ve ridden in a tuk-tuk. A what, you say? Take a look:
You won’t want to use tuk-tuks as your every day form of transportation as other ways to get around are cheaper, don’t involve negotiating prices, and are safer, but a tuk-tuk ride is a fun part of the Thai culture to experience at least once!
If you’re in the central Bangkok area, Skytrain is an efficient and convenient way to get around. This form of transportation is similar to a monorail and is clean, modern and fast. Tickets for a trip cost up to $1.50 and you can check out the website here.
Taxis are cheap in Thailand and fares start at 35 baht (when you get into a taxi, make sure the meter is running and starting at 35 baht). They’re great to take at night since Skytrain doesn’t operate after midnight.
#CISabroadtip: Stay away from motorcycle taxis – they are a dangerous way to travel!
Buses are an easy, cheap way to get around. Make sure you research your routes ahead of time! Buses with blue signs are normal routes and yellow signs are express. Check out their website here.
Another fun, unique way to get around in Thailand are the river express boats. You can check them out here.
Trains are another common way to travel in and around Thailand. Keep an open mind and embrace the experience when you do this as they may not be as modern as you’re used to! Check out Trip Advisor’s guide to Train Travel in Thailand here.
Many students like to travel by plane when they’re in Thailand. Chiang Mai in the north is known for beautiful jungle landscape and exquisite cooking, while the islands in the south offer some of the most beautiful tropical landscapes in the world. You can check out Bangkok’s main airport here. The airport is clean, modern, and even to navigate, even with no knowledge of the Thai language.
While traveling in Thailand is a breeze, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings. Pick-pocketing is a major occurrence, especially in larger cities. Make sure that your bag is zipped up and carried in front of you and that your wallet is tucked away safely. It is also a good idea to keep copies of your passport and essential documents in your dorm or hotel room, just in case. Keep an eye out for yourself and your friends on crowded metro trains and don’t be afraid to make a lot of noise if you see something out of place. Pick-pockets scare easily!
Transportation in Thailand Resources: