Perhaps the easiest ways to get around Bangkok are by Skytrain or the underground or by a metered taxi. Buses are ubiquitous and cheap but because of frequent traffic congestion journeys may take some time to complete. The orange coloured air-conditioned buses are the most modern, comfortable and the best for tourists.
Even though the networks are limited both the Skytrain and underground offer the quickest means of getting around the main city streets and offer excellent connections to the business and entertainment districts. There are three interchange stations, but the Skytrain (and the subway) use different names for each, Sala Deang (Silom), Asoke (Sukhumvit) and Chatuchak (Chatuchak Park). To get from one system to another may require a bit of a walk.
Taxis and Tuk Tuks
Metered taxis are plentiful in Bangkok and very good value but ensure the meter is switched on before moving off. Taxis come in all colours from two coloured blue and red and green and yellow to bright pinks, greens, blues and reds they all have an illuminated ‘taxi meter’ sign.. For both short and longer journeys taxis offer incredible value for money with the basic flag down fare of only 35 baht.
Tuk Tuks and motorcycle taxis are numerous and a ride on one of these can be an unforgettable experience. Negotiate the price before accepting the lift as tuk tuks particularly may be more expensive than metered taxis. Be wary of motorcycle taxis as these can be quite dangerous.
Bangkok Canals
In the very recent past Bangkok had an extensive network of canals (or khlongs) so much so that it was given the name‘Venice of the East’. Unfortunately many canals have fallen into disuse or have been filled in or covered over to build roads. But a trip on the Chao Phraya and the Saem Seab canal commuter boat is inexpensive and beats the traffic-clogged roads. So-called ‘long tailed boats’ are cheap and can be privately hired for sight seeing. But agree on a price before stepping into the boat and pay at the end of the journey.
Bangkok Buses
Bangkok’s bus network is extensive and the fares cheap, there are many different classes of bus though. Green mini-buses and the red and white non-air conditioned are cheapest, with the blue air conditioned buses being slightly more expensive. The orange-coloured ‘Eurobuses’ belonging to the Bangkok council are the most expensive but also the most comfortable. The others can be very grueling rides at times. The small green buses are best avoided as they get very, very congested even at off peak times, neither do they offer a great deal in the way of comfort.
Travel Outside Bangkok
To travel further into the country there is a large network of inter-city and inter-province buses. The VIP service offers a fair degree of comfort and a hostess service again these are remarkable value for money.
The State Railways of Thailand has an extensive network that serves major towns and cities with express and sleeper trains. It also provides a rather more sedate local stopping service. Fares even for a first class sleeper compartment are incredibly cheap as compared to the west.
A good network of frequent domestic flights, trains and coaches link Bangkok with all main cities, towns and resorts. The entry of low cost airlines like the award-winning Air Asia, in the past few years has increased the choice of flights and destinations and considerably reduced domestic air fares.
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