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Local transport: |
In
Bangkok, the newly introduced elevated Skytrain links
most famous shopping areas of the city and also offers
superb views. The ongoing underground mass-transit system
will be completed in 2003. Buses serving towns and inter-city
routes are inexpensive, and generally reliable. Some private
companies operate deluxe express buses between major cities.
Taxis: Metered taxis operate in Bangkok only.
Tuk-Tuks: 3-wheeled open-sided
taxis operate in many towns - agree fare in advance.
Songthaews: Small covered trucks
with bench seats, taking approx. 10 persons, usually running
on fixed routes within cities or short distances between
towns. Payment is per person, but can be hired for private
use.
Bicycles: For rent in most tourist
spots but maintenance levels are often poor.
Motorcycles: Available for rent
in resort areas but there is a high accident rate amongst
tourists.
Boats: Bangkok has an extensive
public boat service operating on the river, and canals.
The Chao Phya Express Boat (Rua Duan) to Nonthaburi makes
an inexpensive and pleasant trip. Inter-island ferries
operate in all tourist areas. |
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Bangkok airport:
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Bangkok
International Airport (25 km) is half to one hour to city
centre depending on traffic.
Take only authorised taxis or limousine service bookable
at official counters. There is also an Airport Bus service
linking the airport with many downtown hotels. Ignore
touts. |
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Airport tax: |
| Currently
500 baht for International flights, and 30 baht for domestic
flights. (Flights with Bangkok Airways may involve higher
airport taxes.) |
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Provincial airports |
| The
main airports serving tourists are at Chiang Mai, Phuket,
and Koh Samui. Most large towns have air services to the
capital. For more information on flights within Thailand
- click here
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Car hire: |
| Self-drive
is becoming increasingly popular, with excellent maps
available, and nearly all road signs posted in English.
Driving is on the left. Local hire companies are usually
considerably cheaper than international firms, but may
be less efficient in the case of a problem. Cars with
driver-guides is another option, easily arranged. |
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