Bangkok is the Asia's most cosmopolitan city and has attractions to stimulate most of travellers. Created as the Thai capital in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty.

Bangkok is a national treasure house and Thailand's spiritual, cultural, political, commercial, educational and diplomatic centre.




Tuk - Tuk
: The colorful, three-wheeled, open-air "samlor" taxis are renowned for their capability to maneuver into the tightest spots, offering passengers an interesting ride. Accommodating two passengers (three or four at a squeeze), it is best for short trips during off-peak hours. Settle the fare BEFORE proceeding. Normally cheaper than metered taxis, the fare should never exceed 200 Baht per trip.



City Buses : Bangkok has an extensive bus service with routes serving every part of the city, providing a fun and cheap way to explore the city. There are both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned vehicles. The fare for the former depends on the distance traveled, starting from 10 Baht per person and the buses are colored blue, orange or white/green, depending on the route. The latter charges a flat fee of either 3.50 Baht per person (green and white/red colored buses) or 5 Baht per person (white/red and white/blue).

Because of the low fares, the open-aired buses tend to be heavily crowded, especially during the peak hours in the morning (6-9 am) and evenings (4-7 pm). Be watchful of your belongings and learn the art of balancing since the ride might be jerky, with sudden stops and accelerations. You can request the purser to notify you of your stop. People at the bus stops will gladly inform you of the correct bus number to take if unsure of how to get to your destination.

BTS Skytrains : With stations in major commercial areas and departures every 5 minutes, it is an ideal means of transportation to escape the traffic. Service is via 2 routes: the Mo Chit - On Nut route (runs along Sukhumvit Rd.) and the National Stadium-Taksin Bridge route (runs along Silom Rd.). Running from 6 am to midnight, the fare depends on distance traveled, ranging from 10-40 Baht per person. Routes and fares are posted at every station, where tickets must be purchased.

By Tax i: Metered taxis are available in Bangkok. Make sure the driver turns on the meter, especially if you are starting from the airport. Make sure you have change, as taxi drivers often don't! Drivers change shifts at about 3.30-4.00 p.m., and may not accept you unless your destination is convenient. Passengers must pay tolls in the case of using an expressway.

 

River Taxis : Taxis that are even more unusual, though equally convenient, are the river taxis that ply the Chao Phraya river. Some ferry passengers across the river (2 Baht), while others run the route to various landing stages on both banks, going up as far as the northern suburb of Nonthaburi. Fare ranges from 5-20 Baht per person, depending on distance. Signs at the landing piers are posted in both Thai and English.

Hired Car : If you want to experience driving in Bangkok, there are many car rental firms in Bangkok, including international rental companies such as Hertz, Budget and Avis. The road system is good and well posted with signs written in English. An international driving license is required.

 

 

 

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