Navigating transportation in Thailand can be both convenient and challenging, depending on your choice of travel. The country is well-equipped with a robust tourism infrastructure that caters to the high volume of travelers each year. Here’s a guide to getting around Thailand efficiently and economically.
TripSavvy highlights that while Thailand’s transportation options are plentiful, choosing wisely can save you both time and money. Tuk-Tuks, for example, offer fast and affordable rides and are pretty reliable, unless you’re faced with bad weather.
When it comes to quick and reliable transportation, a plane is often the best way to travel within Thailand. Major tourist destinations such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Ko Samui, Phuket, and Krabi are all serviced by airports. Flight costs vary, with prices ranging from 825 to 4500 THB. Inter-city flights like Bangkok to Phuket or Chiang Mai can be as low as 700-800 THB for one-way tickets, while flights to islands such as Koh Samui may cost around 2115 THB.
According to Lonely Planet, the wide range of transport options in Thailand makes traveling easier compared to other Southeast Asian countries. Buses offer a fast, cheap, and frequent service, with some being quite luxurious. Trains might be slower but are considered safer and provide opportunities for scenic views on day trips.
For those preferring buses, services like 12Go Asia have made booking incredibly straightforward. As reported by Nomadic Matt, the site is highly useful for travelers in Thailand, offering an easy booking system for bus travel throughout the country.
When it comes to day trips and activities, language barriers are seldom an issue, especially in well-trodden tourist paths where English is commonly spoken. Numerous travel agencies are available in tourist areas, simplifying the booking process for travelers.
In Bangkok, getting around is made efficient with two major train networks that service ‘new’ Bangkok areas such as Silom, Sukhumvit, and Siam Square. These networks are continually expanding to meet the needs of growing commuter traffic, with projects slated for completion by 2023, as noted by Lonely Planet.
Whether you choose to fly, take a bus, or travel by train, there are ample options to suit different budgets and preferences. By planning ahead and using reliable booking services, your travels in Thailand can be both enjoyable and affordable.
