getting around bangkok
Buses: Bangkok has an extensive bus service with routes serving every part of the city, providing a fun and inexpensive way to
explore the city. There are both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses available.
The fare for air-conditioned buses depends on the distance traveled, starting from 12 Baht per person and are colored blue, orange
or white/green, depending on the route. Non-air-conditioned buses charges a flat rate of 8 Baht per person and in colors green and
white, red, white, red and white/blue.
Because of low fare, the open-air non-air-conditioned buses tend to be heavily crowded especially during peak hours in the
morning (6:00 AM to 9:00 AM) and in the evenings (4:00 PM to 7:00 PM).
Always be mindful of your belongings and try to learn the art of balancing since the ride might be jerky at times with sudden stops
and acceleration. You can request the purser to notify you of your stop.
While waiting for a bus, most people at the bus stop will gladly inform you of the correct bus number to take if you are unsure of
on how to get to your destination.
Be prepared with the exact change or smaller bank notes or lesser denominations. A uniformed purser aboard the bus (listen for
the clinking sound of coins in a long, cylinder container) will collect the fees and give you a ticket. Keep the ticket handy during
surprise inspection later down the route.
Sky Train: With sky train stations in major commercial areas and departures timed every 5 minutes, this is an ideal means of transportation to escape the traffic. Service is via 2 routes: Mo Chit-Bearing route which runs along Sukhumvit Road and the National
Stadium-Bang Wa route which runs along Silom Road. Running from 6:00 AM until midnight, the fare depends on the distance
traveled, ranging from 15 Baht to 60 Baht per person. Routes and fares are posted at every station where tickets are purchased.
For more information, please check http://www.bts.co.th
MRT Subway: Bangkok’s newest mass transit system, the subway runs from the city’s main railway station Hua Lamphong to Bang
Sue station. It made a major contribution to attract more visitors to Thailand because it links several hotels, shopping and business
centers like the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre. For more information, please check http://www.bangkokmetro.co.th
Motorcycle Taxis: Unique to Thailand, these motorcycle taxis emerged in response to the need for faster transportation during
traffic jams and easy access to main roads from remote neighborhoods and deep alleys. Drivers wear colorful vests and fares are
slightly higher than those of metered taxis. Fare should always be negotiated before proceeding. Thai laws also stipulate helmets
worn at all times especially on public roads. Be prepared for an adventurous ride.
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