Apr 24, 2010

Bangkok Transportation

Dear tourists,
I had run acrossed a website, www.iguidebangkok.com. In the web, they got a interesting information about our beloved city. I copied some of the useful detials for the guest who wants to explore Bkk more!


BTS Skytrain
Providing a rapid option for traveling within the city, BTS skytrain is ideal for anyone seeking to wade through the congested traffic of Bangkok streets. BTS skytrain stations can mostly be found along Sukhumvit, Silom and Phaholyothin roads. The routes connect Bangkok’s business and noted shopping areas such as Siam Square, Ratchaprasong, Ekamai and Chatuchak Weekend Market. The skytrain has minimum and maximum fares from 15 to 40 Baht in relation to the distance. Tourists may buy 30 day tourist tickets to save money, only 250 Baht/10 trips or day tickets only 100 Baht. For more information, contact the Bangkok Mass Transit System at
Tel. 0-2617-7300,0-2617-7340 or visit
www.bts.co.th


Subway (Metro)
The MRT is another fast and comfortable transportation alternative. It links many of the famous tourist attractions with the accommodation areas, markets and business districts. The beginning of “Chalerm Ratchamongkhon” Line is Hua Lum Phong station which is also the main train station in Bangkok. There are a total of 18 stations with major stations at: The Queen Sirikit International Convention and Exhibition Center, Silom, Suan Lumpini, Asoke, Ratchada, Ladprao and Phaholyothin roads. The fares range from 15 to 35 Baht. The Silom and Asoke stations are connected to the BTS. The trains run daily from 05.00 a.m. to midnight. For more information,
Tel. 0-2264-5200 or visit
www.bangkokmetro.co.th


Bus
Bangkok is laced with plenty of buses going to all directions. The bus network within the metropolis is very efficient and economical. It is also a magnificent way to visit most destinations within metropolitan Bangkok reasonably. The fares start at 10 Baht for ordinary buses. Air-con blue buses have minimum and maximum fares from 8 to 16 Baht. Euro II or orange air-con buses charge 12 to 24 Baht. Air-con microbuses charge a flat fare of 25 Baht all routes. A bus route map is available at many leading bookshops. A free city map can also be obtained at the Bangkok Tourist Division Office, Bangkok Tourist Information Booths throughout Bangkok and the TAT Office. 184, 02246-0973



Long-tail Boat
River taxis or long-tail boats are similarly convenient. They ply and run along the mighty Chao Phraya River and inner canals within the city. There are assorted types of boats identified in color flags. Boat service on the Chao Phraya River connects Bangkok with the northern adjoining province of Nonthaburi, starting from Tha Nam Non pier and terminating at Saphan Taksin pier (Sathorn). Charge fares depend upon the distance. There are boat piers that stop near major commercial districts including Sukhumvit and all the way to the World Trade Center. It has minimum and maximum fares from 25 to 35 Baht. Long-tail boats could too be hired for special river


Taxi
Taxis in metropolitan Bangkok are metered. They may be superb for trips around the city. Taxis charge a minimum of 35 Baht for the first 3 kilometers and around 5 Baht per kilometer thereafter. When in traffic the meter is timed and calculated in the fare. Make sure you have enough change as taxi drivers often do not. Passengers must pay tolls in case of using an expressway. Some drivers would want to bargain a price for a trip rather than using the meter. Inform the tourist police if you are treated unfairly by taxi drivers.


Tuk-tuk
These small, three-wheeled and open-air motorized taxis are so conductive for short trips in Bangkok. To enjoy this ride, you must negotiate the fares in advance because there are no standard fares. For trips of up to 3 kilometers, minimum fares are roughly 30 Baht as well as not over 100 Baht for a longer trip. This vehicle is unique to Bangkok. A tuk-tuk can be hired anywhere, but not outside the city. The tuk-tuk could take you to almost anywhere in the city and afford you a memorable riding experience in Bangkok.


Motorcycle Taxi
Probably one of the best modes to escape the traffic jams and rush hours in Bangkok is taking motorcycle taxis. You can find them anywhere in Bangkok especially on main roads as well as in front of sois. Fares are very similar to those charged by tuk-tuk and minimum fares are 5 Baht. It is always a must for you to negotiate the fares before taking the ride. Though a bit riskier, this type of transport gives a faster answer for traveling if you are late or want to be on time. Motorcycle taxis can go anywhere in Bangkok

Hired Car
If you aspire to go your own way then rely on the services of international car hire firms in metropolitan Bangkok such as Budget, Hertz and Avis. To rent a car, contact these reliable car hire firms. The road system is good and well signposted. An international driving license is needed.

Minnie