Getting around

Common modes of transport in Thailand are the rail transport, which covers the whole of Bangkok an. reaching Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima, Ratchaburi, Phetchaburi,, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Ban Takhun, Thung Song, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Hat Yai, Songkhla, Yala, Sungai Kolok, Uttaradit and Lampang.

Bus transport is also widely utilised for traveling long-distances. Tour/VIP-class buses are more luxurious.

In Bangkok, the most common modes of transport for tourists are taxis and the Bangkok Mass Transit System (known as BTS to locals).

Taxis: Taxis in Thailand are one of the cheapest taxi rates in the world, with the meter starting at 35 baht (about S$1.50) and jumps 2 baht (10 cents) every kilometer. 

Of course, don't forget that Thailand is known for tourists being conned. While this is not a common occurence, be careful when taking taxis, as taxi drivers may take advantage of tourists by not using the taxi meter, and charging you a bulk sum (which is usually twice as much you would normally pay). Always request that the taxi driver put on the meter as soon as you enter the taxi.

Buses: While buses are not encouraged for tourists (as they are hard to navigate), they are a very cheap form of transport. Fares vary according to the type of bus. Red buses (non air-con) are 3 and a half baht for 1 journey.

Blue & white non air-con buses 8 baht for 1 journey.

Blue air-con buses, start at 8 baht and orange air-con buses start at 10 baht progressing up to 20 baht depending on the distance travelled.

BTS: The BTS costs between 10-40 Baht depending on distance travelled.

Bangkok Mass Rapid Transport (Underground train): Alternatively, there is also the underground (subway), which  ranges in price from 14-36 Baht (2 Baht per station increase up to 12 stations).

Airport 

The taxis at the airport are not advisable because of the high prices they charge tourists and locals alike. Opt for limosine services such as AOT http://www.newthaiairport.com/aot-limousine.html  which charge around 900 - 1500 baht for a private car to take you to any location in Bangkok. 

Alternatively, if you prefer a cheaper option, Bangkok has recently opened an Airport Link from Suvarnabhumi Airport. The Airport Link provides 2 Transit options. 

1) A Direct Express Train will take 15 minutes to the City Air Terminal (Makkasan) train station. This service will connect to the city’s mass transit subway system. On the way back to the airport, passengers will have the opportunity of checking in their luggage at the City Air Terminal, before boarding the express train to Suvarnabhumi airport.

2) The Commuter Train will make eight stops throughout the city, taking 30 minutes to travel the 28 kilometers (17 miles) from the airport and links to both the MRT and  the BTS systems in Bangkok.

MRT: Phetchaburi station for MRT on the Blue line

BTS: Phayathai Station on the BTS Sukhumvit line.

From these down town stations, you can head to the MRT or BTS station closest to your hotel or destination!

The MRT and BTS map below shows that Phaya Thai station is only 2 stops away from Central Chitlom!



When to go

Thailand has an extremely high level of rainfall throughout the year. Generally hot and humid, the monsoon season is between June to October while the cool season is from November to February.

Languages

Thai, Isan (Laotian dialect), Yawi (Malay dialect), English in cities.

Electricity

Electricity in Thailand is supplied at 220V, 50 Hz, common electrical sockets used are A, B, C and G.

Seeking help

In case of an emergency, have these emergency hotlines at your fingertips:

Police-191 Medical attention-1669 Fire-199