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How to get around in Bangkok

Bangkok is one of the cities in the world that's constantly visited by tourists.

By Traveling WorldwidePublished 3 years ago 3 min read
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Alter, Bangkok at Night, CC BY-SA 3.0

Its touristy appeal is a draw for those in the West who want a taste of Asia. The city is packed with backpackers and sophisticated travellers throughout the year who want to enjoy world-class food, excellent hospitality and see historical landmarks. Bangkok is where tradition meets modernity, which is true in every aspect of the city, including transport.

1. Bangkok transport

Bangkok has numerous modes of transport, the distance between Bangkok's attractions and a Bangkok city hotel is covered by trains, buses, taxis, tuk-tuks and boats. While there are many ways of getting around Bangkok, the city's never-ending gridlock can tire you out. Before you head out for the day, when in Bangkok, you should always plan your journey – if at all possible, try to avoid the rush hours. There are several modes of transport, and you should always pick your preferred way of travelling beforehand – this should be easy if you stay at a place like Pathumwan Princess Hotel where you can get the hotel concierge to arrange your transport. When choosing your mode of transport, you should consider the weather; for example, if it's been raining all week, the city's likely going to be flooded, in which case Skytrain is the best option. Also, keep in mind that when travelling around Bangkok, you should always keep loose change with you.

2. Skytrain

Also known as BTS, Skytrain is a train system that has two lines: BTS Silom Line and BTS Sukhumvit Line. As opposed to the subway, Skytrain runs above the city and is the most desired method of travelling around during the rainy season. This modern, high-tech mode of transport is the best you can find in Bangkok during rush hours.

3. MRT

Bangkok's underground train system has only one line, which is called the MRT Blue Line. It has eighteen stations, and they give you access to almost every tourist attraction in the city. At the interchange stations, passengers can also switch to Skytrain. The MRT operational hours are from 6 am to 12 am every day.

4. Taxis

In Bangkok, you can get a taxi at any time of the day. This mode of transport is comfortable yet inexpensive. It's easy to find a taxi anywhere in the city, and it doesn't cost you any more than a dollar to travel a kilometre by taxi. But before getting in, you always need to make sure that the meter is on.

5. Tuk-tuks

Tuk-tuks operate throughout the day, and they are cheaper than taxis. Tourists like to travel by tuk-tuks more than locals as they give them a chance to do a bit of sightseeing while travelling. You don't get a fixed rate for tuk-tuks – the rates mostly depend on the time of the day, the distance and more importantly, how well you can haggle. While this is a fun way of travelling around Bangkok, it isn't the safest option, especially if your children are travelling with you.

6. BRT

This is another modern transport method you find in Bangkok. BRT is a transit system that comes with 12 stops, and it is a sixteen-kilometre line. BRT operates from 6 am to 12 am every day, and there's one every five minutes.

7. Motorbike taxis

You'll find that motorbike taxis are a very common mode of transport in South Asia. This is a cheaper method when compared to tuk-tuks and much more dangerous. However, if you want adventure and would like a taste of the quintessential Bangkok life, travelling around by motorbike is your option. Motorbikes operate throughout the day and can be found anywhere in the city. The fare depends on the distance and your haggling skills. One thing you should remember is that you must always wear a helmet when travelling by motorbike.

8. Boats

When in Bangkok, you can use boats to get around. Ferry boats offer services on six routes and operate from 6 am to 8 pm every day. You also have the option of express boats, and this is the best way to explore Bangkok's Chao Phraya River.

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