By Taxi & Tuk-Tuk in Bangkok

By Taxi & Tuk-Tuk

Taxis can be an economical way to get around, provided you don't hit gridlock. A typical journey of 5 km (3 mi) runs about B60. Most taxis have meters, so avoid those that lack one or claim that it is broken. The rate for the first 2 km (1 mi) is B35, with an additional baht for every 55 yards after that. If the speed drops to below 6 kph (4 mph), a surcharge of one baht per minute is added. Taxi drivers may take a fare without a clue as to where they are going, so having a concierge write the name of your destination and its cross streets in Thai is always a good idea, especially if you are visiting a place that is not a well-known landmark or buried in a labyrinthine neighborhood like Chinatown.

Though colorful three-wheeled tuk-tuks are somewhat of a symbol of Bangkok, they're really only a good option when traffic is light -- otherwise you can end up sitting in traffic, sweating, and sucking in car fumes. Oh, and did we mention that they're unmetered and prone to overturning? The drivers are tough negotiators, and unless you are good at bargaining you may well end up paying more for a tuk-tuk than for a metered taxi. Unscrupulous tuk-tuk drivers -- all too common, especially around touristy areas -- offer tours at a bargain rate, then take you directly to jewelry shops and tailors who, of course, give the drivers a commission. Don't fall for it. In many ways a tuk-tuk is not ideal, but if a trip to Bangkok does not seem complete without a spin around town in one, pay half of what the driver suggests, insist on being taken to your destination, and hold on for dear life.

At many sois you will find groups of motorcycle taxis. These "soi boys" can travel anywhere in Bangkok. Fares are negotiable, usually about the same as or perhaps a little less than taxis. A trip to go the length of a street is B10. Motorbikes can be dangerous, and helmets, when available, are often nothing more than a thin piece of plastic without a chin strap, but most locals take these taxis as part of the daily commute. Motorcycle drivers seem to know their way around the city much better than taxi drivers -- they also know good side-street shortcuts. The risk and discomfort limit their desirability, but motorcycles are one of the best ways to get around Bangkok, especially if you're in a hurry.