Chiang Mai's routes are quite busy and preventing traffic congestion can be frustrating and tiring. I have seen tourism literature about the city that highlights its peaceful quality, and although there are many such places (especially outside Chiang Mai), they can't find them on the highways. This article attempts to describe the types of transport available in Chiang Mai, the best way to transport and the advantages and disadvantages of each mode of transport together with personal anecdotes
a. Dosage Taxi
My misconception, because taxis do not turn on their meter – certainly not my partner and my experiences! As a non-Thai, he must agree with the leader before he climbs, as foreigners are regularly overwhelmed. Every time we asked for the meter to be turned on, it was said to be broken. Don't hesitate to go with another taxi if you feel like it is. There are plenty in the area, and the taxi ride can even return and offer a decent price. Finally we started cutting the requested price in two places and negotiating it.
The only one that successfully captured a measured taxi was at Chiang Mai Airport, where we came from Bangkok. Make sure that you enter the airport at one of the two official taxi counters where you get a ticket; moreover, unmarked cars that travel freely for unwanted travelers are not allowed. The 30-minute fare to the city paid us 60 Baht and the usual 50 Baht airport tax (payable at the airport)
b. Tuk-Tuk
Tuk-tuks are fun and must be new to anyone in Thailand. At the same time, I do not recommend them regularly because they are noisy, and passengers are in the mercy of damaging car steam, not to mention the occasional heavy smoke of late spring and summer when farmers are burning land and shrubs to promote new growth. The glorious motorcycles (three wheels + handle) are relatively expensive compared to Songthaews (see below). They are only suitable for short trips, and of course foreigners have to pay more. To get the elevator, simply select a tuk-tuk down and enter your destination. Note that most tuk-tuk drivers speak limited English
c. Pedicab Pedicabs operated by very agile and older men provide slow but scenic tours in the old town, especially within the valley area. Prices can be negotiated. The descendants of rickshaws are not as many as they once were, but they are still less. Flag down one of the steps.
d. Truck (Songthaew)
Songthaews (literally "two pads") operate buses that travel on selected routes. Describes them, tell the driver's destination, and tells you to jump if it goes. Fast, efficient and cheap, Songthaews is picking up another passenger. It's a good way to bypass and, unlike tuk-tuks and taxis, they are not inclined to overload: this is a flat 20 Baht per adult when traveling in the city (watch the red-colored Songthaews); when traveling outside the city, the trucks are yellow and of course pay more
e. Buses and Trains
Public transportation in Chiang Mai is unusual as it does not include bus service. There are no commuter trains, no trains or subways like in Bangkok.
NB If you don't speak Thai, one way to definitely reach your destination is to introduce the driver with your business card to your destination address and map. It should be fine, because not all drivers are talking or reading English.
We've heard stories that drivers pretend they can't change to avoid paying off the difference. It has never been our experience, but it is important to mention. So make sure you have plenty of 20-Baht notes on it.
II. Rented Transport
Chiang Mai has a wide range of rental companies to choose from, such as car, motorcycle or scooter. Whatever your vehicle, if you decide to start, be sure to have your driving license and international driving license. Take a photo of the rent to make sure you don't pay for the damage you aren't responsible for. Also for security reasons, you must leave your passport. Please note that you must return your vehicle if you require a visa (unless you have a second passport), in which case you should make sure that the identifier given to the landlord is NOT the Thai visa!).
a. Scooters and Motorcycles
Scooters and motorcycles are one of the best ways to get to Chiang Mai, especially because the traffic is quite crowded. However, it should be easy with the Thai driving mode, which is "flexible", say the least. Mandatory third party injury is included in the rental price of the motorcycle, but there is no third party insurance in case of damage to the vehicle. An additional 50 Baht limits the cost of damaging the rental of daily. There are special rates for daily / weekly and monthly rentals, but don't hesitate to negotiate an even better deal. You can get a 110 cm3 scooter at 150 Baht per day (with extra insurance; without 100 baths). The 125 cc is a better choice if you have two on your bike and some companies rent larger bikes. I recommend the manual automatically because it is easier to handle in traffic.
After you have made your choice, check the use of the scooter / motorcycle before you leave (especially lights and brakes) and ask you to take it for a trial run (to check steering). Always wear a helmet (usually dropped freely, check that it fits and that it is good quality). Most accidents are involving motorcyclists, and they said that the Thai-language press reported terrible motorcycle accidents, but not in English-language papers. I can't imagine why, unless the motorcycle rental business falls. Helmets are a must, despite the fact that few Thais wear them. The penalty for driving without one is 200 Baht (cost of a new helmet), although it rarely seems valid.
There are plenty of rental locations along the Moon Muang Road (eastern side of the ditch).
b. Cars
When renting a car, the best way for a recognized dealer (Avis / Budget, etc.) is to get there, as the vehicle can be better served theoretically. Full insurance is required (but check for fine print; note that Visa cards usually cover collision damage) and are likely to be an alternative if your car fails for some reason. Although less practical in heavy traffic, there is no doubt that cars offer greater protection, comfort (especially on long journeys) and … air conditioning
about 700 and thousands of Baht per day, and minibuses are slightly more. Monthly rentals offer better deals (don't hesitate to book hard shipments) and on-line offers all the best prices.
You can also rent a car. The daily cost is approx. 1750 baht for one car and 2,000 baht for a mini bus (this doesn't include fuel). After 17 o'clock, the hourly rate is about 100 Baht. You can also pay for the driver's food and accommodation at night trips. It is worth mentioning that we migrated to Chiang Mai when a taxi driver who was provided to us by car and driver offered us 650 Baht per day
c. Bicycles
Easily accessible everywhere, but especially in the Old Town's tourist areas (guest houses, travel agencies, serviced apartments, etc.). Usually 150-200 baht per day. Personally, I wouldn't hire one to visit the city (too dangerous), but it is comfortable and enchanting in a quieter part of Chiang Mai. Helmets do not seem to be obligatory, but they are a very good idea.
In summary, in Chiang Mai, transport can take many forms. What you want best depends on your age and experience, but you need to find a way to get the most out of you. Do not hesitate to approach other foreigners for their experience. In my opinion, the most important things to remember are security and, if necessary, a harder negotiation for a better price
Source by Elizabeth Slater