Thailand (Lonely Planet, 13th Edition) - China Williams [649]
On overnight journeys the buses usually stop somewhere en route and passengers are awakened to get off the bus for a free meal of fried rice or rice soup. A few companies even treat you to a meal before a long overnight trip.
SAFETY
The most reputable bus companies depart from the public, BKS bus terminals. Private buses and minivans that pick up customers from tourist centres such as Th Khao San in Bangkok experience a higher incidence of reported theft, lateness and unreliability. Sometimes these tourist-oriented services pick up passengers from their guesthouse only to drop them off at the public bus terminal. Other complaints include the alleged ‘VIP’ bus turning out to be a cramped minibus that arrives four hours late.
Readers have also consistently reported having their stowed bags rifled through and valuables stolen. Keep all valuables on your person, not stored in your luggage because even locked bags can be tampered with and you might not realise anything is missing until days later.
Reservations
You can book air-con BKS buses at any BKS terminal. Ordinary (fan) buses cannot be booked in advance. Privately run buses can be booked through most hotels or any travel agency, but it’s best to book directly through a bus office to be sure that you get what you pay for.
CAR & MOTORCYCLE
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Bring Your Own Vehicle
Click here for information on how to bring a private vehicle into Thailand for tourist purposes.
Driving Licence
Short-term visitors who wish to drive vehicles (including motorcycles) in Thailand need an International Driving Permit. Long-term visitors can apply for a Thai driver’s licence through the provincial office of the Department of Land Transport (0 2272 3814). Contact the main office to determine the location of your assigned office (based on residence).
Fuel & Spare Parts
Modern petrol (gasoline) stations are in plentiful supply all over Thailand wherever there are paved roads. In more-remote, off-road areas ben·sin/nám·man rót yon (petrol containing benzene) is usually available at small roadside or village stands. All fuel in Thailand is unleaded, and diesel is used by trucks and some passenger cars. Because of the global increase in petrol prices, Thailand has introduced several alternative fuels, including gasohol (a blend of petrol and ethanol that comes in different ratios, either 91% or 95%) and compressed natural gas, used by taxis with bifuel capabilities. For news and updates about fuel options, and other car talk, see the website of BKK Auto (www.bkkautos.com).
If you’re driving a motorcycle for distances of more than 100km, take an extra supply of motor oil; if riding a two-stroke machine, carry two-stroke engine oil.
If you’re bringing your own vehicle, you’d be wise to bring a box of crucial spare parts that might not be available in Thailand. The same goes for motorcycles – especially so for bikes larger than 125cc.
Hire & Purchase
Cars, jeeps and vans can be rented in most major cities and airports from local companies as well as international chains. Local companies tend to have cheaper rates than the international chains, but their fleets of cars tend to be older and not as well maintained. Check the tyre treads and general upkeep of the vehicle before committing.
Motorcycles can be rented in major towns and many smaller tourist centres from guesthouses and small mum-and-dad businesses. Renting a motorcycle in Thailand is relatively easy and a great way to independently tour the countryside, especially in northern Thailand and on the southern beaches. For daily rentals, most businesses will ask that you leave your passport as a deposit. Before renting a motorcycle, check the vehicle’s condition and ask for a helmet (which is required by law).
Many tourists are injured riding motorcycles in Thailand because they don’t know how to handle the vehicle and are unfamiliar with road rules and conditions. Drive sensibly