Joanna James
Pattaya is well known for its glorious beaches and tropical climates. However, in a vociferous town where English is not the first most language, it can be difficult to navigate for a newcomer.
Known as Songthaew in Thailand, it runs to all corners of Pattaya and is available at all times too, making it one of the most convenient forms of public transport. Moreover, one can even rent out a Baht bus for a private tour too, although for a higher fee. All you have to do is stand by the road and wave a bus down when it is approaching you. You can get in after it slows down. When you want to get off, press the buzzer that lets the driver know you want him to pull over. Once you get off, walk to the front and pay him the fare of 10 baht. If you are looking for a true Thai experience, a ride in the Baht bus should top your list of things to do in Pattaya.
Finding motorcycle taxis are as easy as finding a baht bus. Almost every street corner has a stand and the added benefit is that they can reach your intended location much faster than any other mode of transport. The downside is that there is no fixed price when it comes to motorcycle taxis. It mainly depends on the distance and the driver's frame of mind. Bargaining skills are necessary for this situation. Make it a point to wear a helmet and if they do not offer one, request the driver for one.
While the previous options are convenient and fast, if you need to go somewhere like AVANI Pattaya Resort & Spa, you are going to need something more refined. This is where metered taxis come in. They are not as easy to find as Baht buses but usually frequent the areas around shopping malls and other tourists locations. They are much pricier and while they use the term "metered", they are known to charge fixed rates to certain locations. Again, bargaining skills are essential here, and if you still do not like the price, walk away and try another one.
There are plenty of motorbike operators that allow you to rent a motorbike for a day or for the entirety of your stay. Of course, you will need to have a valid driving license and an international permit. Have these things in order before you depart, unless you want to get into unnecessary problems with the cops. A helmet is required by law, and many roadside cops look out for such offenders. If you are a newbie to motorbike driving, you should probably find another mode of transport due to the dangerously unpredictable traffic of Pattaya.
It is not difficult to find car rental companies, but cars are hardly needful unless you are planning to go out of town. They are more expensive too and it is difficult to find parking slots in the town too, which makes parking quite a hassle.
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