Listly by Joanna James
The Thai capital Bangkok would be a city that attracts innumerable foreign tourists each year. Whilst it could seem challenging to find your way around this vast and complex city, it would actually be fairly simple once you get the hang of it. In fact, there would be a number of efficient ways to get around this metropolis and your choice would often depend on your personal priorities. The main transport options in Bangkok are described below.
A popular choice for getting about this city would be the Metropolitan Rapid Transit or MRT, which would be the city’s metro / subway system. There are two MRT lines, namely the Purple Line and Blue Line; these services would be available from 6 a.m. to midnight. You will find that the Blue Line would be particularly useful for visitors seeking to travel to well-known places in the city.
The convenient BTS, also known as the Skytrain would operate on elevated lines which traverse the newer sections of the city. You would be able to travel to numerous popular shopping localities, restaurants, accommodations, nightlife venues and other attractions using this mode of transport. The BTS would soar above the busy urban streets enabling travellers to evade traffic and get to their destinations in air-conditioned convenience. When it comes to Bangkok serviced apartments, short stay options to consider within easy reach of a Skytrain station can be found at properties like Citadines Sukhumvit 16 Bangkok.
For travellers on a budget who desire to minimize transport costs, an appealing choice would be using the local network of buses. Whilst routes could be winding and there would often be no air-conditioning, buses would take you to the majority of areas in Bangkok.
You would also have the opportunity to get about in Songthaews – pickup trucks modified with seating in the rear – and minivans. You will find that these vehicles could be flagged down virtually anywhere, and you could also disembark wherever you desire.
You would find numerous taxis in the Thai capital, and they would come in a variety of different colours. Even though travelling by taxi could be rather expensive and you would have to contend with possible traffic delays, it would be a comfortable and convenient mode of travel.
Another option to consider would be travelling on motorbike taxis; this could be a simple and rather exhilarating way to move about within the city if you happen to be a solo traveller. Naturally, there would be an element of risk in this mode of travel but a motorbike taxi would have the ability to weave in between bigger vehicles, thus saving time. That said, always ensure you are given a helmet to wear for the journey.
Taking a tuk-tuk ride may be regarded as an iconic Bangkok experience for foreign visitors, and it would also be a quick and convenient mode of travel. On the other hand, this form of transportation wouldn’t be cheap; additionally, unlike most taxis, tuk-tuks wouldn’t be metered. Accordingly, you should take care to arrive at a price before commencing your tuk-tuk journey.
Naturally, you would have the option of renting a car or motorcycle in Bangkok for your travels in Thailand. As you might expect, renting your own vehicle would provide you with the opportunity to travel comfortably in the city at your own pace. However, you should keep in mind that the local driving conditions could be challenging, requiring your steady attention.
Another interesting way to travel would be using the boats and ferries that ply the Chao Phraya River. You will find that these services would be colour-coded and there would be regular announcements on-board regarding upcoming stops. There would also be boat services that would take you along the picturesque canals or khlongs of the city; the prices for these trips would often be reasonable and this mode of transport offers a unique perspective of the city.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.