(Phahurat, p70) within your reach. Unfortunately, Bangkok does not offer an all-purpose ticket for the skytrain and Metro yet.
Taxis for Safety& Comfort
Thailand's numerous Toyota taxis are reliable and safe. Paying by meter is the norm in Bangkok, although you might have to bargain with some cabbies during rush hours and
late at night(especially at some of the sleazier districts). In other cities, a taxi can be a private vehicle with negotiable rates. You can also travel between cities by taxi but you'l need to
negotiate a price, as few taxi drivers will run a meter for intercity travel. Thailand's taxi drivers are a colourful bunch and will often practise their English on you and teach you a few Thai
words to return the favour.
Since language will be an issue, have your hotel write out your destination address in Thai script. Many hotels Eve out cards with a location map and directions in Thai to help
you get back safely. If travelling to a spot off the beaten track, then get someone at your destination to give directions directly to the taxi driver.
Pronounciation matters, and Thai taxi drivers are not good second-guessers. If you should pronounce the international airport's name as it spelt su-var-na-bhoo-mee- you'll get is
a rather than how the Thais say it su-vanna-poom-all blank look.
Water Taxis for Traffic-free Rides
This is how they did it in the old days. Thailand in general, and Bangkok in particular, used to be interlinked by a network of canals. Thailand's waterways are still the cheapest
mode of transport(prices from a mere 8B) and remarkably
Quick facts
The BTS(Skytrain) and MRT(Subway) are the quickest way to get around in Bangkok. They are interconnected but don't have a common ticket. Pick up a brochure at any
station for details on tourist passes.
All long-distance trains originate from Bangkok's Hualamphong station. Advance bookings can be done at the station or by passenger ser@railway.co th(at least two weeks
before your journey)
Chao Phraya Express(22623 6001: www. chaophrayaexpressboat.com/ en/tourist) is Bangkok's most scenic and efficient) river transport option.