How to get around Phuket
Stunning beaches, hilly reaches and tourist-oriented amenities draw visitors to Phuket annually. It is Thailand’s famous island which the James Bond franchise visited, and people come to spend some of their gap years. The charming sights and sounds surely draw lots of visitors, but how do these people get around? More importantly, how can you get around in Phuket without hassle?
fitri agung from Pekanbaru, Riau, Indonesia, Indonesia, Bus in Phuket (8481660759), CC BY 2.0
How to get a taxi in Phuket?
Taxis or cabs if you’re English are expensive in Phuket. However, the metered cabs are cheaper than some Tuk Tuk rides. The taxis are bright yellow and red with a sign on top. If you see a red light in the front window of the taxi, you can flag it down. It is the most comfortable way to get to restaurants in Phuket or to your hotel initially. For example, Anantara Layan Phuket Resort is located about 45 minutes away from the town and you would need a taxi with the entire luggage to travel in comfort. Hotels order non-metered taxis while metered ones tend to hover around near beaches and main attractions. Avoid non-metered taxis if you are on a budget. You can always ask the driver for his number and call whenever you need a ride.
How to get motorbike taxis in Phuket?
Motorbikes are ubiquitous in Phuket. These are handy for short journeys, especially if you are a solo traveller. Look out for drivers wearing coloured vests to recognize motorbike taxis. You can find these busy junctions or near famous attractions including beaches. Remember to always agree to the price before getting on and asking for a helmet. When you visit remote areas, pay your driver to wait for you.
How about the car and scooter rental in Phuket?
Renting your own scooter or car can be surprisingly cost-effective in Phuket. However, a word of warning – Thailand’s roads are notorious for being dangerous. Also, don’t forget your international driving license. When you take your scooter for a ride, wear clothes that offer protection and don’t forget your helmet. And always store your bag under your seat.
How about ferry and boat services in Phuket?
Rassada Pier is the main pier in Phuket. Speedboats and ferries take off from this pier in the morning and afternoon hours. You can travel to Krabi Town, Koh Phi Phi, Trang Island and Ao Nang by ferry or speedboat along the Andaman Sea. In the monsoon season, ferry services can get delayed.
How about Songthaew in Phuket?
Thailand’s songthaews are everywhere including Phuket. These small trucks and pickup trucks have seating to carry passengers. In Phuket, songthaews display their final destination and collect and drops off passengers along the way. Unfortunately, there are no designated stops in Phuket. You have to wait on the side of the road and flag down the vehicle.
How about buses in Phuket?
The small and open-sided buses go between Phuket Old Town and beach resorts in places like Surin, Patong, Karon and Kamala. These buses are inexpensive and reliable, but they tend to be slow as the routes are winding with many stops. However, bus services don’t connect beach towns. The buses depart from the main bus stand and Talad Sod market on Ranong Road.
How about Tuk Tuks in Phuket?
Phuket’s Tuk Tuks are four-wheeled and tend to be expensive. You can try to negotiate a more reasonable price, but your efforts will be in vain. Three-wheel drivers know that travellers don’t have much of a choice after buses and songthaews call it a day early in the evening. It is best to avoid getting into arguments and agree on the price before getting into the Tuk Tuk.
