How to Navigate Transport in Phuket, Thailand
Phuket, the quintessentially Thai beach holiday destination has always been popular with holidaymakers. It has everything going for it – stunning beaches, amenities and some enchanting sights. There is so much to do in Phuket that you’ll have to pick the activities you love most. How do you get about in Phuket? In this article, we talk about all the ways you can travel around this seaside destination.
How to use taxis in Phuket?
Most Phuket business hotels arrange pick-up via taxi for their guests. You can check with hotels like the Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket Suites & Villas to see availability. You can make a note of the telephone numbers on metered taxis and order it yourself when you want to get about afterwards. But hotels usually hire non-metered taxis. You can use these for short journeys. While taxis are expensive, the metered ones are cheaper than Tuk Tuks. If you see a red light on the front window of a taxi, it means it is empty. You’ll find taxis on busy roads and near beaches.
How to use motorbike taxis in Phuket?
There are plenty of motorbike taxis in Phuket. These are great if you’re a solo traveller. You’ll see that drivers of motorbike taxis wear coloured vests. They wait by busy junctions and near popular attractions. Always agree on the price before you get in and wear a helmet. If you find a particular driver safe and efficient, save their contact details.
How to use Tuk Tuks in Phuket?
Tuk Tuks in Phuket is four-wheeled. They are more of small songthaews. These four-wheeled Tuk Tuks are pretty expensive, but you can always try to negotiate. As buses and songthaews take a break in the evening, Tuks Tuks come in handy for parties and night travel. Remember to ask for the rate before the journey.
How to use songthaews in Phuket?
As is the case all over Thailand, songthaews are pretty ubiquitous in Phuket. These are in fact small pickup trucks modified with two benches on either side to carry passengers. Usually, songthaews have the final destination on display. They stop to collect passengers en route. All you have to do is wait by the side of the road and wave to one. Unfortunately, songthaews don’t run around the island’s parameters and connect beach resorts.
How to use buses in Phuket?
Some open-sided buses link Phuket Old Town with beach resorts. These are cheap and fairly reliable. They can however be slow as they stop along the way and take a circular route. The buses don’t link beach towns, so you’ll have to alternate between transport modes. The buses depart from the main bus stop as well as Talad Sod market on Ranong road.
Image via Wikimedia Commons
How to rent cars and scooters in Phuket?
You can find a large number of rental companies in Phuket offering cars, scooters and motorbikes. Relying on your own transport is the best way to make the most of your Phuket stay. This way, you’ll save a lot of money too. But you really shouldn’t attempt motorbike or scooter riding without a license or proper experience. Always, have your helmet on and wear protective clothing in case of accidents. Cars are good for families or groups. The roads are pretty decent in Phuket, and you can find fuel stations in most locations. Check the condition of the vehicle before you rent it and take dated photographs to prove the original state at the end of your holiday. You’ll need your international driving license and plenty of driving experience to navigate the roads. But, it is the most comfortable and hassle-free mode of transport in Phuket.
