Getting Around Phuket

Last Updated on Monday, 07 December 2009 20:14 Written by Administrator Wednesday, 08 July 2009 11:48

Transport

There are several ways to get around Phuket depending on your preference and what sort of budget you are on. If you want to travel cheaply then catch a Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, this is really a truck with benches along the sides. The fare is roughly 30 baht. They leave from Ranong Road in Phuket Town to all the main beaches from 07.00 until 18.00.

Just stand at the side of the road and flag one down. They do not operate during the evenings however, only travel main routes and can be very slow. If you are in one of the main tourist areas such as Patong or Kata in the evening, your only choice really will be a Tuk Tuk.

You will see these everywhere, ensure you negotiate the (inflated) price before getting in, although at some places the fare will be posted. If you need to get somewhere fast then hop on a Motorcycle Taxi, identified by their coloured vests, again negotiate but fares are generally reasonable. Meter Taxis can only be booked from the airport and you will see a few in Phuket Town but don’t expect to be able to flag one down anywhere else. You will see signs for Taxis, these are private cars and charge a flat rate. A taxi to Phuket Airport will be around 500 baht. Micro buses operate in and around town only, useful if you are in town and want to go to Tesco-Lotus or Big C.

They are air-conditioned buses with fares of 10-20 baht. Buses operate from 06:00 to 20:00. Phuket is flooded with Motorbikes and you will see them everywhere for rent, outside restaurants/bars, at the sides of the road and at your hotel. Motorbikes are one of the best ways to explore the island and the automatics are effortless to ride, however if you don’t have a lot of experience riding a bike then a good place to practise are the quiet beach roads. If you want to Hire a Car or Jeep and discover Phuket at your own pace, you will find many local agencies around and international companies such as Avis and Hertz. You will need a driving license from your home country or an international licence.