Transport on the Eastern Seaboard

Transport on the Eastern Seaboard A guide to getting around in Thailand. How do I get around? This question plays a huge part in making a decision on whether to move to one foreign city over another. Every city has its quirks and Pattaya, Chonburi and Rayong are no different, however, master the art of transport here and you can get to any location with a minimum of fuss and very little impact on your back pocket.

 

Own Transport: Many expats who call this part of the world home eventually acquire a car or a scooter (sometimes both) either through outright purchase or long-term lease. The main roads are maintained and signposted in English as well as Thai, so driving is surprisingly easy. Make sure you have all your documents such as international drivers permit and insurance Just remember to drive on the left-hand side!

There are three major modes of Public transport:

Songthaew: Pronounced song-taw, this public transport is essentially a pick-up truck with a converted rear-end, allowing for a number of passengers to sit comfortably within it. It is the go-to form of transportation in Thailand for locals and foreigners alike, due to the rock-bottom fare price of ten Baht (20p) per trip. There are a number of different routes to the major points of interest around the city. You can also hire a Songthaew for an agreed upon price, much like a taxi.

Moto-Taxi: This can be a hair-raising experience for uninitiated first-timers. Moto-Taxis are speedy mopeds which, due to their size are excellent for weaving in and out of the occasional traffic on the roads of Pattaya. Drivers can be found almost everywhere around the city, however, you will probably hear them before you see them as they are prone to shouting and clapping to get a fare’s attention.

Taxi: Cheap and reliable. Most also come with air-con, which makes for a wonderful escape from the humid Thai air. Nothing new here, except you must remember to either agree on a fare or rely on the meter to avoid paying hefty price.

 

Shane Ruddle is the owner and operator of Pattaya Rent-A-Car, a western-owned rental car business with years of expertise and knowledge serving the populous on the Eastern Seaboard.

“Getting around Pattaya is both cheap and easy, there is literally public transport on every corner to take you anywhere in the city for less than 100 baht.

If you choose to drive, know that driving in any foreign country can be a daunting prospect regardless of where you are in the world and Thailand is certainly no different.

With the traffic in Pattaya getting increasingly busy, the easiest and cheapest way to get around Pattaya is by motorbike. If you don’t own a motorbike the simplest and most affordable thing that you can do is rent one from a reputable company.”