Getting Around Phuket, Phuket Thailand Travel Guide

Getting Around Phuket

Getting Around Phuket is simple enough. There are the usual methods that you would find in your home country and a couple, perhaps not.

Arriving at the airport

If arriving with no pre-arranged transfer to your hotel. Then the best option would be ignore the more expensive limousines from the touts, and go to the metered taxi rank. It seems a contradiction, but ask for a set fare. If your party or luggage, is too large, there are mini buses. Check if there are other passengers and share the cost. Make sure your driver knows the hotel or location you want to go. The agent or driver may try to persuade you to alternative accommodation. Smile and be resolute.

		airport bus		taxi
		airport bus		van

The golden rule with all unmetered transport is to agree the price before you start your journey. Car hire is available at the airport. This can be more expensive and less secure. It is best to pre-book your car hire from a trusted source.

Driving yourself around Phuket

A valid international driving license is required, for a car and motorcycle. When hiring a vehicle you may be asked to surrender your passport or driving license, do not. Make some photocopies before you set out. Observe the usual checks when hiring a vehicle. I.e. Damage, fuel gauge and odometer and if you have a camera, photograph any damage. Most importantly check the cover of the insurance documents. Often ‘with insurance’ means third party cover only. Keep copies of all of documents with the vehicle. Not wearing a seat belt, using a mobile phone or riding without crash helmets are good excuses to get stopped and fined.

A good way to enjoy the Island by car is to hire a driver, that way you can relax more and benefit from local knowledge. Just make sure the driver has a license, and is insured to drive the car.

		airplane		limousine
		limousine		limousine

Taxis

Taxis, in the traditional sense, are few and far between, although you hotel can hire one for you. Tuk-Tuks that monopolize the ranks are highly organized, and generally have set rates to your destination. Check the price before setting off. Polite haggling may get some results. Ask if the driver will stop for other fares going the same way. If you are on your own and have a short journey, motorcycle taxis are cheap and quick.

Buses

The cheapest and slowest are Phuket’s local buses that follow the main routes. These are great for making a photographic tour of your journey. There are many micro buses that cover a wide variety of destinations, and airport buses. Ask your hotel for the best choice to get you there, how much it will cost and how long it will take.

		songtheaw		car rent
		songtheaw		car rent

		tuk tuk		tuk tuk
		motor bike		motor bike