Walking
Getting around Patong is a breeze. It's not a big resort area and
much of the entertainment, restaurants, shopping and hotels are
located within walking distance of each other. Just a get a map
- there are plenty in the hotels and local shops, and you'll find
it easy to get around.
By Tuk Tuk
For those times when you just don't want to walk, you will see
lots of tuk tuks or small open air taxis. They will pick up anywhere
on the street and drop off anywhere.
Just state your destination and agree on the price before setting
off!
A trip within the Patong area shouldn't cost more than 50 Baht,
but for trips further afield, anything up to 400 Baht can be expected
- depending on the distance, the weather and your bargaining skills!
Local Bus
If you want to explore some of the other beaches and sites around
the island, take a tuk tuk or catch a local songthaew or bus. The
local buses (painted bright blue for easy recognition) have their
destination written in English and run regularly between 7.00 am
and 6.00pm.
There are no designated bus stops, which means you have to wave
them down in the middle of the street. In Patong, your best spot
for catching the bus is along Phra Baramee Road outside the tourist
police box.
Catching the bus is a leisurely way of getting to your destination,
so don't take one if you're in a hurry. Standard cost for trips
to Phuket Town or North to Kamala are approximately 20 Baht.
Renting Cars & Motorbikes
Private cars, jeeps and motorbikes can be hired from most major
hotels, and from private dealers off the street.
If you really want to explore, having your own vehicle is the best
way to go. It's important to check that full insurance cover is
included and that you have the appropriate licence at hand in case
of accident.
A Thai or an international car or motorbike licence is mandatory
for a successful claim on insurance in case of accident.
For serious bike enthusiasts, the area around Patong has great
roads and coastal scenery.
Cruise out of the town on smooth roads that bank and curve around
lush mountains overlooking the Andaman Sea and visit some of the
smaller areas off the beaten track.
There are bike shops in Patong that specialise in road cruisers
and dirt bikes for those who want something more challenging than
the traditional Honda Dream favoured by most tourists and locals.
Check out the shops along Rat-U-Thit Road.
A word of warning - take extreme care when riding the roads in
Thailand. Not only is there a complete disregard for traffic regulations
which leads to unexpected, unpredictable and dangerous behaviour
on the roads, but during the rainy season, accidents occur when
damp roads become slippery to ride, due to oil spill build-ups.
Basically, no matter how tempting, if you're not experienced, don't
ride a bike.
Motorbike Taxis
During the day and night, groups of motorcyclists can be seen on
street corners or cruising the streets wearing coloured vests and
trying to get your attention. These are the motorcycle taxi drivers,
normally wearing green or red vests.
State your destination, and agree the price before setting off.
Generally they are very reasonable but depends on the distance and
your bargaining skills. Not the safest mode of transport but very
convenient for short trips around Patong. |
