Bangkok Taxis and TukTuks

If the Bangkok skytrain or Bangkok subway lines do not go to your destination, then a Bangkok taxi is the next best option for your family. Taxis can be found just about anywhere in Bangkok. In some parts of the city they even seem to outnumber the privately owned cars. Sitting in a traffic jam is never fun, especially with rambunctious toddlers, but at least Bangkok taxis are usually air-conditioned.

Bangkok taxis can be a bargain if you follow a few simple rules. Unless it is an emergency, use only the metered taxis. Make sure the meter is turned on. If the driver refuses to turn it on, demand he pull over and find another one. They come along quite frequently. Be aware that taxi drivers in Bangkok do not get paid by the hour. They do not even work for the taxi company. Taxi drivers rent the car for a flat fee and put in the fuel. They do not have to pay the taxi company according to the fares that are on the meter. Giving a tip above the fare is not expected or required. The whole fare collected is theirs anyway.

We have taken many rides in Bangkok taxis and most of the time the drivers are very courteous and take us to our desired destination without any problems. It is always best to have the address for your destination written in Thai. Most drivers know Bangkok very well. If they are new drivers, they may stop and ask for directions. Don't worry, if your driver has to ask for directions at least you know he intends to take you to your destination. In general, taxi drivers provide better customer service than tuk tuk drivers.

If using a tuk-tuk, be sure to negociate the rate ahead of time. Beware of those drivers that are eager to take you any where other then what you requested. It isn't unusual to be taken somewhere that pays the driver a commision and charges you much more than what you could normally find on your own. This is why I prefer a taxi instead of a tuk tuk. In my experience with Bangkok transportation, tuk tuk drivers are more likely to take advantage of a tourist by overcharging for the fare.

If you are traveling to places you have never been before, do your home work and be able to recognize that you're at the right place when you get there (i.e. viewing a picture of it before hand or knowing what to look for.) I've seen first hand how if a driver has trouble finding your destination, he will drop you anywhere, tell you that you are there and collect the fair. If your not satisfied, question them. Usually they will either try harder to find your destination or drop you to find another taxi without charging for the fare.

In general, Bangkok taxis are large enough for a family of five, maybe six if your children are small. However, tuk tuks are smaller in size and will usually only have room for three adults or two adults and two small children.

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