Transportation in Thailand
Various different classes of busses are available by the local government bus company in Thailand. Buses throughout Thailand are run by Baw Kaw Kaw or BKK. This company has a bus terminal in every town of Thailand. These BKK buses are an easy, cheap, comfortable and convenient mode of transport to get around Thailand. Many private bus companies also operate in the country but these are slightly more expensive and less frequent.
VIP Buses
The First class buses generally take direct routes. These buses are blue and white in colour and air conditioned. These double decker buses can accommodate about 40 people. Snack bar and toilet on board are other facilities available. The VIP buses have 32 seats and have more leg space and reclining seats. Basic meals with comfortable blankets are provided. Finally the S-VIP buses or the Super VIP buses which accommodate 24 seats are available. Some of these buses also have televisions and music systems.
Songthaew/Tuk Tuk's
A songthaew is a truck based means of transport with two bench seats in the back and one on either side. Songthaews are operated extensively as local buses and are economical for short distances. The tuk-tuk is a small and lightweight vehicle which is run on three wheels. Metered taxis have recently become popular in the Bangkok and Chiang Mai area.
Travel by Boat
Lastly river express or boats are available to reach the various locations in Bangkok. The reua hang yao is a long and thin wooden boat which can be easily manoeuvred in shallow waters. Other water speedboats services are also available. These modern and air conditioned boats and ferries run from Surat Thani to islands like Ko Pha Ngan and Ko Samui.