Travel Mania

By Randy Gaudet

The best way to get around Chiangmai is by 'songthaew'.

These are covered pick-up trucks with two benches in the back; 'Songthaew' means 'two benches' in Thai.

You will see them everywhere and it's easy to get them to pick you up. All you need to do is to put your arm out and look at the driver and they will stop. Then tell the driver which street you want to go to and, if he is going that way, he will shake his head for 'yes'; if not, he will say "no" and go on.

Don't worry, there will be another one right behind him.

When the driver turns down the street you want, start looking for where you need to get off and press the switch located on the roof of the cab. The driver will pull over, let you out, and then you pay him. The fare should be 20 Thai baht or less (around 50 cents).

If you tell the driver the name of a hotel or establishment, he will think you want to hire him for a private trip and the price will be much more. Negotiate any price beforehand if you want to go to somewhere particular.