Getting around in Chiang Mai isn’t difficult. There are several options ranging from the ubiquitous tuk tuk to privately hired day tour taxis with driver. Each has a use depending on the distance, convenience and level of comfort required. As usual you have to be sharp to taxi drivers chancing it with inflated fees, but on the whole transportation in Thailand is very reasonable.
Tuk tuks: are a fun experience and better at beating traffic jams, but their open back mean a mouthful of car fumes. They are only suitable for two people and a small suitcase, but are easy to pick up. Always bargain with the driver, but they aren’t the cheapest mode.Songteaws: are informal taxis and minibus public transport consisting of pickup trucks with two benchrows under the rear canopy and are found everywhere. They ply set routes and stop at will to pick up or let off passengers, charging about 10 baht for a 15 minute journey. If they have no passengers they will take you directly to an out of the way destination for a little more.
eter-cabs: are increasing in number but confined mostly to the airport route. They are air conditioned and usually won’t argue if you insist on using the meter (unless there is a planeload of gullible tourists queueing up behind you).
Rented motorbikes: are a popular choice for getting about the old town and even out to the national parks and mountains. A Honda Dream 125cc scooter is easy to rent and drive and the traffic isn’t as daunting as it seems. Parking is convenient but remember to wear your helmet!Bicycles: are also freely available for rent and good for exploring the old town lanes. It does get quite hot around midday however.+
Public buses: run on several routes around the city and were only recently introduced in the face of stiff opposition from the taxi association. They are cheap and air conditioned and arrive every 15 minutes but are seldom practical for visitors.
Private hire: is a good idea if there is a group of you. Tuk tuks and songteaws advertise that they are available for day hire and will know where all the good tourist spots are, but avoid any offers to be taken to specific shops. Tuk tuk drivers try this ruse by offering a free ride but you’ll waste plenty of time arguing your way out of aggressive gem dealer and tailor shops. Reputable tour guides hire out their mini van or car on a per-day basis which is useful.Below we have recommended several good services for transportation.
Credit article : http://www.guildeline.com/