13 Jan 2008

Getting around Nong Khai

Nong Khai isn’t big, but nobody bothers to walk anywhere.

In Thailand they drive on the left. Usually.

Nong Khai has some interesting road-traffic regulations. Meechai road is one-way (eastbound) before 9pm. Helmets are required 8am-6pm. Passengers included. Penalty is an on-the-spot fine of 200 baht.

Tuk-tuk

Negotiable prices but expect 30 baht per person for a standard trip. You'll pay much more if you're picked up at the train station. If you’re coming from Laos you can get a tuk-tuk to/from the immigration point at the Friendship Bridge. It’ll set you back about 50 baht into the centre of town; more if you’re on your own. More on crossing over here.

If you’re sticking around, buy yourself your own customised tuk-tuk in Udon Thani for 50-60k. You know it makes sense.

Motorcycle

Japanese 110cc mopeds are ubiquitous. You can hire one for about 150-200 baht per day (1,000 per week).

There’s a decent moped hire stall outside the Mut Mee guesthouse. See map.

... or, if Luke’s not around, ask at the bar if his Kawasaki Cheer is available. Be nice to it. There’s a picture of it in the picture gallery.

If you’re staying for a while, it might be cheaper to buy a moped second-hand. Something decent will cost over 10,000 baht from an official dealer. They’ll sort out the paperwork.

Staff at petrol stations know what type a fuel to use and will do the business for you. A full tank in a moped is about 90 baht.

Bicycle

Plenty of these for hire or purchase all over the place.

Transport        By air        By rail         By road          Laos