Cars - usually the smaller jeep-type models as opposed to saloon or hatchback cars - can usually also be rented anywhere there are tourists. Sometimes insurance is included, sometimes it is an optional extra, and sometimes it is simply not mentioned. Whatever the situation, seek clarification BEFORE you drive off into the tropical sunset!
It is also a very good idea to take a walk around the car being rented, along with the person you are renting from, before committing yourself or handing any money over. Check the vehicle for scratches and bumps etc, and make a note of them (or take photographs). This ensures you are not held responsible for them when you hand the car back - a common way for the less scrupulous car rental places to supplement rental income from tourists. It is also worth clarifying the petrol/diesel situation. Do you have a full tank to start with? Are you expected to return the car with a full tank?
Also give the car a check over… checking tyres and tyre pressure, lights, brakes etc. If you can't do this, find someone who can!
Again, as per the advice regarding motorbikes… drive carefully, use your mirrors, and be prepared for that cement lorry! It may help to keep in mind the cost of even a very minor accident!
POINT OF INTEREST No. 1
So many tourists have been injured and left with scars after having accidents on motorbikes that these scars have become known as "Thai tattoos".
POINT OF INTEREST No. 2
Some areas in Thailand now test for drug/alcohol levels of people involved in accidents… whether injured or not. If illegal drugs or alcohol are found in your blood/urine, the accident could well be deemed your fault… whether it actually was or not!
Tips on renting a car or motorbike in Thailand.
- Check the brakes, tyres, lights etc before you drive/ride off! If you can't, find someone who can.
- Clarify whether insurance is included or available, if it is-buy it!
- Check for scratches/damage before you drive off.
- Clarify the petrol situation before you drive off.
- Take some time to get used to the car/bike.
- Maintain "Jy yen-yen" at all times!
Be aware that tail-gating is normal behaviour. Do not play the "slam on your brakes to frighten him/her" game! There is the distinct possibility that you will be blamed for the resultant accident… if you survive!
- Use your horn (a short beep) to warn motorbikes that you are about to overtake them.
- Be aware that a car flashing its headlights at you is warning you to get out of the way, and not-as in the U.K.- "inviting" you!
- Don't ever lose your temper or start shouting/gesticulating at another driver/rider (especially if they are Thai). Things could easily and quickly escalate way out of hand if you do.
- Expect the unexpected at all times (particularly that cement lorry!).
- Don't rent a motorbike unless you are an experienced rider.
- Always wear a crash helmet if you are riding a motorbike.
- Stick to the speed limits… even if no-one else does!
Be aware of dogs, holes in the road, bikes on the wrong side of the road, drunk drivers, drivers/riders that don't indicate, drivers/riders that don't know how to drive/ride, AND that cement lorry!
Re: dogs! Be aware that most dogs get out of the way if you sound your horn… I say again… most dogs!
Always wear a crash helmet when riding a motorbike-yes, I know this has already been mentioned, but you'd be amazed how expensive brain scans are… and whether you needed the scan or not, the chances are that if you weren't wearing a helmet, your health insurance is invalid… very, very expensive!
Post Offices
Post Offices in Thailand are very similar to those in the U.K. You queue, hand over your letter/postcard, they tell you how much it costs, you pay, you stick the stamp on, and then you either give it back to them to put in the appropriate sack, or you do it yourself!
On average, a letter or postcard sent by normal mail will take around 10 days to reach the U.K. There is an option which is a little more expensive, but takes only 3 days. The choice is yours!
On the whole, Post Office staff are courteous and friendly, and in the tourist areas, will probably be able to speak some English.
If you need to send things back to the U.K. (parcels and packages etc), you pay by weight, which can, at times prove to be relatively expensive… obviously depending on what you are sending back.
