If there’s one island that covers it all is definitely Phuket, the largest island on the west coast of Thailand, where you can admire the majesty of the Andaman Sea. Their extension is compared to the size of Singapore and so their city movement; so first of all, let me tell you how fortunate you are to visit this place… And second, here are some tips if you are going to rent motorbikes at the Phuket airport or in Phuket in general.
The best way to go around the island is always to drive defensively, if you have never heard this concept, it just means to keep a safe space between your vehicle and the rest of the road users, making other drivers notice your presence and having enough time to act.
Before starting your journey…
Another tip that not only applies for this city, so in general; is to hire a travel insurance that will cover you up in case of an accident. We hope that this never occur, but if it does, it will avoid you paying the damages of third parties if you get involved in a situation like this.
It is necessary to have experience in driving, especially talking about the scooters and motorcycles, in order to handle the chaos and traffic characteristic of some city areas. Most of the road signs are in Thai and English, but they are not accurate enough, we recommend you to also follow the GPS. A good road map of Phuket can be very useful, but if you get lost, don’t worry! Thai’s are courteous drivers that will tell you the right way.
Get an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) in case yours isn’t in English or French, just to ensure that you have the proper documents if the police stops you.
Choose your two or four wheels partner!
In Phuket Airport Scooter Rental we offer you scooters, motorcycles and car rental service for a very reasonable price. Plus, we are situated behind the airport, so you don’t have to spend money in a taxi to get your transport. All you need is a copy of your passport, your licence and a credit card.
Before heading off on your travels around the island, check the petrol gauge. The fuels throughout Phuket and Thailand are 91, 95, gasohol – E10 and diesel. If you are riding a motorcycle you can use either 91 or 95 and most cars will take either 95 or gasohol-E10.
Throughout the island there are many petrol stations (we recommend you this option), and you can also find local shops and roadside vendors that sell small bottles of motorcycle fuel.
About streets and roads
This place is very particular for many reasons, one of them is that you can see children as young as 12 driving mopeds or scooters. That’s because the law allows teenagers to drive starting at the age of 15 and it doesn’t exist an efficient regulation for this, so don’t be surprised. Also pay attention to the others bikes and motorcycles that come out suddenly from nowhere, it can happen, so better be constantly vigilant.
In Phuket the cars are left side driven, just as in England, for example. There is a safer option but more expensive than scooters. You should beware in this two situations: If you are driving on the highway and you get caught behind a truck, if the driver indicates to the left it means that it is safe for you to overtake him, if they indicate to the right it is not. And second, if another vehicle flash their headlights, they mean “get out of the way”.
The speed limits across the island varies like most countries from 60 km in built up areas to 120 km on the main highway. The legal age for driving cars in Phuket is 18 years, although to ride a motorcycle up to 110cc it is only 15 years. Overtaking on the inside or running red lights is very common in Phuket, along with motorcycles weaving around through the traffic.
The main roads in Phuket are quiet good, most of them are flat and fast, but driving at night can be a little tricky, especially when it is raining. Some cars in Phuket have red registration plates and people are not allowed to drive at night or leave the province in which the vehicle is registered.
Let the ride begin!
More than other touristic places, Phuket will leave you breathless with all its nature and excitement, you will feel free around its islands and enjoy every part of the road. I guaranteed!
