24 Nov 2023
ThailandWe want to do day trips but we're worried about motorbiking with a toddler. Of Samui, Chang or Lanta which is best for getting around?
You can get around safely without a motorbike in all of the main islands; there are usually other family-friendly forms of transport.
Some of the islands, like Chang and Samui, have songthaews (pick-up trucks with roofed benches in the back) that connect all of the main beaches, although they are pricey compared to the mainland; expect to pay at least a few hundred baht even if going a short distance.
Lanta and other islands around there (such as Jum) have salengs (sidecar motorbike taxis) which are more affordable. You'll also find tuk tuks and regular taxis in places. Or, if you have an international drivers licence and would prefer to drive yourself, car and jeep rental is available on Samui, Lanta and Chang.
Otherwise, if you want to go out you can always ask the reception staff to call a driver for you; indeed that is often the only way to find a driver on Kood. But finding a saleng on Lanta or a songthaew on Chang is typically easy in all the main areas.
David Luekens
Based in Thailand since 2011, David first waded into Southeast Asia in the early 2000s via friendships forged in the Thai, Vietnamese and Karen communities of Vermont, almost Canada, USA. He is a bona fide nerd in maps, islands and travel planning with a research background in Buddhism and the environmental, political and human rights issues of Southeast Asia. Bylines include CNN Travel, Conde Nast Traveller China and more than 100 Travelfish guides.
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