With the introduction of taximeters, haggling with Thailand's once infamous taxis is a thing of the past. Pattaya sees only those metered taxis, which have been hired in Bangkok for the 2-hour trip, but these can be hired at a reasonable rate for the return trip. Failing this, there are many operators who offer reasonable rates for car or mini-bus trips to major Bangkok destinations such as the airport. Some of these cars come with insurance, some do not. The type of vehicles ranges from the new and well maintained to the old-banger, so check out the car in which you will be travelling before making the booking. Several large operators, as well as major hotels, offer limousine service in new, up-market, cars and mini-vans, which includes full insurance. This is, naturally, much more expensive.
For getting around town and its surrounds, Pattaya has the 'baht bus'. These are converted pick-up trucks which travel on fixed routes and can stop to drop off or pick up anywhere on the route. Flag down a bus travelling in your general direction, climb into the back, and wait for the baht bus to reach the vicinity of your destination. Ring the bell housed inside the baht bus and the driver will immediately pull over. Go to the cab and pay the going rate, usually between 5 to 10 baht if you have travelled on the standard route. The baht bus is available for special charter. Simply haggle with the driver for a price to your special destination and pay him this on delivery. He will not stop to pick up any other passengers when hired thus.
Please see the listings for details of limousine and taxi operators in Pattaya.
