Grab Taxi...Chiang Mai is Cheap fares

[BonTong]

But, I don't get, and never have, the hostility that some people have to red cab drivers.

I think there are two perceived issues with the red cabs that cause dislike:

1. Although their power may be dwindling, the songthaew mafia has always had a strong political influence. Apparently there are more than 5000 songthaew drivers in Chiang Mai, which together with dependent family members is a lot of votes! They have actively campaigned against public transport improvements e.g. buses, have monopolised the "meter taxis" so they don't use the meter and prevent motorcycle taxis from operating. There are therefore a lot of people who don't like the way they carry on. Some changes, like the buses perhaps have only happened because the current powers in Bangkok don't like the "red" side of Chiang Mai.
2. The behaviour of some in their driving methods, blocking traffic, fare gouging and general demeanour (especially assaulting Uber drivers) gives them all a bad name. Not to mention the pollution problem with older vehicles, many of which are driving around empty.

That said they do have their place, if you can find one, which is not so easy in some residential districts as ceejay alluded to. I often use them on regular routes e.g. from Maya to Kad Suan Kaew it's a no brainer. Even after the price increase to 30Bt I've never been asked for more then 20Bt. Or going further afield on main routes, e.g. Kad Suan Kaew to Thapae Gate or NBZ, pay your 30 Bt and you're good. Only downside is if they have other passengers the route may not be direct. If they ask for more than 30Bt on a main route say no and get the next one.

[BonTong]

Ceejay: coincidently, this article just popped up in my FB feed. with the narrative: "Weekend reading: If you want to untangle the mess of our city’s transport system, this article from 2015 will give you a head start!" If you haven't seen it before it might help explain about red cabs. https://www.chiangmaicitylife.com/ci...ransportation/

[christianpfc]

Good to see things changing.

Fares of 30 THB are outrageous, and no fixed routes, but everyone will be delivered to their doorstep? That makes things complicated!

Look elsewhere and you will find a cheap and easy to navigate public transport system, for Khon Kaen there is even a printed map with the 23 lines, which cost 10 THB per ride!

For reason of one of the worst public transport in entire Thailand (only Nong Khai is worse, there is no public transport at all), I do travel to Chiang Mai only when with friends by their car, as I don't want to give a single Baht to the taxi mafia.

I pity those who are trapped in Chiang Mai, either by being born there (Thai) or choosing Chiang Mai for other reasons as a place to live (Foreigners), but I vote with my feet and stay away.

[gerefan2]

Tome Chang Mai falls onto the one off category.

Go once..that’s enough!

[Manforallseasons]

Tome Chang Mai falls onto the one off category.

Go once..that’s enough!

Years ago CM was a great gay destination now it is not worth the trip unless you are Chinese.

[BonTong]

Fares of 30 THB are outrageous, and no fixed routes, but everyone will be delivered to their doorstep? That makes things complicated!

For straight point to point on main routes Songtheaw are fine; and 30 Bt is allegedly the maximum fare, many still accept 20Bt for straightforward journeys. For everything else Grab is highly functional and not expensive. Typical acoss town fares are 60-80 Bt And for that they pick you from your chosen point in a comfortable air-con car and take you directly where you want to go. Songtheaws and tuk-tuks are right to be afraid!

Look elsewhere and you will find a cheap and easy to navigate public transport system, for Khon Kaen there is even a printed map with the 23 lines, which cost 10 THB per ride!

For reason of one of the worst public transport in entire Thailand (only Nong Khai is worse, there is no public transport at all), I do travel to Chiang Mai only when with friends by their car, as I don't want to give a single Baht to the taxi mafia.

As mentioned in an earlier post, after several false attempts Chiang Mai now has a functioning bus system. I haven't got on one but see them regularly, nice brand new vehicles with aircon and wi-fi. Apparently 20Bt flat rate and they go to the bus station and the airport with a regular service. This and grab has significantly changed the transport possibilities. The only downside is the traffic has got much worse.

I pity those who are trapped in Chiang Mai, either by being born there (Thai) or choosing Chiang Mai for other reasons as a place to live (Foreigners), but I vote with my feet and stay away.

The ever growing population of Digital Gonads clogging up every coffee shop in Nimman wouldn't agree with you

[BonTong]

Years ago CM was a great gay destination now it is not worth the trip unless you are Chinese.

Even the Chinese are getting bored now! But, if you like the Shan boys from Burma Chiang Mai still has a lot going for it

I can see why some might not be allured to Chiang Mai anymore, but they are perhaps missing a trick. Whilst the city has long since killed the golden egg laying goose and become a victim of its own success, the rest of Northern Thailand is well worth visiting. Beautiful countryside, lovely people and none of the whingeing Farangs who populate the big cities. With Blued on your smart phone out in the countryside you'd be surprised how you suddenly become the centre of attention.