Chiang Mai City
If you are going to remain within 5 km of Chiang Mai city center
then don't even think about renting a car. Thais simply love cars,
the bigger the better, and Chiang Mai is beginning to suffer from
traffic jams and heavy congestion.
Many roads within the city are too narrow for two cars to pass through
at the same time, which has resulted in a rather confusing one-way
system that usually has first-time visitors suffering from acute road
rage. And Thais are famous for their "me first" attitude when
driving.
And anyway, with tuk-tuk rides, motorized three- wheeled vehicles that
looks like golf cart, are so cheap who needs to rent a car?
Songtaews
Buses
are non-existent but there are hundreds of red pick-up trucks that
operate
as a kind of public transport system. The drivers don't speak English
and the route system they use is often haphazard and inflexible.
Cycling
Bicycling is still a feasible option but the recent increase in motorized vehicles
has made this dangerous and less than enjoyable.
Motorbikes
Renting a small moped
is probably the best option. You won't have trouble finding one and
they are only about 100 baht per day.
Drivers' Licenses
While it is theoretically illegal
to ride a moped if you don't have an international driver's license,
most of the police at the many police roadblocks will wave
foreigners
past since bribes are far easier extracted from locals.
If you do
get stopped - some policemen like to practice their rudimentary English
skills - then just smile and be humble and chances are they will let
you go. Always wear your crash helmet - Thais often don't.
Walking
For venturing within the old city, the square area inside the moat,
then walking is a feasible option; give yourself a good excuse to
try one of the numerous foot massage / reflexology joints dotted around
town.