Getting About in Phuket Songtaews These trucks with benches in the back serve both locals and tourists in need of a ride. Songtaews travel designated routes, leaving the central market area in Phuket Town starting at 7 am and stopping at 6 pm.   They frequent the various beaches every half-an-hour. The average cost is between 10 to 40 Baht depending on the length of the journey.   There are no bus stops on the island, so to flag down a ride, simply wave your hand palm down to signal the driver to stop. Songtaews rates : Bangtao Beach  : 20.- Baht Bang Rong Pier  : 20.- Baht Chalong : 15.- Baht Friendship Beach : 20.- Baht Ka Cape : 20.- Baht Kamala Beach : 25.- Baht Karon Beach : 20.- Baht Kata Beach : 20.- Baht Kathu District  : 10.- Baht Makhuam Bay & Aquarium : 20.- Baht Nai Hairn Beach : 25.- Baht Naiyang Beach : 30.- Baht Patong Beach : 15.- Baht Rawai Beach : 20.- Baht Sarasin Bridge : 20.- Baht Surin Beach  : 20.- Baht Thalang District : 15.- Baht These buses leave every 30 minutes from the central market, from 07:00 am to 18:00 pm. Fares subject to change without notice, but only by B5 or So. Tuk-tuks What would a visit to Phuket be without experiencing Thailand's most recognised form of travel? Tuk-tuks are abundant on the island, and the three wheeled vehicle offers move safety and comfort than its two-wheeled counterpart.   A set fare of between 20 to 40 Baht is standard in Phuket Town. In other areas, the price is negotiable. Enjoy the ride! Motorcycle taxis Motorcycle taxis can be found throughout Phuket's main arteries.   Drivers wearing coloured vests with numbers on their backs.   Generally negotiate the price, it is always best to agree on a sum before hopping on the back.   This way of getting around is quick and easy but not always very safe particularly if you are on a road with heavy traffic or it is wet. Hang on, these guys like to go fast! Local Transport : Buses # 1 & # 2 In Bangkok, visitor ride the river boats to see the sights. In Phuket Town, the equivalent is to ride the local buses, catching sights or getting to the bus terminal in an economical way - Baht 10. Bus # 1 Big C to Archeewa College, by way of Bangkok Road, Phuket Bus Terminal, and Phuket Road, and back. Bus # 2 Rajabhat Institute to Lamchan Health Centre, by way of Supercheap, Phuket Provincial Prison, Phuket Bus Terminal, and Central Market, and back. Motorcycle Rental Smaller bikes can be rented for between 300 to 600 Baht per day.   Classier models are often rented privately by guesthouses or by hotel owners.   An important point to remember is that motorcycles don't come insured.   It is up to you to drive with caution at all times and inexperienced motorists might want to consider another mode of transport. Also, remember to wear a helmet.   The island's police hand out fines of 300 Baht if you are caught without head protection.   Before renting a motorcycle, always check it thoroughly for any previous damage.   To minimise the effect of minor accidents and to avoid severe sunburn, wear good shoes, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt.   Drive slowly and safely. Car and Jeeps One of the best ways to see the wonders of Phuket is to rent a car of 4x4 jeep - this way you get a lot more freedom.   Be certain before signing an agreement that insurance is included in the deal. The Longtail Maneuvering through the turquoise waters surrounding Phuket is a wonderful experience. Island taxi boats known as longtails or "reua hang yao" are built to last 50 years, and cut through the sea with ease.   Indispensable to fishermen, the longtail requires a skilled hand to navigate the wooden vessel.   Many of these seaworthy crafts can be hired to visit nearby islands for a negotiated price.