Traveling by public transportation in Asia can be an experience in itself. With affordability, efficiency and authenticity in mind, public transportation is often the best way to experience the true essence of Asia.
Go by night train
A ride on a night train is an experience you don’t want to miss. Book your tickets in advance to guarantee a seat. Night trains are equipped with sleeping cars that vary in comfort and privacy depending on your budget. You can choose a bed in an open sleeping car, a shared cabin with other travelers, or even your own private cabin. Many night trains also offer onboard meal services and toilet facilities. Of course, the biggest advantage of traveling by night train is that you travel at night, saving you precious daylight hours for sightseeing. In addition, you save on an overnight hotel stay.
Useful travel apps
There are a number of handy apps to make traveling by public transport in Asia a little easier. One of them is 12go.asia. This website and app is a one-stop shop for booking trains, buses, ferries and flights in Southeast Asia. You can look up routes, compare prices and book tickets, all in one place.
Google Maps is another must-have app for travelers. Not only does it help you find your way around foreign cities, but it also offers useful features such as real-time traffic information, public transportation schedules and even recommendations for restaurants and attractions. A handy tip is to download maps offline before you head to your destination. This can be especially useful in areas with unreliable Internet connections. You can do this by going to the menu, selecting “offline maps,” and then choosing the area you want to download.
The app Grab is also very useful for booking cabs, cars, motorcycle cabs, tuktuks and even food in various countries in Asia. The app is similar to Uber and often cheaper than traditional cabs.
The tuk-tuk
In a country like Thailand, the tuk-tuk is an iconic and affordable way to explore the cities. These three-wheeled motorcycles are not only cheap, but also tremendously fun. However, remember to negotiate the price before getting in. This also applies to Vietnam’s famous motorcycle cabs, which are both exciting and efficient.
Traveling in the big city
In larger cities such as Tokyo, Seoul and Singapore, subway systems offer a fast and efficient way to reach your destination. They are very user-friendly, with information in multiple languages and clear signs. In Japan, consider purchasing a JR Pass if you plan to visit multiple cities. These passes offer unlimited travel on JR trains for a flat rate and can be very cost-effective.
Comfortable mini-vans!
In rural areas of countries such as Laos and Cambodia, local buses and minivans are a common way to travel. These are easy to book and offer excellent comfort.
Here are some tips to make your journey by public transportation in Asia go smoothly:
Always bring water and snacks for longer rides. It can also be helpful to bring some toilet paper and disinfectant.
Delays can happen, so it is always wise to schedule extra time for your trip.
Always keep your valuables with you and be aware of your surroundings.
With the right mindset and a little preparation, public transportation can be your gateway to an authentic and unforgettable Asian experience. So get your backpack ready, hop on and enjoy the journey!