The cheapest, usually quickest and the most readily available form of transport in Patong are without a doubt motorbike taxis. However, be warned, they are not for people who scare easily. They are usually perfectly safe, but for your first few rides on a motorcycle taxi you will not believe so. Additionaly, the operator will almost never carry a spare helmet for their passenger to use, if this concerns you, then you may be best to avoid using them.

Finding a motorcycle taxi is very easy. They tend to congregate around the major tourist hubs, at major road junctions and close to large clusters of hotels and resorts. They are easy to identify, look for a motorcycle with a Thai person wearing a coloured nylon vest, with a number printed on the back sitting on it. This is is a motorcycle taxi.

When hiring a motorcycle taxi you must always agree the price before you get on. Depending upon the distance you need to travel, the price will be between 50 and 100 Baht. If you are quoted a price higher than 100 Baht then you are being ripped off, find another one.

At certain times of day a motorcycle taxi will be the only quick way to get around Patong, late afternoon and early evening can see traffic build up as Thai folks head home after their day at work. During this period it can be hard to find a free motorcycle taxi.

If you have been drinking, then it may be best to avoid using a motorcycle taxi. The drivers of these vehicles tend to ride their motorcycles quite aggressively. If you are suffering from bad coordination due to the effects of alcohol, then you may have a problem staying on the pillion seat.

Some people love motorcycle taxis, others hate them, but there can be no doubt that they are a typically Thai solution to short distance transportation. Give one a try, you may find it fun.