Cars and Driving

Public transportation is often preferable to driving in the heavy traffic of Bangkok. Parking areas usually charge by the hour and can be quite expensive in the city. When parking near popular shopping areas, it is sometimes possible to get a discounted rate after making a purchase at one of the local stores. The store will provide a special receipt verifying the purchase, which can then be shown to the parking attendant when paying. When parking on the street, must observe local rules about when, where, and how long one may park.

Service stations all have attendants who fill customer's cars with gas. Stations vary in the additional services offered, such as window washing, filling tires with air, and emptying trash from the car. It is customary to give the attendant a small tip. Some stations offer special gifts to customers who purchase a designated amount of gas.