Thailand November 2015

[Tommo034]

Hello everyone,

A friend and I are planning to have a ride around Thailand for 2 weeks (probably the first two weeks) in November. I'd love some advice on anything really, where to rent bikes, where to go, what not to miss (we both dive and climb) and we're open to people joining us/meeting up (we're both in the Ambulance service and generally described as tolerable!!).
Cheers

Ben

[Bucket1960]

Hi Ben and

Depends really on what you want out of your trip doesn't it ????
I can recommend the Chiang Mai area for riding & you must do the Mae Hong Son Loop
We rented from Pop Rental & got 2 big Honda scoots for 9 days.
Other than that, we booked nothing. I like to wing it with travels. Just do your homework before you go

[Lonerider]

Hi Ben,

Have a look at my Ride Report (link is in the signature block), I was in Thailand and Laos Dec last year.
I went into Northern Thailand rather than ride down to the South. When I researched it I thought it was the better choice for me
But the choice is yours

There are rental places in BKK which is (I assume) where you will be flying into
and there are lots of rental places around the CM and CR area

BKK

BANGKOK BIKES RENTAL - Bangkok Bikes Rental (BBR) is in business to provide high quality motorcycles for hire in Thailand and a great experience for all our customers.
Big Bike Rental Bangkok - Home

CM

Choose the bike - Choose the road - Choose C&P
Chiang Mai Motorcycle Rental & Tours, Thailand | Tony's Big Bikes
I can recommend C&P rentals

As for traveling out of BKK if you decide to go to CM then the overnight train from Hua Lamphong Railway Station is a nice way to travel.

If you go to CM the stop here
Rider's Corner Bar & Restaurant - Chiang Mai Bikers Hotel Thailand

Cheers

Wayne

[Tommo034]

Hi both, thanks for your replies and advice, I will check it out and post back here later.
Cheers

Ben

[JohnPhilly]

Thailand is a wonderful and easy tourist destination. I have never had a problem renting a scooter/moto in the country without a reservation. Guesthouses are everywhere as well as hostels. Chiang Mai loop as mentioned previously is a great place and if you like diving, fly to the islands or near a ferry that takes you to the island. Once on the island, rent another moto, then drive around and find a guesthouse. There are a few airlines in Thailand that do not show on Orbitz, etc., check Flyscanner (not certain) But 1 is called Lion Air. Flights are really inexpensive and much quicker than a bus or train for a 2 week holiday.

If you are not bringing any moto equipment, only thing I would recommend are sunglasses with the foam around the lenses to keep out the dirt. Lots of dust and dirt in the air.

Also, check the weather for diving, Thailand has a few different weather patterns, if the water is rough on the east coast, than most likely the south and southwest will be calm. i.e. Ko Tau is in the east, Ko Phi Phi is in the South. Just for a reference.

[dommiek]

Chiang Mai is a great place to start your adventure as there's an abundance of places to rent bikes plus it has a thriving bike culture, both Thai's and ex-pats....enjoy