BANGKOK’S TOURIST BUSES LAUNCHED

Lush green double-decker buses can now be seen making the rounds of some of the Thai capital’s most frequently visited tourist landmarks, thanks to a new initiative launched recently by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.

The Bangkok Sight-Seeing bus is the latest addition to the growing number of attractions and facilities launched by the BMA in co-operation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to help visitors spend more time in the city and get around on their own.

Operated by Krungthep Thanakon Co., Ltd., a subsidiary company of the BMA, the service operates every day, including weekends and public holidays. The one-way route starts either from the bus stop at the corner of Sanam Luang (the Royal Field) opposite the Grand Palace, or the bus stop at Vimanmek Palace and ends at the other destination.

The bus leaves from Sanam Luang at 9.00, 11.00, 13.00, 15.00 and 18.30 and from Vimanmek Palace at 10.00, 12.00, 14.00 and 16.00.

The round-trip fee is 200 Baht. A guide provides an English language commentary of the historic highlights of the 30 landmarks, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Grand Palace, National Museum, Democracy Monument, Golden Mount, Anandhasamakom Throne Hall and Parliament, Marble Temple, Government House, Dusit Zoo and Vimanmek Mansion. The specially designed, 50-seat buses are equipped with an environmentally friendly EURO II engine to minimise air pollution. The lower deck provides elegant and comfortable seats with a teakwood interior and a toilet while the upper one offers an open-air view.

TAT Governor Pradech commented, “Tourist buses are one of the basic tourist facilities in any city. I am delighted that the BMA has launched this useful service, which will help extend the city’s reputation and create a wide range of tourist options in the city.” “TAT will be making information about the service known through all its international offices as well as through its brochures and the Internet website,” the Governor said.

The bus programme is particularly intended to appeal to the growing number of independent visitors who like exploring on their own. Patrons can identify the various landmarks and chart which ones they wish to see in detail later.

The service is also in line with the City’s campaign to boost the city’s chances of winning the bid for the 2008 Olympics Games.

For more information and reservations, please contact the authorised representative, Integrated Group, at Tel: 645-0710-11 or Fax: 645-0170.