Hey, I'm not new, but I haven't posted in a long time (haven't gone anywhere since my last trip in August 2004). Anyways, I'm going for a week long trip to thailand on the fly. I'm going with my flatmate and we're each just taking a small backpack, essential toiletries (basically toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, and soap) 1 change of clothes, sleepsack, bikini, and ipod. (we plan on buying changes of clothes there because it's cheap).

Ok, so we've never been to Thailand before. So my big question is: We're going on the fly, so we're not booking anything in advance, but wanted to know if it's easy to rent motorcycles or cars without an international driver's license and how much it would be for a day. We plan on riding or driving down along the coast if possible. I know it was cheap and easy in Vietnam, and they didn't require proof of anything, even though I was told that you needed a license, most of the native there didn't even have one.

Where in Thailand are you going? I found a site that rents out for Phuket (http://www.purecarrent.com/) and it's about 5.00/US a day 31/week for a bike. Their terms and conds say you need an int'l DL.

I haven't been to Thailand yet, so I don't know how strict they are.

good luck and have fun!

I think you will have no problem renting a motorbike with no IDL. Motorbike rental shops are everywhere. Renting a car will be more hit or miss...some companies will require it and some won't. Do you have time to get an IDL before you leave? Generally all you need is a passport photo and about 15 minutes of time just to fill out paperwork. In the U.S. you can get them at AAA which is an nationwide autoclub and it costs about $10 USD. I am not sure about other countries, though.

You will be better off if you have an IDL and get pulled over by the cops...but I do not think its crucial. I got one before my last trip to Thailand because I rented a car. The car rental Co used it for the paperwork.

Make sure you wear a helmet if you rent a motorbike....the cops will pull you over for sure if you don't. They will usually want money on the spot to let you go....but not too much...usually the equivalent of between U.S. $1 and $5. Also...... be careful.....Thailand is a crazy place to drive motorbikes around. You see a lot of banged up Westerners due to accidents. I guess if you have driven in Vietnam already though, you know all this. Enjoy your trip...Thailand is a wonderful place.

Thanks for the info! And now, I might not even be going to Thailand. :no: I'm going with my flatmate and we may end up in Europe again or costa rica. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for Thailand