Answer
Navigating Chiang Mai's public transportation can be a breeze once you get the hang of it. The local buses, known as 'red buses' or songthaews, are a common choice for both locals and tourists. They follow set routes, and you can simply hop on and pay the driver when you get off.
• For more flexibility, you might want to consider using ride-hailing apps like Grab. It's similar to Uber and can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you're heading to places that are less accessible by public transport.
• Just a heads up, while public buses are affordable, they may not run as frequently, especially in the evenings. If you're planning to explore at night, having a backup plan like a tuk-tuk or Grab is a good idea.
Practical Chiang Mai planning note: Songthaews may operate as shared transport or as a negotiated private trip. Agree on the destination and fare before departure when the route is not obvious.