Mr. Nim's sangtao

Thai Traffic and the Sangtao by Shawn Fehrenbach

One of the most astonishing differences between Thailand and the greater Cincinnati area is apparent on the roads. We spend a fair amount of time driving to and from different villages and houses where we are conducting research, and also taking field trips to archaeological and monumental sites around Thailand. Most of this travel is done in a vehicle known as a sangtao, which is a modified pickup truck with benches and a roof over the bed. Our regular sangtao is piloted by the wonderful Mr. Nim, whom you all met earlier in our blog. Riding in the back of this truck is an intimate way to experience all the glory of Thailand, as all five senses are in touch with the environment around you and you can interact with other travelers who love to wave and say, “hello.” My best estimate is that about 75% of the vehicles on the roads are motorbikes. People carry all kinds of amusing and precarious items on their bikes (yes, even televisions). It is common to see three people on one motorcycle, and we have even seen them packed four deep a couple times. Trips in Thailand are never a bore.