Riding a Scooter in Phuket as a Beginner: 12 Tips for Safe Riding

Before you pull out

Practice in a quiet car park or side road for ten minutes. Learn how the throttle and brakes feel before you join traffic.

• Traffic drives on the left; look right first at junctions
• Always wear a helmet, closed shoes and long trousers or a light jacket
• Wear sunglasses or a visor to keep insects and dust out of your eyes

On the road

Ride defensively. Other drivers will pull out, stop suddenly and overtake on blind bends.

• Keep to the left side of your lane and leave space in front of you
• Slow down early for bends; gravel and sand collect on coastal roads
• Use both brakes together and avoid braking hard mid-corner
• Give way at roundabouts to traffic already inside the circle
• Watch for dogs, motorbike taxis and tourists stepping off the pavement

Rain, hills and night

Wet roads are slippery, especially painted lines and manhole covers. Ride more slowly and brake earlier. On steep descents use engine braking and both brakes gently. Avoid unlit roads at night unless you know them, and never ride after drinking.

Good places to practice

The roads around Rawai, Nai Harn and Bang Tao are quieter than Patong or Phuket Town. Start there before you try steep hills or busy junctions.