Top 3 reasons to travel by Tuk Tuk
Why travel by Tuk Tuk you ask? Well quite simply, because it’s the most liberating, adventurous and unique way to explore a new country. Read on for the top 3 reasons to travel by Tuk Tuk.
Posted on Mon 22 Aug 2022 · by Shona Jordan
There are many ways to travel and discover new destinations. While most people have tried conventional modes of transport, only a few have had a chance to travel by Tuk Tuk. Why travel by Tuk Tuk you ask? Well quite simply, because it’s the most liberating, adventurous and unique way to explore a new country. Read on for the top 3 reasons to travel by Tuk Tuk.
Why ride in a three-wheeler or rickshaw?
1. It's the vehicle of the people
Having originated in India, the reliable Bajaj three-wheeler rickshaw or Tuk Tuk is an affordable, durable, and low-maintenance transport solution. It's a popular mode of urban transport primarily in Asia and Africa.
The Tuk Tuk is a very versatile vehicle that can be used as a taxi, to transport goods, and even as a bakery on wheels. More than a mode of transport, it is a breadwinning tool for most families.
Travelling in a Tuk Tuk enhances your senses as you're not confined by windows and doors. Tuk tuk travel allows you to smell local delicacies being cooked roadside, feel the wind in your hair, enjoy unobstructed views, hear the city buzzing, and grab a bite on the go.
Perhaps the most liberating aspect of riding in a Tuk Tuk is having the freedom to choose where to stop. More frequent stops, mean more local interaction and usually more travel stories to share. If you’re driving yourself, it’s entirely up to you to decide how often to stop which is indeed liberating.
3. It's adventurous and fun to drive
Travelling by Tuk Tuk means that you can explore more remote, off-the-beaten-track places. The humble steed is by far the most awkward yet enjoyable drive ever designed. A Tuk Tuk can adapt to almost every single surface, climate, situation, idiotic driver and use (or abuse on certain occasions). A Tuk Tuk is a cross between a car and a scooter, so clutch control is key. If you've driven a scooter or motorbike before it will come easy, but just remember that no matter what - size does matter on the road. Especially when driving on daunting roads in Asia!
Tuk tuks´ don't come equipped with GPS', so it's a great opportunity to go 'back to basics'. Asking locals for directions, navigating with a real roadmap, or getting lost is always a lot more fun. Oh and giving free rides to locals, including helping kids in Pakistan get to school, is definitely a must!
As a foreigner, one can only feel proud when travelling in 'the vehicle of the people', especially when driving one. It is indeed a privilege that amuses locals and allows you to connect with people in a very unique way. If you would like to try your luck behind the wheel of a Bajaj Tuk Tuk, don’t miss our adventures this year in Cambodia.
