Motos and Tuk-Tuks

Introduction:

Local people and tourists use many different forms of transportation to get around in Cambodia. The most prominent, everyday travel methods are moto (motorcycles) and tuk-tuks (auto rickshaws). For short distances, many people also use bicycles, and for longer distances, people tend to use motos, buses or cars.

How do people get around?:

In Siem Reap (where I live), most people have their own motorcycle. People often fit 2-4 people on one motorcycle as they commute around town. Siem Reap is also small enough to walk or ride a bicycle to where you need to go. There are also many tuk-tuks, which are like tiny cars and are mostly used by tourists who do not have access to a motorcycle. Tuk-tuk rides are relatively cheap. A 10-minute drive will cost about $2 (or 8,000 riel). 

In Cambodia, there are now a few apps that operate like Uber or Lyft. Instead of calling a car, though, they'll connect you with a tul-tuk! The main apps are Passapp and Grab. These apps also regulate the price of a tuk-tuk so that you do not have to bargain with the driver.   

While doing fieldwork in Koh Ker, we used a truck to transport our team and gear to and from the field. Our truck was one of the only cars in Koh Ker, however, as most people there use motorcycles to travel. There were no tuk-tuks in sight.

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