The Walking Man is a 77 year old German friend of mine who has lived in Thailand for the past 15 years. Every morning he walks up to 10 kilometres, much less than he did when he was younger. Then he sometimes trekked up to 50 kilometres in a day. Walking is the only kind of transportation he uses.

But you might be interested in other means of transport. I have ridden in ox carts, on the back of a water buffalo, on an elephant through the jungle and in the northern mountains on the back of a tiny pony descended from one that Genghis Khan rode on. But then again you might want to try a more modern way of getting around.

When starting out it is best to rent a vehicle before you buy. Motorcycles are very cheap and easy to use. Make sure they give you a good helmet and one for a passenger. Motorcycles are dangerous but they do make you feel like a kid again - and that's one of the reasons we are here. A car would be safer and should be your option unless your budget only allows for two wheels. It is best to avoid big cities and highways on a motorcycle.

For more safety rent a car. Most rental agencies will offer full insurance coverage. You won't need a Thai license to rent as your home license (if they require one at all) will be enough. Make sure everything is in working order or when you return it you may be paying for something you didn't break.

After a little while driving here you will know whether your nerves and reflexes can handle the stress of the apparent chaos of Thai traffic. There is no shame if you decide that the traffic insanity here just isn't for you. But if you feel that you can hack it, and are thinking of buying a vehicle, here are some tips.

Motorcycles
I once asked an ER doctor what percentage of those he saw killed in motorcycle accidents would have lived if they were wearing helmets. He said over 90%, and that included the ones who were left in a vegetative state. Words to the wise - wear a helmet. Also, motorcycles are one of the smallest vehicles on the road. According to Thai custom the larger vehicle has the right of way. So motorcycles are the bottom of the food chain. Drive accordingly.

Cars
Before buying a car you need to make a good friend. This would be the local mechanic. Buy him a couple of beers; buy his wife flowers, pet his dog; then ask him to help you buy a good used car. Auto repair is very cheap here and there is no real need to buy a new car (that also goes for a motorcycle) as long as you have a good mechanic.

Registration
If you buy from a 'tent', the term Thais use to refer to a used car lot, they will do most of the paperwork and get the ownership in your name. At the same time make sure to get a good insurance package. Registering a vehicle on your own can be a chore.

Driver's licenses
Unless you have a long-term visa, like a retirement visa, you won't be able to get a Thai driver's license. You can use an international driver's license but once you get a long-term visa then apply for a Thai license. The driving test will be a hoot.

If after you have given driving in Thailand a chance and the traffic has you terrified, you can always give up the wheels and do like the Walking Man. The Walking Man walks.

For more info on car rentals in Thailand try:
http://www.hotelthailand.com/carrental/index.html
Send your questions on retirement to Thailand to:
retirement@chiangmaicitylife.com