Tuk tuks are mini three-wheel vehicles with just enough space for a driver in the front and two passengers in the back. Most appear to be falling apart. You can practically feel the old parts churning as you swerve through traffic and bounce over the decaying roads. While you're in the back wondering whether you'll survive the journey, the driver generally has an apathetic expression as he habitually speeds in and out of lanes.
Songthaews are like pickup trucks with benches in the back. The driver's goal is always to collect as many passengers as possible along the way. If you're lucky you'll get one all to yourself which will drive you straight to your destination. If you're unlucky you might start out in an empty truck and end up taking two hours of detours with chickens and babies on your lap. They are cheap and have room for your luggage if you're headed to the bus, train or airport.
At the end of the day, regardless of whether you take a tuk tuk or songthaew it should only make the difference of a few US dollars. Just make sure you negotiate the cost of your ride BEFORE you hop in!
Wow! Traveling around Southeast Asia can definitely be an adventure. I really like how Backpacktress Shelby is so illustrative in the concise descriptions. Having "been there, done that", these blogs are great!
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