Word of the Day - Tuk-tuk

Carriages attached to motocycles which are used as taxi.

A few very relevant advices on tuk-tuks (I can testify to everything said in this article): http://goasia.about.com/od/GettingAround/a/Tuk-Tuks.htm

Points of interest, taken from the above article :

• Tuk-tuks are open-air, so be ready for heat and plenty of exhaust from other vehicles.
• Keep your bag(s) close. Thieves on motorcycles have been known to snatch bags from moving tuk-tuks.
• Always, always agree on a price to your destination before getting inside of any vehicle -- especially tuk-tuks.
• Hailing a passing tuk-tuk on the main street is often cheaper than accepting offers from drivers who are parked in front of tourist places.
• With no seat belts, an accident in a tuk-tuk could be painful; keep your arms and legs inside!

And, yes, riding a tuk-tuk can be more expensive than taking a metered taxi, because it is easier to get cheated. To avoid overpaying, ask the reception of your hotel for how much you should expect to pay for your ride. The reception staff were always truthful to me. If not possible, find out the distance before hand, you will be more equipped to negotiate. In Cambodia, you should expect to pay a third to a fourth what a taxi costs in Canada.