Have you seen one of the versatile vehicles zip by and wondered, “What is a tuk tuk?”. Here’s your answer!
Originally used in tropical, often developing countries, the tuk tuk is an urban way of transportation. Known in many different ways – rickshaw being perhaps the most famous – the motorized vehicles earned their nickname due to the sound they make while in movement.
Now rapidly expanding into the area of tourism, these multi-person bikes are tourism’s next big thing – being especially advantageous to ancient cities with their winding streets as a quick and comfy way to explore the narrow and steep roads.
Let’s find out more about what is a tuk tuk!
In a quick glance
Origins
Created in several different models, the rickshaw was originally a wheeled contraption pulled by human force. Used as a means of transportation in the 19th century, its popularity died off with the invention of cars and other forms of engine-run public transport.
However, it re-established its success during the 20th century with the invention of both motorized and cycling versions of the old and lowly form of transportation. During the Second World War, rickshaw taxi services appeared to preserve the short supply of petroleum.
Nowadays
The motor-powered autorickshaws – the tuk tuks – are prominent in the Asian, African and South American continents, where they are used for taxi services. They are divided between two, three and four-wheeled vehicles, and each country across the globe has created their nicknames for them.
Referred to as ‘bajaji’ in Tanzania and Cambodia, ‘tik tik’ in Madagascar and even ‘baby taxi’ in Bangladesh, where the decoration of the vehicles has become a form of art, this form of transportation has recently travelled to Europe, where they are most commonly used for rental or touristic purposes.
Tourism: an interesting use case
Even though the tuk tuks were conceived to be used in simple transportation services, their ease of use and versatility make them perfect for facing the most often narrow, winding and steep streets of old European cities.
In this context, the tuk tuks have been spreading throughout Europe offering a new perspective on old tourist spots. Even though they started as petrol-powered, there are now electric alternatives that are way more eco-friendly.
The services offered span a wide range of applications, from tours geared towards tourists to brand activations and even team-building activities designed for companies.
The services can be reserved online, through the many company websites that exist or even through booking platforms such as Get Your Guide or Viator. For the standard tours, there’s also the possibility of going on a tour right on the spot since many of the tuk tuk drivers also sell tours on the street. However, this last option is less advisable since you won’t be able to research for reviews and compare prices before hopping on.
In conclusion, these versatile vehicles, which have been taking Europe’s tourism scene by storm, are a fun and relaxing way to get to know a city. If you opt for an electric tuk tuk, you’ll also be helping to preserve the place’s atmosphere from motor pollution.
With this quick introduction, we hope to have clarified what is a tuk tuk. See you next time!
