Living in Bangkok has its share of ups and downs. Then again, what city doesn't? We know we complain about living in the city in every issue we publish (we have plenty more) but that doesn't mean there are people who share the same grievances, but unlike us who just whine, have decided to do something about it. Sure, there are plenty of things to be improved upon or done away within Bangkok and we're pretty sure we all can write a long list. But we're sincerely glad to see that there are services like these that make not just living in Bangkok a little easier, but also living a greener, more-eco friendly life in the city more viable. And who's going to refuse a greener and easier lifestyle? Here are a few services to try out.
GRABFOOD (WALK)
While taxi drivers continue to ask why people prefer to use Grab rather than utilise their services, Grab has also been providing us access to our fave restos with GrabFood. Accessibility and convenience are all the rage nowadays. Why go out when you can have it brought to your doorstep and you can enjoy it in the comfort of your own home? But GrabFood has a new "innovation" that they're trying out: food delivered to you by walking. Yes, you read that right. It's just like regular GrabFood minus the motorcycle. Of course, there's a one kilometre radius limitation for orders. You can't expect the delivery guy bring your order to On Nut on foot when you're ordering from a resto in Thong Lor. Though it may seem weird as to why GrabFood would implement this service (technically, they're still trying it out), it also provides us consumers a guilt-free, green and environmentally-friendly way to order. Plus, for those who choose to partner with the service, Grab promises more "income and incentives".
GEPP
Thankfully, recycling and being eco-friendly is getting more traction nowadays in the Big Mango. Businesses are starting to become more aware of how certain actions and practices could have positive or negative effects on the environment, and though it's great to see, we do still have a long way to go. Of course, it's not just businesses that have to do their part but the public, as well. That's where GEPP comes in. Recycling helps the environment out in a big way but it seems the "how" is a mystery for most Bangkokians due to the lack of services, but GEPP will go right to your doorstep to take your trash and recycle it. The service is pretty hassle-free, as well. All you have to do is book their services either online or by messaging their LINE account (@GEPP). They're operating in 12 districts in Bangkok and in Chiang Mai but they're hoping to be able to operate in 10 provinces come 2020 and hopefully, increase that number to 30 provinces come 2023. Aside from providing their services to individuals, they've also partnered with businesses like The Coffee Club to help in their recycling.
PARK2GO
Park2Go.co.th, fb.com/Park2GoThailand
I'm sure all of us can agree with the sentiment that traffic in Bangkok is a pain -- in -- the -- ass. Being stuck on the road bumper-to-bumper makes you want to pull out your hair and gouge out your eyes, but you know what's worse than being stuck in traffic? Being stuck in the parking lot because you can't find a spot. There's nothing more annoying than having to go round and round, and up and down a parking lot in a desperate search for a spot. Thankfully, that doesn't have to be the case anymore thanks to the Park2Go app. The way it works is simple: the app shows you where you can park you car and the current status of the parking lot whether it's full or empty. However, there are certain locations like MercuryVille at Chid Lom or at Impact Arena, where the app can reserve a parking space so you don't have to worry about finding a spot. All you have to do is book the space, pay a fee via credit or debit card and take your reserved spot without breaking a sweat. There are only a few bookable parking spots around the city as of now but hopefully they're able to add more in the future. Nevertheless, Park2Go is definitely an app that will lessen the stress of driving around Bangkok. Now, we just need an app to do something about those pesky motorcycles that seem to have no regard for stoplights.
GET
Grab and LINE MAN are probably the two names you think of when it comes to courier services and food deliveries, but another player has jumped into the fray. It goes by the name "Get" here in Thailand but in Indonesia where it's from, it's known as "Go-Jek". Of course, you may be asking what is the use of yet another service like this when we've already got two of them operating already in Bangkok. Get does offer similar services like food delivery, a courier service and motorcycle bookings. One thing their app does well is the ease of accessibility, especially with the map and how you can simply drop a pin to your desired destination. Food-wise, Get seems to have more street food choices than other services. On top of that, they've also got a bunch of boba tea selections so all you milk tea aficionados can get your fix. Another thing about its delivery is its low fee. I tried ordering from a resto on Sukhumvit 22 and have it delivered to the office and the delivery fee was only B10. We can't say for sure whether that fee will remain the same in the future but I'm hoping it does. At any rate, yes it's another service and yet another app to download on your phone, but it just means even more options for you when you want to order in and, if Get's pricing remains, lower delivery fees to make it a tad bit easier for your wallet.
