Riding the ferry. Jeremy Berke

I visited my girlfriend's family in Bangkok over the holidays, and it's one of my favorite cities in the world despite the heat and traffic. And of all the ways to get around the Big Mango, the ferry is probably the most exciting.

Known colloquially as "the boat," the ferry service costs 10-20 baht (the exchange rate is $1 USD to 34 baht) depending on the length of your trip, and runs along the Saen Saep Canal ("khlong" in Thai) network that cuts right through the heart of the city.

It's a great way to avoid traffic during rush hour, but be warned: It's not for the faint-hearted. It's easy to get lost, extremely crowded, and the boats move fast through the narrow canals. If it's your first time riding, prepare to get splashed.

But the boat isn't just a tourist gimmick, as the low cost ensures that all Bangkok residents can rely on it. It's used every day by over 60,000 people, according to its website, and plays a critical role in Bangkok's diverse transportation network.

Come along for a ride.