Getting Around

There are many ways to get around Thailand. Although most travelers choose to fly between the major tourist centers of Bangkok, the North and South, there's something to be said for the alternatives. There are still some special and out of the way places you can't get close to by plane, not to mention that most tourist cities have been turned into something which is not quite Thailand. To see the "real" Thailand you need to get outside the major tourist areas.

Here's your overview and links to the major transportation methods for inter-city travel. For information on getting around specific destinations, see our city guides.

Planes

In recent years, the number of domestic air carriers has practically exploded, with as many as half a dozen carriers, depending on who is actually in business at the moment. Many of these new airlines are the result of Thai Airways' attempt to offload unprofitable destinations, so their long term viability is in question. The smarter ones are taking a cue from Bangkok Airways and developing new destinations.

Many of the small startups have code share agreements with Thai, at least for the routes they took over from the national carrier. For one or two, the only way to book a flight is through a Thai Airways agent. Note that code-share flights are usually not eligible for e-ticketing.

Thai Airways

The national flag carrier flies to almost all major tourist destinations. Their web site allows you to view schedules and seat availability. You can now even book and pay online for paperless travel. See our article on Thai e-Travel for more information. Note: Effective 25 March 2007, Thai returned some of its domestic flights in and out of Bangkok to the old Don Muang Airport (code: DMK). Be sure to get to the right airport if using this airline.

Bangkok Airways

The nation's second carrier is almost solely responsible for developing special destinations such as Samui and Sukhothai. Their now extensive network covers several countries and many of the major world heritage destinations of Southeast Asia. You can purchase e-tickets on-line at their web site using Visa or Mastercard (but not American Express. If considering a vacation that includes several Bangkok Airways destincations, the you should have a look at their "Discovery Pass", which may save you some money.

PB Air

Probably the most interesting (and likely to succeed) of the newer carriers, PB Air flies small 'executive' style jets to an increasing number of destinations. Their flying time is often less than the bigger jets and turbo-props flown by other carriers. Destinations include Krabi and Lampang.

Budget Airlines

Note: As of 25 March 2007, Nok Air and 1-2-Go airlines have moved all of their Bangkok flights back to the old Don Muang Airport. If using one of these airlines for your domestic flights, be sure you get to the right airport. If transferring from an international flight, be sure you leave enough time to get from one airport to the other. There is no shuttle bus between the two airports. The most direct route is to take a taxi.

One-Two-Go

The budget arm of charter carrier Orient Thai, One-Two-Go distinguishes itself by using larger planes than other low cost lines. Serves mostly the standard destinations - Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Phuket. Note: Effective 25 March 2007, One-Two-Go returned all flights in and out of Bangkok to the old Don Muang Airport (code: DMK). Be sure to get to the right airport if using this airline.

Nok Air

Budget carrier with Thai Airways as one of its major investors. Like most other budget lines, serves mostly the major tourist destinations such as Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son and Phuket. See our own detailed review of Nok Air. Note: Effective 25 March 2007, Nok Air returned all flights in and out of Bangkok to the old Don Muang Airport (code: DMK). Be sure to get to the right airport if using this airline.

Air Asia

Air Asia was the first budget airline to go regional. Based in Malaysia, Air Asia started flying in Thailand in 2002, and has a reputation for offering some of the lowest fares around. Thai destinations include Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Hat Yai and Phuket. The airline also flies from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur and from there on to Bali, Singapore and other destinations. If considering Air Asia, it's important to keep in mind that the fares go up the closer you get to your departure date. To get the cheapest fares you need to book at least three months in advance.

Trains

State Railway

The state railway operates the inter-city trains throughout Thailand. It can be an amazingly cheap way to get around the country, if you have the time. You can go by first class almost anywhere for under 1,000 Baht.

Eastern & Oriental Express

The very definition of luxury from days gone by. Operates special trips from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Kanchanaburi and Singapore.

Automobiles

Driving yourself around Thailand isn't something we'd recommend, although traveling by car definitely has its advantages. The roads in Thailand, mainly due to the poor driving habits of a large proportion of Thais, are not very safe for those unfamiliar with the unwritten and haphazard rules of the road. However, the good news is that you can generally rent a car with a driver for the same price or less than you would pay for a car rental in North America or Europe. This makes a good option for a day trip to out of the way places.

Due no doubt to the low demand, the major international car rental companies don't have much presence in Thailand. However, most first class hotels will have cars for hire and most major tourist destinations such as Chiang Mai have rental agencies. Be sure to check out the car on offer before agreeing to rent it.

Buses

Thailand still has an extensive network of inter-city buses. Bus service is available in two classes. Second class is not air conditioned, while first class services have air conditioning, and often much more. A few of the longer routes, such as Bangkok to Chiang Mai, even have a sort of super-first class service with fully reclining seats and other amenities. Bus service is generally inexpensive, but be sure to watch the bags unloaded at intermediate stops, as theft is rather common.