Cheap Travel in Thailand

[Porn Star 2000]

Looking to go to Thailand later this year. Getting there cheap isn't a problem, but would like to know if there is anyone who knows how to get aound the major resorts (eg Bangkok to Koh Samui or Phuket) on the cheap. I know my airline doesn't offer concessions with Thai or Bangkok airlines, but do Lawsons or similar offer discounts.

Much appreciated.

PS2000
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Forgive me, Mr. moderator if I have chosen the wrong forum, perhaps you would move it for me. Cheers.

[Icarus]

If you are thinking of getting around by air, then it is worth while buying in Thailand. The market fare inside Thailand for such routes is cheaper than you will get outside or even rebated through staff travel agreements. You could probably buy a business clas seat in Thailand cheaper than an ID50, and an economy class seat cheaper than an ID75 plus of course it's firm. Don't forget most rebated fares are applied against the IATA fare and not necessarily what is available in the market inside the country you wish to travel from/within.

[ASI]

Porn Star 2000;

I travelled around Thailand and Malaysia last summer and visited most of the major resorts. By far the cheapest method of transport is train or bus (I went by bus/ferry from Ko Samui to Phuket for just a couple of pounds) but it normally takes a long time and is certainly not the most comfortable of methods of transport. I did however find, as Icarus mentioned, that flights were especially cheap when paid for within Thailand. I managed to get a flight from Phuket to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia with Thai Airways for approximately £70 including the airport tax.

Hope you enjoy your trip.

Regards

ASI

[CaptSensible]

Another tip Porno, don't buy tickets at the airport in Bangkok, always go to a downtown travel agent. You'll find lots of ads in the local papers with better deals.

The snag with Koh Samui is that the airport is privately owned and they levy a bloody huge tax on tickets. They're using the plans for upgrading the runway length as the excuse for this. It makes the short sector from BKK to Koh Samui quite expensive, and Bangkok Airways are the only operator on the route too (last time I checked) so no competition. They won't give travel concessions to my lot either...I think Star Alliance crews may get a discount however.

You can also get there by going by bus to Surat Thani and taking the ferry across to the island. Very lengthy and tiring journey, not recommended.

[This message has been edited by CaptSensible (edited 25 February 2001).]

[G-WIZZ]

Porn Star

When I'm downroute I turn up at Bangkok Airlines ticket desk in BKK domestic terminal pay around 65 pounds to go standby to Ko Samui. Usually get a seat within 3 hours.

Have fun

[CaptSensible]

Hey G-WIZZ

Is that standby fare one way or return? 'Cos if you click this link: http://samui.org/airport/index.html

and scroll to the bottom you can read the prices. The one way ticket (full fare) would be around £65 STG.

[Pom Pax]

I know TG have had accidents but I would consider flying the safest of the three options. Unfortunately the system is now nearly exclusively one that operates on a Bangkok hub.
A rail trip can be an interesting social experience but most trip are over night trips and you will have to go to the loo. The maintenance standards are a bit low.
The cheapest choice the bus again most north/south trip overnight, a very low cost meal may supplied at a fuel halt. Driving times are not enforced and often drivers do 12 - 14 hour overnight trips everyday.
For cross country travel the choice is only bus or taxi. Taxis can be shared, provided you are prepared to wait whilst he fills all the seats and some more. If you want a bit more space you buy the front or back seats.