Heading down to Krabi from Udon late sept early oct,was intending to drive, but would consider going by train if possible, have a party of 12 people to much of a journey to drive, don't really want to bus it,and flights to much money.anyone any suggestions many thanks in advance.

12 people, your cheapest way may be to rent a mini van. Of course with the new populist give a ways the government is giving you might want to take the train third class to Suritthani and rent a minibus there. The train does not go to Krabi. Issangeorge.

I do agree with Issangeorge on this one. The very cheapest and - I suppose – most efficient way is to rent a van.

The price we have paid for the van below was 1.500 bath/day inclusive driver and karaoke and exclusive gas. If one of you can drive too then the trip could be done in one day inclusive many breaks.

Another plus is that you then have a van to take you on tours 24h/day. That is really convenient when it is shopping or dinner time.