Hello Peoples,

This has been asked before, but it seems the posts are a bit out dated. My gf and I are flying from Shanghai to Bangkok on the 29th of Sept. We will want to stay a few days in Bkk and meet friends.

We are considering taking the train or a flight via AirAsia to Surat.

I've taken the train numerous times and enjoy the experience quite well. But I always get confused with the arrival and the quickest way to Donsak. I want to take the car ferry (big ferry) to Nathon. I know these ferries run every hour, arriving in Nathon, close to the main road.

I've read that once arriving at the Surat train station you can take a local bus down into Surat center, and get a bus to Donsak. Avoiding the waiting that happens at the train station, and possibly being stuck at one of the other piers where you wait, sometimes many hours until the ferry/ boat is full enough to ship out. I hate this.

If any of you have experience with the quickest way and fairly cheapest way, can you give me a detailed description?

The other option, I am considering, which I have never done, is to fly to Surat Airport. I understand there is a bus that will take you from the airport to Donsak with no stops in between. What is the cost of this, and where does one buy these tickets?

Thank you in advance for the info!

Cheers

PS, we dont want to fly directly to Samui. I need to end up in Nathon where I can organize a motorbike.

http://www.samuiphanganinfo.com/samui-transports.html

doesn't give all the info but

http://www.samuiphan...transports.html

doesn't give all the info but

Thanks

If you fly to Surat Thani there will be a corresponding bus/boat service leaving for the islands. 350 baht from the airport to Samui. Same price on the way back. Return ticket 600 baht.

VIP Bus from Sai Tai...overnight and includes the ferry ticket. Leaves BKK 7.30pm

As said the bus waits for the flights and takes you to Donsak.

Around 380 Baht including the ferry ticket.

I think you should better stay in Shanghai where things are a little more organised. I remember very well what happened to the last traveller who tried to plan his journey in excact detail in Thailand. If you know what i mean .

The more you plan in detail the more you'll be dissapointed.

Just a friendly warning, Cheers