Train To Cmai: Tix Easy To Buy?

[jobin]

WIll be arriving BKK Sunday next by air, then need to go to CMai. Like the train, took many in China. How about getting sleeper berth tix at station to CMai on o'nite train leaving 3 hours later? Will this be a big problem? English communication possible with train station agent? If no berth what is best alternative?

[craigt3365]

Though some love the train, it can be very slow. Just read a post where it was 20 hours. A bus is the faster way to go if interested and there are many available. Including VIP.

[justmaybe]

If it's an option, consider making the Chiang Mai- Bangkok leg your rail journey. Chiang Mai is a much easier and more pleasant station to deal with. The 1st class on the special express is a pleasant enough way to pass the night, once or twice; I'm not sure if you can buy out both berths if traveling alone. Mind you, the overnights don't offer much in the way of views.

I enjoy trains, as well, much to the amusement of Thai friends who wouldn't consider taking one.

[jobin]

What is bus VIP? Some special wide farang seating, i.e. big ass?

[23962323]

You'll be sorry......no solly, big time

[mowgus]

Don't take the bus!!!!! Just search Thai Visa for the numerous deaths and near deaths on that run due to drunk/sleepy bus drivers. That being said, if you do take the bus, be sure you have nothing of value in your stowed belongings. While you sleep, someone WILL be going through you luggage and taking anything of value (or sometimes of no value).

You can book the train online. Don't think you'll get a ticket when you show up. The train between BKK and CM is often fully booked in advance. The website is new but it works pretty well and I've even been able to show up and change tickets without hassle...they're pretty friendly/helpful.

You'll need to get to Hua Lamphong Station to catch your train which is a fair way away from the airport (airport link train to Phetchaburi MRT Subway (have to get out and walk between the two) to Hua Lamphong MRT Subway station (end of the line)). Or you can take a taxi but it'll be a lot more costly. http://map.top-travel-bangkok.com/bts.htm

[xen]

That was me who had the 20 hour train journey fthat Craig refers to ( It was a level crossing accident that held the train up - first night of Songhan ) and i would still recomended the train over being scared shitless on a bus. If you take the sleeper overnight you don't loose a day as the sleeper doubles as a hotel room for that night if you are on a budget , And you always seem to meet interesting people on the train if you are inclined to having a chat with fellow travellers .But the train is hopless for tight time schedules. Slip into Thai Time instead and relax. Or Fly !!!

[craigt3365]

Hey Zen! Didn't mean to be talking about you behind your back! Sorry!

I haven't taken the bus there in years. I hate any overnighter. Never get any sleep, so the next day is a waste for me. Last trip I broke it up by stopping at a few places along the way and enjoyed the day bus rides and the scenery. Next trip will do the train for sure.

P.S. Stop by and check out our garden when you can. It's really coming along nicely...mostly due to our new gardener....

[Baloo22]

I took the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai about 6 weeks ago. The first class (cabins) sell out early. I booked about a week before travel and they were already sold out. So, just the 2nd class sleeper available. There is a good website www.seat61.com/Thailand.htm that can give you a lot of good background on train travel in Thailand but double check the schedules with the official website http://www.railway.co.th/home/ .