I've been doing JackGolf Cambo 30-day visa runs from Bangkok the last few months just because the price (2000B) is right and it's so ###### easy -- a five minute walk from my apartment to the Suk Soi 12 7am pickup spot. Every time I compare doing this to a 'proper' run to Penang, when I include airfare, hotel, and everything else I don't see that I'd save any money.

So just to continue to consider the option, how cheaply can a Penang visa run from Bangkok be made? I imagine an overnight bus (or train) would save a great deal over flying. And I suppose if you really wanted to rough it you could even spend the night in the bus terminal and save on the hotel cost. Anyway, does anyone have any figures on the costs, and in particular is there any kind of Penang step-by-step available?

Edited May 19, 200620 yr by Michael W

Standard 2 AC bus Bangkok-Hat Yai = 832 baht round trip

Mini Van Hat Yai to Penang = about 500 baht round trip

Guest House Georgetown about 300-400 baht per night x2 would be my guess.

A more comfortable option might be the train. It's a long trip in 2nd class seats but can be done if money is the main concern. Better option is sleeper but at a higher cost.

A more comfortable option might be the train. It's a long trip in 2nd class seats but can be done if money is the main concern. Better option is sleeper but at a higher cost.

Believe the overnight sleeper costs approx 2000 baht return (been a while since i did the run).........departs BKK at 3pm for a 1pm arrival in Georgetown the following day.

Cheapest way i reckon is train 3rd class to had yai - mini bus had yai to padang besar, then train to butterworth (cheapest 4 ringit)

same on way back - dont pay to stay anywhere and there are trains/buses through out the day and night

but i reckon it can be done for less than 1000bt

actually there there no need to go to penang unless you want to go to the thai embassy - going to padang besar malaysia is sufficient...