Whether you’re looking to rock climb in Krabi, experience a Full Moon Party in Koh Pha Ngan or cliff dive in Ko Tao, Southern Thailand’s beaches are immensely popular destinations. Although some areas are more remote than others, most destinations are easily accessible, even for the most novice traveler. If visiting Southern Thailand from Bangkok, there are essentially two ways to visit popular destinations: flying domestically or taking the train.
Flying Domestic
Fortunately for travelers, international airports dot Southern Thailand. Five in all, —Phuket, Hat Yai, Krabi, Surat Thani, Koh Samui — the airport you choose depends greatly on the beach/area you’d like to explore. Unlike many other countries, domestic flights in Thailand are incredibly reasonable. For instance, a round-trip flight from BKK in Bangkok to Krabi can cost as little as 950 baht, or roughly $30. Yes, round-trip. Better still, Thailand has three main airlines — Nokair, Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways — allowing travelers to compare rates.
Taking the Train
However, if you enjoy the journey as much as the destination, hate flying or want to explore the geography of Southern Thailand, taking the rail system is also an option. Trains offer first class — air-conditioned, private compartments — to third class, which doesn’t guarantee you a seat, especially not one with upholstery.
Bangkok train travelers will take the Southern Line in Hua Lamphong station to Surat Thani Station near Krabi. However, the Southern Line continues on to Malaysia.
Travelers would then need to research bus schedules from Surat Thani to different destinations. In all, it can be a roughly 10-hour travel time, or longer, depending on the end destination.
First class on the train is as expensive, or more expensive, than flying. If you’d like to reach your Thailand beach quickly, safely, comfortably and cheaply, then flying is, by far, your best bet. Either way, you’ll enjoy your piece of paradise, however you choose to go.
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