Bangkok, The City of Angels or "Krungthep" in Thai, is the capital city of Thailand.
Bangkok is the hub for most of the commercial and economic activities of the kingdom. At the same time, the city is very famous and appreciated by visitors for its versatility and multiple points of interest. From temples and the Grand Palace, through some of Asia's largest shopping centers and the largest outdoor market of Asia (Chatuchak), Bangkok definitely has what it takes to entertain visitors from all walks of life, either first time or return travellers. Whilst taxi fares are very reasonable, most of the sightseeing can comfortably be reached by Skytrain (BTS) or underground train (MRT). Apart from the sightseeing and shopping, Bangkok has developed into a magnet for food lovers of all cuisines. The same range of choice applies to the accommodation options all over town, from high end international chain hotels to family run guesthouses; the needs of all travellers are guaranteed to be met.
SUVARNABHUMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Bangkok international airport is located 16 miles outside town, but it is easy to get to Bangkok city centre, either via the airport link or taxi. Transit passengers will need to proceed to the airline checkpoints located on the same floor of Bangkok Airport. All departures at Bangkok Airport are handled at the airline check-in counters located on the fourth floor of the Departure Terminal. Domestic check-ins are from Rows B to C. Row A is dedicated to Thai Airways’ Royal First Class and Royal Silk passengers. For international departures, proceed to Rows D to W. Always be prepared to arrive at least two-and-a-half hours before international departures or 80 minutes before domestic departures.
DON MUEANG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Don Mueang International Airport has a simple layout, with two levels. The Departure Hall is on the second floor, and all airlines have their check-in counters there. Other facilities on this floor include money exchange counters, restaurants, souvenir shops and VIP lounges. On the first floor is the Arrivals Hall. There are also a few fast-food outlets, snack bars, an internet café, banks, money exchange counters, souvenir shops, medical service, airport limousine service and car rentals by major brands.
BY SKY TRAIN – BTS (ROT FAI FAH)
BTS Skytrain has now two lines; the Sukhumvit Line and the Silom Line, with a total of 35 stations. The two lines cross at Siam Station, which is the central station of the BTS Sky Train. The cars are air-conditioned and have both seats and standing areas. The price for a ticket starts at 15 Baht up to 42 Baht per journey. More information: www.bts.co.th
BY BANGKOK METRO – MRT
One of the two end stations is located close to Hualamphong Railway Station (the main train station in Bangkok), which is practical. If you are going to continue to travel with a long-distance train, the prices are rather low and the design and system are modern. More information: www.bangkokmetro.co.th
BY TAXI
From the Arrivals Hall on the second floor of Suvarnabhumi Airport and on the first floor of Don Mueang International Airport, you will find the designated taxi stands at Entry Gate 4. Simply queue up and tell your final destination to the booth officer, then a taxi driver will escort you to his vehicle. Please note that you need to pay the driver an extra 50 baht courtesy fee, on top of all toll way fees and the final taxi fare. Taken all these fees into account, it should cost you a total of 350-400 Baht for a 40-minute ride to downtown Bangkok. Service is available 24 hours.
From other areas, not the airport, the starting price is 35 Baht. The cars are painted in different color combinations but the prices are the same as long as the taximeter is turned on.
BY TUK-TUK (SAM-LOR)
This three-wheeled taxi has definitely become an icon and symbol of Bangkok. The vehicle is not that environmentally friendly, but is often
a little faster than a taxi cab at rush hours.The visitors need to try to confirm the price before taking a ride because the starting price for a ride is usually not less than 30-40 Baht, and the price for a 20-30 minute ride is normally 100-200 Baht.
