Traveling to Bangkok
Opened in September 2006, Suvarnabhumi International Airport is one of the major hubs of air travel in Southeast Asia. The airport is served by a number of international carriers, including Thai Airways, Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, EVA Air and Sri Lankan Airlines.
Located approximately 30 km east of downtown Bangkok, the airport is no more than one hour by taxi from the city, though the Airport Rail Link can cover the journey in about 30 minutes.
With trains running every 10 to 15 minutes from 06:00 to 24:00, the Airport Rail Link stops at Phyathai Station, Rajprarop Station, Makkasan Station and City Air Terminal, Ramkhamhaeng Station, Hua Mark Station, Thab Chang Station, Lad Krabang Station and Suvarnabhumi Station. Fares range from 15-45 baht.
Getting Around
The Skytrain (BTS) elevated rail system, opened in 1999, provides convenient travel with 2 lines: the Silom Line from Bang Wa to National Stadium and the longer Sukhumvit Line from Moh Chit near Chatuchak Weekend Market to Bearing. The Skytrain operates daily from 06:00-24:00 with fares ranging from 15-40 baht, and stored value cards are available.
The recently opened underground train system (officially called the MRT – Mass Rapid Transit) travels from the northern train station of Bang Sue to Hua Lumphong main railway station in a loop, connecting with the Skytrain at 3 different stations: Silom, Sukhumvit and Chatuchak Park.
Taxis are air-conditioned and use the meter, with a very reasonable fare structure.
There are taxi stands, but taxi drivers also cruise around and can be flagged for a ride.
For a more unique experience, take a tuk-tuk: a three-wheeled, open-air taxi. These are an inexpensive and exciting way to travel around Bangkok. However, there is no meter, so prices should be negotiated with the driver beforehand.
