Getting to Chiang Mai in Thailand

Chiang Mai is a city in Nothern Thailand that is often referred to as the "Rose of the North". With its gorgeous mountains, restful countryside and the diplomatic nature of its locals, it is easy to see why it is referred to as such. Citizen from all over the world travel to Chiang Mai to enjoy its many attractions, not least of which is the endless shopping opportunities it offers. If you too are considering Chiang Mai as your travel destination, rest assured that getting there is a fairly easy process.

By Air - The city has one main airport - Chiang Mai International Airport. This is a large bustling airport that caters to both domestic and international flights. It is located only about 4 km away from the city centre, which you can reach in about ten minutes by car. You may choose to take the airport taxis or the metered taxis, both of which can be found immediately face the terminal. You also have the option of taking a bus, which provides a cheaper way of travelling, or a tuk-tuk, the local contraption.

Phuket

To get to Chiang Mai by air, there are direct flights from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Myanmar, China, and Laos. There are also numerous domestic flights that can take you to Chiang Mai from Bangkok, Ko Samui, Phuket and Chiang Rai. The main airlines that can be found at the airport are Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Silk Air and China Airlines. There are also allocation airlines such as Air Asia.

By Bus - If you wish to go Chiang Mai and you are currently in Bangkok, the bus might also be a viable converyance option. The duration of the journey depends on how much you are willing to pay. The government buses offer their tickets at the bottom price; however, these are non-air-conditioned buses which make numerous stops along the way, and take approximately twelve hours to reach Chiang Mai. The more prestigious bus services will take colse to nine hours; however, the prices of such tickets are much higher. Buses to Chiang Mai from Bangkok ordinarily leave from the Northern Bus Terminal, otherwise known as Moh Chit.

There are also buses connecting many parts of Northern and North-eastern Thailand to Chiang Mai.

By Train - Train travel is only an option if you are going to Chiang Mai from Bangkok. All such trains leave from the Hualamphong Train Station. The duration of the journey depends on the type of train assistance you have premium - there are daytime trains, overnight trains and express trains. Prices vary accordingly, and you are strongly urged to make enlarge bookings. The train will drop you off at Chiang Mai Train Station, which is quite close to the city centre.

Getting to Chiang Mai in Thailand

Getting to Phuket

Phuket is a large island located in Thailand. In fact, it is Thailand's largest island. It is also a favourite travel destination for visitors from all over the world due to its luxurious resorts, gorgeous idyllic beaches, varied natural attractions, countless shopping opportunities and rich local culture. Whatever you are looking for in a travel destination of choice, just name it and you will be sure to find it in Phuket. It offers a range of attractions that make it ideal for couples, families or even those who are backpacking alone through Southeast Asia.

By Plane - If you are getting to Phuket by plane, you have two main options, both of which are very popular among tourists. The first option is to fly from your country to Bangkok, where you will find a variety of low-cost domestic carriers that can take you to Phuket. Such carriers include Air Asia, Nok Air and One Two Go. For these carriers, take note that the earlier you book, the cheaper your ticket will be. You can purchase your ticket online with a minimum of fuss. Of course, if you are adverse to the idea of taking a low-cost domestic carrier, you may take Thai Airways. This is the country's national carrier and has been highly rated for the quality of its service.

Another alternative if you are coming by plane is to fly to Phuket directly. While this involves less hassle, you have to remember that such direct flights are not as widely available nor will they be as cheap. You will land at Phuket International Airport, which is quite a good airport and which is located at the northern part of Phuket. You can usually get such direct flights from Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, Singapore as well as Germany. You may also be able to get direct flight from countries such as Macao, Seoul, Jakarta or Hong Kong through low-cost budget carriers.

By Bus - If you are from other parts of Thailand such as Bangkok, Hat Yai or Krabi, you will be able to hop onto a bus that will land you at the BKS terminal. This is located in Phuket Town. Once you have reached the BKS terminal, you can take a taxi, bus or the local tuk-tuk to get to your intended destination.

Take note that there are many bus services with different services and different prices. Try to purchase from legitimate bus companies. It is usually best to pay a little higher for tickets offered by legitimate bus companies.

By Boat - There are several luxury cruises that include a stop at Phuket in its itinerary. These are very popular especially for those who want to achieve a balance between hectic shopping and sightseeing as well as simply relaxing.