If you have arrived by air at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, it is possible to take a domestic flight to virtually any airport in Thailand within 90 minutes flying time of Bangkok. Along with Phuket and Chiang Mai, the other major domestic airports include Chiang Rai, Udon Thani, Hat Yai and Koh Samui. Domestic flights offer good value for money and are offered by a number of airlines including: Thai Airways (for business class), AirAsia, Nok Air, Bangkok Airways and Orient Thai.

The recent move of international flights to Suvarnabhumi International Airport has meant that the old airport in Bangkok, Don Muang, is somewhat redundant. It only services a limited number of domestic flights to destinations across Thailand and is approximately two hours away (especially in rush hour) from Suvarnabhumi airport. However, for local flights out of Bangkok this can offer a less busy alternative and is a similar distance from downtown Bangkok.

Sleeper trains and so-called VIP buses offer overland transport, with limited comfort but a chance to witness the landscape. Sometimes local minibus transfers are necessary to reach some smaller destinations.

Thailand has an excellent network of roads, most of which are in good condition. It is possible to hire a car while in the country, providing you have a valid driver’s licence, and make sure you get insurance. Be careful of local drivers who have a tendency to ignore road safety rules – especially where motorbikes are concerned. Most signs, especially on major roads, are in Thai and English so you will have no problem understanding the directions.

Air conditioned, metered, taxis are the best means of getting around locally, although a trip in the ubiquitous and famous Thailand tuk tuk (three-wheeler) is a quintessential experience here. Limosine transfers are always available without fuss or worry at airports. There are numerous other forms if you’re desperate, such as local minibuses (songteaws).