Tourist Industry in Thailand Counts the Cost of the Political Crisis
The anti-government protests have actually been going on in Bangkok since the end of May, but many visitors to Thailand were completely unaware because until recently the demonstrations were confined to a small area of Bangkok and had received relatively little coverage outside of Thailand. That’s changed in the last few days because tourists have [...]
Thai Airways to Increase Fuel Surcharges
Thai Airways has responded to the continuing rise in the price of jet fuel by passing on some of the costs to its passengers in the form of fuel surcharges. The new increases will take effect from June 25th 2008.
Domestic routes will see an increase in price to cover the charge of US$20 [...]
Ko Samui Taxis to Use Meter
This shouldn’t really be headline news; a taxi actually switching on its meter when a passenger gets in. Tourists visiting Ko Samui have long complained about rude and aggressive taxi-meter drivers refusing to put on the meter and charging exaggerated fares, but it seems changes are on the way . . . supposedly.
Although they are [...]
Island Hopping in Krabi
Some cynics say there are no longer any unspoiled island paradises left in Thailand, or indeed, anywhere else in the world. There’s no doubt that the advance of tourism and improvements in transport have made previously remote destinations more easily accessible, but a bit of island hopping can reveal some hidden delights.
The upgrading of [...]
Thailand’s Drivers Face Mobile Phone Ban
A new law comes into effect this Thursday which makes driving in Thailand whilst using a mobile phone (cell phone) illegal. From May 8th 2008, any motorists in Thailand transgressing the new law face a minimum fine of 400 Baht rising to a maximum of 1,000 Baht. The use of hands-free devices will be permitted. [...]
Pattaya to Bangkok Airport
Having written previously about how to get from Bangkok airport to Pattaya, here are a few pointers for the return journey from Pattaya back to Bangkok airport. With a good run, the trip can be done in under 1.5 hours, but allow for at least 2 hours to be on the safe side.
Private Taxi
Wherever you [...]
How to Get from Bangkok Airport to Pattaya
Depending on your time of arrival and how much you want to spend, there are a number of options for getting from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport to Pattaya. A comfortable air-conditioned bus will get you straight from the airport to Pattaya for as little as 106 Baht whilst a public taxi will cost around 1,400 Baht [...]