How to get from Bangkok to Phuket

Away from the hustle and bustle associated with the Thai capital of Bangkok, lies the sparkling isle of Phuket; the largest of its kind in all of Thailand and situated some 850 km south of the capital. Known for its many allures that include water sports and an incredible nightlife scene, Phuket sure does pull out all the stops when one desires to break away from Bangkok and embrace the brilliance and magic of the island lifestyle. Here is how you can reach Phuket from Bangkok.

Bus

A selection of day and overnight buses are offered when one wants to change the pace of one’s holiday in Thailand to take on all that sunny Phuket is renowned for. Advance bookings are recommended, particularly with the latter as most tourists are known to travel during the night and that too during the high season. Added to this, a choice of either a VIP bus (1st Class) or 2nd Class bus can be opted for but understand that on average, the journey between both cities will take approximately 14 hours. If you’re wondering where to hop on board one, ensure that you are at Mo Chit Northern Bus Terminal or Southern Bus Terminal and in terms of tickets, either you may purchase these directly from the relevant station or you can obtain the same through a travel agency. Overall, the ride will be quite entertaining given that vacationers like yourself will be able to avail of air-conditioned travel coupled with snacks, beverages and a selection of free movies.

Train

For a far more scenic travel experience that will have you passing through tunnels made up of lush foliage, why not consider the local train? Although the train service does not operate as far as Phuket, one may still consider this mode of transport up until Surat Thani with the remainder requiring a journey by bus. The average commuting time will range between 8 and a half hours to 12 hours with 1st and 2nd class tickets serving as your points of access. A majority of the trains will arrive complete with comfy sleepers while all compartments are fully air-conditioned. With a 1st class ticket, travellers are handed an opportunity to spend time within a private cabin large enough for 2 passengers while with a 2nd class ticket, one will have to share a carriage with like-minded folk. With regards to the bus ride from Surat Thani to Phuket, expect to be on the road for a further 4 to 5 hours but what will ease whatever nerves you may feel is the fact that these coaches are comfortable and spacious.

Plane

Though coming off as being the most convenient of all three options, travelling by air will certainly not be the cheapest but then again, budget airlines are an easy reach, especially if you happen to be boarding from Don Muang Airport which is the domestic airport in Bangkok. On the contrary, those leaving from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport to Phuket International Airport will need to factor in the possibility of heading out during the week as the prices tend to be relatively cheaper as opposed to arriving on a weekend. Also, the one-way flight will not last more than 1 hour. In the event you seek to remain on the island for a considerably longer duration, then be sure to check into a luxury hotel Phuket has to offer in the likes of SAii Laguna Phuket which is well placed within Phuket International Airport and its nearby attractions such as Phuket Town.